Is Surabaya safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Indonesia

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Indonesia at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, a country-level advisory rather than one specific to Surabaya.
• The UK FCDO notes a high threat of terrorist attack in Indonesia, with past incidents including a 2022 suicide bombing at a police post in Bandung and a 2021 attack outside a cathedral in Makassar; potential targets include hotels, markets, shopping malls, and tourist attractions.
• Reported cases of rape and sexual assault are described as high in Bali and Lombok specifically, and travelers should stay alert at night and avoid poorly lit areas anywhere in the country.
• Drink spiking linked to sexual assault has been reported in Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands; watch drinks being prepared and never accept one from a stranger.
• Street crime such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing is noted as common in busy tourist areas, so keep bags concealed and valuables secured, particularly on public transport.
• Credit card fraud and unlicensed money changers are flagged as risks; use only licensed currency exchanges identified by a Bank of Indonesia logo and QR code, and keep sight of your card during transactions.
• Methanol poisoning from counterfeit alcohol has caused deaths in Indonesia, including in licensed venues, so seek urgent medical attention if symptoms appear after drinking.