The U.S. State Department has issued a renewed travel advisory for Indonesia, urging travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting the Southeast Asian country. The advisory, which went into effect on April 30, 2025, classifies Indonesia with a Level 2 Travel Advisory of “Exercise Increased Caution” due to the increased risk of terrorism and natural disasters.
However, specific regions in Indonesia have been designated with the highest travel advisory level, Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to civil unrest and security concerns. These regions include Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan), where violent demonstrations and conflicts could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. The advisory specifically warns against traveling to Jayawijaya in Highland Papua and Nabire, Timika, and Mimika in Central Papua.
The State Department warns that armed separatist groups operate in these areas and may kidnap foreign nationals, particularly during times of heightened tension. Additionally, the U.S. government has “limited ability” to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these regions due to restricted access and unstable security conditions.
Key Points for Travelers
Avoid Central and Highland Papua: The advisory strongly recommends against traveling to these regions due to the high risk of violence and kidnapping.
Exercise Caution Nationwide: For the rest of Indonesia, travelers should remain vigilant due to the ongoing threat of terrorism and potential natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
Monitor Local Media: Travelers are advised to stay informed through local news and adjust their plans as needed.
Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended to receive timely alerts and assistance during emergencies.
Neighboring Papua New Guinea
The day before the advisory for Indonesia was issued, the State Department also updated its travel advisory for neighboring Papua New Guinea to Level 3：Reconsider Travel. This advisory warns of crime, civil unrest, and piracy, with specific Level 4 warnings for areas near the Panguna Mine on Bougainville Island and the Highlands Region (except Mt. Hagen and Goroka) due to ongoing civil unrest.
Travelers planning to visit Indonesia or Papua New Guinea should carefully review the latest travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
