Traffic Chaos & Survival

Indonesia's road traffic is organized chaos — and initially a shock for Europeans. There are traffic rules, but they are more like suggestions.

The Golden Rules

• Right-hand traffic (like in Germany)
• The horn is the most important means of communication — it means "I'm here," not "Get out of the way"
• Right of way does not exist — the law of the strongest applies (buses > trucks > cars > scooters > pedestrians)
• Overtaking on the opposite lane is normal — even in curves and crests
• Animals (chickens, dogs, cows, goats) always have the right of way

Renting a Scooter — Yes or No?

In the cities: No — use Grab/Gojek. On Flores and in Sulawesi: Often the only option, but only with experience. Java experience is not a benchmark — Flores' mountain roads are a different league. An international driver's license is theoretically required, but rarely checked. Check insurance: Most travel health insurances cover motorcycle accidents only with a valid driver's license!