travel warnings queenstown

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10 Queenstown Travel Tips for First-Timers [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, tips for visiting queenstown.

Queenstown is its own little bubble. The buzzing tourist town sits on the edge of the grand Lake Wakatipu surrounded by majestic mountains and harbouring an array of exciting activities. It has its set of quirks and trends unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of Queenstown travel tips for first-timers, that will be useful for international and local visitors alike.

If you need more general travel tips in your life, be sure to check out the 31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand . Oh, and you might want to bookmark  The Complete Travel Guide to Queenstown – that will be handy.

1. There’s More to Queenstown than Bungy Jumping

Queenstown might have a name for itself being the “adventure capital”, but many first-timers don’t realise just how much there is to do in this town. Wine tours , lake cruises, hiking trails , helicopter flights , golf courses , bike trails, snowsports , nightlife , day trips to national parks, white water rafting, jet boating and paragliding are all on the activity menu here, and that’s barely the half of it. Take a look at some of our Queenstown articles to see what’s really available to do in Queenstown. That way, you’ll leave with no regrets. Good places to start include the 20 Epic Adventure Activities in Queenstown and  45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown .

2. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

The accommodation offering in Queenstown is extensive and can be a little overwhelming. There are accommodation options from luxury hotels to backpacker joints; from the town centre to a lengthy bus ride away from the town centre. We’ve made your research a little easier by compiling our top Queenstown accommodation picks into different travel styles. Check out these listicles to find the perfect accommodation for you:

• The 50 Best Accommodations in Queenstown
• 10 Best Hotels in Queenstown
• 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Luxury Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Family Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Romantic Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Accommodation in Queenstown for Foodies
• Where to Camp in Queenstown
• 5 Free Camping Spots in Queenstown

3. Book Your Accommodation as Soon as Possible

Speaking of accommodation, make sure you book your accommodation as soon as possible! Even with the huge amount of accommodations available, the town can get booked up quickly especially in summer , during the school holidays , and for the Queenstown Winter Festival .

4. Freedom Camping is a No-No

For those that are road-tripping around New Zealand in a campervan, campercar or motorhome, be aware of the strict freedom camping rules in Queenstown. You cannot park up and camp for free for the night anywhere in Queenstown. In fact, even if you park your campervan in a public car park on an evening and are not sleeping in it, you’re still likely to receive a fine. For camping in Queenstown, you can either stay in a holiday park or return your rental campervan to a Queenstown depot while staying in the town.

See rental companies with Queenstown depots in The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Queenstown , as well as safe places to camp in  Where to Camp in Queenstown .

5. Don’t Visit Too Early for the Ski Season

For those seeking some snow, Queenstown has an epic ski season. But a mistake that first-timers make is booking a ski holiday too early in the season. While ski fields may be open from mid- June /early July , that doesn’t mean that all the trails are open. You’ll be paying full price for a lift pass to use only a fraction of the ski field. We recommend waiting until August to get the best conditions for a ski holiday. Find out more in The Ultimate Guide to the Queenstown Ski Season .

6. Know How to Get Around

Queenstown might have a small town centre, but its suburbs are spread far and wide, as are its activities. The first mistake that first-timers make is that they think they will have to find their way to most activities. This is not the case, as most activity providers provide pick-ups or have a central Queenstown transport to their activity for free (usually at the Station Building on the corner of Duke and Shotover Street). Second, if you’re staying outside of the town centre, then know that some suburbs are up to 1-2 hours walk away. Bus services and taxis are available, so take a look at Public Transport in Queenstown for more tips.

7. Pack a Jacket

Needless to say that you will need to pack warm clothing for Queenstown in the winter season (June-August). However, even in summer (December-February), it’s smart to have some warm layers, like a jacket, with you. While Queenstown experiences warm and long sunny days during summer, it can get pretty chilly when the sun goes down or is stuck behind a cloud all day.

Get more packing tips in What Clothes to Pack to Travel in New Zealand , as well as the right weather expectations from  Queenstown Weather & Climate: What is the Weather Like in Queenstown?

8. Keep an Eye on Your Budget

Queenstown is one of the most expensive towns in New Zealand. Your budget can easily spiral out of control if you do a paid activity every day. We recommend filling out some of your time with some of the free and cheap activities to do in Queenstown. See our recommendations in 30 Free or Cheap Things to do in Queenstown , as well as more money-saving tips in   The Travel Guide to Queenstown on a Budget .

9. Don’t Queue for a Fergburger

Ah, the famous Fergburger . Everyone knows about this burger joint with its oversized burgers, but first-timers tend to not know that you don’t have to join the hour-long queue to order your burger. Just have a look at the menu outside of the burger takeaway, place your order at 03 441 1232 and pick your burger up later. Alternatively, Devil Burger also does outstanding oversized burgers. See more recommendations in The Top Cheap Eats in Queenstown .

10. Rent a Car for at Least Part of Your Stay

If Queenstown is your main base for your holiday in New Zealand, then we fully recommend taking the time to get out of its little bubble and see some of the real New Zealand. Rent a car or a campervan and do a road trip to Milford Sound (over a couple of days – if you want to do it in one day, take one of the 10 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown instead). Take a day trip to historic Arrowtown or scenic Wanaka . Take a trip down the Kawarau Gorge and the Gibbston Valley to stop at some wineries . The list goes on!

Take a look at some of The Best Car Rental Companies in Queenstown or  The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Queenstown , as well as places to visit in  The Best Day Trips from Queenstown .

More About Queenstown

And that’s just a concise list of our Queenstown travel tips! See the following guides for more advice for first-timers:

• The Complete Travel Guide to Queenstown
• The Food Guide to Queenstown: Places to Eat & Food Tours
• The Travel Guide to Queenstown for Families
• The Travel Guide to Queenstown on a Budget
• The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Queenstown
• The Luxury Travel Guide to Queenstown
• Queenstown – Guide for Backpackers

Finally, plan the rest of your travels around the South Island using the  South Island in Two Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary and South Island in One Week: Road Trip Itinerary .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Queenstown New Zealand (Regional tourism website)
• Queenstown Lakes District Council (Local council website)
• Otago Regional Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Related posts, the travel guide to queenstown for families [2024], the best time to visit queenstown, 20 things to do in queenstown with kids 👪 [2024], 10 best luxury experiences in queenstown 🥂 [2024], 13 best foodie experiences in queenstown 🍔 [2024], 15 best things to do in glenorchy: activities, tours & hikes ⛰️ [2024], recommended for you, otago – guide for backpackers, 20 best things to do on stewart island 🔥 [2024], 10 best things to do in murchison, destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

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A State of Emergency declared for Queenstown

Friday, 22 September 2023

A state of emergency has been declared for Queenstown at 6.33am on 22 September.

A state of emergency has been declared for Queenstown at 6.33am on 22 September, for an initial period of 7 days, as part of the response to the current weather event.

Mayor Glyn Lewers said the declaration was necessary given the considerable rainfall experienced by Queenstown over the last 24 hours.

“The current weather event is an active and evolving situation. We have been working with emergency management throughout the night to assess the full extent of the situation in the current conditions.”

“Several flooding and debris events have been identified and we’re continuing to contact affected people including evacuating over 100 people. A temporary evacuation centre has been set up at St Peters Church to manage evacuees who have not been able to relocate.”

“Please avoid travel through or around the town centre. If travel is essential, then please take extreme care.”

The declaration was signed following formal advice from Emergency Management Otago Group Controller Matt Alley.

It enables emergency services and response agencies to draw on resources, and enact additional powers, to assist those affected.

Council staff and emergency services have been working throughout the night and morning to assess and manage the impacts of the weather event.

For all the latest information, visit https://www.qldc.govt.nz/weather-event-sep23 .

ENDS|KUA MUTU.

For QLDC media queries contact: [email protected] or call 03 441 1802.

FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri:

All relevant media information can be found at https://www.qldc.govt.nz/weather-event-sep23 .

What you need to know:

Flooding and debris is flowing down Brecon Street towards the town centre, causing damage and requiring evacuations from multiple properties.

Flooding and debris has also required evacuations from properties on Reavers Lane, Fryer Street and Hamilton Road.

The affected areas are shown on the maps below.

Multiple roads are closed throughout the Queenstown Town Centre and around the district. Latest details can be found here.  https://www.qldc.govt.nz/weather-event-sep23

Please avoid travel through or around the town centre. If travel is essential, please take extreme care, follow safety signage or the instructions of traffic management staff.  

Queenstown Primary School, Whakatipu Kindergarten, other creche, and Best Start Preschool will be closed on Friday 22 September. If you are affected by these closures please contact the education facilities directly. 

Contractors are also responding to a sewerage overflow at the Frankton Track. The track is currently closed, please avoid the area.

More information on evacuations: 

68 people have been evacuated from the Brecon Street area

41 have been evacuated from the Reavers Lane area.

If you’ve been affected by evacuations, please do not return to your property until you have been advised it is safe to do so. If you have not made contact with the Council, please call customer services on 03 441 0499 as soon as possible.  

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Important information about travel to and from Chicago for April 2024 - October 2025

We've made the difficult decision to extend the pause on our direct services between Auckland and Chicago which was due to resume from 25 October 2024.

Unfortunately, ongoing challenges with the availability of Rolls Royce Trent 1000 engines on our 787-9 aircraft means we haven’t been able to return to our Chicago route in October as expected. We anticipate returning to Chicago when we receive our new 787 aircraft from Boeing, currently expected in the second half of  2025.

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We know it's not the news you wished for before your travels, rest assured, we're refuelling our efforts to ensure your journey takes off as soon as possible 💜

Return of two International services:

We would like to welcome the return of our seasonal services to Hobart and Seoul in October 2024.

We will be operating three direct flights a week to both destinations until March 2025.

To book your journey with us to these seasonal destinations, you can visit our website here

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Disrupt Reimbursement Consideration

If your journey has been disrupted for a controllable reason, e.g. engineering, or crew shortages, and your new itinerary requires you to stay overnight in a place you do not reside, our airport team will be working hard to secure accommodation for you.

Over peak travel periods, availability is extremely limited and you may be required to source your own accommodation.

As a guideline, we recommend $250.00 per room and $90.00 per person, per night for meals. This is a recommended amount only, and all expenses must be reasonable and supported by itemised tax invoice receipts. Please retain all itemised tax invoice receipts, as they are required for reimbursement consideration.

To submit your reimbursement request, please visit here  to do so. Alternatively, you can visit here  for details on how to submit your claim through our messaging channels. 

Explore Queenstown

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Roys Peak Track, Wānaka

By Miles Holden

Important Travel Alerts for Aotearoa New Zealand

Information for domestic and international visitors

Some parts of New Zealand’s North Island are experiencing changes to road and traffic conditions.

If you are travelling please check with your travel provider, travel agent and travel insurer directly about any disruptions that may impact you.

• If you are already in New Zealand and travelling in throughout the North Island, please stay safe by checking with  Waka Kōtahi Transport Agency (opens in new window)  about any impacts to roads
• If you have a rental car or a rental campervan, please connect directly to the company if you are having trouble returning your vehicle as planned
• Please also check the  Department of Conservation’s alert page (opens in new window)  for information about any affected walking trails, beaches, parks and recreation areas
• Some Auckland regional parks are temporarily closed for safety reasons. Find out more here (opens in new window)
• Visitors are asked to stay away from Auckland’s west coast beaches including Muriwai, Piha, Te Henga (Bethells Beach) and Karekare. Learn more here (opens in new window) .

We encourage you to check specific businesses or tourism operators may be operating as normal. Search our site for contact details of  tours (opens in new window) ,  accommodation (opens in new window) and  transport (opens in new window) providers.

New Zealand’s isite visitor information network (opens in new window) is also available to talk to you about travel options. 

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Important information about travel to and from Chicago for April 2024 -October 2025

We've made the difficult decision to extend the pause on our direct services between Auckland and Chicago which was due to resume from 25 October 2024.

Unfortunately, ongoing challenges with the availability of Rolls Royce Trent 1000 engines on our 787-9 aircraft means we haven’t been able to return to our Chicago route in October as expected. We anticipate returning to Chicago when we receive our new 787 aircraft from Boeing, currently expected in the second half of  2025.

Next steps:

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If your booking was made through a travel agent or third party online agent, please reach out to them directly to confirm your options.

Rethinking your travel plans? Below are your options 👇

Travel credit: Would you rather postpone your journey? You can do so by cancelling your flight and opting for credit through Manage Booking. You'll have a whole year to book your next journey.

Refund: Would you like to change your plans altogether? You can do this by getting in touch with us here .

More information on how to apply for a credit or refund can be found here .

Thank you for your continued support

We know it's not the news you wished for before your travels, rest assured, we're refueling our efforts to ensure your journey takes off as soon as possible 💜

Important information about travel to and from Chicago for April-October

If you hold a booking that includes travel from Auckland to Chicago and is impacted by our latest schedule change, an automated message was sent to you in error with the subject line 'Your flight has been cancelled due to COVID-19'. We kindly ask you to disregard the information in this message.

The following message was also sent to you and is correct:

We've made the difficult decision to pause our direct services between Auckland and Chicago from 31 March to 25 October 2024.

Ongoing global challenges with the availability of Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines which are used on our Boeing 787 aircraft operating the Chicago services, mean we have fewer aircraft available to fly.

This impacts your booking.

We will rebook your flight

We will rebook you on another service via a different US port within the next 72 hours. We know it is important for you to get to your destination on time so we'll align this as close to your original schedule as possible. Please be assured we will contact you directly with the new booking details, there is nothing further for you to do.

If you booked with a travel agent or third party, please contact them directly to discuss new flight options.

If you no longer need to travel

We understand that this change may not suit your needs:

You can choose to cancel your flight and request a credit through Manage Booking . You will have 12 months from the day your credit is processed to book a flight, and another 12 months to travel. For information about credits, please see our website . You can request a full refund of your flight. If you have booked a refundable fare, you can do so through Manage Booking . If this option is not available to you online, please complete a refund request form to cancel your booking and receive a full refund.

  More information

We are confident we can get you to your destination on the same day as you planned. If we are not able to rebook you on the same day as your original flight our schedule change policy applies for incidental costs and accommodation. Information about your rights around flight disruptions can be found on our website.

We appreciate your patience and understanding through this period., Our team is working hard to ensure you have flexible options to make your journey with us as seamless as possible.

Disrupt Reimbursement Consideration

If your journey has been disrupted for a controllable reason, e.g. engineering, or crew shortages, and your new itinerary requires you to stay overnight in a place you do not reside, our airport team will be working hard to secure accommodation for you.

Over peak travel periods, availability is extremely limited and you may be required to source your own accommodation.

As a guideline, we recommend $250.00 per room and $90.00 per person, per night for meals. This is a recommended amount only, and all expenses must be reasonable and supported by itemised tax invoice receipts. Please retain all itemised tax invoice receipts, as they are required for reimbursement consideration.

To submit your reimbursement request, please visit here  to do so. Alternatively, you can visit here  for details on how to submit your claim through our messaging channels. 

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Planning your trip to Queenstown

Dreaming of your next holiday is always exciting. We've compiled lots of information about  getting around in Queenstown , weather and climate ,  maps and visitor guides , itineraries , our  surrounding regions  and top tips for  planning and packing .

Queenstown is located in the southern lakes region of the South Island of New Zealand. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and crystal clear Lake Whakatipu, Queenstown is renowned for its spectacular scenery, four distinct seasons and world-class activities and attractions. 

Once you’re in Queenstown there are so many things to do, it pays to plan and book in advance. Start planning your Queenstown trip today.

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Seasonal itineraries.

Recharge this Autumn in Queenstown – a 6-day Travel Itinerary

Escape the hustle of your everyday life and recharge with an autumn break in Queenstown. Take it slow, explore hidden gems, and re-energise in nature.

/ 10 Min Read

Savour Winter in Queenstown – a 6-day Travel Itinerary

Let the world slow down this winter with a long, relaxing stay in Queenstown.

/ 14 Min Read

Experience the Slower Side of Spring in Queenstown - a 6-day Travel Itinerary

A 6-day slow travel Queenstown spring itinerary. Spring things to do and places to stay for those who like to stay longer, move a little slower, and...

/ 12 Min Read

Soak Up Summer in Queenstown - a 6-day Travel Itinerary

Take the time to immerse yourself in Queenstown’s natural beauty, connect with the locals, and ground yourself in a true, authentic sense of this...

/ 9 Min Read

How to Delve Deeper

Regenerative travel in queenstown, guided experiences, become a temporary local, queenstown faqs.

What is the best month to go to Queenstown?

With four distinct seasons, it’s always an ideal time to explore Queenstown.

During the summer months of December to February, the days are long, warm, and perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Temperatures range between 20-30°C.

As autumn sets in from March to May, the weather cools to between 5-25°C and the landscape changes to a dramatic blaze of reds and golds, attracting visitors, artists and photographers from around the world.

Winter , spanning from June to August, sees the region transform into a winter wonderland, attracting ski and snowboarders to four nearby ski fields. The days are short and crisp but provide incredible blue skies and fresh crisp mornings. Temperatures are typically between -4-8°C.

Spring , from September to November, is a unique season when you can do everything Queenstown offers. Green valleys burst with fresh spring blooms surrounded by snow-capped peaks – you can ski in the morning and either golf, mountain bike or hike in the afternoon. Temperatures range between 8-22°C.

Learn more about seasons and weather in Queenstown .

How many days do you need in Queenstown?

5-7 days is recommended to get a feel for Queenstown, meet the locals and to venture beyond the usual hotspots.

There is so much to do in and around Queenstown that 2-3 days just isn’t enough.

Find inspiration for your stay with these multi-day itineraries .

What is Queenstown most known for?

Queenstown is commonly known as the adventure capital of the world. It’s the birthplace of commercial bungy. Home of the world’s highest cliff jump, the world’s steepest zipline, the world’s biggest human catapult, and one of the world’s largest giant swings. Tandem skydiving and paragliding were also pioneered here. The first commercial jet boat rides in the world were right here on the Kawarau River. Learn more about how Queenstown became the adventure capital of the world .

But today, Queenstown is home to a new generation of adventure firsts; adrenaline activities and a tourism industry on a journey to give back to the environment and the local community.

Read more about how Queenstown is reaching new heights here .

What are the best things to do in Queenstown?

The best things to do in Queenstown depend on your interests, travel style and time of year. Every season offers something unique, and most activities can be accessed all year round.

Whether it’s outdoor activities, adventure, sightseeing, shopping, food and wine, or relaxation/wellness you’re after, there’s something for you in Queenstown.

We recommend planning at least a week-long trip to ensure you get the chance to experience Queenstown like a temporary local .

Update April 12, 2024

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Our Passion For Travel

3 days in queenstown itinerary: make the most of this stunning city.

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Tucked away in New Zealand’s south island, amongst the appropriately named Remarkables, with fresh alpine air and seemingly endless sights, Queenstown punches above its weight as a destination. 3 days in Queenstown will help you see the best of Queenstown, but rest assured, this is a town where you can spend much, much longer.

We’ve found ourselves returning to Queenstown again and again. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a larger New Zealand road trip or perhaps celebrating a major life milestone, Queenstown has got you covered.

Our Passion For Travel contains affiliate links which may provide a commission. Our reviews and commentary remain independent and commission comes at no cost to you. Income derived help us create more content to help travellers like you make the most of your travel experiences. Read more here .

Getting to Queenstown

Queenstown is home to an international airport which services both domestic New Zealand destinations and major east coast Australian destinations.

The flight into Queenstown is one of the most picturesque landings you’ll ever complete. Zigging and zagging through the Remarkables, it really is the sort of flight that makes you want to stare outside the window.

Flights can be easily booked via Skyscanner where you can compare all of the available flights in.

Perhaps you’re visiting Queenstown as part of a larger road trip? In that case, a car is a great means to get about Queenstown.

Planning your Queenstown itinerary: How to get around

Whether you arrive by air or from somewhere else within New Zealand, we’d recommend a car as the best way to get around.

Many of the recommendations in this itinerary, and most others you may find will have destinations further afield. There are options to get about to some of these, but we’ve found that having control over your visit helps to make the most of a trip to Queenstown.

Where to stay for your 3 days in Queenstown itinerary

We’ve had the pleasure of staying at a few different properties in Queenstown. It’s a city with an ever-improving number of properties, and finding a bad one may well be difficult. Here’s our favoured options below.

Located just up the incline from the centre of town, The Dairy is an intimate, homely property. So named as a former dairy, it only has a handful of rooms. Our rationale for having stayed elsewhere in fact, is that rooms here do book out very quickly.

A special call out here for the hosts who are just lovely. They’ll take you into the Library to check in over a glass of bubbles. This common area is a lovely spot to relax before heading out, or indeed if weather is not your friend on your trip.

Rooms are warm and cosy. Depending on the location of your room, you’ll also get a nice glimpse of the Remarkables too. A highly recommended property.

The Dairy is located right behind the centre of town, up a few flights of stairs. For those who might struggle with walking a few flights of stairs, this might not be the property for you. Best described as centrally, though vertically located!

Heritage Queenstown

Located a bit further outside of town, the Heritage Queenstown is an elder statesman of Queenstown. A more traditional hotel spread over a couple of wings, the big advantage here is the size of the rooms. We were on a longer road trip when we stayed here, and having a bit more space to flex out was perfect.

It’s not a huge distance into town, but similar to The Dairy, the property is located up a hill. With all that said, being located a bit further out, we did opt to drive into town and park rather than walk in. So if you’re driving anyhow, this should be a moot point.

A quiet location with very comfortable beds makes it a great option for the weary traveller.

3 days in Queenstown itinerary: Day 1

At a glance || Get the best panorama of Queenstown || Stroll the Queenstown Gardens || Sample New Zealand’s best burger || A stunning drive to Glenorchy || Aperitif for sunset || A cosy dinner

Start your day with the Skyline Queenstown

Welcome to Queenstown! We start your 3 days in Queenstown itinerary from right above it. If you flew in, you got a chance to see the breathtaking views this part of the world offers.

The Skyline Queenstown will feel like you’ve been transported to Europe. A short ride up it, and you’ll be staring back over the wide expanse of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.

This is a great way to start your time in Queenstown. If the weather is not on your side, see if you can hold this off until a day with better visibility. It’s a stunning sight and will inspire your senses.

Whilst up here, you can even take part in a few different activities . Maybe the most fun of all would be the luge. So be sure to have a few races at around the track!

A ground level view at Queenstown Gardens

Once you’re done soaking in the views from above and racing around the track, head back down. Stroll down the hill and around to the Queenstown Gardens .

These gardens are free to enter and wander about. You’ll get a great view back over lake Wakatipu towards Queenstown proper. The paths here are wide and easy to walk.

For those who prefer to take in the gardens in a different way, why try some frisbee golf? You can pick up some frisbees from the ice rink located inside the gardens. Probably a warning whether you’re playing or not to watch for stray frisbees in your direction!

Try out Fergburger

If you’ve read any blog, or in fact anything about Queenstown, Fergburger surely has rated a mention. Certainly if this is your first time to Queenstown, you must brave the line and sample the burger here.

The lines are always long. Except for one random Saturday evening in summer when we walked straight in, but that I promise is an exception! The lines move quick, and the staff know how to handle a queue. Just pick what you want ahead of time to make it as smooth a process as possible. Just typing about Ferg makes me salivate, so don’t miss your opportunity to try it out. It’s a must on every one of our visits to Queenstown.

If you’re a burger fan, you might also enjoy Devil Burger. If Fergburger didn’t exist, this would be our recommendation. It’s the high quality burger that lives in the shadow of the best.

Jump in the car – we’re off to Glenorchy

After giving big ups to the burgers here, we might be accused of throwing out too many superlatives about this trip. However, if the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy isn’t one of the most spectacular you’ve been on, well done on living a full life!

Whilst the drive only takes around 45 minutes, you’ll be met with stunning vistas as you ride the edge of Lake Wakatipu. There are many bays you can pull over along the way and take it all in. This little stretch is really what road trips are all about. I just can’t think of anywhere that packs in such stunning sights on a short run like this.

Glenorchy feels a little bit like the end of the road. And in some ways, it is. There are some off road points beyond and some tracks to be walked. But here the sealed roads do indeed end.

This small town is a perfect picture. The postcard of a shed makes for a great photo. As a photography lover, one of the things I love about this shed is the contrast. The rustic red shed. Lush green grass. Bright blue sky (hopefully). And if you visit in autumn you’ll be blessed with yellow and red foliage.

If you need to visit a cute store, look no further than Mrs Woolly’s General Store . Great for souvenirs, practical items and some snacks if you’re hungry.

If you’re heading to Queenstown, you may want to think about adding Milford Sound to your itinerary. Check out our guide to Milford Sound here.

Aperitivo hour with sunset

Enjoy the drive back to Queenstown. I’ll admit the drive back isn’t as nice, given the spectacular views are in the rear mirror. Head back and park at your hotel and make your way into the heart of Queenstown.

The Eichardt is an iconic Queenstown establishment. And for those with deep pockets, and excellent choice of accommodation. If that’s not you, and we haven’t been able to stretch our budget that far, head here for an afternoon drink.

Hang around here until the sun begins to set. Head outside and take it all in. It might be because of Queenstown’s southern location, but the sunsets here rarely disappoint.

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

After a magnificent first day in Queenstown, you need somewhere good for dinner. Look no further than Botswana Butchery . Apologies to all the vegetarians out there, this one isn’t for you.

The slow cooked lamb shoulder here is hands down one of my top ten meals. The portion is for two and coupled with some New Zealand wines, what more do you need for dinner?

3 days in Queenstown itinerary: Day 2

At a glance || A morning on Lake Wakatipu || Long lunch at Amisfield winery || Queenstown at leisure || More tasty lamb for dinner

Another Lake Wakatipu vantage point

Day one of your 3 days in Queenstown itinerary saw numerous vantages of Lake Wakatipu. From the Skyline. From the Queenstown Gardens. And driving to Glenorchy. There’s one last thing to do. Get out on the lake!

And you can do this on another Queenstown icon – the TSS Earnslaw. No doubt you would have seen this steam boat operating on day one. It’ll take you out and around the lake for a scenic cruise. Another great way to take in Queenstown.

You can book your tickets here in advance to avoid disappointment.

Long lunch at Amisfield Winery

Now I’ve been quite pointed about having your own car to get around. But today it will probably be better to leave that at the hotel. Amisfield winery is famed for its spectacular lunches with matching wines. And to fully enjoy this, a taxi might be the most appropriate means of transport.

There are a huge number of wineries around Queenstown, but Amisfield is probably the most famous of them all. Make no mistake, bookings here are essential. So when you book your flights and accommodation, book your reservation here as well.

Queenstown at leisure

If you’re anything like me after a long lunch, activities are probably off limits. So we’ll leave this part of your itinerary to yourself to decide. Maybe it’s an afternoon nap after a few glasses of red. Or maybe you prefer to walk it off around the Queenstown Gardens. Whatever the case, we’ll leave to you to decide!

Sample Pedro’s House of Lamb

Botswana Butchery last night is more of your high end dining experience. Pedro’s House of Lamb is more of your high end street truck style fare. We discovered Pedro’s on our last trip by chance. And we’re so grateful we did. At Pedro’s you’ll find tasty slow cooked lamb, together with roast potatoes and a side of bread.

The menu is not extensive. You come here for lamb and taters. And you won’t look back.

3 days in Queenstown itinerary: Day 3

At a glance || Stunning Arrowtown || Driving through the Remarkables || A visit to New Zealand’s most famous tree || Bungy jumping anyone? || Tacos for dinner

The cute hamlet town of Arrowtown

Just a 20 minute driven from Queenstown is the former gold mining town of Arrowtown . This place is pretty. Like, really pretty. And if you want to see it in its full glory, you’ll need to head here in the autumn when the autumnal leaves make it a right picture.

The town is quaint, packed with cute streets and sits right on the Arrow river. You can explore some of the little huts that remain here from the gold rush days too. Packed with history and beauty in equal measure, it’s a worthy addition to your Queenstown itinerary.

The drive to Wanaka

Our next destination is Wanaka. And like the trip to Glenorchy, the journey is part of the experience. As you wind up through mountains, you start to get some more stunning views to Queenstown and the Gibbston Valley. There are vantage points you can stop off at along the way and I’d encourage you to do that.

The weather up in the Crown Ranges can be windy and cold, so come prepared for that. There’s a great spot where you can watch the planes come into land which look almost toy like as they approach Queenstown airport.

Along the drive, the historic Cardrona Pub is a worthwhile stop, even if for nothing more than a photo. One of New Zealand’s oldest pubs, you can’t miss it on this drive.

I’ve used the word icon in this Queenstown itinerary a lot, so I won’t use it on this next point. However, the Cardona bra fence (or Bradrona!) does make our list of, err, unique sights. This attraction started with people attaching bras to the fence along here. Now there are some many hundreds if not thousands of bras along this fence.

Admittedly, it’s a bit weird. But just the sort of attraction that makes travelling great. You won’t need more than five minutes here, I promise you that!

Hello Wanaka

After your drive, it’s time to eat. Wanaka is home to a number of fantastic restaurants, and we’ve been lucky enough to try a few. The Big Fig Café is our number one pick. With an array of colourful veggies and lovingly cooked meats, your difficulty will be knowing what to choose. For our vegetarian readers, there’s even some great vego options here too.

Fun, casual and well priced, the Big Fig is an easy option.

Prefer something else? The Trout Bar and Restaurant is another great option. Grab a table in the sun, some fish and chips and a beer and look out to the lake.

Are you a road trip fan? Also located on the South Island are The Catlins . A lesser explored region, there is plenty to take in on this drive. Read our guide to The Catlins here.

The Wanaka Tree

You’ve come all the way to Wanaka, so you need to see ‘that tree’. The Wanaka Tree sits at one end of town. And naturally, it is a well-known landmark of Wanaka. Perhaps one of the most well-known on the South Island in fact.

This solitary tree stands resolutely in the water, just off the beach. It does make for tremendous photos, particularly against a stunning background. A quick Google search will show you the tree in various seasons and times of day. And it does make for a striking capture. So make sure you get yours too!

Take the jump?

So far you’ve had 3 days in Queenstown and there’s been no mention of thrill seeking. So before your 3 days wrap up, it’s time.

The AJ Hackett bungy is the home of bungy jumping. And you can make a detour to it easily on your drive back to Queenstown. Now, full disclosure from me on this. I’ve never bungy jumped, and likely never will. But I did enjoy the visit, watching numerous others take the plunge. Clearly not for the faint hearted, but if you’re going to bungy anywhere, it may as well be here!

Last dinner in Queenstown

It’s been something of a lamb fest with our recommendations. So for something different on your last evening, head to Taco Medic . Taco Medic serves up an impressive array of tacos and other Mexican dishes. They’re great value and are simply delicious. Wash it down with a couple of beers or a margarita to cap your perfect 3 days in Queenstown.

Any other tips for a 3 days in Queenstown itinerary?

You can spend a lot of time in Queenstown very easily. For the adventurous, endless mountains and tracks await. Within one to two hours of Queenstown you have so many options.

That’s also true for those who like to take it easy. It’s a laid back, beautiful city filled with great eateries and bars.

On top of our already provided recommendations, the one that we didn’t find time for in this itinerary was Ferg Bakery . Located next to Fergburger, it’s the sister restaurant that has a range of excellent pie options. The burgers are well known, but the pies are fantastic in their own right.

And for the adventure seekers, whilst this Queenstown itinerary probably hasn’t been for you, there are so many options. The Shotover Jet and Canyon Swing are very popular activities too. There’s no shortage of activities for adrenalin junkies.

What time of year is best to visit Queenstown?

We aren’t avid skiers, but those that are will sing the delights on a visit during winter. Nearby Cardrona has some excellent ski fields. Queenstown is a buzzing hub during this time as well.

Our visits have been during summer and autumn. Summer brings lots of daylight, and long sunsets. Autumn brings with it stunning fall colours. And spring, which we haven’t added to our belt yet, yields stunning regeneration. The South Island lupins really come to life at this time.

So in short, there’s no bad option to visit. But if you want to see a lot more and aren’t chasing the snow, summer, autumn and spring would be your best bet.

This concludes our Queenstown itinerary. As you can see, there’s so much to experience. Have you visited? We’d love to hear about your trip in the comments below. Is there anything else you’d add to this 3 day Queenstown itinerary?

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Weather: Heavy rain, flooding, triggers local states of emergency in Queenstown and Southland, residents forced to evacuate

• Seni Iasona
• Molly Swift

Queenstown remains in a state of emergency on Friday following record rain, landslides, and the evacuation of more than a hundred people. Credits: Video - Newshub ; Image - Facebook: QLDC / AM / Jamie Turner / Jimmy Carling

Heavy rain and flooding in the South have forced residents to evacuate their homes, rivers to rise rapidly and sent debris across streets as authorities issue local states of emergency.   

In the early hours of Friday, Queenstown declared a local state of emergency in the district as the wild weather continued to whip parts of the South Island.   

It comes after Gore also declared a state of emergency on Thursday afternoon. This was later extended to the whole Southland region. 

Some homes have been evacuated due to the severe weather and community centres have remained open for anyone who needs assistance.   

MetService has issued several severe weather warnings and watches as an active front over the bottom of the South Island makes its feral presence known.  

Torrential rain caused significant surface flooding throughout the parts of Southland on Thursday. Several routes remained closed on Friday, including State Highway 1 between Gore and Mataura and State Highway 8 from Parawa to Kingston.  

The council said the stormwater system in Gore and Maraura has been "overwhelmed" and is "causing surface flooding and water to threaten homes".  

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Metservice's severe weather warnings and watches , heavy rain warning .

• Tasman west of Motueka and the Bryant and northern Richmond Ranges – 12pm Friday to 12pm Saturday 
• Westland south of Otira – 8pm Thursday to 9pm Friday  
• Headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass – 8pm Thursday to 10pm Friday    

Heavy Snow Warning 

• Mackenzie Country and inland Canterbury south of the Rangitata River, also Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes north of a line from Wanaka to Ranfurly from 8am Friday - 8pm Friday  

Inland Canterbury north of the Rangitata River 4pm Friday to 6am Saturday  

Heavy Rain Watch 

• Taranaki Maunga/Mount Taranaki from 6am Saturday – 12am Saturday   
• The Tararua Range from 6am to 6pm Saturday   
• Buller and Westland about and north of Otira from 12pm Friday to 6am Saturday  

Heavy Snow Watch

• Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes about and south of a line from Wanaka to Ranfurly from 6am Friday to 6pm Friday  

Evacuations in Southland 

A small number of homes have been evacuated on Friday afternoon in Wallacetown, west of Invercargill.

Emergency Management Southland said the Wallacetown Community Centre is open to anyone who needs assistance.

It said both community emergency hubs in Gore and Mataura have now closed. Those evacuated have been able to safely return to their homes or have found other accommodation.  

Queenstown Lakes District - local state of emergency   

Queenstown has recorded its wettest September day on record with 71.6mm of rain, MetService said.

Queenstown District Mayor Glyn Lewers said debris flow hit the outskirts of the CDB which has caused significant damage to some properties.  

Lewers said the declaration gives police the ability to exercise powers to keep locals away from damaged areas "because there is risk of harm for people". 

"I declared an emergency at 6:33am this morning, so that enabled the police to cordon off areas and keep people away from those areas." 

Authorities stood up an evacuation centre overnight, with 41 people from one area of the district and 68 from another.  

"They had the best sleep they could possibly get in the circumstances," Lewers said. 

Speaking to AM, he said the heavy rain and flooding forced small amounts of forestry slash, rocks, mud, water and silt to move across some parts of the region.  

Lewers added the rain has eased slightly and looks to be easing more on Friday afternoon.

In an update, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) said severe weather has caused flooding and debris flows hitting isolated parts of the town centre. including Upper Brecon and Fryer Sts, Reavers Ln and Hamilton Rd.

"The rain has now cleared and further assessments are underway."

Affected areas will be assessed by a geotechnical engineer, supported by a drone operator to get a "clearer understanding of the extent of the damage", the council said.

And a clean-up operation has already begun for Isle, Duke, Shotover and Camp Sts as well as Robins Rd, it said.

"Emergency services, Alliance, Downer and Skyline staff are all assisting."

Queenstown businesses are open unless they are inside the listed affected areas, the council added.

"The town centre is open and accessible, please take extra care and follow all safety signage and instructions in place."

Staff are working to prioritise buildings for assessment, the council said, which will happen when it's safe to do so.

"Council staff are directly contacting those who have been evacuated and will continue communication with them over the course of the day.

"There are other road closures throughout the district – these are listed on the QLDC website. A map will be available as part of the next update."  

Gore - local state of emergency   

In a recent update, Gore District Council said it had stood down its emergency response to the flooding on Friday evening.

Gore District alternate controller Jason Domigan said the community emergency hubs at Gore and Mataura had been closed. However, if people need help, they should contact Emergency Management Southland, phone 0800 768 845.

Several roads remain closed in the Gore District, including State Highway One between Gore and Mataura and State Highway 93 between Mataura and Clinton. The state highway closures were due to sandbagging across the roads as a precaution.

Traffic will be detoured through Gore, then via SH96, Waimumu Road and Charlton Road or vice versa.

"While it hasn't been as bad as 2020, there are those who have had their homes and businesses impacted. Our teams will do their best to assist them as we work through the recovery phase," Domigan said.

On Friday morning, Gore Mayor Ben Bell told AM the rain has stopped for now, giving the region's overwhelmed storm water system a break.  

"We've just been monitoring the rivers overnight as they continue to reach their peak," he said.  

As daylight breaks authorities will work to reopen roads, assess the damage and some of the areas that were flooded overnight, Bell said. 

"It's really just recovery now."  

He said Fire and Emergency New Zealand believes about 20 homes were flooded on Thursday, as well as basements and garages.  

"We'll be assessing the damage throughout the day."  

Gore too stood up a community hub, for those who self-evacuated and Bell said there were not many who had.   

Bell added the region's water is safe to drink.   

Extreme caution on Southland roads advised 

Southland Emergency Management said a considerable amount of surface flooding remains across farmland, roads and around towns - especially in Gore and on State Highways 66 and 99.

"Extreme caution is required," Southland Emergency Management said.

It said SH1 between Gore and Matarua remains closed, with a new detour in place via SH96, Waimumu Rd and Charlton Rd.

SH93, also known as Old Catch Road, will be closed to all traffic from 4pm Friday. Gore District Council staff will be laying sandbags across the road, just north of Mataura at the flood banks, as a precaution given the predicted peak of the Mataura River on Friday night. The river is expected to reach 4.1 metres above normal levels. All traffic will be detoured through Gore.

Flooding and slips have also forced the closure of SH6 between Jollies Hill and Kingston, and Southland Emergency Management is urging people to "avoid travelling the area".

SH99 from Wallacetown to the intersection at Lorneville with SH6 is also closed due to flood waters.

Flood warnings and high river watches continue to be in place across regions and, while river levels are high, officials said most have peaked. However, some peaks are still to come in the lower catchments on Friday afternoon and Saturday.

"The Mataura River at Gore and Mataura township is yet to peak, but is expected to be within the design capacity of the stop banks."

Emergency Management Southland added welfare centres are still open at the Croydon Lodge Gore and at the Mataura community centre for people who need support. The centre at Otautau is closed.

The water treatment plant at Tuatapere stopped working on Thursday night due to floodwaters and is now running on a generator.

"Water tankers arrived in the township this morning. Residents are advised to continue conserving water."

Emergency Management Southland group controller Simon Mapp said though the weather had eased there were considerable hazards in places and urged people to avoid flood waters and travelling on affected roads.

"People need to avoid travelling on roads that are closed or obviously flooded to avoid getting stuck. Extreme caution is essential," Mapp said.

"People should also avoid contact with flood waters as they could be contaminated with sewage or other waste."

'The Government is on stand by'

On Friday afternoon, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said it has been a "tough night" for many Kiwis in the lower South Island and encouraged them to continue to follow the advice of local emergency management teams.

"The Government is on standby to provide whatever support is required. Often it's not until the weather band has passed that we get to understand exactly what support will be required, if any."

Emergency Management Minister Kieran McAnulty said he is evaluating the situation to see whether he will visit Queenstown at the weekend.

McAnulty told media he's pleased with the local response so far, adding the Government is "ready to help if it's required".

He said Gore Mayor Ben Bell had provided him with an update saying the region is preparing for the worst – but there are hopes the worst has passed.

"The feedback that I've had through NIMA is that their preparations are very good and so too is their communication." 

Watch the video above for more.   

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Clean-up continues in South as rain moves on

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MetService says heavy rain which caused widespread flooding and damage in Southland and Otago is now making its way up the country.

Large swathes of the South Island remain under weather warnings and watches ahead of the weekend, and clean-ups are under way in Queenstown and Gore and other southern centres.

Meteorologist Clare O'Connor said late this afternoon the rain was easing in Southland, but was now hitting the West Coast, and would move on to the North Island over the weekend.

Emergency Management Southland (EMS) said this evening the rain had eased, but the state of emergency remained in place for the province.

EMS duty controller Lucy Hicks said latest information suggested most rivers in the region had peaked, although the Mataura River was still to peak at Gore and further down the catchment. At this stage, all peaks were expected to remain within the capacity of the river system, with the predicted peak for the Mataura River considerably lower than the 2020 flooding event. 

Ms Hicks said although the immediate flooding concerns were easing, hazards remained and people should avoid flood waters as they may be contaminated or contain dangerous debris. 

“We’ve received reports of people attempting to whitebait on stands along flooded rivers. This is incredibly unsafe and could put others at risk by diverting essential emergency services.” 

MetService said orange snow warnings remained in place for inland Canterbury and Otago, including south of Arthur's Pass, Mackenzie country, Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes until tonight.

Up to 40cm of snow is expected about the Mackenzie basin and Otago, with greater amounts above 500 metres.

Queenstown Lakes Mayor Glyn Lewers made the state of emergency declaration at 6.33am today. It will initially last for seven days.

It follows a state of emergency being declared across Southland yesterday as the region was battered by severe weather.

• Check southern highway conditions here
• Evacuees directed to locked church
• Slideshow: Flooding across the South

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said it had been a tough night for many in the lower South Island and he encouraged people to follow the guidance of their local emergency management teams.

He said the Government was on standby to provide support required if needed - and he might head south but it “depends on the need”.

Queenstown recorded 87mm of rain from 9am yesterday until 9am today, equivalent to a month's rain in a day, the wettest day in 24 years, Niwa said.

The affected areas will be be assessed by a geotechnical engineer supported by a drone operator to get a clearer understanding of the extent of the damage, the Queenstown Lakes District Council said in a statement.

An initial clean-up operation is already under way for Isle Street, Robins Road, Duke Street, Shotover Street and Camp Street. Emergency services, Alliance, Downer and Skyline staff are all assisting. 

Businesses in Queenstown are open unless they are inside the listed affected areas. The town centre is open and accessible with safety signage in place.

Queenstown councillor Matt Wong spoke of the “mess” on Queenstown’s Brecon St, where footage captured slash debris washing through and blocking roads.

”It looks like it happened about midnight, there was significant flooding that really brought the debris in through the township,” he told The Hits Southern Lakes Breakfast.

”As you look from town, you can see where the slips started from - a little creek there that’s turned into quite a significant slip.”

A nearby cemetery appeared to have taken a good brunt of the slip, Wong said, with logs and slash scattered through the site.

”I’ve never seen it like this in all my life - there’s going to be some difficult questions asked.”

Power was still on and the debris flow was well away from the water treatment plant.

Mr Lewers said schools around the CBD would be closed today and the centrally-located medical centre was not able to be accessed at the moment.

He said the rain set in at midnight and intensified in the early hours. It had since eased but was still falling.

Multiple roads were now closed throughout the Queenstown town centre and around the district.

Emergency Management Minister Kieran McAnulty  told reporters the Government was prepared to assist Queenstown if needed.

“At this point, we haven’t had a request through,” he said.

McAnulty said there was a threat the rainfall could compound the water issue the town was already facing.

“This is just something on top of that, that is just going to make it incredibly difficult for those that live there and those that are visiting.”

He was alluding to an outbreak of cryptosporidium and confirmation Queenstown’s main water supply had no filter protecting it from the protozoan parasite.

Locals and tourists could face months of having to boil water until treatment plants are upgraded with barriers against cryptosporidium, the mayor has said.

Southland state of emergency

Southland also remains in a region-wide state of emergency.

The water treatment plant at Tuatapere stopped working last night due to floodwaters but was up and running around 8.50am this morning.

SH1 from Gore to Mataura remained closed and up to 10 local roads were closed.

Community emergency hubs were available today at the Croydon Lodge, in Gore, and Mataura Community Centre.

The Mataura River at Gore and Mataura township was yet to peak, but the stop banks were expected to cope.                                                

 Emergency Management Southland group controller Simon Mapp said people should avoid flood waters and travelling on affected roads. 

“People need to avoid travelling on roads that are closed or obviously flooded to avoid getting stuck. Extreme caution is essential. People should also avoid contact with flood waters as they could be contaminated with sewage or other waste.” Simon Mapp said. 

People were urged avoid contact with the flood water as wastewater and stormwater systems towns struggled to cope with the volume of water. Staying at home and off the roads was also advised.

Police rescued two people from a car stuck in floodwater on the Gore-Mataura highway, between Jubilee Ave and Given Rd.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said last night the council had had dozens of callouts to surface flooding on roads, flooded houses and garages and blocked drains in Invercargill, Gore, Winton, Mataura and surrounding areas.

Central Otago 

Caution has been advised on the roads with surface flooding and debris to be expected.

State Highway 6 from Luggate to Pisa Moorings open but there is surface water in many places.

Swann Road remains closed, as crews need to work on reinstating the road surface.

It’s snowing and starting to settle in and around Naseby and Oturehua areas, crews are out ploughing and gritting.

The Nevis Road is closed because of flooding at bridge No 6, and Danseys Pass Rd is closed owing to snow and ice.

Otago Regional Council staff are continuing to monitor lake and river levels around the region.

ORC Duty Flood Manager Tim van Woerden said river and lake levels were elevated across Otago, but rain had eased in the upper lakes catchments and it was anticipated that river levels would continue

to fall, and lake levels should peak later today.

“Some rivers have or will trigger warning alarms but not at levels that are of concern."

 - NZ Herald/ODT Online

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Queenstown New Zealand travel blog — The fullest Queenstown travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers

Queenstown city is like the resort paradise of New Zealand. Even though you come here at any time of the year, visitors can still admire its unparalleled beauty with very fresh air. It’s famous for its Lake Wakatipu, the golden town of Clyde and Arrowtown, the majestic Remarkables Mountains, Treble Cone ski resort or the most extreme adventure games and activities… The city of Queenstown will bring visitors emotions that are difficult to describe in words.

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So, is Queenstown worth visiting, how to visit Queenstown, what to do in Queenstown and how to plan a budget trip to Queenstown for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Queenstown travel blog (Queenstown blog) with the fullest Queenstown travel guide (guide to Queenstown, Queenstown tourist guide, Queenstown city guide, Queenstown guide) from how to get to Queenstown, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Queenstown to help you maximize your trip as follows!

The quiet, peaceful and tranquil city of Queenstown on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. When it is sunny, the lake turn blue, blending with the color of summer sky. Visitors can start enjoying the wonderful romantic atmosphere here right from the plane. Looking down from above, mountains and hills are interspersed with blue lakes. It is said that Queenstown is one of the ideal options for a honeymoon. Coming here, you can freely walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, reading books on wooden benches along the lake, or reserve a romantic dinner at the restaurants in Queenstown Bay.

Queenstown New Zealand travel blog: Overview of Queenstown

Queenstown is an extremely charming tourist city in the country of New Zealand. The city is located right next to the famous Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by the majestic Alps. Therefore, the air here is always fresh and cool. Queenstown is not only famous for nature’s favor, but also for exciting outdoor activities and games. I am very passionate about extreme sports such as paragliding and bungee jumping. So Queenstown is even more attractive to me. I visited this place in March, when the morning temperature dropped to 13 degrees Celsius. However, the cold was very pleasant due to the moisture rising from the clear sea water.

Before, Queenstown was just a small, remote town and little known. Over the years of development, this place has gradually develop and become one of the vibrant, bustling destinations of New Zealand. According to statistics, each year more than 2 million tourists come to Queestown to discover interesting things and its charming beauty.

Queenstown is a very beautiful and peaceful land. Queenstown tourism activities are associated with wild nature. So, during the trip I always feel comfortable and full of energy. If you have an opportunity to set foot in this island nation, remember to visit Queenstown to fully experience the beauty of nature, cuisine and people here.

Queenstown New Zealand blog: When is the best time to visit Queenstown?

Queenstown is a city bearing the typical climate of New Zealand with a cool and pleasant weather. Summer time from December to March, with temperatures sometimes reaching 30 degrees Celsius but the average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius. While winter starts from June to August, with temperatures not too harsh either. In general, you can come here at any time of the year.

The best time to visit Queenstown is in the spring or summer. However, the time most tourists choose is the time of the ski season with the winter festival taking place at the end of June. Also at this time is also the time of many activities taking place throughout the town and ski resorts for 10 days.

If you come to Queenstown in the early summer, you will be able to participate in the annual Summer Daze festival, which starts from December 31st and lasts throughout January; Lake Hayes A&P Show to honor Queensland’s agricultural heritage and International Pinot Noir Celebration for wine lovers.

Queenstown travel guide: How to get to Queenstown?

Queenstown is New Zealand’s most beautiful and famous tourist city. To get to Queenstown from Vietnam, you can fly to Auckland and take another flight to Queenstown (flight time about 2 hours), or you can depart from Sydney or Melbourne of Australia, this route will take 3 hours, and there are many cheap airlines to choose from such as: Jetstar, Virgin or Qatar Air.

Queenstown Airport (NZQN) information

• 8km from the city center
• Travel time: 15 minutes
• Taxi fees are around NZ$ 35
• SuperShuttle express bus ticket from NZ$ 20
• Connectabus buses run with a frequency of 15 minutes/trip. One way: NZ$ 8 (adults), NZ$ 5 (children). Journey takes 25 minutes.

Queenstown guide: Getting around

Getting around the central districts is easy, with the cheap and convenient Connectabus bus service help you to exploring the large areas. Buses run from early morning until late night, running through all major hotels and guesthouses with a frequency of 20 minutes/trip. Or you can rent a bike to enjoy the beautiful scenery around the lake and the hinterland.

Self-driving

Transportation in Queenstown is quite diverse, from cars, buses to the train system. You can experience self-driving here by rent a car. They have a car rental service by day and can be haggled. Traffic laws here are not too strict. This type is quite popular because visitors can freely manage their travel time as well as itinerary. Here, you can choose from reputable car rental companies such as ACE , Jucy , Go Rentals or Apex . To rent an 8-seat car for a day, the price is about NZD 150 ( ~ USD 110). This price included GPS and car insurance for the trip.

If you don’t want rent a car, do not worry because in Queenstown it is quite easy to travel to its attractions. If you want to play bungy jumping, skiing, or other games, there will be a car to pick you up to ticket booths.

I chose to travel by train for safety and avoid getting lost. The train is very clean and comfortable. The train runs through many mountains, coastlines and volcanoes, very suitable for sightseeing.

Queenstown New Zealand travel blog: Where to go and what to do?

Lake wakatipu.

If you are still wondering where to go when coming to Queenstown for the first time, perhaps Lake Wakapitu is the first place that you should think of. This is the most beautiful lake and attracts the most tourists in New Zealand. Any visitor who comes here must be amazed by its majestic and poetic natural scenery. Here there are hundreds of years old trees and giant rocks stacked together to create a spectacular scene. Coming to Lake Wakatipu, you will be immersed in the fresh natural space, enjoy the most truly relaxing moments.

Walter Peak High Country Farm and learn about the life of the people of Queenstown

A very interesting place in Queentown you should not miss is the sheep farm at Walter Peak. This place was established in 1860, located about 13km from the city center. Here, you will see the lovely sheep, watch the steps to cut the wool and enjoy some delicious cups of coffee.

In addition to explore the Queenstown tourist attractions, take time to learn about the lives of the people here. The best place for you to go there is the Walter Peak farm. This place is the stop that the Maori have chosen to reside. This farm is isolated and located on the other side of the lake.

Address: Walter Peak, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Hours: 9:30AM–9:30PM

Gibbston Valley Winery

Besides sheep farming, the wine industry is also very developed in New Zealand. In Queenstown there is a very famous valley that you should visit – Gibbston, located in the Otego region filled with vast vineyards and old wineries. Coming here, visitors not only can visit the vast acres of vineyards but also learn about the production process and enjoy best wine glasses.

Head to Gibbston to explore New Zealand’s largest wine cellar. Gibbston’s dry and cold climate has created great world-famous fine wines. If you are a fan of good wine, do not miss the wine valley here. Visitors will taste Pinot Noir red wine, Chardonnay white wine and many other famous regional wines. Follow an expert touring the vineyard to learn about how to grow grapes so that each variety will bring a unique taste. Adventure enthusiasts can try bungee jumping from a nearby bridge or hiking and cycling along the trails in the nearby forest.

Gibbston Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Queenstown

The village of gold diggers

When mentioning Arrowtown , people immediately think of an ancient village known as the “village of the gold-diggers” in Queenstown. This is a place that caters to 19th century gold seekers and it boasts numerous of artworks, craft products, restaurants, bars, cinemas. It’s just 20 minutes drive from Queenstown.

Getting around the city and playing Shotover Jet (Jet Boat)

If you visiting Queenstown for the first time, you should take a tour of Queenstown and join Shotover Jet ride. This is a thrilling underwater ride, to join this activity, players will be wearing protective gear and sitting on a boat, then the boat will ride at 85km/h through the narrow Shotover Canyons, creating excitement for players. This activity is one of the most engaging rides in New Zealand. Having come Queenstown, visitors should try this ride, it will bring you great moments.

[29% OFF KIDS] Shotover Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown

Street performance

Along the streets of Queenstown there are quite a few bands playing freely. They often sing and play musical instruments. This type of performance is almost identical to the small groups that often sing on the streets of Hanoi every weekend. The street bands often choose cool coastal streets and perform impromptu performances.

Every night, if I don’t have a specific outing plan, I often buy some snacks and watch them sing. Feeling very peaceful and happy. You can give them a little money if you want. Typically here, visitor will donate NZ$ 5 – 7 for each band.

Cable car ride is an activity attracting a lot of tourists to participate in Queenstown. A cable car ride takes you to the top of Mount Bob or onto the Skyline zone. You will be able to see the whole majestic natural picture of Lake Wakatipu, the whole miniature city of Queenstown is really impressive. But because of the high, the weather is also much colder. I recommend bringing thick clothes or heat stickers to reduce heat loss.

Take a cruise tour on a hundred year old steamboat

TSS Earnslaw hundred-year-old steamboat will take you on Lake Wakatipu for 90 minutes with a fare of NZ$ 55. Admiring the lake, especially at sunset, is an unforgettable experience in my trip. The guide on the boat told me local stories and about the history of the lake. They are very friendly and open. After this trip, I also learned more about the beautiful city of Queenstown.

TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise in Queenstown

Experience high speed

If you know how to skateboard, do not miss the zigzag routes for skateboard lovers here. The adult fare is NZ$39 and NZ$28 for children. I don’t know how to skateboard, so I had to skip this activity. In return, in Queenstown there is bungee jumping or skydiving from the top of a 400m high hill. Before participating, they will ask about visitors’ health and psychological fears. The prices to play bungy jumping are NZ$ 95 and NZ$ 195 if you want the photos and video files they recorded. The prices are also vary depending the altitudes, you can refer to here.

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

Night skiing at Coronet Peak

If you choose to travel to Queenstown in winter, do not miss an great destination like Coronet Peak. Because this is the best destination for those who want to participate in night skiing. However, you need to keep watching its schedules which will be held on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

To get here, you will follow the always-lit trail. The feeling of conquering the trail leading here is very interesting. You are like being lost in the middle of a vast sea of ​​snow. After the skiing is complete, you can drop your soul when choose the warm cafes here to sit and enjoy a drink.

Coronet Peak Ski Resort Skiing or Snowboarding Experience

Playing indoor games at Game Over

One of the largest entertainment and game centers in the town of Queenstown is Game Over. Here, you will have countless of fun games to take part in. Typical examples are video games, racing games or laser shooting games. Therefore, you can spend a day to coming here to participate and experience. Tickets to participate in the games here are not too expensive.

Address: 14 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Hours: 10AM–7PM

Walking around and experience nightlife of Queenstown

Nightlife in Queenstown quite bustling with vibrant bars and pub throughout the streets. Usually these bars will be open until 4am. Remember to bring your passport when you want to go to the bar or drink alcohol / beer, because they only sell to those over 25 years old. I can’t drink so I ordered mocktail “Bloody Mary”, cheap and delicious.

Some of the famous bars that you can spend time exploring like Below Zero or Minus 5 Ice Bar … These are great bars for you to have fun.

In particular, street artists often perform here. Therefore, when strolling at night, you will enjoy a lot of special performances such as circus performance, live music and magic show.

Queenstown New Zealand blog: What and where to eat?

Famous New Zealand dishes are available in Queenstown city. Most of these dishes are quite easy to eat and not expensive. I didn’t bring much dry food because I know for sure that the food here is suite for my taste. Here are the famous dishes I have tried.

This fruit is sold lots in supermarkets in Vietnam, but the reason I absolutely have to go to the market in Queenstown to buy kiwifruit is because these kiwifruits are directly picked from the tree. They don’t undergo a long transport so the flavor will be more original. New Zealand Kiwifruit with a hairy skin, fragrant, slightly soft, green or yellow flesh and delicious sweet and sour taste.

Grilled lamb

This is a specialty of New Zealand. Grilled lamb is sold at both budget and luxury restaurants in Queenstown. Lamb is marinated with spices and herbs, then grilled. You should try grilled medium-rare steak. The meat will be both fragrant and juicy, and it is worth a try. Grilled lamb steak will be served with grilled vegetables.

Fish & Chips

Although Fish & Chips is a typical British dish but it is very popular in New Zealand. This dish is best enjoyed while it’s still hot. The fresh fish is cleaned, battered and deep fried, served with french fries. Fish & Chips served with tomato sauce and fews of slices of lemon. I really like the feeling of sitting outside, breathing the fresh air and enjoying the crispy fish. This is a dish you definitely must-try when coming to Queenstown.

In addition to Subway which is quite cheap (about $5 / meal), other restaurants or eateries are much higher. However, you can go to an Asian supermarket in Queenstown to buy food, a cup of instant noodles there costs about $1. In addition, there is also a restaurant that is quite popular with tourists and is loved by locals, and the price is also very affordable, this shop mainly sells breakfast. Your suggestion for ordering here is the “All day breakfast” which costs $10, which you can use for both breakfast and lunch.

Queenstown’s two most famous restaurants are Fergburger and Devil Burger . These are 2 restaurants serving famous burgers. Therefore, you should visit these restaurants to have a chance to explore the rich local cuisine of Qeenstown.

In Queenstown there is a very famous bakery, but anytime I pass through at around 4 pm, I also see the number of people standing in line to buy cakes that are 50 meters long. Their cakes are so delicious, its name FERGBAKER .

Queenstown New Zealand travel blog: What to buy as a gift when visiting Queenstown?

I choose to buy products made from wool to make gifts for my beloved ones. There are plenty of wool souvenirs such as towels, shirts, gloves or sheep dolls. These kinds of gifts are crafted by local people, so they bear the identity of this land. In addition, the famous candies and snacks in New Zealand such as ANZAC Biscuits or Pavlova cake are also very suitable as gifts.

Queenstown blog: Hotels in Queenstown

I choose to stay at Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . This hotel is a 10-minute drive from Queenstown Airport and a 5-minute walk from central of Queenstown. This is a complex of 4-star hotel and resort with views of Lake Wakatipu, the top of Coronet Mountain, Remarkables and Cardrona mountains. My room does not have a balcony, so the price will be a bit lower than the rooms with balconies and lake views.

In addition to convenient facilities such as a restaurant, Cocktail Bar, spa or swimming pool, I choose this hotel because they make the most of the outdoor space for visitors to feel the majestic nature all around. When visiting Queenstown, you should also choose a little airy accommodation to enjoy the weather and the wonderful landscape here.

Also you can refer to a pretty hostel The last Resort Queenstown   is about 5 minutes walk from the center, and uses free wifi. You can book in advance through Agoda.com and Booking.com .

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• QT Queenstown, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $157/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $140/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $119/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $119/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Queenstown you can refer to

• Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge Ride with Optional Buffet Lunch or Dinner
• NZONE Skydive Experience in Queenstown
• Queenstown Quad Bike Adventure
• Milford Sound Sunriser Day Tour from Queenstown
• Queenstown Green & Gold Tour
• Queenstown Off Road Quad Bike Explore Tour
• Mountain Biking Day Pass
• Go Orange-Jet Boat Experience in Queenstown

Are you looking for more top things to do in New Zealand: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Auckland here .

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall due to security risks.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Indonesia (PDF 699.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire services, ambulance and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 110 or 112.

Tourist Police, Bali

Call (+0361) 759 687.

Tourist Police, Jakarta

Call (+201) 526 4073.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Papua (Papua), Papua Highlands (Papua Pegunungan), Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and South Papua (Papua Selatan).

Reconsider your need to travel  to the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan due to the risk of serious security incidents or demonstrations that may turn violent.

• There's an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Indonesia. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.
• Public protests and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and can turn violent with little notice. Expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests. Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates.
• Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. Domestic and international flights can be disrupted. Monitor Indonesia's  Volcano Observatory Notice  for the latest volcanic activity (Bahasa Indonesia and English),  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  and the  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  for updates. 
• There's been tension, including demonstrations and violence, in certain towns in the provinces of Papua,   Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan in recent years. Armed groups have stated that they're targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited. Armed groups have shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, in remote airports in Papua Pegunungan and Papua Tengah provinces.
• Petty and violent crime occurs in Indonesia. Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing occurs. Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Crimes involving taxis and taxi drivers occur. Solo women are at higher risk. Be alert in taxis, public transport, crowds, bars and nightclubs.
• Legal disputes over real estate are common, including in Bali. Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details, do your research and get legal advice.
• Natural disasters such as severe weather, floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis occur regularly. Weather conditions can change quickly during the wet season (October – April). Regularly check weather reports, monitor media and speak to your travel provider before continuing with planned activities. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• When undertaking adventure activities, ensure that functioning safety equipment is available, that you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for these activities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than in Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.
• Some medications, including prescription medications, drugs for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), all cannabis-based products including medicinal cannabis, cannabis-based oils and creams, hemp-based products, CBD, THC, hash and edibles, are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties, such as arrest and jail time, can apply even if you have a prescription. Make sure your  medication is legal in Indonesia .
• Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Full travel advice: Health

• Indonesia has revised its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.
• Penalties for drug offences include heavy fines, long prison sentences and the death penalty. Police target tourist destinations. 
• Some medications are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties can apply even if you have a prescription. It is also illegal to purchase prescription medications online or over the counter without an Indonesian prescription. Ensure you have a valid Indonesian prescription. See ' Health '.

The death penalty exists for some crimes in Indonesia.

• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Learn about local customs. Take care not to offend.
• Aceh province upholds aspects of sharia law. Sharia law applies to everyone, including travellers. Inform yourself about the laws, and be careful not to offend or break local laws. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. See the  Bali Provincial Government's  official website and  FAQs  for further information.
• If you're travelling to Indonesia for tourism, official government duties or business meetings, you can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  online at least 48 hours before your travel to Indonesia. This also applies if you're transiting through Indonesia at international airports, seaports and land crossings. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at some international airports, seaports or land crossings.
• To apply for the e-VOA or VOA, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months of passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) and a return or onward flight booking to another country.
• You may need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Indonesia for purposes not covered by the e-VOA or VOA. Check the latest entry requirements with your travel provider or an  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before travel. Entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice. Monitor media for the latest updates. 
• You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration  for arrival. You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.
• Travel requirements may change at short notice, including travel to Bali and Jakarta by air, land or sea. Contact your travel provider and monitor media for up-to-date details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy, Jakarta , the Australian Consulate-General, Bali , the Australian Consulate-General, Makassar or the Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

The terrorist threat in Indonesia is ongoing. Attacks could happen anywhere and anytime. This includes places that foreigners visit.

Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Remain respectful of religious and local customs.

Indonesian authorities continue to investigate and disrupt terrorist groups in Indonesia, including Bali.

Terrorist attacks are motivated by extreme beliefs. Both local grievances as well as events in other parts of the world could motivate extremists in Indonesia towards violence.

Recent terrorist attacks

In December 2022, an explosion occurred at a police station in Bandung, Jawa Barat, killing 2 and injuring 11.

In March 2021, 2 suicide bombers attacked a church in Makassar, injuring dozens.

In the past, police have said that terrorist suspects remain at large and may seek Western targets.

Indonesian security agencies continue to conduct operations against terrorist groups.

Terrorists in Indonesia may carry out small-scale violent attacks with little or no warning.

Be alert in places of worship, especially during periods of religious significance.

Terrorists have targeted places of worship in:

As well as places of worship, other possible targets by terrorists include:

• Indonesian government facilities, premises and symbols associated with the Indonesian Government
• police stations and checkpoints
• bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
• cinemas and theatres
• shopping centres, public transport and transport hubs
• airports and airlines
• clubs, including sporting clubs
• tourist areas and attractions, tour buses and tour groups
• outdoor recreation events

Supporters have committed additional acts of violence in response to high-profile extremists being detained or killed.

To protect yourself during a terrorist attack:

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• follow the advice of local authorities
• don't gather in a group after an attack
• don't gather in a group if you're evacuated from a building

Security remains at a high level at:

• the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the Consulates-General in Bali, Makassar and Surabaya

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Most events are announced before they happen; however, protests may occur with little or no notice.

Protests and events are often held near major government buildings and embassies in Jakarta, including the Australian Embassy.

Protests may also occur at any of Australia's Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar, at government buildings, or the offices of international organisations in Indonesia.

You can expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests.

Phone or email ahead for an appointment before going to the Embassy or the Consulates-General (see  Local contacts ).

Demonstrations and acts of violence can happen when courts try and sentence extremists.

Conflict between different communities can sometimes occur, including in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Local violence can also be directed at minority groups in other parts of Indonesia, including in Java.

If you're found to endanger security or public order, you may be prosecuted under Indonesia's Immigration laws, which may result in imprisonment or deportation.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor local media for the latest security updates
• plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on significant dates
• be prepared to change your travel plans
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

The provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan experience regular violent clashes involving armed groups, civilians, Indonesian police, and the military. Armed groups have stated that they are targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Many people have been killed and injured in clashes. This includes members of security forces, armed groups and civilians. Violent attacks have occurred in several areas of these provinces, including in and around Jayapura. There's a risk of more attacks.

On 23 February 2023, a riot broke out in Wamena, Papua Pegunungan, when a crowd attacked Indonesian security personnel following the arrest of two people accused of child kidnapping. 12 civilians and rioters were killed.

Violent attacks have occurred around the Freeport Mine in Papua Tengah.

Armed groups have:

• taken a New Zealand pilot hostage in Paro, Papua Pegunungan
• shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, at Beoga airport in Pupua Tengah province and Nop Goliat Dekai airport in Papua Pegunungan province. 
• killed people in attacks, including one Australian
• attacked vehicles using the road between Grasberg and Timika
• killed people in violent attacks in Puncak Jaya District, Papua Tengah
• more attacks are possible and could target infrastructure and national institutions.

A range of crimes, including violent crime, occur in Indonesia. Crimes can happen in popular tourist locations in Bali.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be aware of your surroundings
• be alert in crowds
• understand the potential crime risks

Theft, robbery  and bag and phone snatching have occurred. These crimes can sometimes involve violence. Opportunistic crime such as pickpocketing occurs.

Be careful of thieves:

• on motorcycles targeting pedestrians
• in upmarket shopping malls
• in crowded public transport
• at traffic lights targeting people in stopped cars
• at bars and nightclubs
• when entering accommodation, including villas in Bali

Keep bags and valuables out of sight in vehicles.

If you're travelling on foot, walk:

• on footpaths
• away from the curb
• with your bag held away from traffic

Sexual assault

If you're a victim of sexual assault :

• get immediate medical assistance. If you have any doubts about seeking medical assistance after a sexual assault, contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate in Indonesia (see  Local contacts ) as quickly as possible.
• make a full statement to local police, in person, so they can conduct a criminal investigation. You may wish to seek consular help before you visit the police station. Contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ).

Local police can only investigate a crime after you've left Indonesia if you've reported it.

Your sworn statement, or statements by witnesses, can be used as evidence in criminal court proceedings.

You don't always need to be in Indonesia for trial. Neither do witnesses who live outside of Indonesia.

Counselling support

Should you wish to speak to a counsellor, you can call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ). They can connect you to counselling hotlines and services.

• Reducing the risk of sexual assault

Bars and nightclubs

Be alert in bars and nightclubs. Drink-spiking and snatching of valuables may occur if you're not alert.

Drinks may be contaminated with drugs or toxic substances. See  Health .

Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.

Never accept drinks, food, gum, cigarettes, vapes or e-cigarettes from people you've just met.

• Partying safely

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card, online banking and ATM fraud occurs in Indonesia.

Check your bank statements.

Make sure your bank doesn't block your cards. Tell your bank you'll be visiting Indonesia.

Never let your card out of your sight. This includes when you pay in restaurants.

Shield your PIN from sight.

Some vendors install hidden cameras and use card skimmers.

Don’t click on unknown links in WhatsApp or mobile phone text messages, particularly if your phone is linked to mobile banking.

Use ATMs at controlled and secure places, such as:

• shopping centres

Scams and confidence tricks

Beware of scams and confidence tricks.

Only exchange money at authorised money changers. Authorised money changers can also be found on the  Bali Foreign Exchange website . Unauthorised money changers have been known to scam foreign tourists in Bali and elsewhere.

All types of gambling are illegal in Indonesia.

Australians have lost large sums of money in card game scams run by organised gambling gangs, particularly in Bali. See Local laws

Some tourists have been robbed or planted with drugs after taking new acquaintances back to their hotel rooms. In some cases, their drinks were spiked.

Legal disputes over the purchase of real estate are common, including in Bali, involving:

• holiday clubs and resorts
• timeshare schemes

Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details:

• thoroughly research the proposal
• get legal advice and know your rights, especially before you sign any documents

Using taxis

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Crimes involving unregistered taxis include:

• taxis departing before the passenger can take their baggage from the vehicle
• taxi drivers robbing or temporarily holding passengers, including in urban areas
• taxi drivers forcing passengers to withdraw money at ATMs before releasing them

Lone female travellers are at higher risk of crime.

If you're in an incident involving a taxi, leave the taxi and the immediate area if it's safe to do so.

To protect yourself from overcharging and scams:

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters working
• ensure the driver's identification card is visible
• book via your phone, on an official taxi company mobile app, from inside an airport, or at stands at major hotels

See Travel .

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

On 7 February 2023, a New Zealand pilot was taken hostage by an armed group in Paro, Papua Pegunungan.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Adventure activities

Many businesses don't follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes transport and tour operators, water sports providers, hotels, restaurants and shops.

It may affect adventure activities, such as:

• bungee jumping
• scuba diving and snorkelling 
• chairlift or gondola rides

In the past, Australians have been seriously injured or died while participating in adventure activities. If you require intensive care medical treatment, emergency surgery or medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about safety, search and rescue procedures
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• check with your travel provider on vessel capacity limits before embarking on sea, land or air travel
• check weather and ocean conditions, and whether the vessel has had any mechanical issues, on the day and before continuing with water activities or sea travel
• check where the nearest medical facilities are

If proper safety equipment isn't available or you're unsure of the provider's safety or maintenance procedures, use another provider.

Trekking and climbing

Some mountain treks suit only experienced climbers. Travel with a guide and check the level of difficulty beforehand.

Many trekking options may be on or around an active volcano. Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Volcanic and seismic activity may continue for some time. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, check with local authorities before climbing and check:

• Bureau of Meteorology  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia) for daily updates on status and alert levels
• National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB)  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Swimming safety

People have drowned in coastal areas, including in Bali, due to rough seas, strong currents, or from swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving in areas where there is frequent passage of boats, resulting in collisions.

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Saltwater crocodiles are in rivers throughout Indonesia. Avoid swimming around river estuaries and seek local advice in other locations. 

If you plan to spend time in or on the water:

• regularly check weather reports as sea conditions can change rapidly
• take warnings seriously
• check media and local sources for information about potential dangers
• speak to your travel provider about safety equipment and weather conditions before continuing with planned activities
• take a friend or family member with you when you undertake swimming or water activities
• be careful when swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving near motor-powered boats or where there is frequent passage of boats
• ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities

Ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities.

Climate and natural disasters

Indonesia experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• landslides and mudslides
• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes
• storms resulting in turbulent sea conditions
• tsunamis and high wave events

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• check the media and local sources for information
• don't undertake sea, land or air travel if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia) 

Floods and mudslides

Floods , landslides and mudslides occur regularly during the wet season from October to April, with some severe events resulting in injury, displacement, death or damaged infrastructure.

Heavy rains can cause significant flooding in urban areas, including the greater Jakarta region, causing disruption to transportation. Monitor the local media for updates.

Walking and driving in flooded areas can be dangerous. Flood waters may hide uncovered drainage ditches.

Volcanic activity may escalate with little or no notice, leading to flight disruptions and airport closures, including in surrounding provinces. Contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

There are 147 volcanoes in Indonesia. 76 of them are active volcanoes and could erupt at any time.

Volcanic alert levels and exclusion zones may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice. Volcanic activity can disrupt domestic and international flights. There are 4 volcano alert levels in Indonesia; 1 - normal, 2 - advisory, 3 - watch, 4 - warning.

Before you travel to areas that are prone to volcanic activity, monitor media and ensure you read the Indonesian Government's latest advice on current volcanic activity, including:

• Volcanic Activity Report  by Indonesia's Multiplatform Application for Geohazard Mitigation and Assessment (MAGMA) (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Volcano Activity and Observatory Notices  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• MAGMA Indonesia Map of Latest Volcano Levels and Climate Information  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Bureau of Meteorology's  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre

If there's volcanic activity:

• avoid the area
• take official warnings seriously and adhere to exclusion zones
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• read our advice on Volcanic eruptions while travelling

Volcanic ash can cause breathing difficulties. The risk is higher for people with chronic respiratory illnesses, including:

Recent and frequent volcanic activity has included:

• Mount Ile Lewetolok in East Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Timur)
• Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Flores Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur
• Mount Marapi in West Sumatra
• Mount Anak Krakatau, to the south of Sumatra
• Mount Merapi, near Yogyakarta
• Mt Dukono in North Sulawesi
• Mount Semeru, near Malang, East Java
• Mount Agung in Bali
• Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra

Some trekking routes are on or near active volcanoes, including Mount Agung and Mount Batur in Bali, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, Mount Merapi near Yogyakarta, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in East Java. See 'Trekking and climbing'.

If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and check if any restrictions apply.

If a volcanic eruption occurs:

• make a backup plan in case you're affected
• contact your airline or travel insurer to confirm flight schedules and get help
• keep in touch with family and friends
• Learn more about  volcanic eruptions  (Geoscience Australia)
• See practical advice and information about  volcanic eruptions  (US CDC)
• See worldwide  volcanic activity reports  in real-time (GDACS)

Earthquakes

Indonesia is in an active earthquake region. It has a high level of earthquake activity, that sometimes triggers tsunamis.

There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes across Indonesia every year. Around 70 to 100 of these are over 5.5 magnitude.

Earthquakes can cause death, injury and significant damage to infrastructure.

Strong earthquakes can occur anywhere in Indonesia. They are less common in Kalimantan and south-west Sulawesi.

To stay safe during an earthquake:

• know the emergency plans at your accommodation
• take precautions to avoid exposure to debris and hazardous materials, including asbestos
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  (Bahasa Indonesia) or BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app (English and Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake  (English)

Forest fires and smoke haze

During the dry season in April to November, widespread forest fires can cause smoke haze resulting in poor air quality across parts of Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands, central Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Smoke haze could affect your health and travel plans.

Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions.

• ASEAN Regional Haze Situation
• Smartraveller advice on Bushfires

Tsunamis and high wave events

The Indian and Pacific Oceans experience more frequent, large and destructive tsunamis than other parts of the world.

There are many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches.

High wave events can happen throughout coastal regions and between islands. They're caused by strong weather conditions and storms.

If you plan to surf, undertake water activities or travel by sea, check local conditions regularly.

If there’s a tsunami or high wave event: 

• don't travel by sea if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre  issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is expected
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  with the latest list of earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 5.0 on the Richter scale (Bahasa Indonesia) or  BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency page  on what to do before, during and after an earthquake

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Indonesia.

The  International Maritime Bureau (IMB)  issues weekly piracy reports.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check  IMB piracy  reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures
• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise
• International Maritime Bureau

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including emergency treatment and medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Before you travel, confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away, including on all forms of transport you plan to take
• whether it covers medical evacuation in the event of hospitalisation or injury
• any exclusions to your policy

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia.

If you plan to bring over-the-counter or prescription medication, check if it's legal in Indonesia by contacting the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and carry it in its original packaging. Purchasing prescription medication online in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller prior to your purchase.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for medical treatment or use

If you're caught with illegal medicine, you could face detention, fines or harsher penalties. You could face charges even if an Australian doctor prescribed the medication.

Ask the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra for advice before you travel.

Medicinal cannabis and cannabis-based products

Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and creams, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

• Medications

Health Risks

Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill, including in Bali, is significantly below the standard available in Australia. Medical evacuation may not be possible.

The Australian Government cannot guarantee your access to hospitals and other health services in Indonesia. 

Medical evacuation to Australia for medical conditions, is possible but is very expensive and may not be covered by travel insurance. Check your policy before you travel.

Ban on sale of liquid/syrup medication

The Indonesian Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised local health workers and pharmacists to stop selling liquid/syrup medication, including commonly used medications containing paracetamol and cough syrups. MoH and the Indonesian Paediatrician Association (IDAI) received reports of a sharp increase in cases of Atypical Progressive Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in children , especially under the age of 5 years.

Insect-borne illnesses

Insect-borne illnesses are common throughout the year.

To protect yourself from disease:

• research your destination
• ask locals for advice
• make sure your accommodation is mosquito-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Dengue  occurs throughout Indonesia, including Bali, Jakarta and other major cities.

Dengue is common during the rainy season.

Australian health authorities have reported an increase in dengue infections in people returning from Bali in recent years.

Consult your travel doctor for further information on available vaccines and their suitability for your individual circumstances.

Zika virus  can occur in Indonesia.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

The  Australian Department of Health and Aged Care  advises pregnant women to:

• discuss any travel plans with their doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria , including chloroquine-resistant strains, is widespread in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah, Papua Selatan, Papua Barat Daya, Papua Barat, Maluku and Nusa Tenggara Timur. There is no malaria transmission in Jakarta.

• Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Japanese encephalitis and filariasis

Japanese encephalitis  and  filariasis  occur in Indonesia, especially in rural agricultural areas.

Japanese encephalitis has been present in Australian travellers returning from Indonesia, including Bali.

Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers. 

• Infectious diseases

Drink poisoning

People have been poisoned by alcoholic drinks contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol and arak (a traditional rice-based spirit). Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks.

Cases of drink poisoning have been reported in Bali and Lombok.

Contaminated drinks have included:

• local spirits
• spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails
• brand name alcohol

To protect yourself from drink poisoning:

• consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages
• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to drinking too much. However, they are usually stronger.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include:

• vision problems

Vision problems may include:

• blindness, blurred or snowfield vision
• changes in colour perception
• difficulty looking at bright lights
• dilated pupils
• flashes of light
• tunnel vision

If you suspect that you or someone you're travelling with may have been poisoned, act quickly. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability.

Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the Indonesian police.

Magic mushrooms

Don't consume magic mushrooms. They're illegal.

Australians have become sick or injured after taking magic mushrooms.

Australians have been in trouble with local police after taking magic mushrooms, particularly in Bali.

Magic mushrooms can cause major health problems, including:

• erratic behaviour
• severe hallucinations

Rabies is a risk throughout Indonesia, especially in:

• Nusa Tenggara Timur, including Labuan Bajo
• South Sulawesi
• West Kalimantan
• Nias, off the west coast of Sumatra

To protect yourself from rabies:

• avoid direct contact with dogs
• don't feed or pat animals
• avoid contact with other animals, including bats and monkeys.

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination. 

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly for 15 minutes
• seek urgent medical attention.

Rabies treatment in Indonesia may be limited, including the rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin availability. If you're bitten, you may need to return to Australia or travel to another country for immediate treatment.

You're at risk of contracting rabies if you visit a market where live animals and fresh food are sold because:

• live rabies-positive dogs may be present
• rabies-positive dog meat may be sold as food

Selling dog meat for human consumption is a breach of government disease control regulations.

Avoid contact with monkeys, even in places where you're encouraged to interact with them. This includes:

• popular markets
• tourist destinations
• sanctuaries

Legionnaires' disease

Cases of Legionnaires' disease have been reported in people who have travelled to Bali. Travellers who are unwell with flu-like symptoms within 10 days of returning from Bali are advised to consult their GPs.

• Legionnaires' disease warning for Bali travellers  (Western Australian Government Department of Health) 
• Legionnaires’ disease  (Better Health Channel, Victorian Government Department of Health)
• Legionnaires' disease  (World Health Organization)

Cases of poliovirus (type 1) have been reported in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Poliovirus (type 2) cases have been reported in the provinces of Aceh, East, West and Central Java. There may be unreported cases in other provinces in Indonesia.

Ensure that you're vaccinated against polio.

• Factsheet on poliovirus types  (World Health Organization)
• Health emergencies information for Indonesia  (World Health Organization)

Periodic outbreaks of measles continue to be reported in Indonesia, including Bali.

You need 2 doses of vaccine 4 weeks apart to be fully vaccinated against measles.

If you have symptoms of measles, seek medical attention.

Measles is highly infectious. Call before attending a healthcare facility.

Nipah Virus and Yellow Fever

There are no cases of  Nipah virus  or  Yellow Fever  in Indonesia. You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw food, such as salads

To minimise the risk of food poisoning, only eat meat from reputable suppliers.

Seek urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Seafood toxins

You can become sick from naturally occurring seafood toxins, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. The dye often causes serious skin reactions.

Before you get any tattoo, check the hygiene and safety of your tattoo provider.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.

Hospitals expect families to provide support to patients, including all financial support.

Psychiatric and psychological services are limited in Indonesia. Hospital staff may use physical restraints on patients.

When diving in Indonesia, there is a risk that you may experience decompression illness. An illness may occur when a diver ascends to the water surface too quickly and may have severe consequences. Understand the risks before you dive. 

Decompression chambers are available in various areas, including the following locations:

• Bali's Sanglah General Hospital
• Siloam Hospital in Labuan Bajo
• Hospitals in Jakarta, Balikpapan, Bintan, Medan, Makassar, Raja Ampat (Waisai), Maluku, Tual and Manado near popular dive sites 

Before admitting patients, hospitals usually need:

• guarantee of payment from the patient or their next of kin (family or friend)
• confirmation of medical insurance
• deposit payment 

There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Indonesia. 

The Australian Government cannot provide guarantee of payment, confirmation of medical insurance or a deposit payment for services.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Check your insurance policy before you travel. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs. It's best to check with your travel provider on the location and functionality of decompression chambers and other medical facilities available in the area before undertaking remote travel.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Indonesian Parliament has passed revisions to its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.

Indonesia has signed into law revisions to the Electronic and Information Transactions Law (ITE Law). Tough penalties apply for defamation, hate speech, spreading hoaxes and uploading immoral content to the Internet. The law applies both within and outside Indonesia.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

You may face heavy fines or jail for consuming or possessing even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana. Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and cream, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

Some prescription medications that are available in Australia are illegal in Indonesia. Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Magic mushrooms are illegal. Indonesian police work to prevent their distribution.

Police target illegal drug use and possession across Indonesia. Police often target popular places and venues in Bali, Lombok and Jakarta.

• Carrying or using drugs

Local labour laws can change at short notice. This can affect expatriate workers.

Under Indonesian law, you must always carry identification. For example, your:

• Australian passport; and
• Resident's Stay Permit (if applicable)

Gambling is illegal.

Property laws are strict, seek legal advice before acquiring property in Indonesia.

It's sometimes illegal to take photographs in Indonesia. Obey signs banning photography. If in doubt, get advice from local officials. See Safety .

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Take care not to offend.

Find out what customs apply at your destination.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal in Indonesia, except in the province of Aceh. Same-sex relationships in Aceh may attract corporal punishment. Visible displays of same sex relationships could draw unwanted attention.

Some laws and regulations can be applied in a way that discriminates against the LGBTI community, including for pornography and prostitution.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Indonesia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during this time. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence and follow the advice of local authorities.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Aceh is governed as a special territory, not a province, and has a degree of special autonomy.

Some aspects of sharia law are upheld. This includes regulations and punishments that don't apply in other parts of Indonesia.

Local sharia police enforce sharia law.

Sharia law applies to anyone in Aceh, including:

• foreigners (expats and travellers)
• non-Muslims

Sharia law doesn't allow:

• drinking alcohol
• prostitution
• same-sex relationships
• extra-marital sex
• co-habitation before marriage

It also requires a conservative standard of dress.

Learn about the laws in Aceh. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Dual citizenship

Indonesia doesn't allow dual nationality for adults, and you may be prosecuted by Immigration authorities should you be found to hold valid passports of two nationalities. If you entered Indonesia on your non-Australian citizenship passport, Indonesian Immigration will require you to exit Indonesia on that nationality's passport.

A child of Indonesian and Australian parents can maintain citizenship of both countries until the age of 18 years. Before a dual Australian-Indonesian citizen minor travels from Indonesia, additional identity documentation may be required from Indonesian Immigration. Check with Indonesian Immigration or the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel.

• Embassy and Consulate of Indonesia
• Information on limited dual citizenship
• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Bali Tourism Levy

The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. Exemption from payment of the levy applies to transit passengers and certain visa holders. See the Bali Provincial Government's  official website and FAQs for further information.

e-Visa on Arrival and Visa on Arrival

You can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia if you are travelling for tourism, business meetings, purchasing goods or transiting only. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying.

You can still apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports, seaports and land crossings, including Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Makassar, Lombok, Batam, Medan, Manado, Aceh, Padang, Tanjung Pinang and Yogyakarta, if you do not apply for an e-VOA at least 48 hours in advance of your travel to Indonesia.

The e-VOA or VOA can be used for tourism, official government duties, business meetings, or to transit through Indonesia. You cannot transit in Indonesia without an e-VOA or VOA.

Additional requirements apply if you are travelling on government duties.

For the latest list of entry points for the e-VOA or VOA, refer to the  Directorate General of Immigration's list of land border crossings, international airports, and international seaports .

The e-VOA and VOA cost IDR 500,000 (approximately $A 50), with the e-VOA charging a small online processing fee.

For the VOA, some airports, including Jakarta's international airport, are only accepting cash payment. Card payment facilities are available at Bali's international airport. ATM facilities may be in high demand. Be prepared to pay in cash if required. 

The visa is valid for a 30 day stay and can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by applying at an immigration office within Indonesia. Ensure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine and deportation.

To apply for a regular VOA, you must show:

• your ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) 
• a return flight booking to Australia or onward flight booking to another country

Contact your travel agent, airline, or your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  for details.

Other visas

If you're entering Indonesia from a port or airport that does not issue a visa on arrival, or you're visiting Indonesia for a purpose not allowed under the e-VOA or VOA conditions, you must apply for a visa in advance of travel. Check the  Indonesian Immigration  website for further information, or contact your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia .

Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation.

• check your visa and permit, and contact the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) for advice specific to your needs
• if you use an agent to extend your visa or stay permit, use only reputable companies
• if you have specific enquiries on visas or stay permits, contact DGI's Customer Service team via WhatsApp on +62 821 1295 3298

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and entry rules.

You can't work or conduct research in Indonesia unless you have the appropriate visa. Fines of IDR1,000,000 (approx. $A 100) per day apply for the maximum 60 day overstay period.

If you breach Indonesian immigration regulations, you may face:

• deportation
• re-entry bans

You may not be allowed to enter Indonesia if you have a criminal record. This is regardless of how long ago the offence took place. If you're concerned, contact an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia before you travel.

Indonesian Immigration and visa decisions are final. The Australian Government can't help you.

• Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia

Border measures

You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration for arrival . You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.

Check entry requirements with your travel provider or the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before you travel.

You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

Departure from Indonesia

Indonesia, including Bali, currently has an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease affecting animals. In preparing to travel to Australia, read Smartraveller's advice on  biosecurity and border controls . Measures include cleaning dirty shoes, clothing or equipment before boarding your flight to Australia and not packing meat or dairy products. On your Incoming Passenger Declaration, you must declare any meat, dairy or animal products and any of your travel in rural areas or near animals (e.g., farms, zoos, markets).

Other formalities

If you're staying in a private residence, not a hotel, register when you arrive with both:

• the local Rukun Tetangga Office
• local police

If you plan to be in Indonesia for more than 30 days:

• register with the local immigration office
• make sure you have the right visa
• Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra

Indonesia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave Indonesia. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. You can end up stranded or returned back to your previous port overseas at your own cost, if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months from the date you enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia.

Indonesia does not accept entry with an emergency passport, even if it is valid for more than 6 months. Ensure you enter Indonesia on a valid ordinary, official, or diplomatic passport.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply these rules inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

Damaged Passports

Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Normal wear and tear, including water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages, can be considered damaged. 

It's important that:

• there are no tears or cuts in the passport pages, especially the photo page
• everything on the photo page is legible and clear
• there are no marks across your photo or in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) on the photo page
• no pages have been removed
• there is no alteration or tampering

If you're not sure about the condition of your passport, call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232 or contact your nearest  Australian embassy or consulate overseas . We may need to see your passport to assess it.

• Passport Services  
• Damaged and faulty passports  
• Using and protecting your passport  

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Declare cash in excess of IDR100,000,000 or equivalent when you arrive and leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

IDR100,000,000 is worth about $A10,000.

Local travel

Travel permits.

You may need a travel permit or Surat Keterangan Jalan to travel to some areas of the Papua provinces.

Check if you need a permit with the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  or with your travel provider.

Mobile Phone Reception and Wi-Fi

Mobile phone reception and Wi-Fi are not always available, including in remote areas and some resort islands. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for more than 90 days and would like to use your mobile phone purchased overseas, you'll need to register your mobile phone IMEI number with  Indonesian Customs  within the first 60 days of your stay. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for less than 90 days, you can visit the local cellular operator/provider booth at the airport to get an access period to use the Indonesian cellular network, which is only valid for 90 days and includes data roaming.

A customs payment may be required, or a tourist SIM card can be purchased for short-term stays. You can use Wi-Fi networks without registration.

To stay in communication and avoid mobile service interruptions: 

• check mobile coverage with your service provider
• register your mobile device with  Indonesian Customs  on arrival if you plan to connect to the mobile network 

Driving permit

To drive in Indonesia, you need either:

• an Indonesian licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Check that your licence or permit is appropriate for the type of vehicle you're driving.

Your Australian licence isn't enough.

Your travel insurer will deny any claims you make if:

• you're unlicensed
• you don't hold the correct class of licence

Road travel

Traffic can be extremely congested.

Road users are often unpredictable or undisciplined.

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Indonesia than in Australia. Drive defensively. Some traffic incidents can escalate into violent disputes quickly.

Consider hiring a taxi or a driver who is familiar with local roads and traffic conditions.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents have killed and injured foreigners, including Australians. This includes in tourist areas, particularly Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.

If you're riding a motorbike and there's an accident, you'll often be assumed to be at fault. You may be expected to compensate all parties.

If you hire a motorbike:

• make sure your insurance policy covers you
• check if any policy restrictions apply, for example if you're not licensed to ride a motorcycle in Australia

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses, trains and the metro rail can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commute times

Safety standards may not be observed.

• Transport and getting around safely

Only use licensed official metered taxis. 

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters
• book via phone or an official taxi company mobile app

You can book licensed official metered taxis

• on the taxi company's official mobile app
• from inside airports
• at stands at major hotels

Unofficial operators can have taxis that look similar to those run by reputable companies. Make sure the taxi meter is working before you get into the taxi. 

See  Safety .

Rail travel

Inter-city rail networks operate on the islands of Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

Commuter trains operate in Java, including Jakarta.

Trains can be crowded, particularly:

• during peak commuter times

Travel between islands

Travel by ferry or boat can be dangerous.

Passenger and luggage limits aren't always observed.

Equipment may not be properly maintained, and they may not have GPS or emergency communications equipment.

There may not be enough life jackets. It's unlikely that the crew will have life jackets for children.

In March 2024, a ferry sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta, resulting in one death, and a liveaboard boat caught fire and sank in Raja Ampat, Papua Barat Daya, requiring several passengers to be rescued.

In August 2023, two crew died after a boat carrying passengers sank in the Banyak Islands, Aceh, and three people went missing after a ship sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta.

In July 2023, 15 people died after a ferry sank off Sulawesi Island.

In January 2023, 23 passengers and 6 crew were rescued after an inter-island ferry sank while returning from Nusa Penida to Sanur Beach, Bali.

In May 2022, 19 people died after a ferry sank in the Makassar Strait.

In June 2018, a ferry sank on Lake Toba in Sumatra and 100s of people died.

If you plan to travel by sea between islands:

• make sure any ferry or boat you board has appropriate safety equipment, GPS and communication equipment, and life jackets
• wear a life jacket at all times
• take enough life jackets for all children travelling with you
• ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards before you travel
• check sea, weather conditions and forecasts before embarking on boat or ferry travel, and delay travel if conditions are not safe

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Avoid travelling by water after dark unless the vessel is properly equipped. Avoid travel during wet weather or storms.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Indonesia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that have operating bans or restrictions within the EU. See the  EU list of banned airlines .

Australian travellers should make their own decisions on which airlines to travel with.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Search and rescue services

Medical emergencies and ambulance.

SMS 1717 for Jakarta Police

Police Stations in Bali

Refer to the Bali Tourism Board’s list of  police stations in Bali

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Jakarta 

Jalan Patra Kuningan Raya Kav. 1-4 Jakarta Selatan 12950

Phone: (+62 21) 2550 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: indonesia.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia X: @DubesAustralia Instagram: @KeDubesAustralia

Make an appointment online or call (+62 21) 2550 5500 or (+62 21) 2550 5555.

Australian Consulate-General, Bali

Jalan Tantular 32 Renon Denpasar Bali 80234

Phone: (+62 361) 2000 100 Email: [email protected] Website: bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au X: @KonJenBali Instagram:  @konjenbali

Australian Consulate-General, Makassar

Wisma Kalla Lt. 7 Jalan Dr Sam Ratulangi No. 8 Makassar South Sulawesi 90125

Phone: (+62 411) 366 4100 Email: [email protected] Website: makassar.consulate.gov.au Facebook: Australian Consulate-General, Makassar, Sulawesi X: @KonJenMakassar Instagram:  @konjenmakassar

Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya

Level 3 ESA Sampoerna Center Jl. Dokter.Ir. H. Soekarno No. 198 Klampis Ngasem, Sukolilo, Surabaya

Phone: (+62 31) 9920 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: surabaya.consulate.gov.au Instagram: @KonJenSurabaya

Check the websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
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Us issues travel warning for germany: ‘terrorist groups keep planning attacks’.

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The United States has issued a travel advisory to Germany over fears of terrorism .

On Wednesday, the Department of State upgraded Germany to Level 2 out of four — an edict to “exercise increased caution” — with the stark warning that “terrorist groups keep planning attacks in Germany.”

The US government added that tourist locations and transportation hubs are frequently targeted, along with hotels, restaurants, clubs, places of worship, parks, and both sporting and cultural events.

“Terrorists may attack with little or no warning,” the State Department noted.

In late March, Canada also advised travelers to “exercise a high degree of caution in Germany due to the threat of terrorism.”

The United Kingdom’s foreign travel advice additionally cited incidents of terror in Germany in recent years.

These include a killing and severe injury from a knife attack in Dresden in 2020, as well as two mass shootings at bars in Hanau that killed eight in the same year.

In 2019, two people were fatally shot near a synagogue in the city of Halle.

The State Department advises travelers to “identify safe areas” to turn toward in the event of an attack.

“Formulate a plan of action. Know where you will go if a terrorist attack or security incident takes place.”

Germany is the only European nation to have an elevated travel warning from the US in 2024, except for Ukraine bordering Moldova, which is on the same level two status due to Ukraine’s war with Russia.

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U.S. issues travel warning for major European country over fears of terrorist activity

• Updated: May. 02, 2024, 5:41 p.m. |
• Published: May. 02, 2024, 3:54 p.m.

The U.S. State Department warns that travelers to Germany should exercise extreme caution on their visit. The travel advisory issued Wednesday was issue over concerns about terrorist activity. Seen here is the Neuschwanstein castle, in Schwangau, an iconic sight in the central European nation.

• Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

WASHINGTON – A new advisory from the U.S. State Department warns European travelers to exercise increased caution if they visit Germany for fear of terrorist activity.

The warnings were contained in an advisory issued Wednesday that said terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in Germany and may strike with little or no warning.

“They target tourist locations and transportation hubs,” the advisory states. “They also target markets/shopping malls and local government facilities. They target hotels, clubs, and restaurants. They also attack places of worship, parks, and major sporting and cultural events. They target schools, airports, and other public areas.”

The advisory is a Level Two warning that calls for exercising increased caution. Level Three (Reconsider Travel) and Level Four (Do Not Travel) advisories are the two more serious levels.

But the Level Two advisory for Germany is unusual. It is a large nation in central Europe with a thriving economy and a population second only to Russia.

The only more serious warnings issued in the last year for European travel were for countries impacted by the war in Ukraine. Do-not-travel warnings were issued for Ukraine (May 2023), Belarus (July 2023) and Russia (September 2023) in connection with the fighting.

The State Department cautions that U.S. citizens traveling to Germany should take the following measures:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the State Department’s Country Security Report for Germany.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention online to learn the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the State Department’s Traveler’s Checklist .

Travelers may also want to follow the State Department on  Facebook  and  Twitter for any updates, the advisory states.

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Israel issues Sweden Eurovision travel warning amid planned protests

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Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen; additional reporting by Dan Williams in Jerusalem; Editing by Nick Macfie

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Based in Copenhagen, Jacob oversees reporting from Denmark, Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Specializes in security and geopolitics in the Arctic and Baltic Sea regions, as well as large corporates such as brewer Carlsberg and shipping group A.P. Moller-Maersk. His most impactful reporting on Arctic issues include a report on how NATO allies are slowly waking up to Russian supremacy in the region, uncovering how Greenland represents a security black hole for Denmark and its allies, and how an abundance of critical minerals has proven a curse for Greenland. Before moving to Copenhagen in 2016, Jacob spent seven years in Moscow covering Russia's oil and gas industry for Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal, followed by four years in Singapore covering energy markets for WSJ and Reuters. As a Russian speaker, he has been involved in covering the war in Ukraine. He publishes a newsletter each weekday focused on the most important regional and global news. Contact Jacob via email if you are interested in receiving the newsletter.

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Urgent warning for UK tourists not to travel to holiday hotspot

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The Foreign Office has warned Britons to avoid travelling in parts of Turkey due to a ‘heightened risk of terrorism’.

It already advises against all travel within 6km of Turkey ’s border with Syria .

Now the government has also issued an urgent warning against all but essential travel to Şırnak city or nearby Hakkâri province.

Both are in the southeast of Turkey where, in addition to Ankara and Istanbul, ‘most terrorist attacks have occurred’, the Foreign Office (FCDO) website states.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan pledged to ‘protect our country from the ring of fire through a security corridor across our borders’, during a speech in Şırnak this March, Daily Sabah reported.

Said to be home of Noah’s tomb, Şırnak is packed with archaeological and religious sites, including a castle and a partially ruined red madrasah.

It also has mountains, rivers and canyons that makes it of interest to visiting tourists, Hürriyet Daily News said.

But its proximity to the Syrian border can also make it dangerous.

Historically the threat came from the PKK, a militant group fighting for independence of the Kurdish people.

It has carried out bombings and massacres within Turkey since the 1980s, and has found itself fighting Turkish forces in Syria since Turkey’s invasions of Kurdish-controlled regions there in 2016 and 2019.

The FCDO said: ‘Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there remains a heightened risk of terrorism in the region.’

Although PKK terrorism in Şırnak and Hakkâri has largely died down, ISIS and Al-Qaeda -linked groups in Syria continue posing a threat.

ISIS has ‘previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border’ and has ‘the capacity to carry out attacks in neighbouring countries’, the FCDO website says.

Sites visited by foreigners – including airports, places of worship and large public gatherings like religious events and public holidays – are on the list of potential targets.

The FCDO said: ‘If you’re undertaking essential travel to Şırnak city or Hakkâri Province, take extreme care.’

Elsewhere, visitors face road closures in the southern Hatay Province when travelling routes leading to the Syrian border.

And the biblical resting place of Noah’s Ark, Mount Ararat in the eastern Ağrı Province, is a special military zone that requires a fee and permit to enter.

The FCDO said: ‘If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

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Pair of giant pandas set to travel from China to San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

SAN DIEGO — A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday.

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said its caretakers recently visited China to meet the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their planned trip to Southern California. An exact date for the handoff hasn’t been set.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who’s nearly 5 years old, has “deep connections” to California, the wildlife alliance said. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

“Our conservation partners in China shared photographs and personality traits of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, but meeting them in person was so special,” said Dr. Megan Owen, the alliance’s vice president of conservation science. “It’s inspiring as people from around the world come together to conserve, protect, and care for these special bears, and we can’t wait to welcome them to San Diego.”

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests they depend on.

The Associated Press