The currency of Indonesia is the Rupiah. At current exchange rates, one Indonesian Rupiah is worth 0.0001 USD while one USD is worth 0.86 IDR. To convert specific amounts or other currencies, please use our currency converter.
Bills come in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 Rupiah. A number of the bills were revised in early 2006, featuring very bright colors. Old bills are still in circulation, so check your change very carefully.
Coins come in 50, 100 and 500 Rupiah denominations. As with bills, there are a few different versions, but the most common ones in circulation are made of extremely light metals. You're unlikely to come across too many coins on a visit to Indonesia, since most prices at tourist places are in multiples of 1,000 Rupiah. Coins will commonly be encountered at supermarkets and small mini-marts.
Exchanging Money in Indonesia
Currency exchanges are plentiful in tourist areas, but can be scarce elsewhere in Indonesia. Most banks have exchange services, although most money changers are private operators. In the main tourist areas such as Bali, there are many money changers available, who will have their rates posted daily outside the exchange. You can "shop around" as rates will vary slightly from one changer to another.
Generally, you want to avoid changing money at airports. The rates here are usually worse than you will get outside of the airport. Most money changers will change travelers checks, although the rate will be less favorable than for the same denomination of bills. Remember to bring your passport when changing travelers checks. Some money changers will not accept old US currency. Make sure your 100 Dollar bills are as new as possible.
You may be best off using your ATM card at cash machines, which are plentiful throughout Indonesia. Be sure to check your bank charges before using your ATM card, as some banks add exorbitant charges for international transactions.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants in tourist areas. Note that many small shops will not accept credit cards, or may add on the service fee for the credit card to your purchase.