Indonesia Set for Major Surge in Tourism During Christmas and New Year Holiday Season, Get the Details Here

Published on December 23, 2025

Indonesia’s tourism ministry is expecting a large influx of foreign visitors during the Christmas and New Year holiday season or Nataru season of 2026. The projection expects the country to greet about 1.45 million international visitors during the season. The influx is also expected to have greatly positively affected Indonesia’s economy.

Domestic Tourism Set to Reach New Heights
In addition to the expected foreign visitors, Indonesia’s domestic tourism is also forecasted to see a substantial rise. The Ministry of Tourism predicts that 128 million domestic travelers will embark on holiday trips during the year-end period. This massive number is indicative of the increased local travel enthusiasm, as many Indonesians are also eager to explore their own country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Among the domestic travelers, it is expected that 3.4 million people will choose to travel by air, highlighting the ongoing recovery of the aviation sector as well. As flight travel is becoming more accessible and convenient, Indonesian residents are exploring various tourist spots within the country for their end-of-year holiday escapades.

Bali and Other Key Destinations Poised to Attract Tourists
While Bali remains a perennial favorite among both international and domestic travelers, other regions in Indonesia are also expected to witness heightened tourism activity. According to Minister Widiyanti, tourist movements are expected to be concentrated in several regions, including Bali, Surabaya, East Java, Central Java, and Sumatra. Bali, known for its pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife, is particularly popular with domestic visitors, especially those flying to the island.

However, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, and Sumatra have also emerged as prominent travel destinations for holidaymakers this season. Surabaya’s growing tourism infrastructure, coupled with the cultural allure of Sumatra and the warm hospitality of Ujung Pandang, offer tourists more options beyond Bali. Yogyakarta, in particular, has seen a resurgence in tourist interest, with its rich history and cultural heritage drawing large numbers of visitors.

Government’s Efforts to Ensure Safety and Comfort
To support the influx of tourists, the Ministry of Tourism has made concerted efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of travelers. Widiyanti highlighted the importance of assessing potential risks and addressing safety measures for both local and international tourists. The government has worked closely with regional authorities, tourism associations, and travel managers to implement protocols designed to mitigate any challenges posed by weather conditions or other factors that might impact the holiday travel experience.

Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism has been actively promoting events and activities designed to attract tourists and enhance their travel experiences. These include a wide range of marketing strategies, such as exhibitions, tourism forums, collaborations with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), and partnerships with local organizations like HIPPINDO and APPBI. One of the notable initiatives is the Indonesia Great Sale, which began on December 18, 2025, and will continue until January 4, 2026.

Promotions and Special Events to Drive Tourism Activity
In a bid to make the most of the year-end holiday season, the Ministry of Tourism has also developed several promotions aimed at boosting both tourism and retail spending. These include offering discounts ranging from 18-20% on various shopping items throughout December, encouraging foreign tourists to make purchases while visiting Indonesia. Furthermore, the government has been working on streamlining the tax refund process at airports to make it easier for international visitors to take advantage of shopping discounts and incentives during the holiday season.

Minister Widiyanti also revealed that the Ministry has planned a total of 244 events across different regions in Indonesia, specifically designed to appeal to both local and foreign tourists. These events range from cultural festivals to sports tournaments, showcasing the country’s diversity and vibrant tourism scene. By offering an array of unique experiences, the Ministry of Tourism aims to capture the attention of travelers and encourage them to explore more than just the typical tourist hotspots.

The Future of Indonesian Tourism: A Promising Outlook

Projections during Indonesia’s Christmas and New Year holiday season give signals for continued recovery and growth in the country’s tourism industry. Efforts by the Ministry of Tourism, local governments, and tourism stakeholders to improve foreign and domestic tourism will be a much-needed boost for the sector. This period will mean not only economic benefits but also reaffirm the position of Indonesia as one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.