Is Surabaya Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Surabaya is the capital of East Java and the 2nd largest city in Indonesia.

With over 6 million people, the humble Surabaya is Indonesia’s second-largest city.

Perhaps she is a little lacking in the sights. However, many people come here on business, and Surabaya is also the gateway to Mount Bromo and Bali.

There are many beautiful tree-lined streets, street parks, and renovated sidewalks.

You can spend active days in the city at Ciputra Waterpark – swim and have fun with water.

Enjoy the local arts at Balai Pemuda, an art center in the heart of Surabaya.

Get around the Old Town area and enjoy the view of beautiful colonial buildings.

Warnings & Dangers in Surabaya

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Surabaya is considered a reasonably safe city. Here you can safely walk, even in the evening. While maintaining regular vigilance, you can feel completely safe. It is worth fearing only chaotic traffic on the roads.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transport is not reliable; it is preferable to use a taxi or your car. Taxi is better to take only licensed. Make sure that the driver turns on the taximeter before you get into the car. Or negotiate the price of the trip in advance.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Pickpocket is not as widespread as in other cities of this size. However, in tourist places and bazaars/shops, you should be careful and watch your pockets. Be cautious with those who are trying to distract you; these may be scammers.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Earthquake and tsunami are the main problems of Surabaya. Usually, these natural disasters do not happen often but can occur from time to time. Before you travel to this city, be sure to find out the situation and weather forecasts.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Armed severe robberies are not found here or are very rare. Tourists rarely become the target of such crimes. Whenever possible, avoid poorly lit areas late at night and do not walk alone in the dark.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Indonesia. Terrorist groups have the capacity and intent to carry out attacks at any time and anywhere in the country. Types of attacks have included suicide bombings and small-arms fire, targeting public and crowded places.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Most often, tourists become victims of harmless fraud with overpriced prices for trinkets or souvenirs. You also can be deceived by the cost of a taxi. Be careful and bargain necessarily. Use only licensed stores and taxis.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women are entirely free to feel in Surabaya. You can safely walk alone during the day; in the evening, it is better to have a company. Do not attract too much attention to your clothes, choose more modest outfits.

So... How Safe Is Surabaya Really?

Surabaya is a very safe city.

The crime rate here is meager.

And you can feel safe walking around the city in the daytime.

And even walking there at night also is secure.

However, common sense is always worth using.

Surabaya has few real dangers for visitors, except for the risks associated with crossing bustling roads.

Drivers rarely stop to skip pedestrians, so you need to raise your hand when crossing and move at a predictable speed and turn, allowing traffic surrounding you.

The streets are convenient for pedestrians; many sidewalks were built over the years and made Surabaya an excellent place for pedestrians.

Very few locals walk, even if they have to go to the next street.

Bring a mask with you if you are traveling at rush hour, as traffic will be chaos and air pollution is terrible.

Be polite to people, as Surabayans, as a rule, quickly swear, which is very common.

Do not trust the people you just met, even if they look friendly.

Foreigners are still attracting the attention of residents, be prepared that you will be closely watched.

Take care of your things and do not leave them unattended – there are not many criminals here; however, using common sense is always a good idea.

How Does Surabaya Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Visitors to Indonesia must obtain a visa from one of the Indonesian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months as well as a valid return ticket.

Currency

The rupiah is the official currency of Indonesia. Issued and controlled by Bank Indonesia. It has sign Rp. The rupiah is divided into 100 sen, although inflation has rendered all coins and banknotes denominated in sen obsolete.

Weather

The best times to visit Surabaya for ideal weather are June to mid-October. Average temperatures in Surabaya vary barely at all, and the weather feels hot all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year.

Airports

Juanda International Airport is an international airport located in Sedati, Sidoarjo. It is now the third busiest airport in Indonesia. This airport is located approximately 12 kilometers from Surabaya and serves the Surabaya metropolitan area.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Surabaya Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Indonesia - Safety by City