Tips on Avoiding Yogyakarta Tourist Traps

Yogyakarta Tourist Traps

Tourists flock to the Indonesian City of Yogyakarta for its art and culture. However, tourists also need to be aware of how to avoid Yogyakarta Tourist Traps.

Silver and Batik Tourist Traps

It seems like everyone in Yogyakarta is trying to sell silver or batik. The way the scam works is a rickshaw driver or other person will persuade you to attend a “batik expedition” or simply try and get you to a shop selling batik or silver. They urge you to buy the overpriced souvenirs and then get a percentage of the profit. Before getting a ride from a rickshaw driver, politely tell them you are not interested in any batik or silver to avoid this scam.

Price Hike Tourist Traps in Yogyakarta

When shopping in Yogyakarta don’t be afraid to haggle. Most items will be overpriced for tourists so politely decline and either walk away or offer a lower price. Chances are the merchant will follow you or haggle with you on the price. With so much competition selling to tourists, merchants will sometimes come down on their prices. Learning the numbers in the local language will also go a long way.

Long Taxi Rides in Yogyakarta

It’s a good idea to have a map of the city and know your routes before taking a taxi. Some taxi drivers will take you the long way to your destination to hike up the fare. It isn’t unusual for a five minute taxi ride to take thirty minutes.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about tourist traps in Yogyakarta.