Pekanbaru, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Pekanbaru, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Pekanbaru, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Pekanbaru, Indonesia

Based on the climate and weather in Pekanbaru, Indonesia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Pekanbaru, Indonesia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Pekanbaru, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Pekanbaru, Indonesia by month

January

If you are traveling to Pekanbaru in January, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you are traveling to Pekanbaru in February, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March for Pekanbaru is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Pekanbaru is really hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Pekanbaru during May, you may notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Pekanbaru in June, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Pekanbaru in July, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August for Pekanbaru is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Pekanbaru is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Pekanbaru in October, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Pekanbaru is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Pekanbaru can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pekanbaru. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the stunning Great Mosque of An-Nur, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; you should check with the Pekanbaru tourism authority.

If you see the Sang Nila Utama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Pekanbaru, Indonesia

Pekanbaru, the capital city of Indonesia's Riau Province, is a vibrant and bustling city that is just waiting to be explored. From its rich cultural heritage to its modern shopping complexes and bustling streets, Pekanbaru has a lot to offer for tourists who come to visit. Here are the top tourist attractions in Pekanbaru that you shouldn't miss:

1. Siak Sri Indrapura Palace

The Siak Sri Indrapura Palace is a must-visit when in Pekanbaru. The palace, which was built in 1889, is a fine example of traditional Malay architecture. The palace has been beautifully preserved and houses a museum that displays the rich history of the Malay Sultanate. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the Malay people and see traditional costumes, jewelry, and weaponry.

2. An-Nur Grand Mosque

The An-Nur Grand Mosque is a stunning example of modern Islamic architecture. The mosque, which was completed in 2008, can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers and is one of the largest in Indonesia. The mosque is open to visitors who are interested in seeing the intricate details of the mosque's interior and the beautiful stained glass windows.

3. Pekanbaru Mall

If you love to shop, Pekanbaru Mall is the perfect destination for you. The mall, which opened in 2012, is one of the biggest shopping malls in Pekanbaru. With a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, you can easily spend an entire day exploring the mall.

4. Taman Wisata Alam Mayang Sari

Taman Wisata Alam, also known as Mayang Sari, is a nature park located in the heart of Pekanbaru. The park is equipped with hiking trails, a lake, and a butterfly garden, making it a great destination for people who love the outdoors. Visitors can enjoy the park's natural beauty and see a wide range of flora and fauna.

5. Ciputra Seraya Mall

Ciputra Seraya Mall is another popular shopping destination in Pekanbaru. The mall features a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy shopping for local souvenirs and tasting delicious Indonesian cuisine. The mall also has a cinema, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

6. Batu Berendam Beach

If you're looking for a place to relax and unwind, Batu Berendam Beach is a great destination. The beach is known for its clear waters, white sand, and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can swim in the clear waters or relax on the beach while watching the waves.

In conclusion, Pekanbaru is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or shopping, there is something for everyone in Pekanbaru. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the top tourist attractions in Pekanbaru.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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