Is Bandung Safe in November 2026?

Bandung's factory outlet district along Jalan Ir. H. Juanda (Dago) and Jalan Riau is internationally known, but a significant number of stores sell counterfeit versions of international brands — Nike, Adidas, Supreme, and others — presented as genuine factory seconds or surplus. Some stores use sophisticated packaging and branded bags to increase perceived authenticity. Prices appear discounted from supposed retail but are inflated relative to what the goods are actually worth.

How to avoid: Research legitimate factory outlet stores before visiting — genuine factory outlets sell their own brand overruns, not international brand surplus. Be highly skeptical of international brand names in Bandung outlet stores, particularly at prices that still seem high for a market. Purchase only from stores with verifiable brand authorization.

Along Jalan Cihampelas, the street known for denim and casual fashion, vendors and small shops sell clothing and accessories with convincing fake designer labels including North Face, Supreme, and local brand knockoffs. Some sellers insist items are genuine overruns from factories, which is a standard sales script in the area.

How to avoid: Treat all branded goods on Jalan Cihampelas as replicas regardless of what sellers claim. If you want genuine goods, shop at Bandung factory outlets that are officially branded and listed on the city tourism site.

Unlicensed tour operators in Bandung's Braga Street tourist area and near guesthouses in the Dago district sell packages to Tangkuban Perahu crater and Kawah Putih that include fake entrance fees, unnecessary "guide" services, and vehicle hire at inflated rates. Legitimate entry to Tangkuban Perahu requires purchasing a ticket at the official gate; no advance ticket purchase from a third-party agent is necessary or valid.

How to avoid: Book volcano day trips through your hotel or a licensed operator with verifiable reviews on TripAdvisor or Google. Do not purchase entrance tickets in advance from travel agents or guesthouses. Entrance fees are paid directly at the official ticket gates managed by Perhutani (state forestry authority).

Unofficial taxis outside Husein Sastranegara Airport quote flat fares to the city centre and Dago area that are significantly above metered rates. Drivers approach arriving passengers immediately outside the terminal before they reach the official taxi counter and insist that app-based ride services are not permitted at the airport — a claim that is frequently false.

How to avoid: Use Grab or Gojek from the airport, following the designated app pickup zone instructions. If taking a conventional taxi, use only Blue Bird (Bluebird) or Express taxis from the official airport taxi counter inside the terminal. Ignore drivers who approach you before you reach the counter.

At Floating Market Lembang, vendors sell fresh produce and snacks from boats that appear locally grown but are often repackaged commercial goods sold at inflated tourist prices. Strawberries, corn, and other highland produce are commonly marked up 3–5× compared to nearby roadside stalls. Some vendors add items to your order without mentioning cost.

How to avoid: Agree on the total price before accepting any item from a boat vendor. Check nearby roadside stalls on Jalan Grand Hotel Lembang before buying produce at the floating market.