Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Travel tips for Cocos (Keeling) Islands: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While credit cards and EFTPOS are widely accepted at hotels and main businesses, travelers advise bringing cash for ferries, buses, and small vendors, as ATM access on the islands is limited and subject to withdrawal caps.

Try the food

  • Ayam Panggang: A flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in a rich blend of local spices and coconut.
  • Murtabak: A savory, pan-fried folded flatbread stuffed with minced meat, egg, and onions.
  • Nasi Goreng: A fragrant Indonesian-style fried rice often served with a fried egg and prawn crackers.

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Left side
SIM tip
Mainland Australian mobile networks do not provide standard coverage here, so purchase a local SIM card at the Community Resource Centre or rely on accommodation Wi-Fi.

Etiquette

Tipping is not expected, but dressing modestly when visiting Home Island is highly appreciated out of respect for the local Muslim community.

Airports in Cocos (Keeling) Islands