Bali

$$
from: 
$
670
from: 
$
25
Weather
29°C, Hot and Sunny
Best time to go
Bad
between April and October
Recommended length of stay
Minimum 2 weeks - optimal 4 weeks

Your score match

95%
Score Title
Description

Activites

hiking kitesurfing surfing

Location

beach city forest mountains

Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods! This enchanting destination in Indonesia offers a perfect blend of lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.

Start your journey in the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud. Explore the Monkey Forest Sanctuary, visit ancient temples like Goa Gajah, and immerse yourself in local art at the Ubud Art Market.

Discover the mesmerizing rice terraces of Tegalalang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through the emerald-green fields and learn about traditional Balinese farming practices.

Bali is renowned for its temples, and none is more famous than Uluwatu Temple. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, it offers breathtaking sunsets and traditional Kecak dance performances.

Adventure seekers will relish the chance to surf at Kuta Beach or explore the underwater wonders while snorkeling or diving in the coral-rich waters of Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands.

For a taste of Bali's culinary delights, savor local dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), and the renowned babi guling (suckling pig).

Pamper yourself with a spa day in Seminyak or indulge in a traditional Balinese massage. The island is renowned for its wellness retreats and holistic therapies.

Explore the artistic village of Batuan, where you can admire intricate Balinese paintings and watch local artisans create beautiful works of art.

Bali's water temples, including Tirta Empul and Tanah Lot, provide a serene and spiritual experience. Visitors can participate in purification rituals and witness captivating sunsets over the sea.

Conclude your Bali adventure on the tranquil shores of Sanur, where you can relax on pristine beaches, take a leisurely bicycle ride along the coastal path, and enjoy the serene ambiance before bidding farewell to this tropical paradise. Bali's beauty, culture, and warm hospitality make it a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Essentials

Traveling to Bali can be an amazing experience, with its stunning beaches, rich culture, and lush landscapes. Here are some useful tips and information for your trip:

1. Visa and Entry Requirements

  • Most travelers can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days if they are from a country that has an agreement with Indonesia. Check your eligibility before traveling.
  • If you need more than 30 days, consider applying for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) which can be extended for an additional 30 days.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

2. Currency and Money Matters

  • The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller shops, local markets, and rural areas.
  • ATMs are easy to find, but some may have withdrawal limits. Be cautious of ATM fraud—stick to machines in reputable areas or inside banks.
  • Always carry small denominations, especially for taxis, small purchases, and tips.

3. Transportation

  • Scooters are the most popular mode of transport. Renting a scooter can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but make sure you have an international driving permit.
  • Taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are popular. Always agree on a fare before the ride if taking a traditional taxi.
  • Private drivers are a great option for day trips; many tourists book them for a full day to explore different parts of the island.

4. Best Time to Visit

  • Dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit. The weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Wet season (November to March) brings more rain but can be less crowded. It’s still possible to enjoy your trip, but some outdoor activities might be limited.

5. Health and Safety

  • Consider getting vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and other common travel-related illnesses.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Bali has a risk of dengue fever. Use mosquito repellent, especially in the rainy season.
  • Be cautious of stray dogs and monkeys. They might seem friendly but can be unpredictable.

6. Cultural Etiquette

  • Balinese culture is very respectful and spiritual. Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees).
  • Use your right hand for giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite.
  • Balinese people are generally friendly, so smiling and using basic greetings in Indonesian (e.g., "Selamat pagi" for good morning) can go a long way.

7. Accommodation

  • Bali offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Popular areas include Seminyak (for nightlife and shopping), Ubud (for culture and nature), Canggu (for surfing and cafes), and Nusa Dua (for luxury resorts and beaches).

8. Activities and Attractions

  • Temples: Visit iconic sites like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, and Besakih Temple.
  • Beaches: Explore beautiful beaches in Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua. For more secluded options, head to the Bukit Peninsula or the islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
  • Cultural Experiences: Attend traditional Balinese dance performances, visit local markets, and consider a Balinese cooking class.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Try surfing, diving, snorkeling, hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise, or exploring the lush rice terraces of Ubud.

9. Packing Essentials

  • Light, breathable clothing and swimwear.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • Mosquito repellent and a small first aid kit.
  • Reusable water bottle: helps reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated.

10. Sustainable Tourism

  • Be mindful of the environment: reduce plastic use, respect local customs, and support local businesses.
  • Avoid activities that exploit animals, such as riding elephants or visiting captive wildlife shows.

These tips should help you have a smoother and more enjoyable trip to Bali!

Affordability

Average based on 2021-2022 data
Flights
90%
$
670
two ways
Hotels
40%
$
25
per night
Food
10%
$
5
per day
Activities and transport
10%
$
5
per day
Travel style

Bali is recommended for individuals seeking a tropical paradise with a mix of stunning natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxation. It's an ideal destination for travelers who appreciate serene beaches, lush rice terraces, vibrant art scenes, and a spiritual atmosphere that allows for both relaxation and exploration

Vaccinations

1. Routine Vaccines

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
  • Polio
  • Influenza

These are standard vaccines you should be up to date with, regardless of travel.

2. Recommended Travel Vaccines

  • Hepatitis A: Recommended as you can get it from contaminated food or water, even in upscale restaurants.
  • Hepatitis B: Advised if you plan on having tattoos, piercings, medical treatments, or close contact with locals.
  • Typhoid: Especially recommended if you plan to eat street food or visit smaller, rural towns.
  • Rabies: Consider if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, such as hiking or visiting rural areas, where you might encounter stray dogs, monkeys, or bats. Bali has a higher risk of rabies compared to other tourist destinations.
  • Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended if you're planning a longer stay (more than a month), especially if you’ll be in rural or agricultural areas.

3. Other Precautions

  • Malaria is not a major concern in Bali’s main tourist areas, but there are risks in more rural parts of Indonesia. Preventative measures like mosquito repellent and protective clothing are advisable.
  • Dengue Fever is present, so use mosquito repellent and sleep under a mosquito net if needed.
Bureaucracy

1. Visa Options for Bali

  • Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from over 160 countries, including many European, American, and Asian nations, can enter Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days. This visa-free entry is for tourism only and cannot be extended. Make sure to confirm that your country is on the list of eligible nations.
  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): If you need more than 30 days, you can opt for a Visa on Arrival. The VOA costs IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 35), and you can extend it for an additional 30 days (for a total of 60 days). You can pay for the VOA upon arrival at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport or apply online through Indonesia’s e-Visa system.
  • Tourist Visa (B211A): If you plan to stay longer than 60 days, you can apply for a tourist visa that allows for a 60-day stay and can be extended up to four times, for 30 days each time, allowing a total stay of 180 days. You’ll need to apply in advance through an Indonesian embassy or online.

2. Passport Requirements

  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Indonesia.
  • Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
  • Carry a printout of your return or onward ticket as it may be requested upon entry to prove that you will leave the country within your visa period.

3. Additional Tips

  • Overstaying: If you overstay your visa, you will be fined IDR 1,000,000 (about USD 65) per day. Overstaying for more than 60 days can lead to serious legal consequences.
  • Visa Extension: For VOA and other visas, you can apply for an extension at an immigration office in Bali or use a visa agent who can handle the paperwork for a fee.
Additional costs

The cost of traveling around Bali can vary widely depending on your choices. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $30-50 per day on basic accommodations, local cuisine, and transportation, while those seeking more upscale experiences at luxury resorts and dining establishments may spend between $100-200 per day or more.

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