From pre-flight planning to hospitals, Bali belly and transport options, here’s all you need to know when travelling to Bali.
Known for its rich culture and abundant natural beauty, travelling to Bali has made it onto every international jet-setter’s bucket list. For good reason. There’s so much to discover when you arrive – amazing restaurants, hidden beaches, heart-pumping waves and majestic temples to name just a few…
If you’re a first-time traveller and haven’t been to Bali before, where do you begin? It can be overwhelming, and you’ll find that travelling to Bali isn’t as easy as simply booking a flight. In fact, there’s a lot to think about before getting on that plane, from travel requirements to things to do when you finally arrive.
So, to make your planning a bit more seamless, we’ve rounded up our best travel tips for Bali. From which visa to get, to local etiquette and the important contacts to have on speed-dial, here’s all you need to know before you go to Bali. Paradise is waiting!
Bali Travel Tips: Pre-flight planning
1. First things first: your passport
Is your international ID, AKA your passport, travel-ready? It might seem like a no-brainer, but there are certain passport requiremnts to note before travelling to Bali. First, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your stay. Top tip: while you’re at it, make sure your passport is in good condition and has enough blank pages for the visa stamps. You may be denied entry if there’s any noticeable damage.
2. What type of visa will you need?
Before you book your flight, another important thing to consider is whether you will need a visa to enter the country. If so, which type if visa you will need? If you hold a passport from one of the ASEAN countries listed on the official immigration website, you’re qualified for a visa exemption – AKA you can enter Indonesia visa-free, and stay in the country for up to 30 days. As for tourists who hold a passport from other countries, below are the visa options to enter Indonesia for a holiday (refer to the official immigration website for complete eligibility and requirements):
- B1 Visa On Arrival (paid in person upon arrival) or e-VOA (paid online) – Single-Entry
If your country of citizenship is listed on the official immigration website, then you’re eligible for the Visa On Arrival (VOA). It’s a hassle-free option that lets you purchase your visa at the airport upon arrival. And while you can apply for the e-VOA online before your trip (to be used within 90 days of the date of issue), make sure you leave enough time for the visa approval process. Visa processing in Indonesia can be delayed due to weekends and public holidays, which is when the immigration offices are closed.
Duration of stay: up to 30 days, extendable once for a total of 60 days.
Fee: IDR 500,000 (exclusive of the extension)
- C1 Tourist Visa 60 Days – Single-Entry
Previously known the B211a Visa, this visa is for those who aren’t eligible for the VOA, or for those who wanting to stay in the country up to 6 months. You can apply for the 60-Day C1 Tourist Visa yourself online, or via a trusted visa agent.
Duration of stay: up to 60 days, extendable twice for a total of 180 days.
Fee: IDR 1,500,000 (exclusive of the extensions)
- D1 Tourist Visa – Multiple Entry
If you plan to visit Indonesia multiple times, then you’ll want to check out the multi-entry tourist visa. However, in order to be approved, you’ll have to provide documentation outlining the reasons you need this particular visa. There are options for one, two or five year stays, during which you can come and leave Indonesia as many times as you need.
Duration of stay: up to 60 days per entry.
Fee: IDR 3,000,000 for one year, IDR 6,000,000 for two years, or IDR 15,000,000 for five years.
Note: As travel requirements are always changing, be sure to check the official immigration website for any updates or visa information.
3. Print out important documents for when you land
So, you’ve got your passport, your visa, and you booked a flight. Now what? There’s still a few things to consider before you leave. If you applied for your visa online, be sure to print out the proof of visa payment and have it with you on your flight. Another document you’ll get asked for is your onward ticket. Since a tourist visit is temporary, you’ll have to show that you’ll leave the country before your visa expires.
4. Fill out the online forms
When travelling to Bali, there are a few online forms you’ll need to fill out. The first is the customs declaration form which can be filled out online three days before your arrival. You simply save the QR code on your phone upon completion, or print it out. And you may have heard of the tourist tax that goes towards conservation efforts in Bali. The IDR 150,000 tourist levy can be paid online too, via the Love Bali website. But no stress, the customs declaration and tourist levy can both be done upon arrival at the airport if you don’t mind waiting in lines.
And finally, since August 2024, travellers coming to Bali on an international flight are required to complete a health pass through the “SatuSehat” mobile app or Department of Health’s website. This is to prevent the spread of Mpox (Monkeypox virus). Once completed, a QR code will be generated which will then be scanned upon arrival.
5. Purchase travel insurance for peace of mind…
We get it, it’s always tempting to say “I’m always careful, nothing will happen to me”. The fact is, we cannot predict what will happen, especially when you’re in a foreign country. To give you peace of mind when travelling to Bali, it’s always good to have travel insurance with a good policy and coverage. Look out for evacuation cover in case of medical or natural disaster emergencies, as well as accidents and injuries.
6. Health precautions: do you need to get vaccinated?
While vaccination isn’t a requirement to enter the country post-COVID, it’s always best to check with your doctor and your home country’s health department website. Here we’ve come up with a few vaccines we think might be helpful, but please keep in mind that we’re not health professionals.
Make sure your routine vaccines are up-to-date, like MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), polio and chickenpox. If the cleanliness of food and water is a concern, then consult with your doctor about Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B vaccines. If you think you’ll be interacting with any wildlife or stray dogs or cats, then the rabies vaccine is always a good idea.
And here’s a general health tip: put on your sunscreen religiously and stay hydrated! Sunshine is great, but it can be too much if you’re coming from a cooler climate.
7. International Driver’s Licence: will you need it in Bali?
To drive or not to drive… While driving may be convenient to get around the island whenever you want, beware that it may not be as easy as you’d expect. Sure, there is GPS and Google Maps if you have reliable phone data, but it’s also the “Wild West” out there with many obstacles. Think potholes, traffic jams, unfamiliar road rules and motorbikes whizzing past in every direction.
After weighing out the pros and cons, if you decide to drive in Bali, you’ll have to carry an International Driver’s Licence (AKA International Driving Permit) to drive legally. Keep in mind that scooters here come in over 100cc, meaning your car licence may not be enough to cover riding a scooter. In this case, you’ll need a licence specifically for motorbikes. And it’s always a good idea to make sure that your travel insurance covers road accidents on an International Driver’s Licence.
Top tip: always wear your helmet when riding a scooter (yes, that applies for the passenger too!). And we say, don’t drive in Bali unless you’re experienced. There’s plenty of private local drivers and taxis (both car and motorbike taxis), readily available to take you around the island.
8. BONUS: Helpful phone apps to download
As mentioned above, there are other convenient ways to get around Bali without having to drive. There’s Blue Bird taxis which have been around for years, and gained a rep as reliable. Blue Bird taxis are metered, and come in light blue hues. You can hail one from the street-side, book through a phone call (+62 361 701 111) or via its “MyBluebird” app. The popular online taxis that are similar to Uber are GoJek and Grab, with added features that make Bali life easier, like motorbike taxis, as well as food and package delivery services. If you decide to drive, Google Maps is useful in the more popular and developed areas, but may not be as reliable in the smaller villages and “off-the-beaten-path” areas.
It’s also worth downloading WhatsApp, a communication app that allows you to send messages and make phone calls via the internet. This is widely used amongst Bali residents, as well as businesses. For example, to make reservations at restaurants and beach clubs. Google Translate may also be useful, but it’s not a must, as most people in areas frequently flocked by tourists speak basic English.
Bali Travel Tips: Good to know while you’re here
1. Enjoy Balinese culture with respect
Bali is a holiday destination renowned for its rich culture – one of the many reasons tourists travel here from around the globe. The culture is centred around the Balinese Hindu religion that’s been passed down from generation to generation. As tourists, you can witness the unique and beautiful culture through the simple daily rituals like putting an offering (called Canang Sari) on the streets, or even taking part in ceremonies like melukat and visiting temples. If you do want to temple-hop, keep in mind that temple etiquette is important as it is a place of prayer, with the main rule being to cover up your legs, shoulders and chest, and for men to wear a sash around the waist. Don’t worry, you can usually rent a sash and a sarong at the entrance of most temples.
Top tip: Time your trip so that you can experience the most important days on the Balinese calendar, like Galungan and Kuningan, as well as Bali’s Day of Silence, AKA Nyepi, a unique day when the island goes completely silent. Want more? Check out our complete guide to Balinese culture.
2. Local communities and lifestyle norms
Bali is a unique combo of modern and traditional lifestyles, which you can get a taste of wherever you go. That being said, there are areas which cater to specific interests. For example, Ubud draws in the art and wellness community, Canggu is popular for its food and bar scene, while Uluwatu’s world-famous waves mainly attract surfers. But wherever you go on the island, it’s always best to show respect to the local customs. While Balinese people are generally accepting, remember that Indonesia is a conservative country – so it’s more respectful to cover up in public, and only wear your bikini in appropriate places, like the beach or swimming pools.
Top tip: Love Bali? Consider looking up conservation efforts happening across the island. As responsible travellers, we want to offset the ever-growing footprint that comes with travelling. There are awesome eco-heroes working to preserve the environment and our waters, as well as charities helping street animals and wildlife. And the best bit is, you can help them too, by making a donation or offering help where possible.
3. Traffic – is it really that bad?
Bali is renowned for many things, and one of them is its chaotic traffic. It’s to be expected, considering the incoming waves of tourists, all year round. So if you’re planning to visit multiple areas across the island, we highly recommend that you plan your itinerary accordingly. For example, while it’s possible to day trip from south to north, you won’t be able to stop at multiple spots and really enjoy it. You’ll want to start early on days packed with activities, and if you can, limit your activities to a just a few each day to avoid disappointment. Even catching the sunset in popular areas will require you to arrive early to avoid the crowds. Psst… on some important religious days, there could be a parade of Balinese people wearing traditional clothing and carrying offerings. It’s a sight to be seen, but you will have to stop to let them pass through before you can continue on your way.
Top tip if you’re spending a week or two in Bali: Stay in one area and day trip to surrounding neighbourhoods. Then, move to another area and repeat. For example, spend a few nights in Seminyak, during which you can day trip to Canggu and Kuta. Or stay in Sanur if you want to add day trips to Ubud and Nusa Lembongan. And if you’re island-hopping, make sure that you’re back on the mainland at least a day before your departure.
4. Is travelling to Bali safe for my health?
There’s a few health concerns when travelling to the tropics, and Bali is no exception. The ones that are continuously being asked about are Bali belly and Dengue Fever. Here, we’re giving you a few tips on how to handle them, but please note that we aren’t health professionals. What works for others, may work differently for you. If you are concerned, consult with your doctor for preventative measures before your trip.
5. How to avoid “Bali Belly”
Bali Belly AKA traveller’s diarrhoea, is an infection, not to be confused with an upset stomach from spicy food. Typically, you’ll feel pain in the stomach and go to the bathroom more often, leading to a loss of fluids, persisting for a few days. There are things you can do to avoid Bali Belly, like not drinking tap-water and washing your hands before eating. Some travellers take probiotics prior to travelling. Since you don’t always know how your food is prepared, be cautious of where you eat, whether you’re eating in a roadside food stall (AKA warung), or even a five-star restaurant. If unfortunately you get a tummy ache that lasts for days, keep hydrated and seek medical attention from a local healthcare provider.
6. Dengue Fever in Bali
Dengue Fever has been a health concern in Bali and the rest of Indonesia for decades. It is an infection caused by a virus and passed along through Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes. The common symptoms are high fever and body aches, which could become fatal and therefore not to be taken lightly. The best way to prevent it is to apply a stronger mosquito repellent (with DEET) to exposed skin especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. Ensure that your accommodation provides mosquito screens or nets. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect you may be suffering from Dengue Fever.
7. Cash vs card: How should you pay for things in Bali?
The cheapest way to get cash Bali is to withdraw it straight from an ATM, so make sure your card is activated for overseas withdrawal. Ever heard the term “cash is king”? Carrying some cash with you always helps, especially for local markets, paying for parking and leaving tips. The currency of Indonesia is Indonesian Rupiah, usually abbreviated as “IDR” or “Rp”. While in bigger businesses (like beach clubs, restaurants, hotels and supermarkets), debit and credit cards (mainly the major ones, like Mastercard, Visa and Amex) are accepted. If you’re travelling to the less touristy areas, it may be difficult to find places with card readers or ATMs.
Top tip: currency exchange rates are better here, but avoid exchanging at the airport or at questionable money changers offering higher rates. If you’re planning to use your card, be sure to inform your bank ahead of your trip, so that you won’t run into any banking issues.
Bali Travel Tips: Our little black book
1. Hospitals in Bali
When it comes to healthcare with international standards, Bali has you covered. BIMC Hospital (located in Kuta, Nusa Dua and Ubud) is the go-to for travellers seeking top-notch medical care, especially for emergencies or post-accident treatments. BIMC is known for their excellent English-speaking staff and services tailored for tourists, including 24-hour clinics and medical evacuations. Siloam Hospital on Jl Sunset Road also offers world-class care, with specialists in everything from cardiology to paediatrics.
- BIMC Kuta, Jl By Pass Ngurah Rai No. 100X, Kuta, p. +62 361 761 263 / +62 811 3960 8500, e. [email protected]
- BIMC Nusa Dua, Kawasan ITDC Block D, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 300 0911 / +62 811 3896 113, e. [email protected]
- BIMC Ubud, Jl Raya Sanggingan No. 21, Kedewatan, Ubud, p. +62 361 209 1030 / +62 811 399 552, e. [email protected]
- Siloam Hospital, Jl Sunset Road No. 818, Kuta, p. +62 361 779 900
2. Pharmacies in Bali
Pharmacy is called “apotek” in Bahasa Indonesia, and is usually stocked with over-the-counter essentials with at least one pharmacist in charge for consultations and prescription refills. The most dependable and trustworthy chain of pharmacies in Bali (and across Indonesia) is Kimia Farma, with professional staff and a wide range of pharmaceuticals. If you’re looking for over-the-counter, vitamins or herbal medicines, Guardian and Watsons are convenient options. These chains feature a pharmacy inside, and they also sell skincare, toiletries and make-up too.
3. Supermarkets in Bali
We love shopping in overseas supermarkets because you never know what kind of local treats you’ll find! For bigger chain supermarkets in Bali, you’ll spot Pepitos and Frestive in countless locations all across South Bali. Otherwise, check-out Bintang Supermarket (in Seminyak, Denpasar and Ubud) and Grand Lucky Super Store (in Denpasar, Sanur and Kuta), which are always fully stocked with groceries, local and imported goods. We also go to Papaya in Kuta and Renon, whenever we’re craving Japanese snacks and pantry staples.
Safe travels, Honeys! Bali is one of the most amazing places to visit in the world, so please enjoy your stay. If you are like us, you’ll be counting the days for your return trip the moment you get home…
