Known as the “Island of the Gods,” is Bali a safe place to travel a lively destination famous for its stunning beaches, colorful culture, and verdant landscapes. Which is why millions of tourists visit there each year seeking adventure, relaxation and spiritual renewal. But like any travel destination, concerns about safety are inevitable. Researching what to expect on a Bali trip can be an important balance between enjoying such an extraordinary place and keeping in mind practicalities about crime, health and natural hazards, and local customs.
Whether you’re heading to Bali for the first time or returning to the island for another adventure, getting a grip on the safety landscape can help you enjoy your trip to the fullest. Let’s dive into the different fears around safety in Bali, with tips throughout to help you visit happily and smoothly.
Crime Rates and Safety for Travelers
Bali is one of Indonesia’s safest provinces and, with few exceptions, an overwhelmingly welcoming place for visitors. But petty theft and scams do happen, particularly in touristy areas like Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud. It’s important to stay alert and take precautions not to be a victim of something like these.
Common Issues
- Racquet Slashing; Pick-Pocketing and Bag Snatching
Tourists frequently complain of pickpocketing or bag theft, particularly when walking with valuables through busy markets, or ride-sharing on motorbikes. To reduce risk, carry anti-theft bags and refrain from placing your wallet or phone in your back pocket.
- Scams
Taxi scam, inflated pricing are very common problems. For example, you may encounter drivers that don’t want to use the meters, or the private transport companies charging unreasonable fares. Avoid other taxi operators (opt for Blue Bird) and always negotiate with the driver with apps like Grab or Gojek because they’ll give you a fair price.
- Card Skimming
Another concern is ATM fraud, also called card skimming, which is also something to watch for in Bali. To prevent this, use only ATMs located in banks or secured areas, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Safety Tips
- Remain vigilant in busy places and secure your possessions.
- Ju-Jitsu6: Secure doors and windows when leaving your room.
- Make copies of important documents. Carry an ID or photocopy of your passport instead of your actual passport.
Health and Hygiene in Bali
When traveling to foreign territories, you should always consider the health risks associated with the journey, and Bali is no exception. Despite its glamorous hotels and leading services, it has stacks of issues of which you need to be aware, including food safety, water quality and tropical diseases.
Food and Water Safety
Perhaps the most common health problem of tourists when visiting is the dreaded “Bali Belly,” which is the local term for traveler’s diarrhea. It is usually caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.
- Avoid tap water and drink bottled water instead. For drinking, brushing your teeth, and even washing fresh produce.
- When selecting street food, check the cleanliness of the stall before you order and, to reduce your risk of bacteria, choose freshly cooked ones.
Tropical Diseases
Travelers to Bali can be at risk for mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and, in some cases, malaria. While malaria risk is low in tourist areas, dengue is still a problem in cities and countryside. Staying watchful about being bitten by a mosquito is critical.
- Use insect repellent that contains DEET, particularly in and around dawn and dusk.
- Sleep under a bed net if in mosquito-ridden areas.
Medical Care Availability
Bali offers good healthcare facilities in cities and tourist areas, like BIMC Hospital in Kuta and Siloam Hospitals in Denpasar. If you must seek medical attention, language barriers are usually not a problem as most doctors and staff speak English. You may still want to buy travel insurance that covers emergencies and treatment overseas.
Natural Disasters and Environmental Risks
As an island in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali is no stranger to natural disaster. Though the odds of spotting one on your vacation is low, it’s best to be prepared.
Earthquakes
Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is susceptible to earthquakes. They are mostly small, but occasionally bigger events are potentially dangerous. Know your accommodation’s evacuation routes, and in an emergency, follow the instructions of local authorities.
Volcano Activity
The island is home to the active volcanoes Mount Agung and Mount Batur. Mount Agung, in particular, erupts sporadically, potentially disrupting local life, including flights to and from the island. Monitor reports of volcanic activity before traveling and register with your country’s embassy in Indonesia for real-time updates about your safety.
Tsunamis
Although rare, tsunamis are a possible danger in Bali’s coastal areas. (And watch for evacuation signs at beaches and heed alerts from the Bali Disaster Management Agency.)
Practical Preparation Tips
- Sign up with your country’s embassy while in Bali to get updates.
- Check that your travel insurance includes natural disasters.
- Program emergency numbers into your phone and ask your hotel’s management how to move or leave the area.
Transportation Safety
Navigating Bali can be an adventure itself with its narrow, busy roads and lively mosaic of vehicles, motorbikes, and pedestrians. As an overall note of eagerness, safety on the island is about being aware and taking some common sense precautions.
Motorbike Safety
Motorbikes are the most common mode of transport for both locals and tourists. Yet inexperienced riders are often involved in accidents due to the chaotic traffic, bumpy roads and general disregard for traffic signals in Bali. If you don’t feel buddy with riding a motorbike, hiring a private car or scooter driver would be a great idea.
- Always wear a helmet, even if you are just going a short distance. Not just essential for safety — it’s the law.
- Riding at night is discouraged, especially when visibility is low and roads become more dangerous.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
To be sure, ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek add convenience, but they are restricted or banned in some areas — especially around airports and organized taxi stands — to protect local transport operators. Know these restrictions and plan accordingly. If you have to use a regular taxi, either use the meter (if available) or negotiate a price beforehand.
Public Transport Scenarios
Although there are few public transport services in Bali, most tourists end up using their own private car or riding scooters. There are shuttle services such as Perama between major towns, but they require careful planning, as departures aren’t always frequent.
Cultural Considerations
Following Balinese customs and traditions goes a long way to make for a respectful travel experience if done properly. Not all practices are respectful – learn local customs, and comply with cultural standards.
Temple Etiquette
Temples are an integral part of visiting Bali, but keep in mind, these are sacred spaces.
- Dress modestly and wear a sarong or sash, both of which are usually available free at temple entrances.
- Do not climb on or around religious statues or structures, this is seen as disrespectful.
General Behavior
What is acceptable in other parts of the world does not transcribe to Bali.
- Do not engage in displays of affection, which are frowned upon by conservative culture.
- Do not touch anyone’s head, including children, because the head is sacred in Balinese culture.
Interactions with Locals
A smile can go a long way, Balinese are known for their hospitality and friendliness. They value tourists who have taken time to embrace their culture, even in small ways, such as picking up a few simple phrases in Bahasa Indonesia.
Just the Practical Tips to Keep Safe
With no means to avoid risk entirely, it is wise to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. To make your trip visit Bali as smooth and as enjoyable possible, here are some tips.
- Plan Ahead
Do your research on your itinerary, book accommodations in good neighborhoods and have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong.
- Stay Connected
Charge your phone and save emergency numbers local to you — like 112 (general emergencies), tourist police or your country’s embassy.
- Protect Your Valuables
Store jewelry, passports and other valuables you won’t need while touring the island in hotel safes.
- Be Cautious When Swimming
Many of Bali’s beaches have treacherous rip currents, so heed warning signs and swim only where it has been marked safe to do so. There are no lifeguards, so be careful, especially in the monsoon season.
- Respect the Environment
A large part of the appeal is Bali’s natural beauty. Do your part to preserve it by not littering, not touching marine life, and doing business with eco-friendly tour operators.
Why Bali Is Still a Top Destination
Bali a safe place to travel, though, remains one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, with the exception of certain Bali a safe place to travel concerns. It’s rich culture, welcoming people and stunning scenery means it will always be a dream destination for adventurers, honeymooners and families. With the right pre-planning, mindfulness, and a little common sense, most visitors leave Bali with nothing but fond memories of an amazing island.
By keeping in mind the realities of Bali a safe place to travel and respecting and accommodating the local ways, you can navigate Bali and enjoy all its splendor while staying safe. Whether you’re trekking to hidden waterfalls, sampling the eclectic cuisine or soaking on sandy shores, Bali is there to surprise and inspire you — a place worth visiting over and over again.
