Bali, Indonesia Destination Guide

This essential guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the Island of Gods.

Bali Temple
 
Rice Terraces
 
Bali Beach
 

Essential Travel Information for Bali, Indonesia

Everything you need to know before your Bali adventure

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Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Tourist Fee: Starting February 14, 2024, Bali is implementing a ~$10 USD (IDR 150,000) fee for foreign tourists. It is recommended to use the "Love Bali System" to pay before or upon arrival.
  • Visa Information: Check the official visa information. Most countries can obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival.
  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date and have two or more blank pages.
  • Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration may ask for proof of onward/return travel.
  • Health Requirements: Check current vaccination and entry requirements before departure.
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Currency & Payments

  • Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency. 1 USD ≈ 15,000 IDR.
  • ATMs: Widely available in tourist areas. Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Credit Cards: Accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but smaller vendors require cash.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
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Transportation

  • Taxis: Look for licensed taxis and clarify that the ride will be metered. Have small bills ready.
  • Ride-sharing: 'Grab' is available (similar to Uber) but restricted in some areas and hotels.
  • Address Knowledge: Know the exact address of your destination to avoid confusion.
  • Rentals: Scooters and cars are available for rent, but require an international driver's license.
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Mobile & Internet

  • SIM Cards: Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and IM3 offer affordable data packages.
  • WiFi: Available in hotels, cafés, and restaurants throughout Bali.
  • Power Adapters: Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (European style).
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Time Zone

  • Bali follows Central Indonesian Time (WITA) – UTC +8.
  • Bali is 12-13 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time, depending on daylight saving time.
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Climate & Weather

  • Tropical Climate: Hot and humid year-round. Temperatures between 23°C - 33°C (73°F - 91°F).
  • Dry Season: April – September (best time to visit)
  • Rainy Season: October – March (expect afternoon showers)
  • Packing Tip: Light clothing, sun protection, and a light rain jacket.
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Emergency Contacts

  • Tourist Police: 📞 110 or +62 361 754 599
  • Ambulance: 📞 118
  • U.S. Consulate: 📞 +62 361 233 605
  • Australian Consulate: 📞 +62 361 241 118

Packing Checklist for Bali

Use this checklist to ensure you pack everything you need for your Bali adventure

Travel Documents & Essentials

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Printed hotel confirmations
  • Flight itinerary & proof of onward travel
  • Travel insurance details
  • Credit/debit cards
  • Local currency (Indonesian Rupiah)
  • International driver's license (if planning to rent a scooter)
  • Travel wallet or money belt
  • Copies of important documents (separate from originals)
  • Emergency contact information

Clothing & Accessories

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes
  • Swimwear (2-3 sets)
  • Sarong or cover-up (required for temple visits)
  • Light rain jacket or poncho
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals/flip-flops
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Light sweater (for air conditioning)
  • Modest clothing for temple visits (covering shoulders and knees)
  • Day bag/backpack for excursions

Health & Safety

  • First-aid kit with basic supplies
  • Prescription medications (in original packaging)
  • Motion sickness pills (for boat trips)
  • Insect repellent with DEET
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+ and reef-safe)
  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Diarrhea medication
  • Rehydration salts
  • Water purification tablets or filter bottle

Electronics & Gadgets

  • Universal power adapter (Type C/F)
  • Smartphone & charger
  • Camera & charger
  • Portable power bank
  • Waterproof case or dry bag
  • Headphones
  • E-reader or books
  • Underwater camera (optional)
  • Travel router (optional)
  • Portable fan (for hot days)

Packing Tips

  • Pack light! Laundry services are affordable and widely available throughout Bali.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
  • Leave valuable jewelry at home to avoid loss or theft.
  • Remember to pack respectful clothing for temple visits.

Top Destinations & Experiences in Bali

Discover the incredible places you'll visit during your Bali adventure

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Ubud

Bali's cultural heart offers lush landscapes, art, and spiritual experiences.

Must-See Attractions:

  • Sacred Monkey Forest – Home to over 700 macaques.
  • Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Stunning stepped rice fields.
  • Ubud Palace & Market – Traditional crafts and architecture.
  • Campuhan Ridge Walk – Scenic nature trail.

Ubud offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and wellness activities.

Seminyak & Canggu

Trendy beach areas with vibrant nightlife, dining, and surfing.

Beach Life:

  • Seminyak Beach – Upscale beach clubs and stunning sunsets.
  • Potato Head Beach Club – Infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
  • Echo Beach (Canggu) – Popular surfing spot.
  • Tanah Lot Temple – Iconic sea temple nearby.

These areas offer the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment with world-class dining options.

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Uluwatu & Bukit Peninsula

Dramatic clifftop views, pristine beaches, and surf culture.

Cliff and Beach Highlights:

  • Uluwatu Temple – Ancient sea temple with traditional Kecak dance performances.
  • Padang Padang Beach – Secluded beach with golden sand.
  • Uluwatu Surf Spots – World-class waves for experienced surfers.
  • Single Fin – Iconic cliff bar with sunset views.

The Bukit Peninsula offers some of Bali's most dramatic coastal landscapes.

Must-Try Balinese Foods

Balinese cuisine blends rich flavors with fresh ingredients. Here are some dishes you shouldn't miss:

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Babi Guling

Succulent spit-roast pig with crispy skin and spices.

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Nasi Campur

Mixed rice dish with various small portions of meats, vegetables, and spices.

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Sate Lilit

Minced meat (fish, pork, chicken) mixed with coconut and spices on lemongrass skewers.

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Lawar

Traditional mix of vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat with rich herbs.

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Pepes Ikan

Fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves before grilling.

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Es Campur

Sweet dessert drink with mixed fruits, jellies, and condensed milk.

Local Culture & Responsible Travel

Tips for respectful travel and cultural awareness during your adventure

Temple Etiquette

  • Menstruation Restrictions: Menstruating women are not allowed in temples. This rule applies to anyone with any type of bleeding (including cuts).
  • Pregnancy Restrictions: Women who are more than seven months pregnant or have given birth within the last six weeks should not enter temples.
  • Covering Up: Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering temples.
  • Religious Ceremonies: Don't walk in front of people praying or touch religious offerings.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Public Displays of Affection: As Balinese culture is conservative, keep PDAs to a minimum. Holding hands is generally the acceptable limit in public.
  • Right Hand Usage: The left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand (or both hands) for giving or receiving items as a sign of respect.
  • Head Level: The head is considered sacred in Balinese culture - avoid touching people's heads.
  • Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering homes, certain shops, and all temples.

Responsible Tourism

  • Tourist Fee: The ~$10 USD tourist fee helps protect Bali's culture and environment, supporting sustainability efforts and local traditions.
  • Water Conservation: Bali experiences water shortages - take short showers and reuse towels.
  • Plastic Reduction: Bring a reusable water bottle, straw, and shopping bag.
  • Marine Protection: Use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or step on coral reefs.
  • Respect Wildlife: Avoid wildlife attractions that exploit animals (like elephant rides).
  • Support Locals: Buy from local artisans and eat at locally-owned restaurants.

⚠️ Important Safety Notes

Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, especially with transportation and currency exchange. Always use reputable tour operators and money changers. Avoid drinking tap water and be aware of 'Bali belly' - only eat at clean establishments.

Final Travel Tips

  • Haggling: Negotiate prices at markets - start at 50% of asking price.
  • Motorbike Safety: If renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and drive defensively.
  • Sacred Sites: Always follow instructions at temples and ceremonies.
  • Transportation: Use Gojek or Grab apps for reliable transport.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of bottled water in the tropical climate.
  • Embrace Local Culture: Participate in a traditional ceremony if invited!

Luggage Restrictions

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