Before You Go: The Essentials
Bali is one of the world's most visited islands — and for good reason. But a little planning goes a long way toward making the difference between a stressful trip and an extraordinary one. Here are twelve practical tips to help first-time visitors get it right.
1. Understand the Visa Requirements
As of recent policy, most nationalities can enter Indonesia on a Visa on Arrival (VoA), valid for 30 days and extendable once for another 30 days (totaling 60 days). It is available at Ngurah Rai Airport on arrival. Some nationalities qualify for a free visa-exempt entry. Always check the current regulations with the Indonesian embassy or official immigration website before traveling, as policies can change.
2. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Bali has two distinct seasons:
- Dry Season (April–October): Less rainfall, lower humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and beaches. Peak tourist season is July–August.
- Wet Season (November–March): Afternoon downpours are common, but mornings are often clear. Fewer crowds and lower prices make this a favorite for budget-conscious and experience-seeking travelers.
Avoid peak periods (Christmas, New Year, Nyepi week) if you're on a budget — accommodation prices can double or triple.
3. Pick Your Base Wisely
Bali's regions each have a distinct character. Choose based on what matters most to you:
| Region | Best For |
|---|---|
| Seminyak / Canggu | Nightlife, beach clubs, cafés, surfing |
| Ubud | Culture, wellness, rice terraces, arts |
| Uluwatu / Bukit | World-class surf, cliffside views, seclusion |
| Sanur | Families, calm beaches, relaxed pace |
| Amed / Lovina | Diving, off-the-beaten-path, local life |
4. Get Around by Scooter or Hired Driver
Bali has no public transport system worth relying on. Renting a scooter (around 60,000–80,000 IDR per day) gives you the most flexibility, but requires confidence and a valid international license. Hiring a private driver for day trips (typically 500,000–700,000 IDR for 8–10 hours) is comfortable and affordable by most standards.
5. Download Grab and Gojek
These ride-hailing apps work well in tourist areas and offer transparent, fixed pricing for taxis and food delivery. They're cheaper than negotiating with street-side taxi drivers and remove the hassle of haggling.
6. Carry Cash (Indonesian Rupiah)
While larger establishments accept cards, many warungs, markets, temples, and small businesses are cash-only. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas, but notify your bank before traveling to avoid blocked transactions. Dynamic Currency Conversion at ATMs often gives poor exchange rates — always choose to be charged in local currency (IDR).
7. Respect the Culture and Ceremonies
You will regularly encounter temple processions, roadside offerings (canang sari), and religious ceremonies. Some key etiquette:
- Step over, never on, small offerings placed on the ground.
- Dress modestly when entering any temple or village area (sarong and covered shoulders required).
- Ask permission before photographing locals or ceremonies.
8. Budget Realistically
Bali can be as cheap or expensive as you choose. A realistic daily budget:
- Budget traveler: USD $30–$50/day (hostel, warung meals, scooter rental)
- Mid-range: USD $80–$150/day (boutique guesthouse, restaurant meals, tours)
- Luxury: USD $200+/day (private villa, fine dining, private driver)
9. Drink Bottled or Filtered Water Only
Tap water in Bali is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water or use a filtered water bottle. Many eco-conscious accommodations offer refillable filtered water stations — use them to reduce plastic waste.
10. Be Aware of Altitude When Heading Inland
Areas like Kintamani, Mount Batur, and the highland temples can be surprisingly cool — especially at night and early morning. Pack a light jacket if you plan any volcano hikes or highland excursions.
11. Book Popular Experiences in Advance
Sunset at Tanah Lot, the Kecak dance at Uluwatu, white-water rafting on the Ayung River, and cooking classes in Ubud fill up quickly during high season. Book at least a few days ahead to avoid disappointment.
12. Slow Down and Stay Longer
Perhaps the best tip of all: resist the urge to see everything. Bali is not meant to be rushed. Stay in one area for a few days, explore the back roads, eat where the locals eat, and let the island's rhythm find you. The travelers who love Bali most are almost always those who stayed longer than planned.