Bali travel guide: everything you need to know

Renowned for its incredible white beaches, lush rainforests and evergreen rice terraces, the Indonesian island of Bali is a retreat for all types of travellers.

Offering world-class nightlife, dining, amenities and entertainment, Bali attracts visitors from around the world. Although the once laid-back surfer getaway is now a booming tourist hot spot complete with all-inclusive resorts, challenging golf courses and high-fashion shopping centres, Bali’s distinct culture and history remains the main attraction.

Go ahead, pack your bags, grab your passport and get your travel insurance—whether you’re travelling to Bali for a tropical escape or a culture-filled excursion, we’ve got everything you need to know to make the most of this top travel destination.

Oh, and be sure to check out when is the best time to visit Bali for details on the cheapest flights, on/off periods and things to do while in Bali.

Quick travel notes

Etiquette & customs: For almost a thousand years, the native Balinese have followed a unique form of Hinduism, thus, religion and heritage are incredibly important. Though Bali natives welcome guests to share in their culture, it’s important to recognise proper etiquette especially when visiting sacred temples. See below for details.

Ecotourism: The island prides itself on its abundance of natural land and wildlife, making Bali a potential hotspot for ecotourism. The idea of sustainable travel is still in the infancy stages in Indonesia as a whole but Bali proves to be at the centre of the movement with tourist attractions like the Jatiluwih rice terrace. Word of caution — the term “ecotourism” is a buzzword in Bali, often misused and misunderstood, and an excuse to charge more.

Transportation: You can see the sights by hotel shuttle, private car, taxi, scooter or bike. Exercise caution when driving as Bali roads can be rough. If you plan to drive a car, you’re supposed to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Temperature & weather: The temperature in Bali remains moderately warm throughout the year, with November being the hottest month at an average of 32 degrees. The lowest average high temperature occurs from June through October when temps drop to a “cool” 30 degrees.

Do, see & explore

When you have limited vacation time to take in all the beauty, how’s a traveller to choose? Here are our picks for Bali’s must-see attractions:

• Terraced rice paddies: Highly photographed, the rice terraces must be witnessed in person. Located in Ubud, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are vast expanses of lush green rice paddies that slope upward in a step-like manner, providing scenic vistas all around.
• Tanah lot: Located northwest of popular Kuta and Seminyak, this seaside temple is a signature sight on the island. Built during the 15th century, part of the temple’s allure lies in its location; it’s perched atop ocean rock, with the sea crashing at its base.
• Bali bomb memorial: October 12, 2002, marks the tragic terrorist bombing attacks that resulted in more than 202 deaths, 88 of them Australians. Located at the site of the first blast, the elaborate monument pays homage to the victims.
• Sukawati art market: Tourists seeking local goods and a native shopping experience must head to the village of Sukawati Gianyar where curios, figurines and other handicrafts abound.

Still not convinced? Check out the 5 best reasons to visit Bali to see what else this amazing place has to offer.

Health & safety

Paradise isn’t exempt from danger and ill will. Travel protection can insulate visitors from the risk of financial loss while abroad, and by knowing the most common scams and obeying local law, you’ll ensure a safer and more pleasant trip to Bali.

Taxi: Unknowing of the local practices and eager to see the sights, tourists are a taxi driver’s dream. Don’t fall victim to common scams aimed to overcharge innocent travellers. Common tricks include claiming to have a broken meter and taking the longer route. Seasoned travellers rave about the blue taxis marked “Bali Taxi,” claiming good experiences and honest drivers.

Drug stings: Tourists are not exempt from Bali’s zero-tolerance laws on drugs. Because parts of party-town Kuta are hotbeds for drug dealers, undercover narcotics officers are always on the lookout for dealers and buyers. Victims of a drug sting can face severe punishments including life in prison. If you get whispered a solicitation for drugs, don’t acknowledge the situation; just walk away.

No smoking: The recently implemented “smoke-free” law has gone into effect across Bali. Off-limit areas include restaurants, hotels, temples, tourist attractions, hospitals and schools. The law is nothing to take lightly; smokers caught violating may face up to six months in prison.