Solo Travel in Bali

There’s no need to worry about heading to Bali solo. Being a destination for digital nomads means that you are guaranteed to meet others here. That’s why we’ve given it 4 out of 5 stars for solo female travel Bali.

Bali Indonesia, attracts all types of solo from party GatG to spiritual and cultural GatGs, and Its popularity has also increased since the book Eat Pray Love, where Elizabeth Gilbert found her spirituality during her solo travel to Bali.

Is Bali good for solo travel? Yes! Just because you're travelling to Bali solo, doesn't mean that you will be in Bali on your own, especially if you love yoga as the island is now a mecca for those seeking meditation and yoga retreats on their solo trips to Bali. Its paradise location cultivates creativity and writing retreats draw those wanting to create their storytelling masterpiece.

Kuta Beach is overrun with travellers and Australian party dwellers, and you’ll find spiritual and creative solos in Ubud. The island also attracts couples who tend to stay in the Nusa Dua region. The island is known as the Island of the Gods and the Balinese will greet you with a warm welcome. Their religion is Hindu and they are mostly kind, gentle people.

Is Bali safe for solo female travellers? Because the island has so many visitors, there have been cases of bag snatching in the touristy areas so keep hold of your bag wherever you are travelling alone in Bali (even on public transport). Drivers can also be a bit erratic.

As with anywhere take care if you are walking around at night alone, and if you indulge in some of the island’s partying during your solo Bali trip, keep an eye on your drinks.

There is also the risk of volcanoes erupting. Flights in and out of the island can be cancelled at short notice. If you are planning Bali solo travel, check the Foreign Office advice for any volcano warnings.

If you want to travel Bali solo, it is a wonderful country to explore independently but if you are unsure where to travel in Bali and want to experience the best of Bali with others, you may prefer to visit on one of the recommended Bali tours for solo travellers.

Where To Go in Bali

Bali is one of the most popular backpacking destinations. A tropical paradise with rice terraces and green rice fields, a volcano and surfing beaches there’s a reason that this small island in Indonesia is one of the most visited islands out of the thousands of Indonesian islands.

Bali is as touristy or as authentic as you want it to be, depending on where you decide to stay and explore. Bali depends on tourism for the majority of its livelihoods, but because the island is so large, each place is different. Discover all the things to do in Bali alone below.

* Click here to discover all activities and top things to do in Bali

Denpasar

Denpasar is the capital. Located in the south of the island, Bali’s largest city is home to monuments from the Dutch colonial period and the Bali Museum with a display of traditional costumes and cultural artifacts. You’ll find many Hindu temples here including the Pura Agung Jagatnatha – which is near to the museum – Puri Pemecutan, and Pura Maospahit.

Denpasar is also bustling with lively street markets and cultural Kecak fire dance performances (a must see in Bali) which take place every evening at Bali Art’s Centre. The capital is charming and a destination that you want to visit but not necessarily stay when you're traveling Bali alone.

Sanur

The former fishing village of Sanur is to the east of the capital. With a relaxed vibe and amazing sunrise views, Sanur is a romantic destination which attracts many couples. Don’t let that stop you exploring the beach that stretches for miles and the restaurants and shops along the promenade.

Spot the colourful fishing boats, visit the art galleries on Jalan Danau Tamblingan, and make sure that you see Pura Blanjong Temple, a coral temple with 10th-century inscriptions upon its pillars.

Tanjung Benoa Beach

If you're unsure what to do in Bali alone, then water sports should be on your list of activities. To experience crashing through the waves on a jet ski, parasailing, or a rolling donut ride, then you should visit Tanjung Benoa beach Bali on the southeast side of the island.

On the Benoa peninsula, this 5 kms of beach was once a fisherman’s village. Nowadays you can find private villas and plenty of water activities along its sandy stretch.

For snorkelling, take a Blue Lagoon snorkelling adventure at Padang Bai Bali, 90 minutes from the international airport. Home to one of Bali’s coral reefs you can see angel fish and eels within its waters.

Kuta

For the party GatG who is backpacking alone, Kuta is the place to go in Bali. It’s also the closest destination to the airport. It's a place for any Bali solo traveller to shoot yourself up into the air on a bungee rocket or just drink giant goldfish bowls cocktails before going clubbing in your flip flops. When you travel alone in Bali, you are guaranteed to meet others here too.

Along the large promenade there is every fast food restaurant you can imagine. As one of the Bali tourist spots this is definitely the party town of Bali with pubs and clubs along the main street within easy walking distance. There’s disco music, house and garage or if you fancy a quiet drink: there’s live music to accompany your meal.

Small privately-owned restaurants are found in the back lanes near the beach which offer a wide menu of Western, Thai, Malaysian, Indonesian and of course Balinese delights. Take advantage of any happy hours in bars where you can buy one and get one free. Kuta is definitely where you won’t have to drink or eat alone.

Kuta Bali Beach is also one of the Bali destinations for surfers. It has the island’s best surfing spots and you can hire boogie boards on the beach or take a surfing lesson on the island. The beach is long and sandy but be prepared to be hassled by the beach sellers trying to sell sarongs and watches.

It is a good spot for a massage though as you don’t even need to move to have a masseuse come and offer you one. For a quieter beach, you may prefer Dreamland Beach, approximately 45 minutes away from Kuta.

Seminyak

For a more high end beach resort, Seminyak is nearby and to the north of Kuta. This stylish beach resort has luxury hotels and villas and you can party in the beach front clubs and bars such as the Potato Head Beach Club, one of the places to go in Bali for an amazing sunset. Other things to do in Seminyak when you're travelling Bali solo include pampering yourself in one of the spas.

Canggu

Head even further north to find the up and coming resort of Canggu. With a cool and hipster vibe, this is the place to visit in Bali for yoga GatGs with yoga studios aplenty. Its black sand beaches is also popular with surfers but one of the biggest reasons to come here is Tanah Lot, one of the island’s most famous temples.

This island temple is located on a rock of the shoreline with spectacular water views. A former fisherman’s village, Canggu also attracts digital nomads and artists and is one of the best places in Bali for solo travellers, especially if you are looking for things to do in Bali at night.

Ubud

For the active GatG, Ubud offers whitewater rafting on the island’s rapids or you can hire a bike for a full day and explore the island’s cultural heart on bike or on foot. Ubud is more relaxed and spiritual than Kuta and Seminyak and it is easy to walk around. There are lots of lovely places to indulge in the cuisine such as Clear Cafe for breakfast and Elephant, a vegetarian restaurant with stunning views of the forest.

Things to do in Ubud include seeing Ubud Palace, and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (one of the Bali attractions). Don’t take any food with you into the Ubud Monkey Forest and hold onto your bag tightly to ensure that a monkey doesn’t grab it.

You’ll find museums, galleries and temples here too. You can’t go to Bali and not experience a Bali jungle swing. Visit the jungle park near Ubud for a dozen swings to choose from.

If you are travelling solo in Bali on a budget, one of the cheap things to do in Bali is the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Located in Ubud, this 9 km trek takes you past green hillside away from the traffic and deep into nature.

North of Ubud is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, emerald-coloured fields which make up part of Bali’s cultural landscape. Hike down the terraces for magnificent views of the slopes or just enjoy the view at the top.

Also near Ubud is the Elephant Cave Temple (Goa Gajah). This historical archaeological cave dates back to the 11th century, and is surrounded by rainforest and streams. Inside the grounds you’ll find large stone carvings, and stone idols which are wrapped in coloured cloth.

As you enter the cave you walk through the mouth of a carved demon. The site if touristy but definitely worth a visit.

How to get around Ubud – Hiring a scooter is one. of the best ways to get around as well as hiring a car but there is a lack of places to park. If you're not confident driving, take a metered taxi instead.

Lovina

For more wildlife, head north from Ubud to Lovina Beach. This volcanic, black sand beach is where you can take a trip to see dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s also where you can bathe in natural hot springs, see the nearby fisherman’s village, the Gitgit Waterfall and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (also spelt Pura Ulun Danu Bratan), a beautiful temple complex on Beratan Lake.

If you have the time, visit Menjangan Island, part of West Bali National Park accessible from Labuhan Lalang. This hidden gem is one of the destinations in Bali that is home to marine life. You can snorkel or dive its coral reef beds.

Mount Batur

For nature and adventurous GatGs travelling Bali alone, head to the island’s volcano. Mount Batur has a summit of more than 1700 metres high and the best way to experience the volcano is to hike to the top before sunrise (with a guide). Join a Mount Batur sunrise tour including breakfast.

You begin in the dark and arrive at the top in time for the spectacular sunrise and a breakfast of boiled eggs steamed over the volcano. As well as hiking the volcano, active GatGs can go paragliding, horse riding or even downhill cycling.

The highest point in Bali is actually Mount Agung, a sacred mountain to the Hindus that you can climb. It is an active volcano so you'll need to take a guide with you if you want to conquer it.

Other Places To See in Bali

The best surfing beaches can be found on the Bukit Peninsula, the southernmost point of the island in south Bali. Even if you don’t surf it’s a relaxing place to sit in one of the cliff-side cafes and watch the surfers. This area is also home to one of the nicest Hindu temples.

Built in the 11th century the Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) sits on the edge of a rugged cliff and has amazing views. It is one the top Bali tourist attractions and temples to see in Bali so visit at sunset if you can. To escape the crowds at Padang Padang head to Thomas Beach which is much less touristy.

One of the most iconic images of Bali is the Pura Lempuyang Temple, probably one of the most Instagrammed spots on the island. It is one of the country’s oldest temples and most respected.

The main temple is 1175 metres above sea level and reachable via a steep staircase so take your walking shoes to see the views of Mount Agung from the top. It is expensive to enter and because it’s so popular it is recommended to pre-book your ticket beforehand.

For cultural solo traveling Bali, you simply have to visit Gunung Kawi Sebatu, a water temple with pools you can swim in. You may want to take someone else along or join a tour to go here as you could find yourself alone here. Tirta Empul Temple is another water temple complex known for its holy water.

Inside this Hindu complex built in 960 AD are lush gardens and bathing pools. For bird lovers, the Bali Bird Park has more than 1000 birds within its tropical park. It is a bit touristy but you can also see reptiles here too.

Bali's Islands

One of the most beautiful places to see near Bali are the Gili Islands, made up of Gili Meno, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Air, a 2.5 hour boat ride away from Bali, near Lombok. With palm trees, sandy beaches and no motorised transport, they are the place to see in Bali for turtles and a sunken ship wreck.

Other islands off the coast of Bali are Nusa Lembongan, and Ceningan. The island paradise of Nusa Lembongan is one of Bali’s attractions due to no traffic and plenty of surfing and diving in its clear water. If you choose Nusa Ceningan, you can zip-line here, enjoy a drink in one of the beach bars or surf to your heart’s content.

With beaches, a rich cultural heritage and plenty of people to meet when you solo travel Bali, this tropical paradise has the perfect mix for anyone thinking of traveling alone to Bali.

Tours in Bali

G Adventures

If you feel more comfortable in a group for your Bali trip, G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most Bali tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your Bali Indonesia trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there.

G Adventures Bali range from a 7 day Sailing Indonesia trip covering Bali and Lombok, to an epic 34 day Bangkok to Bali adventure. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company.

* Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

TruTravels

TruTravels is perfect for the solo traveller. They have trips in Bali for all kinds of solos from Fitventures to Classic and the Flashpacker. Combine fitness and adventure on an 8 day Bali Energise trip from Canggu to Ubud, stay on a liveaboard boat and see the Komodo dragons on a 9-day Komodo Island Hopper, explore the best parts of Bali on a 10-day Bali Experience or see Bali and beyond over 18 days.

For the flash packer, experience 10 days of Bali Bliss in stunning hotels and style. Prices start from £695 with a £200 deposit and include transport, accommodation, activities and some meals. * Check Bali itineraries, dates and prices: TruTravels

Intrepid Travel Bali – Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each Bali Indonesia tour. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation so their prices can be more than G Adventures.

Their tours to Bali Indonesia, range from 8 days to 14 days and include Jakarta to Ubud, and the Gili Islands. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our Intrepid Travel Reviews

* Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Day Tours of Bali

If you don’t feel comfortable riding a scooter around the island then you may prefer to take one of the Bali day tours through one of the following recommended solo female friendly companies:

Bali Safest Driver – This tour company does what the title says! From sunrise volcano trekking tours to snorkelling at Amuk Bay, they offer private tours and activities throughout the island including a Bali tour package to Nusa Penida, so you get your very own personal Bali tour.

Get Your Guide Day Tours – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated Bali excursions and sightseeing in Bali. Choose from a sunset tour to Uluwatu Temple to watch the Kecak Dance, a sunrise hike of Mount Batur and a soak in the natural hot spring on an Ubud tour or a visit to the Monkey Forest.

If you are unsure what to do in Bali Indonesia, there are several excursions in Bali to choose from and it’s really simple to use. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check all tours and prices here

Where to stay in Bali

Where To Stay in Bali

Bali is the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate no matter what your budget. From hostels to small villas and guesthouses there are a variety of options whether you are looking to stay for a week for a month. Stay in a Balinese hotel surrounded by peaceful rice paddies, or in one of luxurious Indonesia Bali hotels on beach.

You can find some stunning accommodation here and it won’t cost you the Earth either. Stay in Kuta if you’re looking for a party vibe, Ubud for more of a laid back vibe and Canggu for surfing and meeting digital nomads. Treat yourself in Sanur or Seminyak where you can find studios, private villas, and 4 and 5 star hotels.

Consider renting accommodation if you’re going to Bali alone for more than a week, or look for a co-living space such as Canggu where you can live and do your own work remotely with others.

There is also Airbnb Bali, which connects you to staying with locals whether you choose to just book a room or a whole apartment. Save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link.

If you are looking for where to stay solo in Bali, below are recommended accommodations from our Girls about the Globe community from their Bali solo female travel. For all other accommodation and hotels in Bali Indonesia, click the link below.

* To book, check prices or availability for all other accommodation in Bali

Canggu – Sholeh Silver Hostel

If you are looking for somewhere sociable on a budget and wondering where to stay in Canggu, the Sholeh Silver Hostel is ideal. The staff are so welcoming and arrange nights out and nights in. They organise movie nights and surfing at the beach (which is 20 minutes away).

You can hire a scooter to get around but there are restaurants nearby, or you can cook in the kitchen if you prefer. There’s a sun terrace to relax on and free tea, coffee and water. The beds are comfortable and rooms come with air conditioning. Choose from either an 8-bed or 6-bed mixed dormitory room.

Prices from £5 per night for a bed in an 8-bed dorm room
To book, check prices or availability for Sholeh Silver Hostel

Kuta – Yan’s House Hotel

Located near the busy area of Kuta by Kuta Square, you feel more than a world away from the hustle and bustle inside this hotel in Bali. The interior has a calm, relaxing vibe with clean and spacious rooms, and a flat-screen TV for when you want an evening in. Just on its doorstep is the beach and plenty of restaurants and shops.

The staff are really polite and friendly and are available 24 hours so you don’t have to worry about having a late check in. They can even arrange your airport transfer for you. There is an outdoor pool if you don’t want to go to the beach and breakfast is also included. Choose from a deluxe double room, super deluxe double room or queen room.

Prices from £48 per night for a deluxe double room with shower
To book, check prices or availability for Yan’s House Hotel

Seminyak – Horison Seminyak Bali

If you are wondering where to stay in Seminyak where you don't even have to leave the accommodation, consider the Horison Seminyak Bali. It’s situated in a nice neighbourhood with lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. The rooms are clean and have air conditioning and there’s the option of a good breakfast too.

Each room comes with a hairdryer, toiletries minibar and slippers. With friendly staff and a beach just five minutes away you really have everything you need on your doorstep. Choose from a deluxe double, or upgrade to a double with city or pool view.

Prices from £33 per night for a deluxe room
To book, check prices or availability for Horison Seminyak Bali

Ubud – Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel

If you love yoga and don't know where to stay in Ubud, the Puri Garden is ideal for the yoga GatG. Located in the foothills of Ubud, walking distance from the Monkey Forest this Bali hotel offers daily yoga classes which are free for everyone. There is a 24 hour desk so someone is always available if you need anything.

The budget hotel and hostel is really sociable and one of the best hotels in Bali for single travelers, with live music and Happy Hours making it easy to meet others. There’s a cafe onsite as well as a garden, pool and a cinema room and a variety of breakfasts are included in the price.

Having private rooms also gives you the chance to meet others in the common areas but still have your own space. They have female-only dorms too. Choose from a bed in an 8 bed mixed dorm, a 4 bed female-only dorm, or a deluxe room (with the option of a pool view).

Prices from £19 per night for a bed in an 8-bed mixed dormitory
To book, check prices or availability for Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel

Ubud – Swasti Eco Cottages

If you need to rejuvenate then Swasti Eco Cottages is the place to do it. This tropical oasis has the perfect atmosphere to wind down and plenty of amenities to help you do it. The staff are really helpful and can book your day trips and airport transfer. Relax in the outdoor pool, the sauna or the spa whilst enjoying Balinese hospitality.

Take part in a yoga class, experience a traditional massage or just enjoy a morning coffee brought to your room. You’ll leave feeling completely revitalised. Choose from a traditional room, a standard double room with a fan, or a deluxe bungalow or double with air-con.

Prices from £36 per night for a traditional room
To book, check prices or availability for Swasti Eco Cottages

How To Get Around Bali

If you are wondering how to travel in Bali, the main Bali transportation are scooters and hiring one is relatively cheap. You can rent them on a daily basis or even by the month. You do need an international driving license so order one before you leave for your trip or you may find yourself having to take mototaxis instead.

Mototaxis are basically motorbikes (or scooters) with a private driver who work similar to a taxi. They can work out cheaper than a car taxi. Just make sure to tell the driver if you’re not happy with his driving.

You can also hire a driver for a day for a trip around Bali (which are usually reasonably priced), or you can just take a normal taxi but be careful of unlicensed taxis. Look for Blue Bird Taxis who have an app you can use.

Other public transportation includes shuttle buses for getting around in Bali. Perama shuttle bus will take you to all the main interest points such as Ubud, Kuta and Lovina. They also run fast boats to the three Gili of Lombok. Check Bali transport for bus and boat schedules through their site.

Bali Itinerary

A week is enough time to see Bali’s sights but you’ll want to stay much longer when you travel Bali alone. Whether you are planning to see Bali in 5 days or spend 2 weeks in Bali, below are examples of a Bali solo travel itinerary.

Bali Itinerary 5 Days – Kuta (2 nights), Seminyak (1 night), Ubud (2 nights).

One Week’s Bali Itinerary – Kuta (2 nights), Seminyak (2 nights), Ubud (3 nights).

Bali Itinerary 10 days – Kuta (3 nights), Seminyak (2 nights), Sanur (2 nights), Ubud (3 nights).

Bali Itinerary 2 weeks – Denpasar (2 nights), Kuta (2 nights), Legian or Seminyak (2 nights), Canggu (2 nights), Sanur (2 nights), Ubud (2 nights), Lovina (2 nights).

Bali Travel Guide

If you need a guide book for your travels we recommend the Solo Girl’s Travel Guides. These guides are written specifically for women and cover every travel detail including exclusive access to off the-beaten-path destinations and secret beaches. The author, Alexa West, has lived in Bali and shares all her knowledge including the best Bali sightseeing, local markets and the best waterfalls. If you prefer Rough Guides or Lonely Planet click here for all Bali guide books.

Bali: The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide

If you are planning on traveling to Bali alone for the first time, the Solo Girl’s Travel Guide to Bali covers topics such as: the top places to see in Bali, what to pack, the best beaches and resorts for your budget, and money-saving tips. It also includes how to get to your hotel without paying tourist prices, off-the-beaten-path adventures and local secrets. For any girl travelling to Bali alone, this solo female travel guide to Bali is perfect for Bali solo female travel.

* Buy Bali Solo Girl's Travel Guide

Bali Yoga Retreats

For those who love yoga, Bali is the perfect island for a Bali retreat. Below are the recommended Bali yoga retreats that are just perfect for solo female travellers.

3 Day Beginner Yoga and Meditation Retreat

If you’re new to yoga this 3-day beginner retreat in Bali is perfect. Located in a magnetic ricefield on the island, not only do you get to build up your yoga practice, you also get to experience Balinese culture within the local village. There are daily morning and afternoon yoga and meditation sessions as well as daily cultural activities. Prices start from £121/€142/$145 for a shared twin room.

* Check prices and availability: 3 Day Beginner Yoga Retreat

4 Day Self Healing and Mindfulness Yoga Retreat

Located close to Mount Batukaru in the spiritual village in the centre of the island, this traditional Bali yoga retreat in Tabanan includes morning sitting meditation and moving practices and Balinese yoga in the afternoons. Plus there are cultural activities every day so you can immerse yourself in the Sesandan village. Prices from £207/€243/$248 for a shared twin room.

* Check prices and availability: 4 Day Yoga Retreat Bali

7 day Yoga Awakening Retreat in Bali

If you’re looking for a week-long yoga retreat, this 7-day deeply relaxing authentic culture, spa bliss & ancient yoga awakening retreat includes everything that you need to reconnect with yourself and find your inner balance.

As one of the most popular resorts in Southeast Asia, you’ll be delving into self-healing with yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, chakra opening and pranayama. For those searching for their very own Eat Pray Love Bali holiday, this is the one. Prices start from £413/€485/$495 for a shared twin room.

* Check prices and availability: 7 Day Yoga Awakening Retreat in Bali

Bali Retreats

For all other Bali yoga retreats, I recommend Book Yoga Retreats. I love this platform. I booked my last yoga retreat through them and found it really easy to use. Whether you’re searching for a Bali meditation retreat, a yoga retreat Bali or a yoga retreat Ubud, they list yoga and meditation retreats all over the island. Just search by duration, location or price to find the one that resonates with you.

* Check prices, dates and duration for all yoga Retreats Bali

Best Time to Visit Bali

Being tropical means that Bali it is always warm (and also humid) but they do have a rainy season from January to March. November also has some rainfall. The busiest time to visit Bali is July and August.

If you want to avoid the high season which also includes Christmas, New Year and Easter then look at either September or April to June instead. For cooler temperatures head to the higher altitudes. This chart shows the average maximum day temperatures for Bali (from January to December).

Travel Insurance for Bali

Bali is a beautiful country to explore but health and safety may not be what you’re used to. Travel insurance is always recommended for your Bali solo holiday to cover you for any medical assistance and activities that you want to do and there are some stunning waterfalls to jump off.

With the unpredictability of volcanoes erupting, you'll also want to ensure that you are covered in case your flight is cancelled. Check with your insurance company that you are covered for the volcano erupting.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Bali. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Bali International Airport

There is only one airport in Bali called Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (or Denpasar International Airport). The airport is only a 15 minute drive from Denpasar and you can find taxis near the arrivals hall outside the terminal.

When you travel alone Bali, don’t use unlicensed taxis and make sure you negotiate a price before you get in. Expect to pay £9 for a ride to Denpasar, £4 to Kuta (which takes less than 5 minutes) or £20 to Ubud.

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Bali

Bali has become such a popular destination but unfortunately that also means that areas of the island has changed to adapt to tourists. Explore as much of the island as you can including the rural areas to see the real Balinese culture and stay with local people in guesthouses and locally owned accommodation.

Indonesia is the world’s second-largest producer of plastic waste. The island aims to reduce plastic waste by 2025, and has banned plastic bags. Some restaurants have also banned single-use plastics. Take a reusable bag with you and reduce your plastic consumption.

If you are not partying in Kuta or another area, be culturally sensitive and don’t show too much flesh, especially if you are visiting a temple. Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered at a Hindu temple.

Don’t participate in any dolphin performances and ensure that any tour you take to watch dolphins in the wild is regulated (check reviews).

Look into the cultural norms in Bali as you don’t want to offend local people with certain gestures. Find all taboos and gestures here.

Social Impact Programs

You will encounter children begging on the streets, and although they may pull on your heart strings, don’t give them any money. Instead, give to one of the island’s NGOs such as Soul Surf Project Bali who helps street kids such as Westerlaken Foundation.

Volunteering in Bali

Volunteer in Bali is a non-profit organisation ran by the Balinese to help unprivileged children in four of the island’s regions. Projects include helping children improve their English, computer skills, music and arts and sports.

Programs start from one week and 100% of your program fee goes to supporting the children and local community. Choose from Program by the Sea, Program Ubud Village, Program Special Needs, or Program in the Hills.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bali

Can I drink the water? It isn't advised to drink the tap water but you can ask for ice as it is quality controlled by the government. Take your own water filter with you as an alternative.
Is tipping expected? No as a service charge is sometimes included. Because of low wages tipping is appreciated.
Fixed price or barter? You can barter in the markets and main tourist areas.
Any ATMs? You can find ATMs in the tourist areas that accept debit cards as well as credit cards. The best bank to use is Maybank which allows you to withdraw more than the one million Rupia limit.
If you take currency to change there are plenty of money changers in Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian. Read more…
Which side of the road do they drive? The left-hand side
Good for vegetarians? There are a few restaurants for vegetarians and vegans. Visit Kismet, or Lazy Cats for vegetarian dishes, or Sayuri or Sage for vegan meals.
Any seven wonders of the world? No

Bali Map

Planning a Trip to Bali

If you are planning a trip to Bali, below are some useful information and websites such as visas and vaccinations required to help you plan your Bali holidays.

Current Time in Denpasar

How much does a Bali solo trip cost? Budget £35+ a day (you can get by on less)

Capital – Denpasar

Population – 4.225 million

Language spoken – Indonesian, and Balinese. English is spoken within the tourism industry and by the younger generation.

Local Currency – Indonesian Rupiah

Do I need a visa? Not for British citizens. You can stay up to 30 days without a visa.

Vaccinations Required

Lingo – Useful Balinese phrases

Useful Info

Airlines & Flights to Bali

The Best Time to Go – July, August

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Indonesia

Events and Festivals in Bali

Local Cost Guide

Local Customs & Etiquette in Bali for women

Solo Travel in Bali