Bali Travel Tips & Guide: What Every Visitor Should Know

Planning a trip to Bali? Whether you're chasing sunsets in Uluwatu, exploring rice terraces in Ubud, or soaking up island vibes in Canggu, here’s your essential travel guide to make your journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

🛂 Entry & Visa Tips

• Visa-free entry is available for many nationalities for up to 30 days (tourist purposes only) with no fee.
• For longer stays, you’ll need to pay for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or apply for an e-VOA before your trip.
• The VOA usually costs around USD 35 (subject to change), payable on arrival.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

💰 Money & Payments

• Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency.
• Cash is king in local markets, warungs (small eateries), and remote areas.
• Use ATMs in trusted locations (avoid standalone machines on quiet streets).
• Credit cards are widely accepted in cafes, hotels, and shops in tourist areas.

💡 Tip: Always carry small bills for tips, taxis, and temple donations.

📦 Packing & What to Wear

• Lightweight clothes, sandals, and modest attire for temples (sarong required).
• Swimwear for the beach, but avoid wearing it away from pools or the ocean.
• Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, power adaptor (Indonesia uses type C/F plugs, 230V).
• Reusable water bottle (avoid single-use plastics—Bali promotes eco-friendly travel).

🛵 Getting Around

• Scooter rental is popular (IDR 70k–100k/day), but only drive if you have an international licence and experience.
• Taxis & ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek) are reliable in most areas.
• Private drivers are affordable and great for day trips—negotiate clearly in advance or use an app.

⚠️ Traffic can be hectic—stay alert, especially in Kuta and Seminyak.

🏝️ Places to Visit (Quick Picks)

• Ubud – Rice terraces, monkey forest, temples, yoga retreats
• Canggu – Surf, cafes, co-working spots, beach clubs
• Uluwatu – Clifftop temples, surf beaches, dramatic views
• Nusa Penida – Day trips for dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water
• Sidemen & Munduk – Hidden gems for nature lovers

📱 Local Etiquette & Tips

• Greet with a smile and say “Terima kasih” (thank you) and “Selamat pagi” (good morning)
• Don’t touch someone’s head—it’s considered sacred
• Use your right hand for giving/receiving
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas
• Don’t step on offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground daily

⚕️ Health & Safety Tips

• Drink only bottled or filtered water
• Carry travel insurance that includes scooter coverage (if riding)
• Watch for strong ocean currents—swim where it's safe
• Respect wildlife (especially monkeys—they can grab phones or glasses!)
• Some areas have travel scams—don’t give money to aggressive “guides” at tourist spots

💡 Extra Tips

✅ Buy our Indonesia eSIM here
✅ Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me)
✅ Try local dishes like nasi campur, satay, and mie goreng
✅ Always check if there’s a mandatory tax/service fee included at restaurants
✅ Plan around Nyepi Day (Balinese Day of Silence)—the whole island shuts down
✅ Get our Universal Travel Adapter and Charger to keep your devices powered