Bali Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Practical tips for Bali

• Book a private driver for full-day tours (IDR 700–900k) — cheaper than multiple Grab rides.

• Nyepi Day (March) shuts everything — no flights, no lights; check dates before booking.

• Wear sarong at all temples — provided at entry, but bring your own for Besakih and Uluwatu.

Staying safe and comfortable

Local emergency number: 112.

• Scooter accidents are the #1 injury for tourists — rent only if experienced.

• Kuta and Padang Padang have strong rip currents; swim between the flags.

• Bali belly — bottled water only, avoid ice from unknown sources, wash fruit.

Visas and entry

Entry policy: on arrival, typically up to 30 days. Visa on Arrival IDR 500,000 (~USD 35) for 90+ nationalities — 30 days, extendable once in-country for another 30. e-VoA (pre-arrival) skips airport queues. New IDR 150k Bali tourist levy since Feb 2024.

Budgeting your trip

Accommodation is the largest controllable cost in Bali. Compare live rates for your dates and neighbourhood shortlist before locking in flights — the difference between areas is often larger than the difference between travel weeks.