Are you planning a holiday to Bali? You might want to know if Indonesia’s Bali is safe to travel to, especially if you’re traveling alone or with children. If you do, then you’re in the right place!
The stunning tropical island of Bali is a haven for sunseekers, beach lovers, adventure junkies, and anyone who fancies lazying around a pool sipping on their favorite cocktail…that’s all of us, right?!
As a holiday destination, it really has risen to be at the top of everyone’s must-visit island getaway, and for good reason. The Island of Gods is breathtaking! It’s filled with a unique culture, incredible scenery, pristine beaches, welcoming locals, and a lively atmosphere.
It’s also an affordable destination, with plenty of hotel options to suit all budgets.
It seems like the perfect place to take a holiday, but how safe is traveling to Bali really? In this post, I’ll cover how safe Bali is to travel by answering every question imaginable to ensure you have a safe and wonderful trip!
Is Bali, Indonesia Safe To Travel To?
From our experience, that is Jack and I living in Bali for 6 months, I can honestly say that Bali is a safe country to travel to. We did not have any issues with crime, violent crime, or any instances of theft or scams.
That is not to say that crime doesn’t exist in Bali, because it does, but from what we’ve seen in terms of violent crime, it’s pretty low. Although, sexual assaults are reported more frequently after drink spikings.
In truth, the most prevalent forms of crime encountered in Bali are typically related to pickpocketing and money scams.
However, when it comes to personal safety, I firmly believe that incidents of violent crime are rare, providing reassurance that your holiday in Bali will generally be safe and secure.
Is Bali Safe For Traveling With Families?
Bali has become a highly popular destination for family vacations, attracting numerous visitors with children. There are specific areas in Bali, such as Nusa Dua in the southern region, and Amed in the eastern region of Bali, which are particularly well-suited for family travel and are often preferred by families.
While it is true that Asia, as a whole, experiences a higher number of child kidnapping cases, there have been no specific reports of such incidents in Bali that I am aware of.
Regarding overall safety, although I have not personally traveled to Bali with children, I believe it is generally considered a safe destination for families.
However, when traveling with young children, it’s crucial to remain vigilant, keep a close eye on them at all times, adhere to safety guidelines, and be mindful of potential hazards such as heavy and erratic traffic as well as water safety.
Is Bali Safe To Travel As A Woman?
When I was moving around Bali there were some instances of catcalling, however, I was never approached or felt uncomfortable. So, from my own experience, I would say that traveling around Bali as a woman is safe.
In the tourist areas especially you will not have any issues as a woman. That said and with any destination, it’s important to exercise caution and common sense. Never go down dark streets at night, be aware of your surroundings, and most importantly dress modestly – especially if you’re leaving the built-up tourist areas.
Is It Safe To Travel Alone In Bali, Indonesia?
It’s certainly safe to travel alone in Bali, although to be honest you will rarely be alone for long!
With so many people visiting the Island of Gods, you’re sure to make friends fast. If you want to meet people you can opt into group tours, join co-working spaces or stay at hostels.
Is Bali Safe For Solo Female Travelers?
Bali is generally safe for solo female travelers however I would advise taking more caution than if you are in a group as, of course, there is always more safety in numbers.
Take basic precautions like staying in well-populated areas, avoiding isolated places at night, and using reliable transportation options (more on that below). Being aware of your surroundings and following general safety guidelines will help you stay safe during your trip.
The number one tip I would give is to dress modestly especially if you’re heading into rural areas. I like to follow the rule of one covered one out; legs or boobs…you choose, but never both!
Is Bali Safe For UK Tourists?
Since we are from the UK I would say it’s perfectly safe. There are a lot of tourists in Bali from the UK and the majority visit without encountering any major safety issues.
However, I always recommend staying informed about travel advisories and following any safety guidelines provided by the UK government or local authorities.
How Safe Is Transport In Bali?
While transportation in Bali generally offers a range of options, it’s important to remember that the health and safety laws are not on par with those back home. You’ll need to consider all safety aspects when using local transport to ensure you have a good trip!
While we stayed in Bali we rented scooters to get around on the daily and in the evenings we would sometimes use taxis. Public transportation, such as buses is rare and few between; there are no trains in Bali.
Renting a scooter is the most common form of transport followed by taxis and private drivers – which is actually extremely affordable since Bali is a very cheap destination for tourists.
Is Uber Safe In Bali?
Bali does not have Uber. Instead, they use two taxi-hailing companies called Gojek and Grab, these two companies work similarly to Uber. Like Uber, you can download an app to book, pay, and organize trips.
What Are The Official Taxis In Bali?
The Bluebird taxis are the official taxi on the island, however, we never used them instead opting for Gojek/Grab. Other registered companies include Silverbird and Express.
Are Taxis Safe In Bali, Indonesia?
From experience, it’s much less hassle to arrange the taxi through one of these companies where you can see your route and how much it will cost. With meter-based taxis, you will never know if you’re going the right way or if you’re being charged fairly.
If you must hail a regular taxi, use official taxi stands and ensure that the driver agrees to use the meter or negotiate the fare in advance to avoid any potential complications. Confirming the driver’s identity, typically displayed on the dashboard, is important for your safety and peace of mind too.
The Gojek and Grab ride-hailing services are regarded as safe transportation options; however, it is imperative to verify that the driver matches the information provided on the respective app.
It’s crucial to remain cautious of individuals claiming to be registered with online ride-hailing platforms who attempt to pick up passengers directly on the streets.
Are Motorbike Taxis Safe In Bali?
Motorbike taxis, I think I’ve once heard them referred to as “ojeks,” are a popular means of transport in Bali. They are much cheaper than a normal taxi and super convenient.
On the Gojek or Grab app you can choose if you want a car or a motorbike, ensure they provide you with a helmet and exercise caution while riding – tell them to slow down if you’re feeling uneasy.
I would say that motorbike taxis are the least safe transport option in Bali.
Is It Safe To Drive In Bali?
I will say that although we didn’t have any accidents in Bali (unless we’re counting Jack plowing into a rice field..) driving isn’t without its safety concerns.
Heavy traffic, narrow roads, and different driving customs can be challenging, especially if you’ve never driven overseas before. If you are an experienced and confident driver, renting a car or motorbike is an option but you should still exercise caution.
Driving a car is much safer than riding a scooter. For instance, if you crash, but scooters are a much more fun and convenient way to zip around the island! Another really fun way to explore the island is driving an ATV while on a guided tour, you’ll visit rural Bali while zooming around the stunning landscape.
It is important to have a valid international driving permit and comprehensive insurance.
What If You Do Have An Accident?
If you’re involved in an accident or breakdown, which is quite common in Bali, especially with travelers you’ll need to make sure someone remains with the vehicle while you contact the insurance/rental company/police.
If you have any concerns about your security, it’s best to move to another location safely. It’s also important that you make yourself available for questioning by the police if they ask you to.
SAFE DRIVING TIP
- Exercise Caution: Watch Out For Other Drivers
- Follow Traffic Rules: Even If Others Are Not
- Be Mindful Of Pedestrians: They Will Cross With No Warning
- Always Wear A Helmet: When Riding a Motorbike
What About Health Safety In Bali?
One of the most important safety aspects of travelling to Bali is health safety. There are some concerns surrounding food and hygiene which you need to be aware of, especially Bali belly!
The island doesn’t have stringent health and safety regulations as we do here in the UK and so it’s crucial you are selective with what you consume.
It’s also important to know you should be getting some jabs, such as rabies if you’re planning to visit Bali; stray dogs are rampant on the island!
I would always advise consulting your healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist before traveling to get personalized advice based on your health history and specific needs.
Do I Need Injections To Go To Bali?
It’s important to make an appointment with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are necessary before traveling to Bali.
The first time I went travelling I got every injection under the sun. Fast forward 15 years and now I’m not too fussed about taking them all but there are a few important injections you should get if you’re traveling to Southeast Asia.
The recommended ones to consider include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, rabies, and measles, among others.
That said, you won’t be asked for proof of vaccinations unless you’re staying long-term.
How Do I Stop Getting Bali Belly?
As I said, Bali belly is a thing and it affects even the best of us. Unless you’re cooking your own meals you can never really prevent it completely. We suffered a handful of times and once from a top restaurant!
HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO REDUCE THE RISK:
- The hotter/fresher the food the better
- Drink bottled or purified water.
- Avoid consuming tap water
- Use bottled or purified water for brushing your teeth.
- Be wary when ordering fresh salads
- Peel fruits and vegetables or wash them with purified water.
- Choose reputable restaurants and food vendors.
Is It Safe To Drink Water In Bali, Indonesia?
Definitely not! We would always drink filtered water, even when cooking.
Therefore, it’s recommended to drink bottled water in Bali to avoid the risk of waterborne illnesses. Ensure that the seal on the bottle is intact before consuming or better yet, reduce your plastic waste by using your own water bottle.
Most hotels and some restaurants will have water refill stations for you to use free of charge. You could also opt for a purification bottle to take on your travels such as the Grayl Water Purification Bottle.
Can You Brush Your Teeth With Tap Water In Bali?
We did but most people would agree you shouldn’t brush your teeth with tap water in Bali. It’s up to you, I think for us in the end it was just pure laziness but luckily it didn’t seem to affect us.
If you do, make sure you’re not swallowing any of it!
Can You Drink Ice In Bali?
Depending on where you are in Bali will affect the choice you make when it comes to having ice in your drinks. Since it’s safe to have ice made from purified or bottled water you’ll need to decide on which establishments are using safe ice.
Most reputable restaurants, bars etc will use safe ice but I would stay away from ice at local places, like Warungs – local Indonesian restaurants. You can always ask if it’s safe ice but if unsure it’s best to have no ice in your beverages.
Is It Safe To Drink Alcohol In Bali?
Bali has a vibrant nightlife and offers various delicious alcoholic drinks – I do love a cocktail.
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to exercise caution when consuming alcohol and ensure that your beverages are prepared in a proper manner. It’s essential to remain vigilant about alcohol intake in order to maintain safety in Bali and avoid excessive consumption.
When intoxicated, you’re more susceptible to potential attacks and sexual assault. It’s important to be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers at clubs or parties and to refrain from leaving drinks unattended.
It’s also worth noting that instances have occurred where tourists were robbed after inviting individuals to their hotel rooms, and in some cases, it was discovered that their drinks had been spiked.
Remaining alert and mindful of these risks is of utmost importance!
HEALTH PRECAUTION TIPS
- Keep Your Drinks With You: So You Don’t Get Spiked
- Don’t Drink Too Much: Blurry Vision is Unsafe Vision
- Guard Against Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes Are A Big Deal
- Protect Against Sunburn: Use Sunscreen and Protective Clothing
Crime In Bali, Indonesia?
As previously mentioned, Bali is considered a safe place to travel to but it’s still essential you take precautions and use common sense while visiting, especially at night and if you’re drinking or in less-populated areas.
Even though we personally didn’t have any issues, the island is not completely devoid of crime and you may experience some instances of petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams, particularly in crowded tourist areas, such as markets, busy streets, or public transportation.
More serious crimes against tourists, such as violent attacks and kidnappings are rare, sexual assaults are more common in highly intoxicated women.
Avoiding Bad Areas
The key takeaway is to avoid bad areas, especially if you’re alone. What is a bad area? These are places such as poorly lit or isolated areas like alleyways and behind buildings. Some towns or villages might also be more dangerous for tourists, but in Bali, I’ve not heard of anywhere specific.
There are some regions of Indonesia that are experiencing political unrest which should be avoided. If you’re planning on traveling around Indonesia after Bali, places like Papua, Central Sulawesi Province, Maluku Province, and Aceh have had issues and will require more research should you plan to visit.
To stay safe in Bali, stick to well-populated and tourist-friendly areas, especially if traveling alone. Research and familiarise yourself with the neighborhoods you plan to visit, and if you’re unsure about the safety of a particular area, seek advice from your accommodation or host.
Is Pickpocketing Common In Bali?
Street crime is common in Bali and pick-pocketing is one of the worst, particularly in busy tourist areas. It’s important to keep a close eye on your belongings, use a secure bag, and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
Bag-snatching is another common crime which often happens from a motorcycle. The thief will zip past and snatch bags, phones, cameras, or anything within reach that looks valuable so always remain vigilant.
Is Credit Card Fraud Common In Bali?
Yes, credit card fraud is common in Bali. Along with pick-pocketing, card fraud is one of the highest. While making transactions do not lose sight of your card.
One scam related to credit card fraud is when a criminal places a fake telephone number on ATMs advising customers to report any problems, such as card retention or not providing correct withdrawal amounts – which in Bali can happen often.
You’re better to cut your losses than calling the number. Never give out your pin. Another is an unplugged machine that retains your card.
We’ve had this happen to us and luckily a friendly local in the know was there to help out; she plugged it in and out and popped the card!
Is It Safe To Walk Around Bali?
Yes, it is safe to walk around Bali during the day. The only thing you need to worry about (mostly) is the traffic and lack of pedestrian pathways in areas like Canggu. Oh, and of course the bag-snatching!
TO ENSURE YOUR SAFETY FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:
- Use sidewalks when available and be cautious of traffic.
- Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
- Follow local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.
Is It Safe To Walk Around Bali At Night?
When venturing out in Bali during nighttime, it’s crucial to exercise additional caution. It’s recommended to prioritize staying in well-illuminated and populated areas while avoiding isolated or poorly lit spots.
Whenever feasible, walk with a group of people or utilize dependable transportation options such as Gojek. It’s also prudent to refrain from displaying valuable jewelry and keep any possessions of value concealed.
Maintaining awareness of your personal belongings, their location, and the individuals nearby is always essential for safe travels.
Natural Disasters In Bali, Indonesia
Since Bali sits within the Indonesian Archipelago and the Ring Of Fire, it’s prone to seismic activity and volcanic eruptions.
The Ring of Fire: A major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. It is characterized by a nearly continuous series of oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, volcanic belts, and plate movements.
Is Bali Safe From Tsunami?
Bali is situated in close proximity to the Sunda Trench, which is a tectonic plate boundary. While the risk of a tsunami occurring directly in Bali is relatively low, it’s not completely eliminated.
Tsunamis can potentially happen at any time, but they are more likely to occur following a significant earthquake in the vicinity of Bali.
The Indonesian government has implemented a robust early warning system, and some coastal areas are equipped with sirens and evacuation routes.
However, it’s important to stay informed about tsunami warnings and follow the instructions of local authorities in the event of an alert.
Is Bali Safe from Volcanic Eruptions?
Bali is home to Mount Agung and Mount Batur, both active volcanoes. Volcanic eruptions can occur, leading to ash clouds and potential disruptions. Both of these volcanoes are popular hiking destinations and so if you plan to hike it’s wise to stay informed about volcanic alerts.
Luckily, the local authorities closely monitor volcanic activity and issue warnings and evacuation orders if necessary.
What Is The Safest Part Of Bali?
There is no completely risk-free zone in terms of natural disasters. However, in terms of volcanic activity, areas farther away from Mount Agung and Mount Batur, such as southern Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua) and western Bali (Canggu, Tanah Lot), are generally considered safer.
NATURAL HAZARD TIPS
- Mind Cliffs and Edges: Be Careful Around Cliffs
- Beware of Volcanic Activity: Stay Updated on Volcano Alerts
- Stay Informed: Pay Attention To The News
10 Safety Tips For Traveling Bali, Indonesia
Although travel to Bali is generally safe there are still some precautions you should be taking to ensure you have a trouble-free holiday.
Bali has a different culture to us back here in the West and so it’s important you respect local customs and are culturally aware. Stay mindful of local laws and regulations, taking drugs in Bali is illegal.
Drugs: Possession of drugs in Indonesia is illegal and will attract a lengthy sentence if you are caught with even small amounts. Indonesia retains the death penalty for drug dealing and smuggling* (gov.uk)
HERE ARE A FEW GENERAL SAFETY TIPS TO FOLLOW:
- Blend In: Try Not To Appear Too Flashy
- Drink Responsibly: Watch What You Drink And Drink Responsibly
- Say No to Drugs: Stay Away From Drugs
- Keep Your Belongings Safe: Keep An Eye On Your Stuff
- Swim Safely: Only Swim In Safe Areas
- Have Backup Options: Have A Backup Credit Card
- Secure Your Valuables: Use Hotel Safes or Secure Lockers
- Be Firm but Polite: Watch Out For Aggressive Vendors
- Bargain Responsibly: Negotiate Prices Politely
- Keep a Distance: The Monkeys Are Not Your Friends
It’s important you realize that scams are common in Bali.
Try avoiding scams and fraud by staying alert and protecting yourself against shams; use reputable organizations and do your research. The cheapest options are not always the best. Verify tour operators, charitable programs, and volunteer organizations before paying anything.
Remember to prioritize your safety during your trip to Bali and always stay aware of your surroundings!
Is Visiting Bali Safe FAQs?
Is It Safe To Swim In Pools In Bali?
Yes, swimming pools are safe in Bali, provided that proper hygiene and safety standards are followed.
Bali has a wide range of accommodations, resorts, and private villas that maintain clean and well-maintained swimming pools for guests to enjoy.
Remember to check the water quality, if it’s green stay away and adhere to pool rules.
Can I Change Money In Bali Safely?
In all honesty, during our time in Bali, we opted not to exchange money and found it more convenient to withdraw cash from ATMs and use card payments instead of relying on money changers. However, if you do choose to use money changers, it is crucial to be cautious and only use licensed establishments.
How To Identify A Money Changer In Bali?
When searching for a licensed money changer, there are several indicators to watch out for. Look for signs that display the title “Authorized Money Changer” along with the formal name of the business, accompanied by a recognizable logo and certificates issued by the Bank of Indonesia.
Additionally, reputable money changers should have a QR Code on their logo and branding, which, when scanned, will provide information about the business and proof of their licenses.
By being mindful of these signs and conducting transactions with licensed money changers, you can help ensure the security and legitimacy of your currency exchange in Bali.
Is Bali Safe To Travel: Conclusion
Bali offers a beautiful destination for everyone, but it’s essential to be aware of safety considerations. By following the provided tips and guidelines, such as avoiding bad areas, being cautious about pickpocketing, and staying informed about local conditions, you can improve your safety while exploring Bali.
Understanding the risks of natural disasters, such as tsunamis and volcanic activity, and staying informed about current advisories is crucial.
Remember to practice good personal hygiene, choose reputable establishments, and supervise children while swimming in pools. Situations can change, so checking travel advisories and staying informed are important for a safe and enjoyable experience in Bali.
Overall, if you follow these safety guidelines and tips I’m sure you will have a memorable experience visiting the Island of the Gods!
