Travel to Bali: the guide to read before your departure
Do you want to travel to Bali? Plan your trip to Bali with tourist information, points of interest, general information and everything you need to know to organize and be able to travel to Bali, Indonesia, with complete peace of mind. In this Bali guide you will find everything you need to know to travel to Bali, Indonesia.
Planning a Trip to Bali? Discover essential tourist info, points of interest, and everything you need for a stress-free travel experience in Bali, Indonesia.
A journey full of possibilities
The island of Bali is a true haven of peace. In a safe and calm political context, the temperate climate during all seasons, its white sand beaches, the more than 10,000 temples in Bali, the Balinese culture, the tropical jungle and above all the hospitality of the Balinese, make it a unbeatable destination.
Bali is an ideal destination for those looking for a different type of tourism, adventurous and discovery of new cultures. It is not surprising that more and more people choose to spend their holidays on the Bali island. In addition, a trip to Bali is within the reach of almost all pockets, if we find a flight at a good price, accommodation in Bali and in Indonesia is not very expensive.
This island not only offers a trip on its inner margin of rice fields or on the volcanic slopes that are probably even more active. There are endless resorts for tourism in Bali located on the most beautiful white sand beaches in the south and 5-star hotels at good prices. The island offers water sports and marine activities, such as diving, surfing, snorkeling, swimming, fishing, among many others – ideal for adventure tourism enthusiasts.
Understand the history of Bali before your trip
For a long time, the island of Bali was dominated by different nobility. In the 16th century, it was conquered by the Dutch, along with many islands in Indonesia. Bali then exports a lot of cotton, rice and cattle. The population, partly subject to slavery, revolts from time to time, like the slave Surapati in the 17th century.
The Dutch have little interest in Bali, in fact only seeking to prevent acts of piracy, a lucrative activity for the Balinese, but which harms the economy of the Netherlands. It was because of these maritime thefts that Holland took control of the island in 1906. The two royal families therefore committed suicide, accompanied by their subjects. The same scene is repeated during the return of the Dutch in 1946. The repression of a communist movement in the 1960s causes between 50,000 and one million deaths in Java and Bali.
Read also: Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions
Diversity of cultures: fells the islandy
Although modest in size (140 km long, 80 km wide or 87 miles long, 50 miles wide), Bali is an island-world unto itself. She has a strong character, but cultivates the diversity of cultures and nature. Bali is a dream destination for all tourists who find an absolutely relaxing change of scenery on this island.
Balinese culture teaches a lot about exchange and sharing. This is probably due to local Hinduism. Thus, many ceremonies, dances and offerings take place in the various temples that you will have to visit, but also in the streets of the cities of Bali.
Everywhere, you can see craftsmen performing artistic feats, making furniture, making simple and touching decorations. Responsible tourism starts with buying products directly from the artisan. A great opportunity to shop with a clear mind.
A cultural trip: must visit
To visit Bali is to meet a civilization totally different from ours, a culture to be tamed by visiting the temples, museums, palaces, or cities of the Indonesian island.
Temples
Trip to Bali: the temples
The Hindu religion is omnipresent in Bali, but it is especially part of the landscapes thanks to the temples. They exist both in cities and in the most remote areas. Each of them worships a different deity, whether it is the three great Hindu gods (Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma), or whether it is the god of the earth, the river or any other element. natural. These temples are worth especially for their decorations and the architectural styles completely new in Europe. Here are 2 temples to visit during your trip:
Pura Ulun Danu Temple Bratan
In Begudul, you absolutely have to take a look at the magnificent Ulun Danu temple, a sumptuous place. Time literally seems to float on peaceful Lake Bratan. Such serenity emanates from the surrounding places that we are often left speechless.
Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Bali. Located at the foot of Mount Agung, it offers magnificent views of the surrounding wilderness, making it a popular destination in Bali. However, this surrounding nature confers a kind of peace which brings a lot to the sanctity of the place.
Best Temples in Bali | You need to visit one of them at least once during your stay in Bali
Museums
There are many museums in Bali. Many are interested in Balinese art. Some are dedicated to local particularities: nature, agriculture… Suffice to say that with all these cultural facilities, you will be able to know other facets of the Balinese.
Agung Rai Museum
In Ubud, this real living museum presents many paintings and artistic shows. From this museum, you will have a full view of the volcano which is an integral part of the museum.
Puri Lukisan Museum
This museum has a collection of about 150 paintings and 60 sculptures. It is the most beautiful art museum in Bali.
Museums in Bali | Explore the Island’s Rich Cultural and Artistic Heritage
Palaces
The palaces of Bali are impressive in terms of wealth and decoration. Noble families have reigned on this island for a long time and have left very beautiful architectural works. Here are some of the palaces to discover during your trip.
Pemecutan Palace
Built in the 17th century, this palace is one of the few open to the public. You will discover all the modern splendor desired by the last king of Denpasar. Part of this palace has now become a hotel.
Puri Saren Ubud
Puri Saren Ubud (Ubud Palace) is a royal residence located in the center of Ubud. It is now a cultural center, with also a magnificent market. It is one of the great tourist attractions in Bali, but its splendor greatly justifies its popularity.
Taman Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Built in 1948, the water palace was partly destroyed by the lava flow of 1963. However, it is well worth a look with its veritable belt of pools and small richly sculpted bridges, as well as the many statues. A surprising visit.
Tirta Gangga Palace | The Royal Baths and Beautiful Aquatic Gardens in East Bali
Cities
The island of Bali is a dream destination resulting from the exceptional marriage between men and nature. In Bali, culture and nature are intimately intertwined, and you will pass from one to the other without even noticing it, stopping in cities with a rich culture.
Denpasar
Denpasar is Bali’s main city. Modern capital, Denpasar has nevertheless managed to keep some of its cultural origins, with in particular the Pura Jagatnatha temple dedicated to the God of Bali. Other places with a very strong historical interest are to be visited, such as Puputan Square, with an impressive monument, recalling the suicides of protest against the Dutch.
However, Denpasar has also been able to modernize. Witness the administrative complex of Renon and the Werdhi Budaya Museum, with many exhibitions of Balinese paintings and art.
In June, you must see the festival that takes place throughout the city with exhibitions, performances, artistic competitions and other arts related to nature.
The Holy Spirit Cathedral in Denpasar. Photo: PinterPandai (CC BY 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Ubud
Located in the central part of the island of Bali, the Ubud region is both a magnificent set of green landscapes and an important cultural center. In terms of culture, two museums are must-sees: the Puri Lukisan and the Neka. There are also many art galleries as well as an artists’ village.
Paddy fields in Ubud, Bali. Photo: Jakub Hałun (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Seminyak
Seminyak is located on the south-west coast of Bali in the northern extension of Kuta and Legian.
Destination par excellence for a honeymoon, more snobbish and luxurious than these two neighbours, this small town is attracting more and more tourists. That is why, we are going to discover what are the interests and the defects of this place…
Street in Seminyak, Bali. Photo: Christophe95 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Read also: Why choose SEMINYAK during your trip to Bali?
Seminyak Beach | The ideal beach to see a wonderful sunset in Bali
A nature trip: the most beautiful landscapes of Bali
In Bali, the extraordinary spectacles offered by nature are impressive and quickly make you forget the long hours of flight. Approach the center of the island, and observe these magnificent rice fields which stretch as far as the eye can see and create unique landscapes, especially near Jatiluwih and Ubud.
To the north and east, breathe in the force of the wilderness, whether it’s hearing the sea rolls crashing onto the shore, feeling the sea air rush through your hair, or to see the vastness of the chain of volcanoes. A playground that will give you the opportunity to practice many activities throughout your trip!
The Jatiluwih region and its rice fields
The Jatiluwih region is anchored in the minds of most visitors thanks to the astonishing landscapes, and in particular the immense rice fields cultivated on the terraces.
Rice is grown here using ancient methods. There are some of the busiest temples on the island. It is the ideal region for magnificent hikes along soothing landscapes. Ubud Complete Travel Guide
Jatiluwih rice fields, Tabanan Regency, Bali, Indonesia. rheins, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The eastern volcanoes
Bali, like all of Indonesia, is adorned with several volcanoes. You will absolutely have to salute Mount Agung and Mount Batur during your vacation in Bali.
Mount Agung is the great volcano to see. From the top of its 3142 meters (10308 feet), it dominates the whole island with its imposing stature. It caused a lot of damage when it erupted in 1963. It is possible to reach its summit, but it is better to be in good physical condition, due to its high altitude. To realize its strength, you absolutely have to see the lava flow left by the last eruption dating from the 1960s.
From the top of its 1717 meters (5633 ft), Mount Batur is another must-see on the island. This volcano is indeed still active and is even the object of a real cult on the part of the Balinese. It is truly impressive. You can also hike to the top of Mount Batur and embrace a huge part of the island. An enchanting moment.
Mount Agung in the morning. Photo: Tri Arya Dhyana K. (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Hot springs
As you have understood, volcanoes are omnipresent in Indonesia, and especially in Bali. Their underground activity also allows a natural phenomenon: the presence of hot springs, loaded with sulfur, ideal for healing or relieving various problems in a natural way. A unique experience to test during your trip to Bali.
Hot springs near Tabanan
About fifteen kilometers north of Tabanan, the waters naturally contain sulphur, potassium and sodium, which you can enjoy in several private spas.
Panas Banjar Hot Spring
Imagine a natural hot water swimming pool… Well, here is one located in the northwest of Bali, not far from the coast. You will find many tourists and Balinese who come to relax in this little corner of paradise.
Taman Nasional Bali Barat (West Wali National Park)
Almost the entire west of the island of Bali belongs to the national park. It preserves many species of fauna and flora that inhabit the tropical rainforest. This park allows tourists to discover an incredible and very rare fauna. Take a day to stroll through this huge protected area. Some tracks promise you pretty walks during which you can see most of this tropical forest.
West Wali National Park. Photo: Surya Edy Gautama (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
You will also have the opportunity to discover the fauna through 2 animal parks:
Bali Bird Park
Located north of Denpasar, the Bali Bird Park collects many species (about 250) of birds from Africa and South America. You will have the opportunity to see magnificent shows of birds in the middle of huge tropical plants. A pleasant time to spend with the family.
Butterfly park
Near Tabanan, the butterfly park allows you to observe magnificent insects with rich colors. If there are fewer and fewer butterflies in France, in Tabanan, you will see many of them.
Nusa Penida Island
Still little known to travelers until recently, this island southeast of Bali has become the new star of social networks in recent years. It must be said that it is now easily accessible thanks to the ferry which connects it in just an hour. Once there, the steep coasts of this piece of Indonesia offer a breathtaking spectacle!
The Best Beaches in Bali | Most famous beach during your holiday
The beaches of the island
In Bali, many beaches are famous for surfing. Others, much more peaceful, allow you to enjoy the warm waters of the Pacific at your leisure. These are the favorite beaches of all lovers who have gone to Bali for their honeymoon.
Lovers of beautiful sunny beaches will appreciate the marriage of land and sea just as much. Indeed, the green hills and the high volcanoes are very close to the sea, offering magnificent hiking trails.
Grajagan
G-land, as surfers call it, is a world famous surf spot. Here, the rollers break at high speed and only the best surfers manage to stay on the ridge for a long time. If you are a board lover, this is an unmissable place in your Balinese itinerary.
Uluwatu
South of Denpasar is the other great beach known for surfing: Uluwatu. Rollers can sometimes be dangerous. Novices really need to be careful.
Amed Beach
Imagine an uncrowded beach with beautiful white sand, warm waters, a beautifully green hinterland… That’s it, you are at Amed beach. An idyllic setting awaits you here, in the northeast of Bali.
Seminyak Beach
This is a laid-back destination, perfect for those looking to relax. The area is renowned for its chic atmosphere, featuring an array of high-end shopping boutiques, trendy bars, and world-class restaurants.
Seminyak Beach at sunset. Photo: Christophe95 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Bali Souvenirs | What to Bring Back from Bali: Unique Souvenirs and Treasures
Shopping: souvenirs of your traveling to Bali:
Bali is an island increasingly known for its shopping areas. A good tip: leave with light suitcases, because you risk falling for many memories…
Craft
The Balinese are past masters in the art. They produce many objects from bamboo, coconut, ceramics, metal and silver… Do not hesitate to choose carved and painted wooden objects. They often represent fantastic animals such as a dragon, or pets such as cats. They are usually great decorative items to bring home.
Works of art
Bali is an island of artists, of which Ubud is truly the capital. Suffice to say that you will meet many galleries throughout your stay in this great Balinese city. You will also find some at the Denpasar market.
Tattoo
Take advantage of your stay in Bali to have your skin tattooed. Many artists will propose to paint a part of your body permanently or ephemerally. However, pay close attention to the choice of tattoo artist. It is better to have a good feeling with him, and do not hesitate to ask your hotel for information…
Things To Do in Bali and What to Visit, Where To Go While Vacationing in Bali? (Top Attractions)
Practical information for your trip to Bali
To prepare your trip to Bali, nothing better than useful addresses and practical information! Find tourist offices, modes of transport, exchange rate, time difference…
Tourist offices
The website of the Indonesian tourist office:
The Official Website of Indonesia Tourism (Indonesia Travel)
The website of the Bali tourist office:
Official Bali Tourism Board Website (Bali Tourism Board)
Getting around Bali
The easiest way to get around Bali is to rent a car with driver. This way, you won’t have any trouble with left-hand traffic, but in addition, your driver will show you the best places to visit and where to go out in Bali.
If you want to drive yourself, and thus be totally independent, consider asking your prefecture for an international permit.
How to Take a Taxi in Bali Without Getting Scammed or Cheated?
Public transport can also be a good compromise between self-guided tours and safety. Choose a Bemo, a modernized local minibus.
Finally, cycling can be a great way to get around town. A handy Dutch heritage for getting around in the urban jungle.
When to go to Bali
Bali is located near the equator, in a tropical area. The island has two equally distributed seasons. The average year-round temperature is 28 °C (82.4 °F), but the heat is never unbearable.
To benefit from a drier and sunnier climate, the best period runs from May to October. To avoid the tourist influx, it is better to stay in Bali in May, September or October. Of course, you won’t be alone. June is also proving to be a good month to go, as everything is green after the monsoon and prices are not yet at their peak.
Note that the days have the same amplitude all year round, with sunrise at 6 a.m. and sunset at 6 p.m. at the latest.
Bali Weather | When to go to Bali? Monthly Bali Tropical Climate
The climate
Do you want to travel to Bali? The island of Bali has a tropical monsoon climate, since it is located very close to the Equator. In general, Bali’s weather is warm year-round, with temperatures peaking at midday and lowest at night, especially in mountainous areas. For example, in the Kintamani area, which can reach up to 16 °C (60.8 °F).
To take advantage of the day in Bali, it is worth getting up early, since the sun rises at 6 in the morning and leaves at 6 in the afternoon. Unlike Europe, the weather and the solar schedules of Bali do not have great variations, except for the humidity (rain) that does vary according to the season. This small Indonesian island seems to live in an eternal summer, since it has an average of 30 ºC (86 °F) throughout the year and the seasons are divided into only two periods: the wet season and the dry season.
Moonsoon in Bali
The wet season or Monsoon begins at the end of October and ends in April. Generally, there are not usually big torrential rains, in fact, Bali has a very mild monsoon. Being a very humid and hot time, a large part of tourism avoids traveling to Bali during these months. On the other hand, there are people who see tropical rains as something positive, since there is much more tranquility, prices drop considerably and you can enjoy the beaches without crowds of people in the water.
Weather and rain in Bali, monsoon
During the wet season, tropical storms and high temperatures are commonplace, for this reason we recommend always wearing light and breathable clothing, which will keep you out of the heat and dry faster if you get wet. Always use sunscreen and don’t worry about raincoats and umbrellas, as the venues are packed with these useful items when a downpour falls out of the blue. The use of flip flops during the rains are also a very good option, yes, in ceremonies and temples they will not allow you to enter with this type of footwear. On the other hand, it is important to mention that the island’s sewage system is practically non-existent, so you will probably find more than one flooded street, just like some beaches in the south where stagnant waters form.
The dry season
When Bali’s dry season appears, tourism begins to arrive in an avalanche and prices skyrocket. The dry season begins in April and ends in September. During this stage, the rains are almost non-existent, the days are always sunny and there is much less humidity. The months of July and August are the most touristy of the year, as they coincide with the holidays in Europe and Australia. We recommend you bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong rays of the sun that appear during this period. It also doesn’t hurt that you take a jacket, since at night and especially in mountainous areas the temperature tends to drop quite a bit.
Average temperature and rainfall
Here’s an example table that shows the average temperature and rainfall in Bali in Celsius and Fahrenheit:
| Month | Average Temperature (C) | Average Temperature (F) | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27 | 81 | 300 |
| February | 27 | 81 | 300 |
| March | 27 | 81 | 275 |
| April | 28 | 82 | 200 |
| May | 28 | 82 | 100 |
| June | 27 | 81 | 75 |
| July | 26 | 79 | 75 |
| August | 26 | 79 | 50 |
| September | 27 | 81 | 75 |
| October | 28 | 82 | 150 |
| November | 28 | 82 | 275 |
| December | 27 | 81 | 350 |
Note: The temperature and rainfall can vary based on several factors such as location and elevation within Bali, and these figures are just averages.
Bali has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The rainy season in Bali is typically from November to March, while the dry season is from April to October.
Bali Weather | When to go to Bali? Monthly Bali Tropical Climate
Health
No vaccine is required to enter Bali. The island is not, a priori, a risky destination in terms of health, however it is recommended to be vaccinated against tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A and B.
Beware mosquitoes: An anti-malarial treatment is also recommended, especially if you are traveling during the wet season. A resurgence of malaria has been observed in the western area of the island of Java. Dengue fever is also increasingly common. It is therefore advisable in case of headaches (knowing that the incubation is 10 days) to consult a doctor and not to take aspirin.
In terms of food, consume only soft drinks, which are easily found everywhere, and preferably avoid raw foods and unpeeled fruits.
Avian flu epidemic (source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs) No cases have recently been identified. However, remain vigilant: avoid raw or undercooked products (eggs, meat), wash and disinfect your hands several times a day.
Phone
Indonesia’s telephone code is +62, Bali’s is 0361 (we use it without the initial 0). Two international codes, 001 and 008, allow you to call abroad from Indonesia.
Electricity
In principle 220 volts everywhere. The electrical outlets are the same standards as in Europe. So provide an adapter, depending on the region where you come from.
Are there any security issues in Bali?
Bali is not an island or country more dangerous than another, but as with any tourist stay abroad, these security measures, which seem obvious, must be respected in order not to spoil your stay.
Read also: Important Numbers in Bali | Essential numbers and addresses
It cannot be said that there are security problems in Bali. There is no real danger. There are only small abuses or miscalculations during purchases and in some exchange offices, especially in Kuta. Remember to recount your money directly on the contrary and remain diplomatic in any situation.
TAKE ON A TRIP TO BALI?
In tropical countries like Bali it is better to wear light and breathable clothing, preferably with long sleeves (because of mosquitoes). In addition, the mixture of heat with humidity causes tourists less accustomed to the Balinese tropical climate to feel very muggy, which is why we recommend you fill your suitcase with linen and cotton clothes. Also take a sweater or a coat just in case, since in the mountainous regions of Bali it tends to be a little colder, especially at night.
It is important to remember that you will be in a completely different culture than the western one, therefore, wearing according to what type of clothing may offend the local population. It’s important that when you visit a temple or a sacred place you do not wear provocative clothing or bare feet. It is not necessary that you wear dress clothes, since in general everyone dresses in a casual style in any type of venue.
There are three essential things that you should take with you to Bali: a personal first-aid kit with the most basic medicines, mosquito repellent and sun cream, since the sun, insects and lack of medicines are the order of the day on the island.
oh! And if you have enough space left in your suitcase, pack a hat. You will appreciate it!
Luggage to travel to Bali, tips for packing
The flight to Bali is usually a very long journey, therefore, we recommend you to travel with hard luggage, since at the airport the suitcases are not exactly treated gently. In this way, you will be able to safely preserve what is inside the luggage, especially the souvenirs and souvenirs that you bring back on your return.
Now that you know how your suitcase should be, you may be wondering: But what exactly do I need to put inside it? The best solution for these cases is to make a list. In this way, you can cross out the clothes and objects that you put in your luggage without forgetting anything. Shall we go for it?
What to bring in your lugage?
Bali luggage list:
Next, we offer you a list of the pieces of clothing and objects necessary for a trip to Bali. The amount of clothing you take will depend on the number of days you are on the island. Open your suitcase and let’s get started!
List of objects to take on a trip
You can keep this article for your convenience. In the left column you can put the number of objects that you are going to take. Remember that both money and documentation should always be with you, we even recommend using an anti-theft inside pocket. Do not ship them under any circumstances.
1. Travel gadgets
Here is a compilation of objects and gadgets that accompany us on many of our trips.
Compact universal adapter
It works for everyone and has USB plugs, super complete.
Mini travel first aid kit
First aid kit, with plasters, bandage, cream for burns etc…
Jack for 2 headphones
To be able to watch a movie or listen to music with your partner using a phone or tablet. Allows you to connect 2 headphones to the same device (if you don’t use bluetooth headphones). Great for long plane rides!
Luggage organizer
The best option to organize your suitcase: separate objects and clothes in small separate bags compartments.
Noise canceling headphones
They have a built-in microphone to pick up the sound of the plane’s engine and eliminate it.
GoPro type camera
Small, light and capable of capturing all those magical moments (even underwater). Good price and good quality.
Plastic submersible covers or waterproof cover for your phone
Immerse yourself and record or photograph with your mobile.
2. A little bit of a laundry detergent
With only 4 liters (1.05 gallon) of water and a little detergent, you will have some of your clothes fresh and clean socks and underwear.
3. Mosquito repellent
Spray mosquito repellent: easy to apply and very effective in preventing bites.
4. Compact travel bag
It is a type of toiletry bag that “rolls up on itself” is very comfortable and facilitates organization.
Compact pillow, eye cover and ear plugs. The perfect kit to sleep wherever you want.
5. Light plastic raincoats, incase when it rains
They hardly take up space, they don’t weigh much, they allow space for the backpack and they are cheap.
6. Anti-theft belt or a travel security belt
Belt with a small inside pocket to store money.
7. Empty travel water bottles
In some airports they will ask you that the liquids go in separate little bottles and inside a transparent bag.
8. Waterproof document holder, save documents
Keep passports, cards, ID, driver’s license, insurance policy… even the mobile.
9. Locks for suitcases, TSA padlock
Padlocks approved by the United States Transportation Security Agency, valid in most airports in the world.
10. Super light towel for travel towel
A microfiber towel that takes up very little space, is absorbent and quick-drying.
11. Luggage weight, scale for suitcases
To measure the weight of your luggage before arriving at the airport. No surprises!
Entry Requirements to Bali and Navigating Stay Visas in Indonesia
Sources: PinterPandai, CleverlySmart, Wonderful Indonesia
Photo credit (main photo): Desfosse / Pixabay
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