15 Essential Tips for Traveling to Bali: All You Need to Know Before You Go

From the best months to visit, must-visit places on the island, and the local cuisine, to where to stay, we have got you covered. 

Indonesia vacations are a dream come true for many travelers, and Bali is undoubtedly one of the top destinations to visit. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife, Bali vacations offer a unique and unforgettable experience, with many must-visit places for every type of traveler! 

Before you jet off to this wonderful part of the world, check out our 15 essential tips to ensure you are fully prepared. From the best months to visit, must-visit places on the island, and the local cuisine, to where to stay, we have got you covered. 

1. The Best Number of Days to Stay in Bali

Typically, the ideal length for a Bali vacation is 5-7 days. This will give you enough time to explore the island's most popular attractions, such as temples and waterfalls, and still have time to relax and soak up the island's unique culture and atmosphere.

2. An Overview of Bali’s Weather

Bali has a tropical climate, so the weather is hot and humid throughout the year. We recommend the best months to go to Bali are during the dry season which runs from April to September, when temperatures are cooler, and rainfall is minimal.

3. Managing Expectations - Is it Really like Eat, Pray, Love

Yes and no, while Bali is just as beautiful as it's portrayed in the movie, there's much, much more to the island than what's shown on screen. Bali is a diverse and complex destination, with a unique rich culture, incredible history, and stunning natural beauty.

4. A Must Do - Visit Bali’s Temples 

Temples are at the heart of the island’s vibrant and diverse culture and play a central role in Balinese life. With their own unique style and significance, Exploring Bali's spiritual sanctuaries is a must-do when coming to the island. 

5. Don’t Miss Out on Seeing Bali’s Waterfalls

Bali is home to some of the world's most beautiful waterfalls and visiting them is an excellent way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature. Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Sekumpul Waterfall and Tegenungan Waterfall come highly recommended and should not be missed. 

6. Check Out The Most Instagrammable Cliffs in the World

Bali's coastline is famous for its towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and stunning ocean views. Some of the island's most Instagram-worthy cliffs include Paluang Clift and Kelingking Beach, which are must-visit destinations for photography enthusiasts, or for those who want to get that best traveler snap for their social media

7. Make Sure to Visit the Best Place for Wellness

The town of Ubud is the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, and is known for its world-class spas, yoga studios, and holistic wellness centers. Whether you're looking to relax, rejuvenate, or explore your spiritual side, Ubud is the perfect destination for wellness travelers.

8. Foodies Paradise - What to Try

Babi Guling is a Balinese delicacy that's not to be missed. It's a dish of roasted suckling pig that's crispy, flavorful, and tender, and it's available in many restaurants and street food stalls throughout the island. However, don’t stop there, this is just one of so many must try foods in Bali.

9. Where to Stay

Bali offers an extensive range of accommodations that cater to various budgets and travel styles, from budget-friendly hostels, and reasonable mid-range hotels, to luxurious resorts with incredible views. Ubud, Seminyak, and Kuta are among Bali's most popular areas to stay, each with a distinct atmosphere and its own attractions. If you're seeking an extravagant experience, Bali is home to several high-end luxury resorts that offer top-notch amenities and services, from private villas to beachfront properties.

10. Get Ahead - Learn Some Basic Indonesian Phrases

Learning some basic Indonesian phrases can be a great way to show respect for the local culture and make your trip to Bali more enjoyable. Simple phrases like "Selamat pagi" (pronounced: seh-la-maht pah-ghee) for "good morning" and "Terima kasih" (pronounced: teh-ree-mah kah-see) for "thank you" can big a big help in connecting with locals and navigating your way around the island.  

11. Always Respect Balinese Customs and Traditions

Bali is known for its unique customs and traditions, so it's important to be aware of them and respect them. For example, when visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Learning about the customs and traditions of Bali will definitely enhance your travel experience.

12. Pack Smart - Bring Light and Comfortable Clothes

As Bali's weather is hot and humid, we recommend packing light and comfortable clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout your trip. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton and linen are recommended and don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.

13. Don’t Miss the Island’s Awesome Outdoor Activities

Bali is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like surfing, snorkeling, hiking and water rafting available. With Bali's stunning natural beauty, we can’t recommend trying some outdoor activities enough. Book a guided tour or rent equipment from local providers to get the most out of your outdoor adventure.

14. You’re in Bali - Be Open-minded 

Bali is a unique and diverse destination, so enjoy it as much as you can by being open-minded and flexible to whatever comes your way. By embracing the island's unique culture, you'll get the chance to experience some unexpected adventures, making your trip of a lifetime even more memorable.

15. Safety in Bali - What You Need to Know

Bali is considered safe to travel for tourists. However, like anywhere, it's always important to take necessary precautions to ensure your trip is safe and trouble-free. In Bali, these include being cautious with your belongings, avoiding drinking tap water, and using common sense when exploring the island. By following these simple steps, you are sure to have a safe and memorable vacation on the island.

16. A Extra Tip For You - Don’t Stop at Bali 

Indonesia has so much more to offer beyond Bali's popular tourist destinations. Explore the diverse cultures and landscapes of the country, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Yogyakarta's Borobudur and Prambanan temples; the giant Komodo dragons on Komodo Island; and the stunning coral reefs of Raja Ampat. With over 17,000 islands, there's an adventure waiting for every type of traveler in Indonesia.