ℹ️ Quick info
📅 When to go
Best period based on climate data · Open-Meteo
The dry season (May–September) is ideal: guaranteed sun, perfect surf, volcano treks. The wet season (November–March) brings short but intense downpours. July–August is high season with higher prices.
💶 Costs
🛡️ Safety
You get swarmed at the airport exit with inflated prices.
How to avoid it: Use the Grab app from the airport or arrange pickup with your hotel.
Entering temples without a sarong (traditional skirt) is forbidden and offensive.
How to avoid it: Always wear a sarong and waist sash at temples. They're often lent to you at the entrance.
Dengue is present year-round, peaking in the wet season.
How to avoid it: Use DEET repellent, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear long sleeves in the evening.
The currents at Kuta, Seminyak and Uluwatu can be deadly. Many drownings every year.
How to avoid it: Only swim where there are flags and lifeguards. Never underestimate the currents.
🚌 Transport
The most common way to get around. Requires an international licence. Chaotic traffic in Kuta/Seminyak. Perfect for quieter areas.
Essential ride-hailing apps. Fixed prices, no haggling. Use them for safe travel.
For 40–60€ a day you get a driver with a car who also guides you. Great for temple and volcano tours. Book through your hotel.
The only reliable taxi company in Bali. Recognisable by their blue livery. Always metered.
🧳 What to pack
- Swimwear (more than one)
- A light sarong (required at temples)
- High-SPF sunscreen
- DEET mosquito repellent
- Hiking shoes for the volcanoes
- Light, breathable clothing
- A waterproof bag
- Anti-diarrhoea medication
- Valid passport (min. 6 months)
- VOA (visa on arrival) — buy it online before you leave
- Vaccines: hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus — see your doctor
- High-concentration DEET repellent
- Install Grab and Gojek before you go
- A sarong for temples
- Withdraw rupiah at BCA or Mandiri ATMs (lower fees)
🎉 Seasonal highlights
The quietest day on Earth: 24 hours of total silence, lights off, airport closed. The evening before, the Ogoh-Ogoh procession (demon statues) is spectacular. Bali's most intense cultural experience.
The night trek up the Batur volcano for sunrise is one of Bali's most intense moments. Set off at 2am, sunrise at 6 over the active crater. Guide required, booking recommended.
The waves at Uluwatu and Padang Padang are among the best in Asia. Perfect for intermediate-to-advanced surfers. Beginner lessons recommended at Kuta.
The sea temple of Tanah Lot at sunset is one of the most photographed sights in the world. Arrive an hour early and pick a spot slightly off to the side of the crowd.
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