Bali Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Bali

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia renowned for its stunning beaches, unique culture, and lush green tropical landscapes.

This beautiful island offers something for everyone whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or culture and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia attracting travelers from all over the world.

Bali is also known as the ‘Island of the Gods‘ and the ‘Island of a Thousand Temples’, due to its strong Hindu influence, plethora of temples, and wellness retreats.

Whether you are traveling to Bali for a yoga retreat, undertaking yoga teacher training, or simply want to combine your holiday with some casual yoga classes, this Bali Travel Guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.

When to Visit

Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from April to September and the wet season from October to March.

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, when you can enjoy clear blue skies, sunny weather, and less humidity. The peak tourist season in Bali is from July to August and December, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid the crowds and higher prices.

If you don’t mind some rainfall and want to take advantage of lower hotel rates, consider visiting during the shoulder season in April, May, September, or October.

Getting to Bali

Getting to Bali is relatively easy, with direct flights available from major cities in Australia and Asia. Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, serves as the main gateway to the island.

If you are traveling to Bali from Europe or North America, you will have to change in a major Asian city like Singapore and then take a connecting flight to Bali.

For those traveling from Java, the neighboring island, there are also ferry services available.

Once you arrive at the airport, there are plenty of taxis and private car services to take you to your destination.

Visa Requirements

Visa requirements to visit Bali depend on your nationality. As of the latest update, citizens from 169 countries can visit Bali for a 30-day stay without a visa. This is known as the “Visa Exemption” and it’s non-extendable.

For stays longer than 30 days, visitors from these countries must apply for a “Visa on Arrival” at their point of entry, which is costs $35 and is extendable once for another 30 days.

For citizens of other countries not on the exemption list, a visa must be obtained before travelling. Always check the latest visa requirements with your local Indonesian embassy or consulate before your departure to Bali.

Getting Around

The most convenient way to get around Bali is by hiring a private car with a driver or using ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Go-Jek. This allows for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, especially for first-time visitors.

For shorter distances, motorbikes are also a popular mode of transportation in Bali. However, it’s important to note that traffic can be chaotic and roads may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised when driving or riding a motorbike.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are also public buses and shuttle services available. However, they may not always be reliable and can take longer to reach your destination.

In peak season, traffic can get congested in popular areas such as Kuta and Seminyak, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Costs

Bali can cater to travelers on varying budgets, from backpackers to luxury seekers.

For backpackers and budget travelers, you can expect to spend around $25 to $35 per day, which includes accommodation in a backpacker hostel or budget guesthouse, meals at local warungs (small family-owned businesses), transportation via local buses or a rented motorbike, and modest entertainment.

Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day for a comfortable hotel, meals at mid-range restaurants, private transportation, and more extensive activities.

Luxury travelers can easily spend upwards of $200 per day, which includes stays at high-end resorts, dining at gourmet restaurants, private tours, and spa treatments.

Note that costs can vary based on personal preferences, travel season, and other factors. Therefore, it is always advisable to budget a little extra for unforeseen expenses.

Bali’s Popular Destinations

Bali is a deceptively large island, and getting around takes time. So when choosing where to stay in Bali, it’s important to consider what kind of experience you’re seeking.

The most popular areas for yoga, fitness and wellness are Ubud and Canggu. Staying close to either will give you easy access to many great studios, gyms, spas, healthy restaurants and boutiques as well as other facilities.

Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is ideal for travelers wanting to experience Bali’s rich history, spiritualty and culture. Here, you’ll find many yoga and wellness retreats, organic cafes, and art markets.

If relaxation, white sand beaches, calm seas and a luxurious getaway is what you seek head to the upscale beach resort of Nusa Dua which offers numerous world class beach resorts.

Jimbaran and Ulu Watu, on the southern tip of Bali, is a great area for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. This location boasts some of the best beaches on the island, as well as world-renowned surf breaks and stunning clifftop views.

For those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and vibrant nightlife, Seminyak is the perfect choice. This area is known for its stylish beach clubs, chic boutiques, and diverse dining options.

Nearby Canggu is very popular with surfers and digital nomads and offers a lively atmosphere with many yoga studios, healthy cafes and accommodation to suit all budgets.

If you’re a surfer or a beach-lover on a budget, Kuta and Legian offer a range of affordable accommodations, a lively nightlife scene, and excellent surfing conditions.

There are also smaller islands easily accessible from Bali that you can stay on:

Nusa Penida, the largest of the three Nusa Islands, is renowned for its dramatic cliff formations, pristine beaches, and the iconic T-Rex Bay. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Nusa Lembongan, the sibling island of Nusa Penida, offers crystal-clear waters, dreamy landscapes, and a tranquil environment. It’s a popular choice for water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and diving.

Finally, Nusa Ceningan, the smallest of the three Nusa Islands, is connected to Nusa Lembongan by a yellow bridge. It’s best known for its cliff jumping spot, secret beaches, and blue lagoon.

The Gili Islands, a group of three tiny islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air – are famous for their vibrant diving spots, coral gardens, and chill-out vibes. They are an excellent getaway for travelers seeking a serene oasis away from Bali’s popular tourist destinations.

Finally, for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, consider staying in the northern and eastern parts of Bali, such as Lovina or Amed. These areas offer a slower pace of life, beautiful natural attractions, and opportunities for diving and snorkeling

Accommodation in Bali

There are plenty of accommodation options available in Bali to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious villas, resorts and wellness retreats to budget-friendly hostels and homestays, there is something for everyone.

For those looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying at a traditional Balinese homestay where you can interact with locals and learn more about their culture.

If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a villa may be the most cost-effective option. These often come equipped with private pools, kitchens, and multiple bedrooms.

For solo travelers or those on a budget, hostels are a popular choice. They offer affordable dorm-style rooms as well as private rooms, and often have communal spaces for socializing with other travelers.

Many resorts and hotels in Bali offer yoga classes. A few choice options for yoga resorts are Adiwana Resort Jembawan in Ubud and Udara Resort in Canggu.

There are also many dedicated yoga and wellness retreats in Bali that focus solely on yoga, meditation, and wellness.

Retreats are available at all price points and offer great value for money as they include yoga classes, meals and accommodation. This is the best option for those looking to truly relax and unwind during their trip.

Yoga and Wellness

Bali is famous for its abundance of wellness retreats, spas and yoga studios making it one of the leading wellness destinations in the world.

If you’re looking for relaxation and rejuvenation for body, mind and soul look no further than Bali.

Yoga Studios

Bali is home to numerous world class yoga studios that offer both drop in yoga classes and workshops. Ubud and Canggu have the biggest choice.

Ubud is home to famous studios like The Yoga Barn which offers a wide variety of classes in different yoga styles as well as other holistic healing therapies and welcomes all experience levels.

Yoga Retreats

Bali’s incredible yoga retreats offer a completely immersive experience in the world of yoga and wellness where you can relax, deepen your practice and connect with other yogis.

There is a wide variety of yoga retreats in Bali suitable for all budgets and experience levels. Some of the best include Om Ham Retreat, De Moksha Boutique and Ubud Nyuh Resort.

If you want to take your yoga practice to the next level or become a certified yoga teacher, Bali is one of the most popular places in the world to undertake yoga teacher training with numerous yoga teacher training retreats in Bali offering qualifications in all different styles.

Alongside yoga, Bali is home to numerous spas offering massages and other treatments. You can also try sound healing at the Pyramids of Chi, a unique meditation center near Ubud.

Other Things To Do In Bali

Bali offers an array of attractions, activities and experiences for every type of traveler, whether you’re into beaches and nature, culture and spirituality, or looking for a bit of adventure.

Here are some must-see attractions and things to do in Bali:

Go Surfing

Bali is a surfer’s paradise, with some of the best waves in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of spots to catch a wave. Some of the most popular surf spots include:

• Kuta Beach: This is one of Bali’s most famous beaches and is a great spot for beginners.
• Uluwatu: This is one of Bali’s most challenging surf spots, with powerful waves that are best for experienced surfers.
• Padang Padang: This is a great spot for intermediate surfers, with consistent waves and a beautiful beach.

Relax on Beautiful Beaches

Bali boasts some of the world’s most pleasant beaches, featuring crystal-clear waters and white sand, perfect for activities like surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

• Popular beaches: Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, and Jimbaran Beach offer fantastic holiday experiences and modern facilities with plenty of activities.
• Secluded options: Amed Beach and Lovina Beach provide unique experiences with black sand and life-filled coral reefs away from the tourist hotspots.
• Water activities: Bali’s main beaches offer snorkeling, scuba diving, and world-class surfing, making them ideal for ocean lovers. Jet Skis, Boat Tours and Private Yachts can also be booked from the popular beach towns.

Explore Bali’s Natural Beauty

Bali is known for its stunning natural beauty, from rice terraces to waterfalls to volcanic landscapes. Some of the top natural attractions to visit include:

• Tegalalang Rice Terrace: This is one of Bali’s most famous rice terraces, with stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.
• Banyumala Waterfall: This is one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, with crystal clear water and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Mount Batur: This active volcano is a popular spot for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visit Bali’s Temples

Bali is famous for its stunning temples, which are an important part of the island’s culture and religion. Some of the most popular temples to visit include:

• Uluwatu Temple: Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, this temple is known for its stunning sunset views and resident monkeys.
• Tanah Lot Temple: Located on a rocky outcrop in the sea, this temple is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks.
• Besakih Temple: Also known as the “Mother Temple,” this complex of temples is the largest and holiest in Bali.

Experience Bali’s Culture

Bali has a rich and unique culture, with traditional dances, ceremonies, and festivals throughout the year. Some of the top cultural experiences to have in Bali include:

• Balinese Dance Performance: There are several traditional dances to watch in Bali, including the Legong and Barong dances and the Kecak fire dance.
• Nyepi Day: This is Bali’s “Day of Silence,” where the island shuts down for a day of meditation and reflection.
• Balinese Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Balinese dishes and experience the island’s cuisine firsthand.

Visit Must-See Attractions

Bali is not just for backpackers and yogis, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

• Ubud Monkey Forest: A popular attraction in central Ubud which is home to over 1000 Long Tail Macaques.
• Waterbom Bali: This large water park is great for a family day out. With live entertainment, food court and a swim up bar to keep everyone happy.
• Dream Museum Zone (DMZ): Another fantastic choice for families and the young at heart. This museum features larger-than-life pictures that drag you inside for a fun and immersive experience.

The locals are especially welcoming of those who show an interest in Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage, with some truly exquisite temples and shrines dotted around its pristine landscape.

Cuisine

Bali’s cuisine is a delicious mix of Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian influences. Some must-try dishes include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay (grilled meat skewers), and Babi Guling (suckling pig).

For a taste of traditional Balinese cuisine, try dishes like Babi Kecap (pork in sweet soy sauce) or Lawar (minced meat salad). A visit to one of Bali’s many local markets is a great way to sample different dishes.

You’ll also find plenty of international cuisine options in Bali, from Italian and Japanese to vegan and vegetarian.

Nightlife

Bali has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach bar or a wild party, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Popular areas for nightlife include Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. Many bars and clubs offer live music and entertainment, as well as traditional Balinese dance performances.

Shopping

Bali is renowned for its handicrafts, from wooden carvings to intricate textiles that make great souvenirs.

Ubud is the best place to shop for unique souvenirs and artwork, while Seminyak and Kuta offer a more modern shopping experience with designer boutiques and trendy streetwear in modern malls.

Don’t forget to bargain at the local markets to get the best deals.

Safety and Local Customs

Bali is generally a safe place to visit, even for solo female travelers. The Balinese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, but it’s always important to respect the local culture and customs.

As with any travel destination, it’s important to use common sense and be cautious. However the most dangerous aspect of visiting Bali is likely to be the roads.

Be careful when walking or crossing the street, as traffic can be busy and chaotic. Only rent a motorbike if you are experienced with driving in Asia. Drive slowly and be careful!

Get Ready To Fall In Love With Bali

Bali is truly a gem of Southeast Asia. Its unique blend of culture, nature, and spirituality makes it a must-visit destination for everyone, not just yogis.

With this guide, you should now have a better understanding of what to expect when visiting Bali and some tips on how to make the most out of your trip.

If you need help finding the perfect yoga studio, retreat or training check out our other articles, guides and blogs for all you need to know about yoga in Bali.