About 7 years back, Bali used to be the hotspot for solo travellers. I remember mapping out my first overseas trip to Bali back in 2020 before the pandemic halted all those plans. I had this destination on my bucket list since then. But recently when I started researching yet again, I found some discouraging information. This got me asking, Is Bali a safe place to travel in 2025?
I still wanted to visit Bali so I did a deep dive, reading Reddit experiences and community forums and found the information you need to decide whether it's your call for Bali in 2025.
Firstly;
How bad is Food Poisoning in Bali?
If you're researching about Bali, I'm sure you would've come across the 'Bali Belly' story. Apparently, traveller diarrhoea got its name from Bali for a very good reason. The water in Bali is notoriously known for causing upset stomachs.
If you're a seasoned traveller who's been to many South Asian or Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, you may not experience this, but travellers are advised to only drink bottled water (even when brushing teeth) as tap water sources aren't the cleanest.
If you have a sensitive gut, steer clear of water that comes from unknown sources in Bali. This includes iced drinks on the street as well.
Medical Costs in Bali Today
Hospital charges are skyrocketing in Bali, and they are not as cheap as they used to be. Due to the weakness of the currency, many clinics and hospitals take advantage of Western travellers. After all, similar treatments would cost much more back home so it's not really a loss for you, but encouraging unfair price hikes will affect budget travellers.
Let's say you did get the bug, or even some other illness, regular treatment for food poisoning shouldn't cost more than 100$ on the island.
While Bali is a safe place to travel, it's always best to be aware of healthcare options just in case. Here are some good places to treat yourself without being treated like a walking ATM. (Please note that these are NOT sponsored. It's solely based on reviews):
UbudCare Clinic 24 Hours (For food poisoning and for scratches and bites)
d'Square Medical Centre Kuta (For food poisoning and for other minor emergencies)
BIMC Hospital, Nusa Dua (For more complicated cases)
Similarly, you can find many clinics across the island, make sure you read reviews and get the costs confirmed before admitting to treatment.
Best Time to Travel to Bali
This is a well-known fact. When travelling in tropical countries, weather plays a huge role in your well-being. Common cases of flu are rampant during the rainy seasons and most activities take a halt too, especially water sports.
The best time to go to Bali is from April to September, with February to March being an off-peak season when rates are much more affordable for budget travellers.
How much does it cost to travel to Bail?
On average, a budget traveller can expect to spend around $30–50 USD per day, including meals, accommodations, and transportation. Mid-range travellers should budget $70–120 USD daily for more comfortable stays and activities.
If you’re after luxury, prices can go much higher—think $200+ per day for top resorts and fine dining. Don’t forget to factor in extras like tours, spa treatments, and souvenirs. With smart planning, Bali offers excellent value for every traveller.
Flights are a significant cost, varying by season and departure location. From the US or Europe, round-trip flights usually range from $500–1,200 USD. In general, Bali is considered a budget-friendly destination.
How many days do I need to cover Bali?
Bali may look small on a map, but there’s a lot to see! To truly experience its magic, plan on staying at least 5–7 days. This gives you enough time to explore the diverse regions, from the serene rice terraces of Ubud to the vibrant beaches of Seminyak and the cultural heart of Denpasar.
If you’re short on time, a 3-day trip can cover the highlights, like visiting a couple of temples (like Tanah Lot or Uluwatu), relaxing on popular beaches, and enjoying a taste of Balinese cuisine. Ubud is a necessary addition.
For a deeper dive, 10 days or more lets you explore off-the-beaten-path spots, such as the northern waterfalls or Nusa Penida island.
Best Travel Insurance for Bali
Travel insurance isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a travel essential. In Bali, you’ll want coverage for medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations, especially if you’re planning on adventure activities like surfing or hiking. Some of the best travel insurance providers include:
World Nomads: Popular among backpackers and adventure travellers, offering flexible plans that cover a wide range of activities.
SafetyWing: Affordable, especially for long-term travellers or digital nomads.
Allianz Global Assistance: Trusted for comprehensive coverage and 24/7 support.
TATA AIG: If you're a traveller from India, this offers local assistance on your trip.
Look for a plan that covers medical costs (including evacuation), theft, and any specific activities you plan to do.
Do I need a travel visa for Bali?
For many travellers, getting into Bali is a breeze. Citizens from over 160 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and much of Europe, can enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days. If you want to stay longer, you can purchase a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport for around $35 USD, which can be extended for another 30 days.
Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Always check with your local embassy before you travel, as visa policies can change.
Is Bali, Indonesia, a Safe Place to Travel Today?
To summarise all we've discussed above, yes Bali is a safe place to travel. It's like any other tropical country you'd visit like Thailand or Vietnam. The Balinese people are very hospitable. Yes, you'd have scammers just like any tourist destination, but not like those sophisticated scams in Turkey.
Most cases of drunk assaults and theft on the island were reported among tourists. So if you're a traveller who likes to have fun, make sure you're not harming anyone, damaging any place or obstructing others while you're at it.
Conclusion;
There you go! Some of the crucial information you must know before you plan your trip to Bali.
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