Bali Travel Guide Tips, Attractions & Planning Info

Bali Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Bali

So, you’re thinking about a Bali vacation? Excellent choice. You’ve probably been mesmerized by the endless scroll of Instagram perfection: emerald rice terraces, azure waves crashing against cliffs, serene temple gates shrouded in mist, and vibrant plates of exotic food. It’s a powerful lure. 

But between those dreamy pixels and the reality of planning an actual trip, there can be a gap – a space filled with questions about logistics, culture, cost, and creating an experience that’s uniquely yours, not just a copy of an influencer’s feed.

That’s precisely where this complete Bali travel guide comes in. 

Bali Travel Guide: Overview

Bali is a sensory experience. This Bali travel route begins with an overview of the Island of the Gods, giving you the lay of the land before diving into the details.

Where Bali Is and Why It’s So Popular

Geographically, Bali is a small Indonesian island between Java and Lombok. Yet, traveling to Bali punches far above its weight. Its popularity stems from an unbeatable mix: stunning natural beauty, a pervasive spiritual Hindu culture, and tourism infrastructure for every budget, making it the perfect Bali vacation.

What Makes Bali Unique for Travelers

But what makes travel to Bali truly unique? It’s the profound, everyday presence of Balinese Hinduism. It’s in the daily offerings (canang sari) on every doorstep and the vibrant community festivals. This deep spirituality coexists with fierce artistic energy in woodcarving, silverwork, and dance. It’s what elevates a simple Bali trip into a journey for the soul, and understanding this is the first of many essential Bali travel tips for any Bali Indonesia travel guide.

Who Bali Is Best For

The beauty of planning a Bali vacation is the island’s chameleon-like ability to adapt to your desires. It’s a perfect match for a shockingly wide array of travelers:

• Soul-Searchers & Yogis: Ubud is the undisputed global epicenter for wellness, spirituality, and yoga. It’s a place to meditate, attend a retreat, and reconnect.
• Adventure Buffs & Surfers: From the legendary barrels of Uluwatu to the beginner waves of Kuta, from hiking up active volcanoes at dawn to white-water rafting through jungles.
• Foodies & Digital Nomads: A thriving, sophisticated cafe culture, world-class restaurants, and reliable (ish) wifi have made Bali, especially Canggu and Ubud, a global hub for remote workers.
• Culture Vultures: Those hungry for authentic experiences will find them in temple festivals, traditional dance performances, and the artisan villages of the central highlands.
• Honeymooners & Romantics: Think private pool villas perched over jungles, sunset dinners on dramatic cliffs, and luxurious spa treatments for two.

Frankly, if you have a pulse and a passport, Bali has a corner, an experience, and a plate of amazing food waiting just for you. 

Best Time to Visit Bali

Timing is everything, and in the tropics, it’s dictated by the dance between sun and rain. Getting the weather right can transform your Bali Indonesia travel experience from “good” to “absolutely sublime.” 

Dry Season vs Rainy Season

• Dry Season (April – October): This is the classic postcard period and the most popular best time to visit Bali for most. You can expect abundant sunshine, blue skies, lower humidity, and minimal, fleeting rain. It’s perfect for uninterrupted beach days, clear hiking vistas, and guaranteed golden sunsets. The trade-off? It’s peak tourist season, so prices for flights and accommodations are at their highest, and popular spots from Tanah Lot to Tegallalang can feel overwhelmingly busy.
• Rainy Season (November – March): Don’t write it off based on the label! The rain typically comes in short, dramatic, tropical bursts, often in the late afternoon or evening, leaving the mornings and early afternoons clear, bright, and often beautifully humid. 

Peak, Shoulder, and Low Travel Seasons

• Peak Season (June-August, late December-early January): Coincides with Northern Hemisphere summer holidays and the year-end festive period. This is when Bali is at its busiest. Book flights and hotels months in advance, and expect premium prices.
• Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Widely considered the absolute sweet spot. You get the glorious dry season weather but with noticeably thinner crowds and more agreeable prices. May and September are particular gems—the weather is stellar, and the post- or pre-peak calm is palpable.
• Low Season (January-March, November): The rainiest months (especially January & February) offer the best deals and the fewest tourists. If your dream is having a beautiful villa or a famous café largely to yourself and you don’t mind planning around afternoon showers, this is your window.

Weather, Crowds, and Prices by Month

• April/May: The dry season begins. Lush from the rains, but with increasing sunshine. Crowds and prices start a steady climb. A fantastic time to arrive.
• June: Peak season kicks off. Weather is superb; crowds and prices are now firmly in high gear.
• July/August: The pinnacle of sunshine and crowds. Expect the highest prices of the year and a very vibrant, social atmosphere.
• September/October: The post-peak calm. Weather remains excellent, the sea is warm, and the island begins to breathe again as prices gently soften.
• November: The transition month. You might get lucky with extended dry spells, but rain increases. Crowds dissipate quickly, leading to good value.
• December-February: The wettest period, but interspersed with brilliant sunny days. Extremely busy and expensive over the Christmas/New Year period, then very quiet and green in January and February.
• March: The rains begin to taper. The landscape is spectacularly green, and this month offers some of the best value for traveling to Bali – quiet, affordable, and beautiful.

Bali Travel Requirements

Let’s talk logistics. It’s less fun than dreaming about waterfall swims, but it’s utterly crucial. A smooth, prepared entry sets a stress-free tone for your entire Bali Indonesia travel adventure. Nothing ruins a vibe faster than immigration hiccups.

Bali Visa Requirements and Entry Rules

For citizens of most countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most of the EU), you have two straightforward options upon arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport:

1. Visa-Free Entry: A free 30-day entry stamp. This is non-extendable. You must depart within 30 days. Perfect for short, focused trips.
2. Visa on Arrival (VoA): Pay IDR 500,000 (approximately $35 USD) for a 30-day visa that can be extended once for an additional 30 days (for a total of 60 days). If you’re planning a stay between 31 and 60 days, you must purchase this VoA. The extension process is done through an agent or immigration office and involves some paperwork and an extra fee.

Always, always check the latest official Indonesian immigration website or consult your local Indonesian embassy/consulate in the months and weeks before your trip. Bali visa requirements and eligible country lists can and do change.

Passport Validity and Customs Regulations

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 (six) months from your date of entry into Indonesia. Airlines will check this at check-in and can deny boarding if it’s not compliant. Don’t let this simple detail derail your Bali trip. Customs allowances are standard: 1 liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100g of tobacco, and a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use. You must declare any currency in excess of IDR 100 million (approx. $6,500 USD). Indonesia has notoriously strict and severe drug laws – possession carries extremely harsh penalties, including life imprisonment or death. The rule is simple: just don’t.

Health, Vaccinations, and Travel Insurance

Routine vaccinations (like MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis) should be up-to-date. Travel clinics commonly recommend Hepatitis A and Typhoid for travelers to Indonesia. Consult a professional about others like Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, or Rabies, depending on your planned activities (e.g., extensive motorbiking in rural areas, working with animals).

Now, for the most important Bali travel tip in this section: YOU MUST HAVE COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL INSURANCE. Ensure your policy has high medical coverage (including hospitalization), covers medical evacuation (a must for a remote island), and explicitly includes any adventurous activities you plan (motorbiking, surfing, trekking, scuba diving). Private clinics in Bali are of good quality but require upfront payment or an insurance guarantee. 

Getting to Bali and Around the Island

Navigating your arrival and mastering island mobility are key skills for a seamless holiday. Here’s your primer on Bali transportation and airport logistics.

Flights to Bali and Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

Ngurah Rai International Airport, often casually called Denpasar Airport, is your gateway. It’s modern, increasingly busy, and well-connected globally. You’ll rarely find direct long-haul flights from the US or Europe; most routes connect through major Asian hubs like Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), Seoul (ICN), or Dubai (DXB). Upon arrival, prepare for potential queues at immigration, especially during peak hours. 

Transportation Options in Bali

• Official Airport Taxis: The easiest and safest option upon arrival. Use the official taxi desk inside the baggage claim hall. You pay a fixed price to your zone (e.g., “Kuta,” “Seminyak,” “Sanur”). Receipt in hand, you’ll be directed to a driver. Avoid the touts offering “transport” outside the terminal – their prices are inflated.
• Ride-Hailing Apps (Gojek & Grab): The Uber of Southeast Asia. Invaluable for short trips. Gojek started with scooter taxis and is deeply integrated. Grab is also widely used. They are cheap and efficient. Crucial Note: Due to pressure from local taxi unions, they are banned from picking up passengers on the streets in certain tourist areas like central Ubud and parts of Seminyak. They often operate from designated “Grab/Gojek points” (look for the signs) or you can use them freely in less restricted areas like Canggu and Sanur.
• Private Drivers: The gold standard for day trips, temple tours, or transfers between regions. Hiring a driver for a 8-10 hour day is remarkably affordable (typically IDR 600,000-800,000, or ~$40-$55 USD) and offers unparalleled flexibility – you set the itinerary, change your mind, and have a cool local to ask questions. 

Renting Scooters and Cars Safely

• Only rent if you have prior experience. Balinese traffic is a chaotic, organic dance of cars, trucks, bikes, dogs, and pedestrians. It is not the place to learn.
• Always, without exception, wear a helmet. It’s the law, and it’s your primary defense in an accident.
• You need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Police checkpoints are common in tourist areas. If you only have a foreign license, you will be fined (usually IDR 250,000-500,000 on the spot). The IDP, coupled with your original license, is legally required.
• Inspect the bike meticulously with the owner. Take photos or video of every existing scratch, dent, and crack. Ensure the brakes, lights, and horn work.
  Renting a car is less common for tourists. Driving is on the left, roads can be narrow, and traffic is intense. For most visitors, the ideal combo is a scooter for local exploring in your immediate area and a private driver for longer journeys and day trips.

Where to Stay in Bali

Your Bali accommodation guide starts with one critical decision: picking the right base. 

Best Areas to Stay in Bali

• Ubud: The cultural and spiritual heart. Think misty rainforests, iconic rice terraces, yoga studios on every corner, artisan markets, and a generally chill, introspective vibe. It’s inland, so no beaches, but it’s lush, cool, and profoundly relaxing.
• Seminyak: The stylish, upscale coastal strip. Here you’ll find designer boutiques, sophisticated cocktail bars, world-class dining, and chic beach clubs like Potato Head. The beach is wide, great for sunset strolls, but the waves can be rough. It’s polished and energetic.
• Canggu: The hip, boho, digital nomad epicenter. The vibe is young, creative, and laid-back. It’s all about organic cafes, surf breaks (Batu Bolong, Berawa), co-working spaces, and a vibrant social scene. The infrastructure is catching up with its popularity, so traffic can be dense.
• Uluwatu: Dramatic cliffs, world-class surf breaks (for experienced surfers), luxury clifftop resorts, and the iconic Uluwatu Temple. It’s more spread out, requiring a scooter or driver to get around. The beaches are often accessed via steep stairs but are stunning.

Hotels, Villas, and Budget Accommodations

• Luxury: Bali is the global king of the private pool villa. For a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere, you can have your own secluded sanctuary. Five-star resorts also offer impeccable service and facilities.
• Mid-Range: The sweet spot for many. Boutique hotels and guesthouses with stunning Balinese design, beautiful gardens, and lovely pools are abundant and offer incredible value.
• Budget: Losmen (family homestays) and hostels are everywhere. For just a few dollars a night, you can get a clean, basic room, often with a fan or AC, and the chance to interact with a local family. Hostels in Canggu and Ubud are very social.

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors

For a first bali trip, I strongly recommend splitting your time to get the best of both worlds. Start with 3-4 nights in Ubud to immerse yourself in the culture, nature, and slower pace. Then, head to the coast for 3-4 nights in Seminyak, Canggu, or Sanur (choose based on your style: upscale, hip, or family-friendly) for beach time, surfing, and vibrant nightlife. 

Places to Visit in Bali

Now for the fun part: plotting your course. This is your curated hit list of the best places to visit in Bali, the essential places to visit in Bali that define the island’s diverse character. Think of these as the chapters of your Balinese adventure.

Ubud and Central Bali

Within the cultural heart of Ubud and Central Bali, a few key highlights define the experience. The Sacred Monkey Forest is a mystical temple complex inhabited by playful (and mischievous) macaques, so guard your belongings. Just north, the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces offer picture-perfect views of cascading emerald paddies; arrive by 7 AM to avoid the crowds. For a profound cultural moment, Tirta Empul Temple invites participation in its sacred spring purification ritual (remember to rent a sarong and observe respectfully). 

Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta

• Kuta: The original backpacker and surf hub. It’s loud, energetic, chaotic, and unabashedly commercial. Fantastic for people-watching, cheap souvenirs, and a wild night out. The beach is long and great for learning to surf.
• Seminyak: A more polished extension of Kuta. Think high-end shopping on “Eat Street” (Jalan Kayu Aya), sunset cocktails at Ku De Ta or Potato Head Beach Club, and some of the island’s finest dining.
• Canggu: The current cultural nucleus. Must-visits include the Love Anchor market for boho fashion, Berawa or Batu Bolong beaches for surf and sunset, and the Tanah Lot Temple (just north of Canggu) for a stunning sea temple visit at sunset (though it will be crowded).

Uluwatu, Nusa Islands, and North Bali

Uluwatu

The rugged, dramatic Bukit Peninsula. Don’t miss the breathtaking Uluwatu Temple perched on a 70-meter cliff. Stay for the nightly Kecak Fire Dance performance as the sun sets behind the ocean. Seek out hidden Bali beaches like Padang Padang (from Eat Pray Love), Bingin (for its cool cliffside cafes), or Nyang Nyang (for a secluded adventure).

Nusa Islands

• Nusa Penida: Raw, untamed, and spectacularly beautiful. See the dinosaur-spine look of Kelingking Beach, the natural infinity pool of Angel’s Billabong, and the stunning Broken Beach. Roads are rough; consider a guided tour with a driver.
• Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan: More laid-back than Penida. Perfect for snorkeling with manta rays, exploring the yellow bridge to Ceningan, and visiting the iconic Blue Lagoon cliff jump spot.

North Bali

• Mount Batur: An active volcano where a pre-dawn trek rewards you with a sunrise above the clouds. A challenging but unforgettable experience.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these are vast, sweeping, and less commercialized than Tegallalang.
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: The iconic water temple on the shores of Lake Bratan in the Bedugul highlands. It’s cool, misty, and ethereally beautiful.

Things to Do in Bali

This is the core of your “Bali things to do” list, the actionable adventures and experiences that will fill your days with wonder. The things to do in Bali Indonesia are wonderfully diverse, catering to every energy level and interest.

Bali Beaches, Surfing, and Water Activities

• For Surfing: Kuta/Legian for absolute beginners, Canggu (Batu Bolong, Berawa) for progressing intermediates, Uluwatu (Padang Padang, Uluwatu, Bingin) for experienced surfers hunting barrels.
• For Swimming & Sunbathing: Sanur and Nusa Dua offer calm, clear waters. Jimbaran Bay has a lovely, sweeping sandy beach.
• For Dramatic Scenery: The cliff-lined coves of Uluwatu (like Suluban Beach) or the hidden gems of Nusa Penida.

Temples, Culture, and Traditional Ceremonies

This is the spiritual core of your visiting Bali experience.

• Major Temples: Beyond Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, visit Besakih, the immense “Mother Temple” on the slopes of Mount Agung, and Lempuyang Temple, famous for its “Gates of Heaven” shot with Mount Agung in the background (prepare for very long queues for that photo).
• Traditional Dance: Attend a performance. The Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu is breathtaking for its setting. In Ubud, the Ubud Palace and other venues host regular shows of Legong, Barong, and other classical dances.
• Ceremonies: If you’re lucky, you’ll stumble upon a local temple ceremony or a massive, colorful procession. Observe from a respectful distance, dress modestly, and never use a flash or be intrusive. It’s a privilege to witness.

Nature, Rice Terraces, and Volcanoes

• Rice Terraces: Wander beyond the viewpoints. Many terraces offer peaceful walks where you can hear the water flowing through the subak (the ancient irrigation system). Jatiluwih is perfect for a long, scenic walk or bike ride.
• Volcanoes: The Mount Batur sunrise trek is a classic. It’s a moderate 2-hour hike in darkness. Mount Agung is a much more serious and strenuous full-day (or overnight) climb that should only be attempted by fit, experienced hikers with a guide. Respect these sacred mountains.
• Waterfalls: Bali is dotted with them. Sekumpul is arguably the most beautiful (a trek is required), Gitgit is easily accessible, and Tibumana is a serene, lesser-visited option for a refreshing dip.

Travel Guide Bali for Food and Dining

Traditional Balinese Food

Balinese cuisine, built on fresh ingredients, complex spice pastes (basa gede), and coconut, features must-try dishes like Nasi Campur (a rice plate with assorted sides), Babi Guling (spit-roasted suckling pig), Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck), and Sate Lilit (minced fish satay on lemongrass).

Best Restaurants, Cafes, and Street Food

• Warungs: These are your best friends. They are small, family-run eateries serving authentic, cheap, and delicious local food. Look for busy ones with locals. Warung Nia in Sanur or Warung Local in Canggu are great starts.
• Cafes: Canggu and Ubud are packed with aesthetically beautiful, health-conscious cafes serving everything from flawless flat whites and dragonfruit smoothie bowls to avocado toast and vegan burgers. Coffee Cartel, Crate Cafe, Kynd Community are icons.
• High-End Dining: Seminyak leads the charge with internationally acclaimed restaurants like Merah Putih (Indonesian), Sarong (Asian fusion), and Métis. Ubud has its own gems like Locavore (progressive tasting menus).

Food Safety Tips for Travelers

• Eat at busy places with high turnover – the food is fresher.
• Be cautious with raw salads and unpeeled fruits from very local street stalls, as the washing water might be questionable.
• Ice in established restaurants, cafes, and bars is almost always fine (it’s commercially produced “tube ice”).
• Bottled water is essential. Use it for brushing your teeth as well. Consider a refillable bottle with a filter (like a GRAYL or Lifestraw) to reduce plastic waste.

Bali Travel Costs and Budget Tips

Here’s a realistic breakdown of Bali travel costs to help you plan.

Average Daily Budget

• Budget Backpacker: $25-$40 USD per day. This covers a dorm bed or basic guesthouse, all meals at local warungs, scooter rental or bike transportation, and free or very cheap activities (Bali beaches, temple visits).
• Mid-Range Traveler: $60-$120 USD per day. This gets you a lovely private room in a boutique hotel or a simple private villa, a mix of warung meals and nicer cafe/restaurant dinners, private driver days for sightseeing, and paid activities like yoga classes or surf lessons.
• Luxury Traveler: $200+ USD per day. The sky’s the limit. This includes luxury villas or 5-star resorts, fine dining every night, private guides, spa treatments daily, and premium experiences.

How Much Accommodation, Food, and Transport Cost

• Accommodation: Hostel dorm bed: $8-$15. Basic guesthouse (losmen): $20-$40. Nice boutique hotel with pool: $50-$120. Luxury private pool villa: $150-$500+.
• Food & Drink: Street snack: $1-$2. Warung meal with drink: $2-$5. Cafe brunch or lunch: $6-$12. Nice restaurant dinner (main course): $15-$30+. Local Bintang beer: $2-$3. Cocktail at a nice bar: $8-$15.
• Transport: Gojek/Grab scooter ride (short trip): $1-$2. Gojek/Grab car ride: $3-$7. Full-day private driver (8-10 hours): IDR 600,000-800,000 ($40-$55). Scooter rental per day: $5-$7.

Tips to Save Money While Traveling in Bali

• Eat Local: The single biggest budget-saver. A warung meal is a fraction of cafe prices and is more authentic.
• Negotiate Politely: At markets and with some transport (not meters or apps), negotiation is expected. Start at about 30-40% of the asking price and meet in the middle with a smile.
• Avoid Bottled Water: Invest in a quality filtered water bottle. Many hotels and cafes have refill stations. Saves money and the planet.
• Travel Off-Peak: As discussed, shoulder and low seasons offer significantly better accommodation rates.

Bali Travel Tips and Cultural Etiquette

Here are the must-know Bali travel tips for etiquette and safety.

Local Customs and Dress Code (Bali Cultural Etiquette)

Understanding Bali cultural etiquette is paramount.

• Temples: Always wear a sarong and sash (a selendang) to cover your legs. These are almost always available for rent or donation at major temples. Keep shoulders covered as well. Women who are menstruating are traditionally asked not to enter temples.
• Heads and Feet: The head is considered the sacred, highest part of the body. Never touch anyone (especially a child) on the head. Conversely, the feet are the lowest and “dirtiest.” Never point the soles of your feet at people, altars, or sacred objects. Sit cross-legged or with your feet tucked beside you when in temples.
• Public Displays of Affection: Kissing and heavy hugging in public are frowned upon. Holding hands is generally fine.

Safety Tips and Common Scams

For vehicle safety, never leave valuables in your scooter and use all locks. Be vigilant against bag/phone snatching, especially at night. Only use authorized money changers and always count your cash on the spot. A common scam involves touts falsely claiming an attraction is “closed for a ceremony” to redirect you; politely decline and check official hours.

Responsible and Sustainable Travel

• Plastic Crisis: Bali has a severe plastic waste problem. Refuse single-use plastic bags, straws, and bottles whenever possible. Carry your own tote bag, metal straw, and refillable bottle.
• Ethical Wildlife: Avoid any attraction that offers direct contact with wild animals (like riding elephants, holding drugged civets for “luwak coffee,” or posing with tigers or primates). These are unethical and often cruel. Support genuine sanctuaries like Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre.
• Water Conservation: Bali faces critical water stress. Take short showers, reuse your hotel towels, and be mindful of your usage, especially in private villas with pools.

Bali Travel Guide for Different Travelers

Solo Travelers in Bali

Bali is arguably one of the easiest and most social places in the world to travel solo. Stay in sociable hostels in Canggu (like The Farm Hostel) or Ubud. Join group activities: surf camps, yoga classes, group hikes up Batur, or cooking classes. Co-working spaces in Canggu (Dojo, Outpost) are great for meeting other digital nomads. Safety is high, but always exercise standard solo travel caution at night and with new acquaintances.

Bali for Couples and Honeymooners

Pure, unadulterated romance. Book a private pool villa overlooking the jungle in Ubud or a clifftop suite in Uluwatu. Enjoy sunset dinners at rock-top cafes in Uluwatu or on the sand in Jimbaran. Indulge in couples’ spa treatments, take a private cruise at sunset, or simply relax in your villa. It’s a classic, dreamy vacation in Bali for lovebirds.

Bali for Families and Digital Nomads

• Families: Focus on areas with calm beaches, good facilities, and a relaxed vibe. Sanur (with its beach path), Nusa Dua (resort amenities), or the quieter parts of Canggu (like near Pererenan Beach) are ideal. Look for villas or resorts with pools and kids’ clubs. Activities like the Bali Safari Park, Waterbom Park, and easy cultural shows are great for kids.
• Digital Nomads: Canggu is your undisputed capital, with Ubud a close second for a more zen focus. You’ll find an endless array of co-working spaces with strong wifi (Dojo, Tropical Nomad, Outpost in Canggu; Hubud in Ubud), countless cafes perfect for working, and a massive, welcoming community of remote workers. Visa-wise, many use the extendable VoA or explore social/cultural visas for longer stays.

Day Trips and Itineraries in Bali

Popular Day Trips From Bali

• Nusa Penida: For jaw-dropping, rugged coastal scenery. A long day, but worth it. Due to rough roads, booking a tour with a driver/guide on the island is recommended.
• The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno): The car-free paradise. Fast boats from Padang Bai or Serangan take about 1.5-2 hours. Go for incredible snorkeling, laid-back vibes, and a potential overnight stay.
• East Bali Tour: A fantastic loop including the royal water palace of Tirta Gangga, the stunning Lempuyang Temple (famous “Gates of Heaven”—arrive extremely early to avoid 3+ hour queues for the photo), and the traditional village of Tenganan.
• West Bali National Park & Menjangan Island: For nature lovers and divers. A longer trip, often combined with an overnight, to snorkel or dive the pristine walls of Menjangan.

3-Day, 5-Day, and 7-Day Bali Itineraries

Here is a practical table outlining core Bali itinerary options. These assume you are flying into Denpasar (DPS).

Days	Focus	Recommended Itinerary
3 Days	A Quick Taste of Coast & Culture	Day 1: Arrive, transfer to Seminyak/Canggu. Beach time, sunset at a club.Day 2: Day trip to Ubud: Monkey Forest, rice terraces, Tirta Empul. Return for dinner.Day 3: Surf lesson or yoga, last-minute shopping, depart.
5 Days	The Classic Culture & Coast Split	Days 1-2: Ubud’s highlights: Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge, a cooking class, Tirta Empul, and Tegallalang.Day 3: Transfer to Seminyak/Canggu via Tanah Lot. Beach time and explore.Day 4: Surf lesson, pool relaxation, sunset drinks.Day 5: Final market visit, swim, and departure.
7 Days	The Essential Bali Experience	Days 1-3: Ubud – Sunrise Batur trek, villages, spa.Days 4-5: Nusa Lembongan – Snorkel with mantas, scooter exploration.Days 6-7: Uluwatu – Temple, Kecak dance, beaches, cliff dining.

Combining Bali With Nearby Islands

• Lombok & the Gilis: Fly or take a fast boat to Lombok for more pristine beaches and the epic hike up Mount Rinjani. The Gilis are a must-add.
• Java: Fly to Yogyakarta (JOG) to see the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur, and the Hindu temple complex of Prambanan.
• Komodo & Flores: Fly to Labuan Bajo on Flores for a liveaboard or day trips to Komodo National Park to see the famous Komodo dragons and some of the world’s best diving.

What to Pack for Bali

Clothing and Essentials

• Light, breathable, and modest clothing: Linen, cotton, rayon. Loose-fitting pants, long skirts, maxi dresses.
• A good quality sarong: Your most versatile item. Use for temple visits, as a beach cover-up, a scarf on chilly plane/AC buses, or a picnic blanket.
• Swimwear: Bring at least two suits—you’ll live in them.
• Sturdy sandals (like Tevas or Birkenstocks) and comfortable walking shoes (for hiking or city exploring).
• Light rain jacket or poncho (essential Nov-Mar, useful year-round).
• Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and reef-safe, high-SPF sunscreen (the sun is intense).

Health, Tech, and Travel Gear

• International Driving Permit (IDP) if planning to rent a scooter.
• Universal power adapter (Indonesia uses Europlug Type C/F, 230V).
• Portable power bank for long days out.
• Waterproof phone pouch/dry bag for beaches, boats, and sudden downpours.
• Basic first-aid kit, insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, hand sanitizer.
• Reusable water bottle with a built-in filter (e.g., GRAYL)—a game-changer for health and sustainability.
• Earplugs and an eye mask for light sleepers (roosters are Bali’s unofficial alarm clock).

What Not to Bring

• Expensive jewelry or flashy watches you don’t need.
• Heaps of single-use plastic items.
• A ton of heavy Bali guide books (use your phone).
• A rigid, over-scheduled mindset. Bali operates on “rubber time” (jam karet). Things may not start promptly, traffic will happen, and plans may change.

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