Travelling to any new destination comes with its own risks. Not all areas may be safe or friendly for tourists, least of all for solo travellers or women. There have been multiple instances of safety threats in Bali, as many have probably seen online.
Between car crashes and street fights, scams and tourist accidents, you may be worrying, is Bali safe?
It’s generally safe to visit Bali, as crime rates on the island are considerably low compared to other destinations. What matters is that as a visitor, you’re prepared to face any safety threats that may come your way. For a glimpse of what to expect, here are some Bali travel precautions and how to protect yourself from the safety risks.
Common crimes and dangers in Bali
The dangers of Bali are similar to what await you at other popular tourist destinations around the world.
Tourist scams
In Bali, tourist prices are often higher than prices for locals. Vendors may knock prices up 2-3 times higher than the actual price tag. This is common in locally-run shops, beaches, and renowned tourist spots.
To protect yourself
It’s acceptable to haggle at most local establishments such as open air markets and beachside vendors, as long as you bargain respectfully. A pair of Balinese-print beach shorts doesn’t cost Rp.100,000, but it doesn’t cost Rp.15,000 either!
When booking a tour, use a reputable tour or travel company. Check the reviews online before deciding on a service or making a deposit.
If you’re showing up to temples and museums without prior booking, be wary of anyone offering you tour guide services for free. They may say so up front, but charges may incur along the way.
Finally, when paying anywhere with cash, make sure you receive the correct amount of change.
Accommodation rental scams
Whichever travel site or app you’re booking from, be wary of accommodation scams. There have been many cases where villas turn out to be non-existent or in a condition that is way worse than the photos on the site.
To protect yourself
Be sure to book from verified sites and apps. Check reviews from previous guests – if anyone has had bad experiences, they usually recount it in detail!
If you’re in direct contact with the villa owner or staff, don’t rush to pay the deposit if they ask for any. Wait until you’ve done your research and can be sure of the accommodation’s validity.
Food and water safety
Travellers from all over the world have horror stories to tell about the infamous “Bali belly.” Some say it’s the spiciness of local cuisine, some say it’s the lack of cleanliness. The effects of Balinese food on digestion have left people wondering, is Bali safe?
To protect yourself
This gut response to Bali’s food and water depends greatly on where and what you eat. Keep yourself safe from Bali health risks by drinking bottle water only and avoiding tap water.
Before arriving, prepare yourself by getting to know the medical facilities near your accommodation. This will help in the worst case scenario of any emergencies.
When dining out, be wary of the spice levels. If you know you can’t handle any heat, ask for the non-spicy option wherever available.
While locals will tell you that the best food is from street vendors and markets, play it safe by eating only in clean establishments. You can also check reviews beforehand.
For guaranteed delicious and clean Indonesian and Balinese cuisine, trust Merah Putih restaurant. This fine dining establishment in the heart of Seminyak is sure to keep you safe from Bali belly with exquisite spins on traditional local recipes. Book a table with special gift vouchers today.
Pickpockets
Busy tourist locations like beaches, open air markets, temples, and popular Instagram photo spots, may be first on your list. However, be aware that these places pose greater threat of pickpockets.
To protect yourself
Keep alert at all times when walking along these areas, especially if you’re alone. At the beach, keep an eye on your things on the sand and don’t leave them unattended while you go swimming.
Valuable items like your wallet, phone, and passport, should be on you at all times, ideally in a bag that is within your eyesight. An anti-theft bag may be the solution for those of you digital nomads who bring your laptop around on the island.
Street fights
Over the last few years, videos of street fights in Bali have circulated online, making tourists question whether Bali is safe to visit. These fights are often between fellow travellers or between tourists and locals, usually involving drunk men. Sadly, these instances still happen in Bali’s nightlife hubs like Canggu and Uluwatu.
To protect yourself
When driving or walking at night, be aware of your surroundings, particularly where it’s crowded. Stay out of any altercations that you pass by and don’t get yourself involved.
If things get out of hand, report to the Bali police hotline at +62 110. There are often also pecalang in the area – these are Balinese men from each village who have been entrusted with maintaining security and tradition in their respective locations.
Is transportation in Bali safe?
With the number of road accidents in Bali, you may be left worrying what mode of transportation is safe. Being on the road itself is already a risk; however, mobility on the island is safe as long as you also take the necessary precautions.
When on a Grab or Gojek bike or car
If your main mode of transport is by ride-hailing service, always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re on the back of a motorbike, don’t be on your phone. Keep your belongings close to you.
To avoid being misled, always know where you’re going. If the roads are starting to look sketchy, you can bring out the GPS on your phone so you know that the driver is bringing you the right way.
When driving yourself
If you’re planning to drive yourself around Bali, whether that’s on a motorbike or a car, be sure to rent from verified vendors. Check the state of the vehicle before bringing it with you to be sure that all its parts are working and it’s safe to drive.
On the road, the danger is often other drivers. Stay in your lane, follow all traffic rules, and be wary of those driving recklessly.
Is Bali safe at night?
Bali’s most crowded areas are well-lit in the evening. However, you’ll find less street lighting further into the island off the main roads. As with travelling and driving anywhere at night, be careful, stay alert, and avoid poorly-lit areas.
When in crowded places, be wary of commotions going on around you and leave whenever you feel unsafe.
Is Bali safe for female solo travellers?
Backpackers and solo travellers may worry about travelling to Bali alone. However, rest assured that any violent crime you may occasionally see online is the exception, not the norm.
To ensure your safety, don’t disclose the fact that you’re travelling alone. Bring self-defence tools like pepper spray with you if needed, and if you’re going out in the evening, try not to go alone.
FAQ
It’s generally safe to visit Bali, as crime rates on the island are considerably low compared to other destinations. What matters is that as a visitor, you’re prepared to face any safety threats that may come your way.
Bali’s most crowded areas are well-lit in the evening. However, you’ll find less street lighting further into the island off the main roads. As with travelling and driving anywhere at night, be careful, stay alert, and avoid poorly-lit areas.
Backpackers and solo travellers may worry about travelling to Bali alone. However, rest assured that any violent crime you may occasionally see online is the exception, not the norm. To ensure your safety, don’t disclose the fact that you’re travelling alone. Bring self-defence tools like pepper spray with you if needed, and if you’re going out in the evening, try not to go alone.
Travellers from all over the world have horror stories to tell about the infamous “Bali belly.”
This gut response to Bali’s food and water depends greatly on where and what you eat. Keep yourself safe from Bali health risks by drinking bottle water only and avoiding tap water.
