Bali FAQ — 50 Most Asked Questions Answered

Understanding Bali's visa requirements is crucial for smooth entry into Indonesia. The rules have evolved significantly in recent years, so make sure you're working with current information. As of 2026, citizens of most countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Ngurah Rai International Airport for a fee of IDR 500,000 (approximately $32 USD). This VOA is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office. For stays longer than 60 days, you'll need to arrange a different visa type before arrival. Always check the latest requirements with the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country, as regulations can change. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and have at least two blank pages.

Bali caters to every budget level, from shoestring backpackers to ultra-luxury travellers. The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and as of 2026, exchange rates hover around 15,500-16,000 IDR to 1 USD. For a comfortable mid-range trip, budget approximately $80-150 USD per day for a couple, covering accommodation, meals, transport, and activities. Budget travellers can get by on $30-50 per person per day staying in guesthouses and eating at local warungs. Luxury travellers should budget $300-500+ per day for high-end villas, fine dining, and premium experiences. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas but charge foreign transaction fees. Carry some cash for small purchases, temple donations, and areas where cards aren't accepted.

Bali is generally safe for tourists, with violent crime against visitors being rare. The most common safety concerns are petty theft (watch your belongings on beaches and in crowded areas), traffic accidents (especially involving scooters), and tourist scams (overcharging at money changers, fake tour operators). For health, Bali's tap water is not safe to drink — always use bottled or filtered water. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever exist, so use repellent and consider long sleeves at dawn and dusk. Bring basic medications from home as pharmacy options can be limited. Travel insurance is absolutely essential and should cover medical evacuation, as serious medical cases are typically transferred to Singapore. The BIMC Hospital in Kuta and Siloam Hospital in Denpasar offer international-standard care for most situations.

Transport in Bali is straightforward once you understand your options. The most popular choice for tourists is hiring a private driver for day trips, which costs approximately IDR 500,000-700,000 ($32-45 USD) for 8-10 hours including fuel. This is the most comfortable and flexible way to explore the island. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek offer affordable transport within urban areas, though they're restricted in some tourist zones due to taxi mafia regulations. Renting a scooter is the cheapest option at IDR 70,000-100,000 ($5-7 USD) per day, but only recommended if you're an experienced rider with a valid international driving licence. Taxis are available through the reliable Blue Bird company — always insist on the meter. For airport transfers, pre-book through your hotel or a trusted provider to avoid the notorious airport taxi hassle.

Bali's culture is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, and showing respect is important. When visiting temples, you must wear a sarong and sash — these are usually available for rent or loan at temple entrances. Women who are menstruating are traditionally asked not to enter temple grounds. Remove your shoes before entering temple areas. Never touch anyone's head (it's considered sacred) or point with your index finger — use your right hand or thumb instead. When receiving or giving something, use your right hand or both hands. Balinese people are incredibly warm and welcoming, but they appreciate visitors who make an effort to understand and respect their customs. Learning a few basic Indonesian phrases like 'terima kasih' (thank you) and 'permisi' (excuse me) goes a long way in building connection.