Travel Guide To Bali: History, Helpful Safety & Travel Tips

Indonesia

Capital City: Jakarta

Tourism bureau:

balitourismboard.org

When is the best time to visit Bali?

April, May, June and September are generally considered to be the best months to travel to Bali, just before and just after the high season.

It's slightly less humid, less crowded, and accommodation prices can be significantly cheaper than during the peak season travel dates.

Bali is approximately 8 degrees south of the equator so you can expect a tropical, warm and humid climate all year round with two main distinctive seasons: the Dry Season and the Wet or Rainy Season.

During the Dry season, May to October, the western side of the peninsula creates some of the world's best waves for surfers.

The best advice is to check the estimated weather during time of travel and pack accordingly.

Transport Information

Most travellers visiting Bali will fly into Denpasar airport. To get around in Bali, metered taxis are the safest and most comfortable option over public transport. You can book a taxi online, ask your hotel concierge to arrange one for you, or usually flag one down in busy areas. The most reputable taxi company is Blue Bird Taxi, which uses blue vehicles. Drivers speak reasonable English and use the meter at all times. You can also rent a moped or motorcycle, but the roads in Bali can be dangerous for inexperienced drivers.

Bali's Average Annual Temperature

27 degrees
Bali's Average Annual Rainfall

2581 mm

Climate Information

Bali’s tropical monsoon climate has two distinct seasons: the dry season from May to September, and the wet season from October to April.

Most travellers prefer to visit during the dry season. However, even in the wetter monsoon season, you can usually expect sunshine for most of the day.

Bali is located only 890 km south of the equator and has a very high level of humidity, which means the days often feel much hotter.

The daytime temperature in Bali averages between 27 degrees to 32 degrees in the southern lowlands and around 21 degrees to 27 degrees in the higher mountain regions. Keep in mind that the mountains can get pretty chilly at night.

Official Holidays

January 1 - New Year's Day
January 3 - The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
February 19 - Chinese Lunar New Year's Day
March 21 - Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year
March/April - Good Friday
May 1 - International Labor Day
May 14 - Ascension Day of Jesus Christ
May 16 - Ascension Day of the Prophet Muhammad
June 2 - Waisak Day (Buddha's Anniversary)
July 20 - Idul Fitri Day 1
July 21 - Idul Fitri Day 2
August 17 - Indonesian Independence Day
September 24 - Muslim Day of Sacrifice (Idul Adha)
October 14 - Muharram/Islamic New Year
December 25 - Christmas Day

Why travel to Bali?

Bali is an island paradise with a diverse offering of attractions to suit all ages and travel budgets, ranging from luxurious villa resorts, family friendly theme parks, and some of the best surf conditions in the world.

Bali is probably one of the most famous tropical holiday destinations for its beautiful beaches. There's a good reason it's called 'the island of the gods'!

Things to do in Bali

Soak up the sunshine on a beach in Bali
Take the family to the Waterbom or Keramas water theme parks
Explore the world famous Hindu temple compounds and ancient historic sites
Pick up some bargain trinkets and souvenirs at the local markets
Hang out with wild macaques at the Ubud Monkey Forest
Relax by the resort pool bar with a cocktail.

Travel Tips

Avoid the dreaded 'Bali Belly' by choosing reputable restaurants with good hygiene and a fast turnover.
Eat only well-cooked foods, forgo raw fruits and vegetables which may have been rinsed in local tap water.
Skip ice cubes in your drinks.
Keep in mind that animals such as monkeys and stray dogs in Bali can carry rabies and other diseases.

Beautiful Bali Beaches

Bali is a tropical island paradise which is so beautiful, it's commonly referred to as the 'Island of the Gods'.

With its varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and lush rice terraces all providing a picturesque backdrop to its colourful, deeply spiritual and unique culture, Bali has something to offer all types of visitors from backpackers on a shoestring budget, through to those seeking a luxury escape.

As one of the world's most popular holiday destinations, you'll find beautiful beaches, some of the best surf conditions in the world, friendly locals, a stunning visual culture, world-class reef diving, and many religious sites and archaeological attractions to explore. In fact, Balinese temple design is a unique art form of the island and a very involved subject of study.

As one of the world's top tourist destinations, you will find ample opportunities for shopping, relaxing on various beaches enjoying cocktails, or joining in one of the many local cooking classes.

Also, no trip to Bali is complete without having attended at least one surf lesson! The waves around Bali are world famous and with its warm tropical waters, it’s the perfect place to join the tribe of surfers that flock here.

Bali is a must-see destination for everyone, no matter your age, travel style or budget.

For more information on Bali, visit the Bali Tourism Website.

Bali - Indonesia - Bali Ash Cloud

What to do

Are you overseas and need emergency medical help?