Bali is generally safe, but road accidents, scams and some health issues are the main risks.
What to watch out for
- Scooter accidents: a leading cause of tourist injuries.
- Monkeys at temples and forests, which snatch glasses and phones.
- Methanol-spiked alcohol: avoid unlabelled or cheap cocktails.
- Money-changer short-changing: count your cash and use reputable changers.
- 'Bali belly': drink bottled water and be careful with ice.
Areas to be careful in
Nightlife areas in Kuta and Legian are rowdy; keep an eye on bags and drinks.
Local laws and etiquette
- Dress modestly in temples and wear a sarong and sash.
- Drugs carry harsh penalties, including long prison terms.
- Don't touch offerings on the ground.
Health
Drink bottled water, use mosquito repellent, and consider travel insurance that covers scooter riding and medical evacuation.
Emergency numbers
110 for police, 118 or 119 for an ambulance, 112 on a mobile.
Save the number in your phone before you travel, and keep a copy of your passport and insurance details somewhere separate.
Prices, ticket rules and safety conditions change. Treat this as a starting point and check official sources and your government's travel advice before you go.
Bali safety questions
Is Bali safe for tourists?
Bali is generally safe, but road accidents, scams and some health issues are the main risks.
What are the most common scams in Bali?
Scooter accidents: a leading cause of tourist injuries. Monkeys at temples and forests, which snatch glasses and phones. Methanol-spiked alcohol: avoid unlabelled or cheap cocktails.
What is the emergency number in Bali?
110 for police, 118 or 119 for an ambulance, 112 on a mobile.