Bali, Indonesia
"Discover spiritual serenity in tropical paradise"
Bali, the Island of the Gods, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant arts scene. From terraced rice paddies to volcanic mountains and pristine beaches, Bali captivates visitors with its natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
Bali at a glance
- Best time to go
- Roughly April or May to October is the drier season, with July and August the busiest. The shoulder months (April to May and September to October) are often recommended for mostly dry weather with fewer crowds. November to March is wetter and more humid, with afternoon downpours and a chance of flooding in low-lying areas, but fewer tourists.
- How long to stay
- We'd suggest about a week for one or two bases, and ten days to two weeks if you'd like to combine Ubud, the coast and an island such as Nusa Penida.
- Who it's for
- Travellers who want culture, beaches, rice terraces and wellness in one island, and who are comfortable with busy hotspots.
- Might not be for you if
- You want a quiet island in July and August. Temple etiquette also matters in Bali, and inappropriate behaviour at temples can bring fines.
- Worth knowing right now
- Bali charges a separate tourism levy on top of visa costs, and asks you to complete an online arrival card before you fly. Details below.
The Bali shortlist, illustrated
Must-seeUluwatu Temple
Must-seeTegallalang Rice Terraces
Must-seeUbud Monkey Forest
Local cuisineNasi goreng
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season)
Apr – Oct (Dry Season)
Best time to visit. Sunny days, lower humidity, ideal for beaches and temple visits.
Jul – Aug (Peak)
Busiest period with highest prices. Book well in advance for popular hotels and tours.
Nov – Mar (Wet Season)
Afternoon showers but lush green landscapes. Great deals and fewer tourists.
Mar – Apr (Nyepi)
Balinese New Year — the island shuts down for a day of silence. Unique cultural experience.
Getting Around
Bali has no public rail system. Transport is mainly by scooter, private driver, or ride-hailing apps.
🛵 Scooter Rental
The most popular way for adventurous travelers. Cheap and gives total freedom. International license needed.
🚗 Private Driver
Hire a local driver for $35-50/day including car and fuel. Reliable and knowledgeable.
📱 Grab / Gojek
Ride-hailing apps for short trips. Cheap, convenient, and widely available.
🚤 Speedboats
Fast boats connect Bali to the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, and Lombok.
💡 Hire a private driver for full-day temple tours — they know the best routes and can navigate Bali's chaotic traffic.
Suggested Itineraries
Arrival in Ubud
Settle in, Campuhan Ridge walk, welcome dinner.
Ubud Culture
Rice terraces, art villages, Balinese cooking class.
Mount Batur Sunrise
Pre-dawn volcano trek, hot springs, coffee plantation.
Transfer to Nusa Penida
Speedboat, Kelingking viewpoint, Angel's Billabong at sunset.
Nusa Penida East
Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, snorkel with mantas at Manta Point.
Uluwatu
Speedboat back, transfer to Uluwatu, temple and Kecak dance.
Beach & Departure
Bingin or Padang Padang beach, transfer to Denpasar.
🗺️ Overwhelmed? Pick your three most-wants and let the rest be delightful maybes. Sparks over stress, always.
Highlights
Must See
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Uluwatu Temple
Local Cuisine
Insider Tip
Dress respectfully when visiting temples - sarongs are often required and sometimes provided.
Bali travel questions, answered
When is the best time to visit Bali?
Roughly April or May to October is the drier season. April to May and September to October are often called the sweet spot, with July and August the busiest and priciest. The wetter season runs roughly November to March, and late December to February can be the wettest, with flooding in low-lying areas such as around Kuta and Denpasar.
What do you need to pay or fill in before arriving in Bali?
Many nationalities need a visa on arrival or an e-VOA, which allows a stay of about 30 days and can be extended once. You also pay a separate one-time Bali tourism levy through the official Love Bali site, and you complete the free All Indonesia arrival card online shortly before you arrive (generally within 72 hours). Your passport should be valid for at least six months. Fees and eligibility change, and some nationalities enter visa-free, so check the official immigration e-visa portal for the current amount and your passport's eligibility.
Is Bali worth visiting in the rainy season?
Often yes, if you're flexible. Showers commonly arrive in the afternoon or evening, the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists and lower prices. Late December is the exception, when weather can be unsettled and prices rise for the holidays.
How many days do you need in Bali?
About a week works for one or two bases. Ten days to two weeks lets you add a day trip or an island such as Nusa Penida without rushing.
Details last checked 20 September 2026.
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