Bali Safety Guide
Is Bali Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Bali and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Bali crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Bali, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, you'll find Bali quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. Evenings require increased attention, though main tourist areas remain generally secure.
Robberies and Theft: moderate
Armed Robberies: low
Assaults: low
Corruption: heightened
Drug Issues: moderate
Beggars: low
Vandalism: moderate
Theft from Cars: low
Car Theft: low
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Transport Price Inflation (High Risk) - Drivers of unofficial taxis often quote inflated prices, particularly from Ngurah Rai International Airport to popular destinations like Kuta and Seminyak. Always opt for official taxi stands and confirm that the driver will use the meter or negotiate a fixed fare beforehand.
Fake Tour Guides (Medium Risk) - In busy tourist areas such as Ubud and Tegallalang Rice Terraces, individuals may pose as licensed tour guides and offer services at excessively high prices. Verify their credentials and always choose officially recognized guides or facilities.
Restaurant Billing Trick (Medium Risk) - Restaurants in Bali may present an unexpectedly high bill, sometimes including hidden charges for “service” or “extras” not discussed upfront. Always ask for clarification about charges before ordering, and request a detailed receipt upon payment.
Money Exchange Scams (Medium Risk) - Some currency exchange booths, often found in tourist-heavy spots like Seminyak, may advertise attractive rates but manipulate the exchange by using sleight of hand or charge hidden fees. Use reputable exchange counters and always count your money before leaving the booth.
Street Vendor Overcharging (Low Risk) - Vendors around popular markets like Ubud Art Market may attempt to charge foreigners significantly more for local crafts and souvenirs. Negotiate prices fiercely and be aware of local price standards to avoid being overcharged.
Fake Charities (Low Risk) - Tourists may encounter individuals claiming to collect for charity, especially around religious sites such as Uluwatu Temple. Always verify the authenticity of such claims and refrain from donating unless you are sure of the organization's legitimacy.
Fake Tour Guides (Medium Risk) - In busy tourist areas such as Ubud and Tegallalang Rice Terraces, individuals may pose as licensed tour guides and offer services at excessively high prices. Verify their credentials and always choose officially recognized guides or facilities.
Restaurant Billing Trick (Medium Risk) - Restaurants in Bali may present an unexpectedly high bill, sometimes including hidden charges for “service” or “extras” not discussed upfront. Always ask for clarification about charges before ordering, and request a detailed receipt upon payment.
Money Exchange Scams (Medium Risk) - Some currency exchange booths, often found in tourist-heavy spots like Seminyak, may advertise attractive rates but manipulate the exchange by using sleight of hand or charge hidden fees. Use reputable exchange counters and always count your money before leaving the booth.
Street Vendor Overcharging (Low Risk) - Vendors around popular markets like Ubud Art Market may attempt to charge foreigners significantly more for local crafts and souvenirs. Negotiate prices fiercely and be aware of local price standards to avoid being overcharged.
Fake Charities (Low Risk) - Tourists may encounter individuals claiming to collect for charity, especially around religious sites such as Uluwatu Temple. Always verify the authenticity of such claims and refrain from donating unless you are sure of the organization's legitimacy.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
Monkeys love attention, although they are quite spoiled by it. They feel like they own the place and interact with guests shamelessly. Therefore, it's important to follow safety rules: hide your jewelry, hats, glasses, and shiny items. In the blink of an eye, a monkey can snatch your baseball cap.
Those in the know say you can enter the forest for both a fee and for free. The first option is to pay at the ticket office. An adult ticket costs about 1.30 USD. As for the second option, you can enter for free after 6 PM when the ticket office closes. Just put on a serious face and go for it.
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First rule – SUNSCREEN!!! As soon as you step out of your hotel/villa/bungalow, slather it on, spray it everywhere (don't forget your face and even your ears!). It's best to use one with at least SPF 50, no matter the weather. I've seen people get burned just from a quick 10-minute stroll on the beach or sitting in the shade for half an hour. Not to mention riding a scooter. One guy I recently photographed is still suffering from his sunburned legs, and believe me, it’s not attractive and incredibly painful! So take care of yourself. The Balinese sun can be ruthless.
The second important rule – if you hop on a scooter, wear a helmet. That's it. No need for explanation. This rule is written in blood and shattered heads. Five minutes of looking cool isn't worth the risk to your head or face in case of a fall or collision. There have been incidents on the island. Just please think before you act while your head is intact.
The third rule also relates to scooters. Do not wave your phone in front of the locals. Yes, most Balinese people are wonderful. But, like everywhere, there are those who steal phones from tourists. Just stay alert.
The fourth rule – respect the locals. Always remember, we are just guests here. This is their home, their island, their culture and habits. It might seem strange or even annoying to us sometimes. They are just different. Accepting this fact makes it so much easier to interact with the locals. I always rely on a genuine smile, laughter, and even poking fun at myself as a silly tourist who doesn’t understand the local language. It’s quite amusing! Once I stopped getting annoyed, I found a warm response from the locals. They genuinely want to help. They might not always be able to, or fully understand, but they are always willing to try. »