Travelling to Bali in 2025 is easier than ever, but a little local know‑how will save you time, money and stress. Use these practical tips to make the most of your island getaway.
Visa on Arrival (VoA) – Citizens of 90 + countries can buy a 30‑day VoA for IDR 500 000 at the airport or online through the official e‑VOA site. One 30‑day extension is possible for the same fee.
Tourist levy – Every foreign visitor pays a one‑time IDR 150 000 “Love Bali” levy. Pay online before you fly or at airport counters to skip queues.
Passport validity – Make sure you have at least six months remaining plus one blank page.
Skip‑the‑line tip – Upload your passport photo and buy the e‑VOA and levy online; immigration now has separate express lanes for holders.
Dry season (May – September) offers blue skies, good surf and calmer seas. Peak crowds and prices hit in July–August.
Shoulder months May, June and September balance sunshine with thinner crowds and better hotel rates.
Rainy season (October – March) means short tropical downpours, lush rice fields and discounted villas. Pack a light rain jacket.
Nyepi – Day of Silence falls on 29 March 2025. Airports close, streets empty and even beaches go quiet for 24 hours, so plan flight dates accordingly.
Carry some cash – Warungs, beach shacks and temple donations are still cash‑only. ATMs are plentiful but many cap withdrawals at IDR 2‑2.5 million.
Cards and QRIS – Visa and Mastercard work at most restaurants and shops. Large cafés now display Indonesia’s QRIS code so you can tap with Apple Pay or compatible banking apps.
Tipping – Not required, yet a 5 ‑ 10 % tip is appreciated for excellent service. Round up small fares.
Avoid poor exchange rates – Use bank‑owned ATMs (Mandiri, BCA, BNI) and skip private money‑changers offering “zero fee”.
Mode | What to Know |
---|---|
Scooter rental | Tourists must hold an International Driving Permit and wear a helmet. Police spot checks have increased around Canggu and Ubud, and fines start at IDR 250 000. |
Car with driver | Cheapest for day trips split between friends. Ask Holy Bali for fixed‑price charters so you avoid surge pricing. |
Ride‑hailing | Grab, Gojek and Bluebird apps work, but pick‑ups are restricted at some beaches and temples. |
Inter‑island boats | Use licensed operators only; fast‑boat tickets include basic insurance. |
Pro tip: Holy Bali Tours & Travel can bundle private car, driver and temple tickets so you skip bargaining altogether.
Bali Belly prevention – Drink bottled or filtered water, avoid ice at street stalls and carry hand sanitiser.
Travel insurance – Cover motorbike accidents, lost luggage and weather‑related delays.
Mosquito defence – Pack repellent containing DEET or picaridin; dengue risk is year‑round.
Respect the ocean – Rip currents are strong; swim between red‑yellow flags or choose beaches with lifeguards (Kuta, Seminyak, Pandawa).
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting temples; sarongs are often provided at the entrance.
Use your right hand for giving and receiving money or goods.
Do not touch anyone’s head, including children.
Refrain from horn honking and loud music in residential areas, especially during ceremonies.
Always ask before flying a drone; many temples and waterfalls require a permit.
Light cotton clothing plus one warm layer for mountain evenings
Reef‑safe sunscreen and reusable water bottle
International Driving Permit if you plan to ride a scooter
Power bank (Indonesia uses Type C and F sockets, 230 V)
Waterproof phone pouch and quick‑dry towel
Copies of passport, insurance and e‑VOA QR code (printed or on device)
Bali’s new tourist levy funds waste management and cultural preservation projects. Support the effort by:
Refilling water bottles at hotel dispensers
Choosing locally owned warungs and artisans
Following posted rules at rice terraces and sacred sites
Packing out your trash from beaches and waterfalls
Tailor‑made itineraries – From sunrise at Mount Batur to hidden waterfalls in North Bali.
Licensed local guides – Insider stories that bring temples and rice terraces to life.
Transparent pricing – No hidden “extras” on the day.
24/7 support – Real humans based in Bali to solve surprises fast.
Ready to explore? Contact Holy Bali Tours & Travel today and we will craft a Bali journey that fits your style and budget perfectly.
Selamat jalan – safe travels and see you in Bali!
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