Bali holds such a special place in my heart as it is where I learned to surf, and met my husband!
I’m so excited to be sharing the perfect one week in Bali itinerary with you.
I originally wrote this article way back when I had just started my travel blog, it was one of the first articles I wrote for the Wanderlover blog after fully committing to the digital nomad lifestyle.
I lived in Bali for a year, and my family came out to visit me for a week.
I wanted to show them as much as Bali as I could with relatively limited time.
I wanted it to be the PERFECT combination of adventure, relaxation, unique sights and trying new things, so I spent ages trying to squeeze as much as I could into just 1 week in Bali.
Fast forward to today, many places closed after the pandemic, trends changed and places developed into the Bali you see on Instagram today.
So while my original itinerary remains the same, I have updated things to make sure the information is still relevant and links are up to date!
Let’s get into The Perfect One Week Bali Itinerary for First Time Visitors: solo-travelers, couples, and families alike!
Introduction
Having lived in Bali for more than a year (and having been back many times now), I’ve explored almost every part of the island.
My family just came to visit me for a week in Bali from New York.
In the run-up to our trip, I spent ages trying to plan the absolute best there is to see and do in Bali, into just one week.
I’m so happy to report that my family absolutely loved Bali.
They have it up there as one of their favorite trips of their lives!
Most people think of beautiful, serene nature when they think of Bali, but the reality is that there is so much going on, and there are so many little “worlds” within.
In one area, you can feel like you’re in the middle of a bustling city, with so much traffic and promotions and people.
But then a few hours in another direction, and you can be in the middle of the jungle with no noise at all.
In order to experience all that Bali has to offer, I’m recommending an itinerary that starts off with lots of exploring waterfalls, rice terraces, art markets, nightlife, and then ending with relaxing on the most beautiful beaches.
If this sounds like your vibe, then keep reading!
Quick Facts About Bali
- Official Language is Bahasa Indonesian. Useful phrases: selamat pagi = good morning, teri makasih = thank you, satu kelapa = one coconut (my most used phrase haha)!
- Official Currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- The capital of Indonesia is Jakarta, not Bali.
- Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east.
- It is one of the country’s 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.
- The airport you will fly to is called Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar
- Religion: Bali is the home of the country’s largest Hindu population and is one of the largest tourist destinations in the world, with a whopping 6.3 million visitors pre covid 2019.
- Bali is known for its natural beauty, with its beaches, rice terraces, and volcanoes.
- The island’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, with agriculture, forestry, and fishing also being significant industries.
- Bali is renowned for its arts and culture, with traditional dance, music, and art being an important part of the island’s heritage.
- The island is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.
Best Time of Year to Visit Bali
As with much of Indonesia, Bali has two seasons, rainy season (December – March) and dry season (April – November).
This also affects the waves and wind, so if you want to surf while you’re here, you’ll want to plan accordingly!
Shoulder Season (April-May/October-November): The best time of year to visit Bali is April-May or October-November.
This is known as the “shoulder season” where there aren’t as many tourists, and the waves aren’t as crowded.
During this time, you will want to stay on the west coast of Bali to surf, as winds will be offshore or non-existent.
Rainy Season (December-March): Traveling to Bali during rainy season isn’t ideal, as it downpours often for most of the day.
This means you’ll have to stay inside, drive on a scooter with a poncho, and most likely you’ll get soaked at one point or another.
During the windows where it’s not raining, it will be incredibly humid as there is moisture in the air.
This is always the time of year when I find myself needing to take multiple showers a day because I just get so sticky!
However, rainy season is also when there are the least crowds, as many expats will choose to head home or elsewhere.
The surf during this time will also be on the east coast instead of the west, where the winds are offshore. Surfing on the west coast of Bali will be super windy and choppy, with little to no swell.
Peak Season (June-September): The peak season in Bali is June-September, as this is when many people have holidays and are traveling.
The weather is so lovely during this time of year, but the waves get super crowded. As tourism is increasing each year, you can also expect the traffic to be pretty bad.
But if this is the only time of year you’re able to visit, you’ll still have a great time!
Here is exactly how we spent one week in Bali:
Day 1 – Arrive in Bali and go straight to Ubud
Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali, located in the Gianyar regency in the central part of the island.
It is well known for its arts and culture, as well as its natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists.
This is probably what most people first think of when they hear “Bali” — super lush, green, and tranquil.
One of the main attractions of Ubud is the abundance of art galleries, studios, and workshops, showcasing traditional and contemporary Balinese art. Visitors can also witness traditional Balinese dance performances, such as the Legong and the Barong, or attend classes to learn about Balinese music and art.
In addition to its arts and culture, Ubud is also known for its natural beauty, with lush rice paddies, forests, and temples scattered throughout the town.
The nearby Sayan Ridge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, while the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll.
Ubud is also home to several notable landmarks, including the iconic Pura Taman Saraswati temple, the Ubud Palace, and the Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to a large population of monkeys.
There is a huge range of activities in Ubud, such as yoga and meditation classes, cooking courses, or traditional Balinese spa treatments.
The town is also a hub for wellness and spiritual retreats, attracting visitors from all over the world.
It’s such zen, yoga, meditation, jungle vibes, and what I imagine most tourist think of when they hear Bali. It’s such a unique, magical place, and lands the first spot on this itinerary!
Staying in the center of Ubud is a lot more convenient if you don’t know how to ride a scooter.
After checking in and getting settled in, walk around the area where you’ll find lots of shops and places to eat. After a long journey there is no better way to relax and recover than visit to spa, or even just a float in the pool at Plataran Ubud.
Where to eat in Ubud:
- Monkey Legend Ubud – casual eatery with local foods
- Watercress – healthy and beautiful meals
- Milk & Madu – this is a popular spot with locations in both Ubud and Canggu, they do pizzas and it’s always super vibey for dinner
Where to stay in Ubud:
- Plataran Ubud – I stayed here with my family and it was the perfect escape from the bustling streets. It’s conveniently located in the center, but the layout of the resort makes it extremely peaceful and tranquil.
- Maya Ubud Hotel & Spa – This is another great option if Plataran is fully booked. It has similar jungle vibes and top notch service that is truly hard to beat!
Day 2 – Explore Ubud
One of the best places to have breakfast is at The View Restaurant inside Plataran Ubud.
It’s a breakfast buffet with local and international options, but the best part is the insane view overlooking rice terraces and their infinity pool.
When you’re done, hire a driver to take you around all the first-timers must-see attractions in Ubud:
✅ Tegallalang rice terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a series of terraced rice fields located in the Tegalalang district of Bali, Indonesia.
The terraces, which are carved into the hillside, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are a popular tourist destination.
The rice terraces are irrigated using a traditional Balinese irrigation system known as the subak system, which is a cooperative irrigation system that has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Visitors to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces can observe the traditional rice farming techniques and take in the natural beauty of the area.
The terraces are also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.
✅ Tirta Empul Water Temple
Tirta Empul is a Hindu water temple located in the town of Tampaksiring in Bali, Indonesia.
I would definitely recommend going here to experience the spirituality that is so engrained in this island!
The temple is known for its holy spring, which is believed to have healing properties, and is a popular site for religious ceremonies and rituals.
Visitors to the temple can participate in purification rituals by bathing in the spring’s pools and fountains.
The temple complex also includes shrines, courtyards, and gardens. Tirta Empul is considered a significant cultural and spiritual site in Bali and is a popular tourist destination.
✅ Kanto Lampo Waterfall
Kanto Lampo Waterfall is a popular tourist destination located in the Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia.
The waterfall is known for its picturesque surroundings, which include lush vegetation and a natural pool at the base of the falls.
Visitors to Kanto Lampo Waterfall can swim in the pool, take in the views from the observation deck, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
The waterfall is easily accessible by car or motorbike and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
✅ Ubud Art Market
Ubud Art Market, also known as Pasar Seni Ubud, is known for its selection of traditional Balinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and artworks, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and handicrafts made from local materials such as wood, stone, and shell.
Visitors to the market can browse the stalls and shop for unique souvenirs, observe local artisans at work, and learn about the traditional crafts and techniques of Bali.
The market is open daily and is a popular spot for tourists and locals.
✅ Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest of Ubud, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is home to a large population of long-tailed macaques, which are considered sacred by the local Balinese people.
Visitors to the forest can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, take guided tours, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect the monkeys and their habitat.
The forest is also home to several ancient temples, which are considered sacred by the local community and are open for visitors to explore.
Be careful with your belongings as these monkeys are super clever and can steal your sunglasses, cap, iPhone, and cameras!
They really come at you out of nowhere and some of them won’t give your things back to you unless you negotiate with food. Make sure you keep an eye on everything at all times.
✅ Yoga
Ubud, Bali is known as a popular destination for practicing yoga and wellness.
There are many yoga studios and retreats located in the area, offering a variety of classes and programs for all levels of experience. It can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation and inner peace.
Additionally, taking a yoga class in Ubud can be a great way to immerse oneself in the local culture and learn about the traditional practices and philosophies of yoga.
Optional: Stay at Camaya Bali
One hour east of Ubud is my favorite hotel on the island: Camaya Bali. It is located in the Sideman area of Bali and all its rooms are made of bamboo. It’s secluded, romantic, and very affordable!
This is what I recommend to all couples who are celebrating their honeymoon or just want a magical getaway.
Day 3 – Day trip to Nusa Penida Island and drop off in Seminyak
On the third day, arrange a day tour to Nusa Penida Island.
Nusa Penida is a small island located off the southeast coast of Bali, Indonesia (1.5 hours by speedboat).
It is known for its rugged, natural beauty and is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and secluded beaches. It is a popular spot for activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking.
The island is home to several small villages and is largely rural, with most of the population engaged in agriculture or fishing.
The island is also home to a number of temples, including Pura Penataran Ped, which is considered one of the most important temples on the island.
Nusa Penida Island is accessible by boat from Bali, and there are several options for transportation and accommodation on the island.
The tour service will usually pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the port, where you will take a 1.5 hour speedboat ride to Nusa Penida.
Your driver will meet you when you arrive and start your tour of the island! It’s also possible to rent a scooter but the roads are super bumpy so keep that in mind if you’re not completely confident in your abilities.
✅ Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach, also known as Dinosaur Head Beach is named for the unique rock formation at the top of a cliff overlooking the beach, which resembles the head of a dinosaur.
The beach itself is a small, secluded cove with crystal clear water and white sand. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, and the views from the top of the cliff are stunning.
To reach the beach, visitors must hike down a steep path through the jungle, which can be challenging but is worth it for the beautiful views.
There are no facilities or vendors at the beach, so come prepared with plenty of your own water and food.
✅ Broken Beach
Broken Beach, also known as Pasih Uug, is a natural rock arch.
The arch is formed from the collapse of a large limestone cave, creating a bridge over the crystal clear water below.
The beach below is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, and the views from the top of the arch are breathtaking, making for beautiful photo opportunities.
The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and rare species of birds.
✅ Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a natural rock pool formed by the ocean’s waves crashing against the cliffs, creating a small lagoon that is perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
The area is surrounded by beautiful natural rock formations and is a popular spot for taking photos.
You should be extremely careful when entering the pool as the rocks can be slippery and the waves can be strong.
After a long day of exploring, take the last boat back to Bali where a van will drop you off at your new accommodation in the busy area of Seminyak.
Where to stay in Seminyak:
- Rama Residence Petitenget – Rama Residence is a luxury villa style accommodation in the center of Seminyak. There are so many different restaurants, spas, cafes, and clubs that are within walking distance.
- Alila Seminyak – Alila is a beautiful hotel on the water with an infinity pool and the most incredible sunset views!
Day 4 – Surf Lessons in Kuta & Explore Seminyak/Canggu
Seminyak is a popular beach resort area located on the western coast of Bali, Indonesia.
It is known for its upscale hotels, luxury villas, and high-end shopping and dining options.
Seminyak has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a number of clubs, bars, and restaurants catering to a trendy, international crowd. The complete opposite of Ubud!
It’s located between the super touristy area of Kuta and the more hipster Canggu filled with digital nomads, so you can easily get around all three areas.
The area is also home to a number of famous beaches, including Petitenget Beach and Double Six Beach.
In recent years, Seminyak has become increasingly developed, with the construction of new hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Despite its reputation as a more expensive area, there are still options for budget travelers, with a range of guesthouses and hostels available.
Canggu is where there is a huge expat scene and relatively less tourists than Seminyak.
A lot of people (like me!) who choose to stay a few months or years in Bali will choose Canggu as their base. It’s less hectic and there are so many cafes and coworking spaces that are perfect for working online!
✅ Get active! Surf OR CrossFit
On Day 4, let’s get active! And I recommend surfing or CrossFit.
If you’ve never surfed before, Kuta beach is THE best place to learn. I took my parents and younger brother surfing for their first time and everyone was able to stand up!
It costs around 300k for a lesson and board rental, and the instructors are all very experienced. I am happy to share my surf coach if you DM me on Instagram!
Bali is known for its waves all along the east and west coast. It’s something that you should definitely try, and it’s so much fun because you don’t have to wear a wetsuit. The water is always warm!
For CrossFit, head over to S2S in Canggu for an intense workout (all levels welcome!) and an awesome community. They host weekly dinners and Saturday morning beach workouts too.
⚠️ Remember to Get Coverage
One of the best investments I personally make to make all my travels stress-free is SafetyWing so that I’m covered for things like travel delay, lost luggage, trip interruption, and medical expense of $250,000.
If you plan to be active, surf, and explore, while you travel, I highly recommend signing up for SafetyWing travel medical insurance.
Their new Nomad Insurance plans are designed specifically for nomads and travel lovers on trips of any length abroad.
The Essential plan covers the basics with options for adventure sports and electronics theft, while the Complete plan offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity.
Whether you’re exploring short-term or setting up long-term abroad, there’s a plan built for you.
You can use the calculator below to see what coverage for your Bali trip would be!
✅ Shop/Explore Canggu
If being active is absolutely not your thing, you can walk around Seminyak and go shopping, or check out the nearby Canggu where a lot of digital nomads (including myself) are based.
It has a very charming vibe with lots of cute cafes and beach clubs.
✅ Sunset + Party
Also be sure to watch sunset from the beach or at a beach club by the water! (Recommendations below)
Where to eat in Seminyak and Canggu:
- Mama San – Upscale modern Asian food, perfect for date nights
- KYND Community – The best place in Bali for vegan food. I am by no means vegan but everything on their menu is SO YUM!
- Warung Gouthé – This is the one place that I go back to every single time I visit. You MUST try their cinnamon french toast as I swear it is out of this world. Hands down one of my favorite dishes in the world!
- Brazilian Aussie BBQ – This might be a bit excessive, but Ragz and I love steaks after spending almost a year in Brazil and Argentina. We had one of our first dates here at an all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse!
Bali Nightlife
There is a huge party scene in Bali and some of the clubs and bars are INSANE! They will regularly bring in huge DJs from around the world, and you can find anything from a chill British pub to beach clubs to underground clubs that are open until dawn.
If this is your scene, then you’ll have to spend at least one night out. There’s always something going on every night of the week.
Where to party in Seminyak:
- Motel Mexicola – One of the OG restaurant and party places in Seminyak. They regularly do Taco Tuesdays, themed parties, and you’re sure to have a good time out here!
- La Favela – A beautiful night club with dreamy, whimsical interiors. They have something going on every night, and different floors playing different types of music.
- Da Maria – Trendy Italian restaurant with DJs most nights.
Where to party in Canggu:
- La Brisa – My favorite place to watch sunset. La Brisa is absolutely breathtaking and you’ll want to take pictures of every single thing here! They have food, drinks, shisha, and great music.
- Finn’s Beach Club – Although mainly a beach club, Finn’s also hosts parties on weekends. Check out their events calendar as they regularly bring in DJs from all over. My favorite was seeing Diplo on stage here!
- Black Sands Brewery – If craft beers are your vibe, go to Black Sands Brewery on Fridays. They do happy hour and I would recommend going early to grab a seat!
Day 5 – Explore Seminyak and Head to Uluwatu
When you’re done shopping and getting massages in Seminyak, it’s time to make your way down to my favorite part of Bali – the bukit (also known as Uluwatu).
The Bukit Peninsula is located in the south of Bali and is known for its rugged coastline and stunning crystal clear beaches.
The area is home to some of the island’s most popular surf breaks, as well as a number of secluded coves and bays that are perfect for swimming and tanning.
The Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of luxury villas and resorts, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a more upscale experience.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including ancient temples and traditional villages.
Uluwatu and the surrounding areas is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Bali has to offer.
If you like seafood, ask your driver to stop at the Jimbaran Fish Market where they have fresh catches every single day that can be cooked right in front of you while you watch the sunset from your table on the sand.
The fish market is on your way down to Uluwatu, I love supporting the local fishermen!
Where to stay in Uluwatu:
- Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu – This is one of my favorite hotels to stay in Uluwatu, with prime location and amazing staff.
- Alila Uluwatu – Alila is a luxurious 5-star hotel with private pools and sweeping ocean views.
- Bingin Beach – Bingin is a beautiful beach located hundreds of steps below the cliff, and there are homestays and Airbnbs all along. If you would like to experience a beautiful place for sunset, as well as seafood BBQ dinners on the beach, go onto Airbnb and look for a room at Bingin!
Where to eat in Uluwatu:
- Casa Asia – One of my favorite pizza places in the bukit.
- Ours – Rustic, romantic restaurant. Great for a night with friends or a romantic dinner!
- Shaka Riki – AMAZING sushi and always a must-go for me whenever I go for a trip down to Uluwatu. It blows me away every time because you just don’t expect it.
Where to party in Uluwatu:
- Singlefin – THE place to go on Sundays for a beer and DJ set!
- Savaya – Savaya is a super club located on top of the cliff with beautiful sunsets every single night. Check their party calendar as they also have famous DJs regularly.
Day 6 – Full Day in Uluwatu
Depending on what type of traveler you are, and what you prefer to do at this stage of your trip, I’ve listed out some options and it’s up to you whether you want to chill or explore!
✅ Surf
Some popular spots include Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Dreamland Beach, which offer a range of breaks for surfers of all skill levels.
The Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of surf schools and rental shops, making it easy for travelers to get their surf on. Whether you’re an experienced surfer looking for a new challenge or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, it’s always a fun day out in the water.
Read this blog post on my amazing experience at my first surf camp that I went to in Bali! This kickstarted my surfing addiction.
Meeting other surfers who were all so nice, as well as instructors that really motivated you to get better, made my experience so much fun. I’ve taken my friends out for a day lesson with Rapture multiple times!
✅ Beaches + Beach Clubs
All of the surf beaches also have areas where you can just lay out and sip on a coconut. Dreamland is one of my favorite beaches here!
If you would rather be lounging by a pool, there are also many beach clubs for you to choose from.
- Oneeighty Day Club – Instagram-worthy photos from every corner in this beautiful day club on top of the cliff.
- Sundays Beach Club – You have to take a cable car to get down to this beach and it’s so worth it! It’s the perfect combination of day club and beach.
✅ Watch Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple
(Every night at 6pm – make sure you get there at least 30 minutes before to buy tickets and get seats!)
The Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance performance that takes place at the Uluwatu Temple. It is also known as the “monkey dance” due to the chorus of monkey-like sounds made by the performers.
The dance tells the story of the Hindu epic Ramayana and features a large group of men dressed in traditional garments and painted with black and white stripes.
The performance is accompanied by the chanting of the Kecak chorus and the traditional gamelan orchestra.
The Kecak Dance is a popular tourist attraction in Bali and is often performed for visitors in the evening. It is a unique and authentic way to experience Balinese culture and traditions.
✅ Watch sunset from a cliff overlooking the ocean
On your last full day, watch sunset from a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.
This is a great time to remind yourself of how beautiful this world is and how blessed you truly are! It’s hard not to get emotional when staring out into sunset, that’s why it’s one of my favorite things to do.
Day 7 – Leave to Airport
Depending on the time of your flight, you can check out another beach or stop by some boutiques or surf shops if you’d like, to end your one week in Bali.
My family and I chose to visit the GWK Cultural Park featuring a giant statue in the middle, but I honestly would not recommend going here as there’s nothing really to do.
Stay with the beaches and sunshine instead!
Optional – Munduk/North Bali
If you’re like me, maybe you’ll visit Bali and decide to stay for a few months or years!
Or maybe you just want to skip one of the areas I mentioned before.
Whatever the reason, if you have more time in Bali, I highly recommend you hire a taxi or drive up to Munduk located in North Bali.
Munduk is located in north Bali and is definitely less touristy than other parts of the island.
It’s up in the mountains so it’s a bit cooler (bring a light sweater or jacket!), and is where so many incredible waterfalls are located.
It takes around 2 hours to get to and the drive up is incredibly scenic and local. You can really see how the rest of the island lives and there are lots of small, delicious warungs on the way.
Munduk Moding Plantations
One of my favorite hotels that I’ve ever stayed at is Munduk Moding Plantations. It is a 5-star eco-luxury resort and my definition of the perfect serene getaway. I mean just look at this!
If you are able to fit this into your trip, it would just be the cherry on top.
Getting Around Bali:
- Hire a driver: One of the most popular ways to get around Bali is by hiring a driver. This allows you to have someone who knows the island well and can take you to all the best places. You can negotiate a rate with the driver and they will usually be able to take you wherever you want to go.
- Gojek: Download the gojek app on your phone and get registered. From there you can use GoRide which is like the Uber of scooters in Bali. Just drop in your pickup and drop off locations and a driver will come pick you up within minutes and take you to where you want to go. Easy as that. Rates vary depending on time of day and distance, but it’s typically very cheap.
- Rent a scooter: Another popular option for getting around Bali is by renting a scooter. This can be a great way to explore the island at your own pace, but it is important to be careful as the roads can be busy and traffic can be chaotic. It’s usually around 50-70k/day to rent a scooter ($3 USD).
- Take a taxi: Taxis are widely available in Bali and can be a convenient way to get around. Be sure to agree on a price before setting off, as there have been instances of tourists being overcharged.
- Use public transport: Bali has a public bus system called Trans Sarbagita, which operates in the main tourist areas. There are also bemos (minibuses) and metered taxis that operate in some areas, but this option is quite uncommon.
- Walk: In some areas, such as the popular tourist destinations of Seminyak and Ubud, it is possible to walk to many places. This can be a great way to explore the local area and experience the culture of Bali. Every time I walk somewhere, I notice something new as there is so much going on all around!
As we were traveling as a family we hired a driver for most of our days. If you need transportation contacts, or have any other questions about Bali, feel free to DM me on Instagram!
SIM Cards
There are 2 main networks that work best in Bali: Telkomsel and XL.
I always buy a Telkomsel SIM card that allows me to hotspot to my laptop whenever needed. Telkomsel also works in the rest of Indonesia reliably, so if you’re planning to travel to other islands then you should buy a Telkomsel SIM.
I usually go to Happy Cell in Canggu but there are many places that sell SIM cards, just make sure to take your passport! You will need to make sure your phone is unlocked so that you can install a foreign card.
Buying data is super cheap compared to other countries in the world. I bought 150 gigabytes of data for around 300k ($20 USD).
Another option is to install an eSIM with Holafly, which is super fast and easy to use. You can read my full Holafly review here and use code WANDERLOVER at checkout for 5% off.
It’s also worth checking your roaming plan for your current network provider to see if you can use data roaming in Indonesia.
Is the WiFi Fast in Bali?
The WiFi can be extremely fast in Bali, more than enough to host group calls and work, I’ve seen up to 500 mbps upload and download.
Most western establishments will have wifi available, and you can always reach out beforehand to confirm with your hotel. As a last resort, there are many co-working spaces with wifi and generators!
You can find a list of my Top 5 Coworking Spaces in Bali here.
Do you need a visa to go to Bali?
Most countries are required to purchase a Visa On Arrival (VOA) for Tourism purposes, but of course this depends on your nationality. The rules are constantly changing and you must do your due diligence.
The good news is you can purchase your visa online and it should be processed within a few days. If not, you can always purchase a VOA at the airport.
For the most up to date regulations, visit the official Indonesian E-Visa website.
Tips to Know Before You Go to Bali:
- Respect local customs and traditions: Bali is a predominantly Hindu island in a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes covering up at temples and removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.
- Stay safe: Bali is generally a safe destination, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of the potential for scams and pickpocketing.
- Stay hydrated: Bali’s tropical climate can be quite humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and avoid consuming too much alcohol, as it can exacerbate dehydration.
- Use sunscreen: The sun in Bali is strong, so it’s important to use sunscreen to protect your skin. Reapply it regularly, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the water.
- Respect the environment: Bali is home to a number of beautiful natural areas, so it’s important to respect the environment and leave it as you found it. This includes not littering and not disturbing wildlife.
- Get vaccinated: Bali is located in a tropical region, so it’s important to be up to date on your vaccinations. This includes vaccines for diseases like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies.
- Use insect repellent: Bali is home to a number of different types of insects, including mosquitoes. Use insect repellent to protect yourself from bites and the diseases they can transmit.
- Get travel insurance: It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance before embarking on a trip, and this is especially true for destinations like Bali where the healthcare system may be different from what you’re used to.
- WEAR A HELMET ON YOUR SCOOTER: Roads are busy, accidents are common. Don’t be stupid.
- Prices are negotiable: Almost everything is negotiable in Bali and it’s often expected. Don’t be afraid to get into a bit of haggling. This goes for when your out shopping in markets, booking a tour, or getting a taxi.
- Don’t drink the tap water: The tap water in Bali is not treated to the same standards as in many other countries, and can contain impurities and contaminants that may cause illness. It is safer to drink bottled water or water that has been properly purified.
And there you have the perfect one week in Bali itinerary.
It’s packed with things to do and places to see, and really only scratches the surface of this special island. Hopefully, you are able to take this outline and customize it to plan YOUR perfect trip!
What to do next:
- Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. Read SafetyWing review.
- Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! Read Holafly eSIM review.
- Book flights!
Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with the accommodations recommended. As always, all opinions, words, and thoughts are completely my own. Want to learn how to do the same? Check out the Travel Influencer Handbook.
One Last Note
The rate at which tourism is growing in Bali is astronomical. Because their economy was so affected by the pandemic, and then subsequently world events led to mass migration into Bali, there is a lot of money being poured into this beautiful island with infrastructure and sustainability as almost an afterthought.
If you have time, please learn a few ways you can travel sustainability, whether you’re just visiting for a week or planning to stay longer. We can all make a difference!
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