Is Bali Safe? What You Need to Know Before You Go

Is Bali Safe to Visit in 2025? Discover the real risks and how to stay safe in Bali, including tips for solo travelers, avoiding scams, dealing with traffic, and understanding health and natural disaster concerns

Are you planning to travel to Bali and wondering how safe the island is?

While Bali is very popular among tourists, digital nomads, and retirees (many even call it a paradise on earth), there are some safety concerns you should be aware of.

For example, Bali at night can be a bit dangerous. There have been reports of people getting robbed during that time.

That said, Bali is generally safe during the daytime.

In this article, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about safety in Bali, including what to watch out for, common scams, and how to protect yourself from potential risks, including the famous Bali belly.

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Bali Crime Rate

According to Numbeo, the Safety Index in Bali at 50 on average isn’t that good. The crime index in Bali is considered moderate, and from my experience, that’s a pretty fair assessment. You do hear about incidents here and there, such as petty theft, scams, and the occasional break-in, but nothing that would make the island feel truly dangerous.

There’s some good news though.

• First, most crimes in Bali are non-violent. We’re talking about pickpocketing, snatch theft, and scams, not muggings or assaults.
• Second, Bali is generally quite safe during the day. Most of the issues tend to happen after dark.

That said, your safety also depends on where you go. Areas like Kuta and Seminyak, for example, are known to be less safe at night. These spots attract heavy party crowds from all over the world, and with alcohol involved, things can sometimes get out of hand.

Even though serious crimes are rare, they do happen. In May 2025, for instance, there was breaking news that an Australian was shot dead in a villa. It later turned out to be an internal dispute involving fellow Australians, not a random act of violence.

There are also occasional reports, usually once or twice a year, of assault or kidnappings involving local mafia groups. But honestly, unless you’re deeply involved in illegal activities or shady circles, the odds of encountering anything like that are extremely low.

Here are a few personal tips I follow to stay safe in Bali:

• Don’t walk alone at night in isolated areas or in party places like Kuta and Seminyak.
  
• Drink responsibly and avoid conflicts, especially in bars or clubs.
  
• Be aware of drink-spiking. Never accept drinks from strangers, and always keep an eye on your glass. I usually stick to bottled drinks or order something I can hold onto the whole time.
  
• I carry a small crossbody bag that zips up tight and never leave valuables in my hotel room unless they’re locked in my suitcase.
  

If you stick to these basic precautions, you’ll likely have a smooth experience. Honestly, I and many people I’ve met have visited Bali multiple times or even lived there for years without ever running into serious trouble. Most say they feel safe, especially compared to big cities elsewhere.

A note on terrorism: While the risk is very low these days, it’s worth remembering that Indonesia has had incidents in the past, including the Bali Bombing in 2002. Stay alert in crowded public places like markets or temples, especially during major holidays, and keep an eye on local news. But don’t let this worry overshadow your trip. Just stay informed and aware.

Petty Theft

Theft is probably the most common crime you might encounter in Bali and can come in various forms.

The most common one you’ll hear about is having your items stolen, even from your hotel room or villa. For example, there’s a guy on Reddit who said that a cleaning lady stole US$1,000 from his villa. His friend, who stayed in the same place, lost around EUR 1,400 as well.

Someone else had their phone or bag snatched right out of their hands while walking alone in Seminyak late at night. While it doesn’t happen to everyone, it still happens.

Because of this, here are a few things you should do when living in Bali:

• Choose a legit hotel.
  
• Don’t show off flashy items like jewelry or expensive gadgets.
  
• Don’t walk around with your phone constantly out, especially in crowded areas.
  
• Keep valuable items with you at all times.
  
• Use crossbody bags that can’t be easily grabbed.
  

That said, it doesn’t mean people are constantly watching you to steal your stuff. In fact, many people have shared stories of forgetting their phones in a café, only to come back and find them still sitting on the table.

Just remember that Bali is very popular among tourists. So, like anywhere else, there are both good and bad people here. It’s just better to stay safe and be watchful.

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Walking Alone at Night

There’s a vast difference between walking during the day and at night in Bali.

During the daytime, Bali is generally safe, even for solo female travelers. You can comfortably explore temples, beaches, and markets without much worry. The locals are friendly, and there are usually plenty of people around in tourist areas.

However, at night, it’s a different story, especially in party areas like Kuta and Seminyak. I’ve heard multiple stories of muggings and snatch thefts at night. In some cases, taxis have even taken people to the wrong location.

So, it’s better to avoid walking alone at night, especially if you’re female. If you need to go out, go with friends and avoid dark alleys. The better option is to use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek.

That said, if you’re in a well-lit tourist area with crowds of people, it’s generally safe. 

Nightlife

The nightlife and party scene in Bali is also generally safe if you take some common precautions. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, always keep an eye on your drink, and don’t buy illegal drugs.

You might also be offered local spirits, known as arak. Avoid anything that’s not sealed properly or doesn’t come from a recognizable brand. Unregulated alcohol can be dangerous to your health.

Also, most problems at nightlife don’t come from locals. They usually come from other tourists.

Common Scams in Bali

Like other popular tourist destinations, Bali has its fair share of scams. They’re usually minor but can be annoying and cost you money. Fortunately, they’re easy to avoid if you know what to look for.

Taxi Scams

I’ve traveled to many countries, and taxi scams are one of the most common everywhere. A half-Thai Indonesian once told me she almost got scammed when she returned to Indonesia. She said she was quoted nearly double the price when she asked in English. But once she switched to Bahasa Indonesia, the price dropped by more than half.

This kind of thing still happens today. While taxis in Bali are technically metered, many drivers refuse to use the meter. Instead, you have to negotiate the fare. Unless you speak Bahasa Indonesia like my friend did, there’s a good chance you’ll be overcharged.

That said, it’s easy to avoid. Just use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek. You can also ask your hotel to call a taxi for you. It might be slightly more expensive, but it’s far more convenient and safer, especially at night.

Overcharging

If you’re shopping in a market in Bali, there’s a good chance you can bargain down by more than 50 percent. The key is to just walk away.

This is common all over the world. If you want the best price, learn how to negotiate. If you don’t, it’s not the end of the world. Personally, I’m okay with paying a little extra sometimes, knowing I could probably get a better deal. I just see it as part of the travel experience.

Food Safety 

Another big safety concern in Bali is food poisoning, often referred to with the not-so-fun nickname “Bali Belly.” It usually doesn’t mean you’ll end up in the hospital. It’s more like an annoying stomach issue that can last a few days. Of course, symptoms vary from person to person. Personally, I’ve never had food poisoning in Bali.

That said, food hygiene in Bali isn’t always perfect. But if you eat at places where locals go, even small warungs (family-owned restaurants), you should be fine. These places usually have good traffic, and the food is served hot and fresh.

From what I’ve gathered, there are three main causes of Bali Belly:

• Eating at low-traffic restaurants, especially those serving Western food
  
• Eating raw or underwashed vegetables from unclean places
  
• Not sanitizing your hands before meals. Germs often spread through banknotes, so always carry alcohol spray. It’s one of the key items I recommend bringing to Bali
  

One more thing: tap water in Bali is not safe to drink. Always stick to bottled water. Iced drinks are generally okay if you order them at a restaurant or café. Outside of that, it’s better to avoid ice altogether.

Something else that helps is taking probiotics, like yogurt. Sometimes your stomach issues aren’t about hygiene at all. Your gut just isn’t used to the local microbes, and probiotics can really help ease the adjustment.

If you do get Bali Belly, you can walk into any pharmacy and ask for meds. The pharmacists are used to dealing with it and will usually give you something that clears it up in a few days. It happens, but it’s not a serious issue.

Extra tip: Always get travel insurance or health insurance when you come to Bali. I always do. While I usually just go to the pharmacy if I feel sick, it’s good to know that if something serious happens, I can go to a hospital without stressing about the bill.

Mosquito

Just like in other Southeast Asian countries with tropical weather, mosquitoes in Bali can be more than just annoying. They’re everywhere in open-air places, especially when you’re eating at local restaurants. And dengue fever is a serious issue in Bali.

According to the WHO, over ten thousand people get dengue fever in Bali every year. For example, in 2022, Bali recorded more than 12,000 confirmed cases. So it’s a real threat that you should be careful about, especially when you get bitten by mosquitoes during the day.

The key is to use mosquito repellent with DEET. Don’t rely on sunscreen that claims to work as mosquito repellent, because it doesn’t. My favorite item is lemongrass spray, which you can buy at a local shop. It’s a natural mosquito repellent that smells really good.

Weather 

Bali has a tropical climate, so it’s hot and humid all year round. Bring sunscreen and use it if you don’t want to get sunburned. The sun here is very strong. It can also be extremely hot and make you feel tired easily. The key is to stay hydrated and avoid going outdoors during the hottest part of the day.

Also, if you’re visiting during the rainy season (November to March), it can rain pretty heavily, which makes the already uneven sidewalks slippery.

So, always be careful when walking on sidewalks after heavy rain.

Traffic Safety

One thing I really don’t like about Bali is the traffic. It gets especially bad on weekends in areas like Sanur, Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu. Heavy rainfall, very common here, makes traffic even worse.

Driving a car is relatively safe, but riding a scooter can be dangerous. I’ve known many people who had scooter accidents due to:

• Roads covered in sand, especially uphill with curves
• Potholes and loose gravel
• Slippery road after rain

In fact, a majority of traffic accidents in Bali involve motorcycles or scooters. According to the Bali Police Traffic Department, there were 7,466 road accidents in 2023, causing 655 fatalities; most involved motorcycles and scooters.

If you plan to ride a scooter in Bali, consider these precautions:

• Get travel insurance with strong scooter coverage (e.g., Genki)
• Make sure brakes and tyres are in great condition
• Always wear a helmet
• Ride slowly and defensively
• Carry an International Driving Permit (IDP)

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk while experiencing Bali’s roads.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are another big safety concern in Bali. I still remember the first time I planned to fly to Indonesia. I had to cancel the trip immediately because of a volcanic eruption, and all flights were grounded.

Bali is in a seismically active region, so mild earthquakes around magnitude 3 happen regularly, almost every other month. Locals are used to these small tremors. They might startle you at first, but they are usually harmless and just part of everyday life on the island.

The last serious earthquake occurred in August 2023, with a magnitude of 7.1. Still, there was no tsunami or reported damage, according to Reuters.

Historically, there was a big earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3, followed by tsunami, killing over 11,000 people. But it happened centuries ago in 1815. 

Volcanic eruptions, while rare, are still a risk. When they happen, it’s going to affect air travel. 

Anyway, to stay safe, you should:

• Monitor local news and alerts
• Save emergency contacts on your phone:
  • Bali Emergency Services: 112
  • Indonesia’s Disaster Management Agency (BNPB): 115
  • Your country’s embassy or consulate
    

Wildlife 

There are three main types of wildlife you might encounter in Bali. They aren’t dangerous if you know how to deal with them.

• Monkeys: You’ll find monkeys in Ubud, especially around the Monkey Forest and Uluwatu Temple. Three rules to protect yourself: don’t feed them, keep your distance, and watch out for your hat, glasses, and bags. I once saw a guy try to touch a monkey and get bitten in return.
• Dogs: Dogs are common in many parts of Bali. Most are semi-stray and often show up while you’re eating at a local restaurant. Just stay calm and ignore them. They’re usually harmless. However, don’t run, and avoid beaches at night. Some dogs can be territorial and may chase you. In rural areas, dogs tend to be more aggressive and might chase your scooter as you ride past.
• Snakes: You’re unlikely to see snakes unless you’re staying near rice paddies. They’re generally harmless unless you accidentally step on one. If you spot a snake, just inform a local or your hotel receptionist.

Oh, and if you’re staying in a rural area, you might also come across geckos. They’re not dangerous at all but can be annoying. They love to make noise and leave droppings.

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Is Bali Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Yes, Bali is generally safe for solo female travellers.

 Many women travel here alone without issues, especially in popular areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. If you are a woman traveling alone, there are some specific safety precautions you should follow:

• Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet or nightlife areas, as some drunk tourists may approach you
• Avoid taking taxis late at night
• Be cautious with drinks at bars or clubs
• Trust your instincts
  

In case it’s daytime, Bali is safe. Most locals are friendly and helpful, but like anywhere else, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.

Is Bali Safe for Americans?

Yes, Bali is generally safe for Americans and also other nationalities. The U.S. Embassy in Indonesia currently advises Americans to exercise increased caution due to risks such as terrorism and natural disasters. It basically means, Bali is safe to travel but you just stay alert of news, especially from earthquakes which commonly happen here.

As an American, you can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety updates from the U.S. Embassy. They can also contact you in an emergency.

Here’s also a number of the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, just in case you need it: +62-21-5083-1000

Another thing to keep in mind is that, as a Westerner, American or not, you may be seen as wealthier, which can sometimes lead to overcharging. Here’s what you can do to avoid overcharging: 

• Use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab for getting around
• Agree on service costs before paying

Is Kuta Safe?

While Kuta doesn’t have the best reputation due to its nightlife scene and budget tourism, it’s still relatively safe.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen here more often than in other parts of Bali, especially at night. If you go out drinking, avoid unbranded local spirits like arak, which can be unsafe. Also, steer clear of confrontations with other tourists, as alcohol-fueled arguments can escalate quickly.

Locals in Bali are generally very friendly, especially when they’ve been drinking. Sometimes they’ll approach you out of genuine curiosity, asking where you’re from or wanting to chat. It’s usually harmless, just part of the local culture.

Is Ubud Safe?

Yes, Ubud is one of the safest areas in Bali. It’s a laid-back part of the island, and violent crime is very rare. Just be cautious around monkeys, especially in places like the Monkey Forest. 

If you’re staying overnight, you’ll likely come across geckos. They might look a bit scary at first, but they’re harmless. Just don’t try to touch them.

The biggest safety concern in Ubud is mosquitoes. If you’re planning to visit, always keep mosquito repellent on hand. If you need to go out at night, wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from bites.

Is Seminyak, Bali Safe?

Seminyak is popular with tourists looking for upscale dining, beach clubs, and shopping. Petty theft can be an issue here, with some reports of money or personal items being stolen, even directly from villas.

If you plan to stay in this area, avoid being flashy and make sure to book your room or villa through reputable brands or trusted platforms. Also, keep your valuable items with you or securely locked away.

Other than that, Seminyak is generally safe and well-patrolled, especially in the main tourist zones.

Is It Safe to Swim in Bali?

Bali is a large island with many beaches, and swimming conditions can vary depending on where you are. On the west coast, in areas like Kuta or Seminyak, strong waves and rip currents are common during the wet season. If you see red flags on the beach, whether here or elsewhere, do not enter the water, even if you’re an experienced swimmer.

If you prefer calm water, head to Sanur. The sea there is usually flat with minimal waves, making it ideal for swimming. Just make sure to go during high tide, as there’s not much water during low tide.

For most other beaches in Bali, swimming is generally safe. Of course, avoid swimming at night or during times when the waves and wind are strong.

Emergency Contact

Keep these numbers saved in your phone:

Emergency Services:

• General Emergency: 112
• Police: 110
• Ambulance: 118 or 119
• Fire Department: 113
• Tourist Police: +62 361 224 111

Hospitals:

• BIMC Kuta: +62 361 761263
• BIMC Nusa Dua: +62 361 3000911
• Siloam Denpasar: +62 361 779900
• Sanglah General Hospital: +62 361 227911/15

Important: Also save your embassy or consulate contact information.