Written on the ground in Bali by the bali.com team

Is it safe to ride a scooter in Bali?

Almost anyone can rent a scooter in Bali. With experience or without. With a valid licence or without. That is exactly why it goes wrong so often.

Tourists and expats riding without helmets, in flip flops, and far too fast has become a common sight in Seminyak, Uluwatu and now Canggu. Weak enforcement seems to encourage some visitors to be careless. Seems like there is a toxic mix of over-confidence and ignorance at play – the result is regular, serious accidents.

Besides “Bali Belly“, scooter accidents are the most common problem travellers face here. That makes riding the most dangerous thing most visitors do, and the risk is mostly self-created. Sometimes it is fatal.

Yet, it is still the absolute best way to get from A to B and to explore Bali when visiting other destinations in Bai. Therefore if you are carefful and use your common sense, you will have a great time in Bali, like millions before you

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It’s easy. Just pay the Bali Tourist Levy HERE and email us a screenshot of your payment QR code.

📩 Email the QR Code to us and we’ll send you your personal discount code.

Important: The official Tourist Tax is approx. USD 10 / AUD 15 per person. Only use the official site:lovebali.baliprov.go.id

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Bali Tourist Tax Regulations and How to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax

FAQ - Must Know about the Tourist Tax (Levy)

What is the Bali Tourist Tax (Levy)?

The Tourist Tax for international visitors to Bali is a tax charged by Bali's provincial government.

Note: Make sure you are only using the links mentioned (official website of the Bali government).

Who has to pay the Bali Tourist Tax?

The Tourist Tax will have to be paid by INTERNATIONAL travelers coming to Bali

The tax applies to FOREIGNERS coming to Bali.

For arrivals to Bali from outside Indonesia and also if you arrive coming from another province to Bali. 

Where and how can I pay the Bali Tourist Tax? What is the OFFICIAL website to handle the payment?

You can pay the tax online on the official Bali Tourism Website (ONLY use that website, don't pay the tax anywhere else, there might be websites run by scammers).

Official Website to pay the Bali Tourist Tax
lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

You will also be able to pay the tax upon arrival (airports and harbours). We strongly suggest however you pay already online before you arrive.

How much is the Bali Tourist Tax?

The Bali Tourist Tax costs IDR 150,000 per person (ca. USD 10 / AUD 15). Regardless of the age of the traveler.

It seems, that for the online payment there is also a surcharge of Rp 4,500

Will I get checked if I paid the Tourist Tax

Most probably you will not be checked (yet). The reason is, that the immigration officers and airport personnel is not responsible to check if you paid. And the Balinese government has not yet installed check points to control the payment (which might happen at some point).

Still you have to pay the tax and checks can happen at popular tourist destinations or then also at the airport and harbours upon entry. 

The official website lovebali is not working. What can I do?

At times the Official Bali Tax Website might be offline. 

lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

Don't pay the tax anywhere else! Keep trying and come back to the website. Worse case, you can arrive in Bali without paying for the tourist tax online in advance, and then pay at the lovebali-counters. The Balinese government is in the process of installing payment counters at the checkpoints at the airports and harbours.

Who is exempted to pay the Bali Tourist Tax?

Travelers with following Visas are exemption from paying the Bali Tourist Tax, without having to apply for the exemption online (automatic exemption)

1. Holders of Diplomatic Visas and Official Visas
2. Crew Members of Conveyances are exempted
3.  KITAS & KITAP Holders (Holders of Temporary and permanent stay permits)
4. Family unification visa holders
5. Student Visa Holders

Foreigners can apply for an exemption on the official website. Apply at least 5 days before your arrival

1. Golden Visa Holders
2. Any other Visa issued by the immigration office, that do not have the travel purpose tourism,. In other words, travelers with any visas that is issued with the travel purpose "tourism"  will have to pay the tax.

On the official website the government states:

I have paid the tourist tax but did not get an email. What can I do?

We are not the government, so unfortunately we cannot help you with this issue. 

First we would check the Spam / Junk Folder, to be sure you did not receive it. Some tourists have a typo in the email or the system has an error.

Either way, if you don't get the confirmation QR Code, don't pay again.

Take a screenshot of your payment or keep any proof of payment.

 

At arrival nobody usually checks whether you paid or not, the Balinese government has not yet set up check-points.

At times tourists (very very rarely) are checked at popular tourist sites for example. If this happens to you, tell them you paid already but did not get the QR code.  Show the screenshot. We are pretty sure, they won’t charge you again. 

You can also write a message to the support on 

lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

I cannot open the website to pay the tax, error message

It seems that the official site from the Bali government still has problems from time to time. Since we are not representing the government and are not charging any taxes or fees, we cannot assist you in this matter.

We suggest you keep trying opening the website. Worse case, you can pay the tourist tax upon arrival at the airport. Just before you reach the area where all the drivers line up to page for guests.

In any case: Only use the official Bali Tax Website:

lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

I am traveleing to Indonesia but not to Bali, do I need to pay the tax?

NO!

The tourist tax (levy) is a local tax that the Bali administration is implementing, it is only related to Bali and not to Indonesia

I am arriving in Bali and then will visit the Gilis and come back to Bali. Do I need to pay the tax when I reenter Bali even though I have paid already once?

The Bali administration has issued following statement:

The levy is paid only 1 (one) time while traveling in Bali, before the person leaves the territory of the Republic of Indonesia.

How they will control this is not yet clear to us, but it seems that if you travel to Bali, pay the tax, then go to Lombok, return to Bali, you would not have to pay the tourist tax again.

For what will Bali use the income of the Bali Tourist Tax?

The Bali administration has announced that they want to use the income of the tourist tax for the following initiatives (official statement from the Bali Administration):

Preserve Heritage

Protecting Balinese customs, traditions, arts and local wisdom, ensuring the sustainable culture of Bali island.

Nurture Nature

Contribute to the nobility and preservation of Bali's unique Culture and Natural Environment, making it an even more beautiful destination.

Elevate Your Experience

Improve the quality of service and Balinese
Cultural Tourism Management, promising you a safe and enjoyable travel adventure in Bali.

-----

Bali and the Indonesian tourism officials have discussed over the last few years how they can protect the environment better, handle mass tourism, improve infrastructure and handle the growing trash problem, increase income for the local population who do not yet benefit from the growing tourism sector. They wish to encourage travelers to respect and participate the local culture more and overall have a better experience when they visit the Island of Gods.

Venomous Snakes in Bali

Bali is home to several species of venomous snakes, including cobras, pit vipers, and sea kraits. While these reptiles generally avoid human contact and encounters are rare in tourist areas, they do inhabit the island’s diverse landscapes. Venomous species are most commonly found in rice fields, forested areas, and rural regions like Ubud’s jungle edges, Tabanan’s agricultural lands, and Kintamani’s wilderness zones.

For visitors’ safety, understanding how to identify and avoid these potentially dangerous snakes is essential, especially when exploring Bali’s natural areas.

Expert Guide to Identifying Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes, How to identify a venomous snake

Head Shape: A Key Indicator

The head shape of snakes is an important feature to note. Venomous snakes typically (OFTEN NOT ALWAYS) have triangular-shaped heads due to the venom glands situated behind their eyes. Non-venomous snakes generally have more rounded heads, making this a useful distinction.

Pupil Shape: What to Look For

The shape of a snake’s pupils CAN also provide clues. Venomous snakes often have vertical, slit-like pupils, much like a cat’s eyes. In contrast, non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils, offering a clear differentiation.

Tail Characteristics: Identifying Features

Examining the tail can help identify a snake’s venomous nature. Many venomous snakes possess short, thick tails, while non-venomous snakes tend to have longer, more tapered tails.

Coloration and Patterns: Visual Differences

Coloration and patterns can vary widely among snakes, but many venomous species exhibit bright, warning colors or distinct patterns such as bands or spots. Non-venomous snakes might have similar patterns, but these are typically less vivid and pronounced.

Behavioral Cues: Understanding Snake Behavior

Observing a snake’s behavior can also provide important clues. Venomous snakes may display defensive behaviors such as coiling, hissing, or striking when they feel threatened. Non-venomous snakes are more likely to retreat or remain passive.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Bali?

No, we would not suggest to drink it ever.  It is generally not safe to drink tap water in Bali. The tap water in Bali is not reliably treated and MAY contain harmful bacteria and parasites. It is advised to avoid drinking tap water and to use bottled or properly filtered water instead​ .

To drink tap water might (or might not) be the main cause for the Bali Belly.

Can you rinse your mouth with Bali water?

Depends on the place you are staying at, and on the sensitivity on your “stomach”. In general t is not recommended to rinse your mouth with tap water in Bali. And iy you stay in a small hotel or private villa that takes the water from a well, then better don’t.

However, many travelers do so, and have absolutely no problem. if you want to take a cautious approach then use bottled or boiled water for rinsing your mouth to reduce the risk of infections​. If you do, at least ake sure, you don’t swallow it.

Can you brush your teeth with Bali tap water?

Same as above- While many brush their teeth with tap water, it is safer for travelers to use bottled or boiled water for brushing teeth to avoid potential health issues​, even thought the risk might not be too high in most hotels and resorts.

Can you get Bali Belly from tap water?

Yes, consuming contaminated tap water can lead to “Bali belly,” which is a common term for traveler’s diarrhea caused by ingesting harmful bacteria or parasites. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting​ Bali Belly.

Is it safe to drink water in Bali hotels?

No. But it is definitély safer to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with Bali tap water if you are stayin in one of the established hotels and resorts. Water quality in hotels can vary, and you would definitely get a sense for it, when you look at how the place you stay at is managed, maintained, and what it costs. The cheaper the establishment, the higher the risk of “lower standards”.

Some higher-end hotels provide filtered or treated water or even bottled water in the bathroom (unfortunately often plastic biottles, which add to the trash problem in Bali. So, using bottled or properly filtered water is recommended even in hotels​.

Is Boiling Water The Right Way To Drink Bali Water?

Boiling tap water is an effective method to kill MOST bacteria and parasites, making it safer to drink. However, boiling does not remove everything and not chemical contaminants. For the best safety, don#t drink boilded water, for brushing teeth and rinsing mouth should be ok.

Can I wash dishes with tap water in Bali?

Yes, you can wash dishes with tap water in Bali. However, ensure that the dishes are thoroughly dried or rinsed.

What about the ice cubes in Bali. Are Ice Cubes in Bali Safe?

1. Safety of Ice Cubes in Bali:

• Commercial Ice Production: Most ice used in beverages at hotels, restaurants, and bars in Bali is commercially produced. Commercial ice manufacturers in Bali are typically subject to health regulations and standards, ensuring the ice is made from purified and treated water.
• Treated Water: The water used in commercial ice production is usually filtered and treated to remove contaminants. This helps ensure the ice is safe for consumption and does not pose a health risk.
• Food Safety Regulations: Established establishments often adhere to food safety regulations, which include the proper handling and storage of ice. Reputable places will use ice from trusted suppliers who follow hygienic practices.

2. Risks of Ice Cubes:

• Small Vendors and Street Food: The primary risk of unsafe ice comes from smaller vendors and street food stalls that may use ice made from untreated tap water. It’s advisable to avoid consuming ice from these sources unless you are confident about the vendor’s hygiene practices.
• Visual Inspection: One way to assess the safety of ice is to check its appearance. Clear, solid ice cubes are generally a good sign that the ice is commercially produced and made from treated water. Cloudy or irregular ice may indicate homemade ice, which could be made from untreated tap water.

3. Practical Tip:

• Stick to Reputable Establishments: When in doubt, consume ice only at well-known restaurants, hotels, and bars. These places are more likely to use safe, commercially produced ice.

What are the main Tap Water Sources in Bali?

SURFACE WATER & GROUNDWATER (WELLS)

Surface Water:

• Bali’s tap water in hotels and resorts primarily comes from rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Major rivers like the Ayung, Petanu, and Unda, along with Lake Batur, are significant sources of water which PDMA uses. PDMA, is the state owned entity responsible for the water supply. PDAM sources water from various surface and groundwater sources, including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and wells. But, not all hotels, villas, homes are connected by far.
• Treatment Processes of PDMA: The water undergoes multiple stages of treatment, including sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, before being distributed. However, the efficacy and thoroughness of these treatments can vary based on the infrastructure and maintenance standards of the specific PDAM facility. The treatment does not ensure that the water is “absolutely clean” and meeting all safety standards, which depends very much on the region.
• Quality Issues: During heavy rains, water quality can be affected due to increased runoff and turbidity. PDAM uses additional filtration and treatment processes to mitigate these issues, but challenges remain, especially in rural areas.
• Infrastructure: Aging infrastructure can lead to leaks and water losses. PDAM is continually working on upgrading and maintaining the water supply infrastructure to reduce such losses and improve efficiency.

Groundwater (Wells):

• In some areas, and quite often in villas groundwater extracted from wells also contributes to the water supply.
• Not many villas and even a significant number of hotels and guest houses are connected to the water grid of PDMA. This means they all pump the water out of the ground. And of course, the quality of this water depends laregely on the area. The groundwater on heavy populated areas are usually more contaminated.
• The installation of these deep well pumps which might or might not have proper filters are, let’s say, often not matching good quality standards, So you will et sand and what not sucked through the pipe into your tap.

Rainwater Harvesting (rare):

• In rural and traditional areas, rainwater harvesting is sometimes used to supplement water needs, which you would probably encounter during your holidays.

Snakes in Bali

While Bali’s tropical ecosystem is home to various snake species, encounters in tourist areas are uncommon. However, as part of our commitment to providing comprehensive travel information, we believe visitors should be informed about local wildlife, including snakes. Understanding basic safety measures is particularly important for those planning to explore Bali’s natural areas like Ubud’s forests, Tabanan’s rural landscapes, or Kintamani’s volcanic regions

Expert Guide to Identifying Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes, How to identify a venomous snake

Head Shape: A Key Indicator

The head shape of snakes is an important feature to note. Venomous snakes typically (OFTEN NOT ALWAYS) have triangular-shaped heads due to the venom glands situated behind their eyes. Non-venomous snakes generally have more rounded heads, making this a useful distinction.

Pupil Shape: What to Look For

The shape of a snake’s pupils CAN also provide clues. Venomous snakes often have vertical, slit-like pupils, much like a cat’s eyes. In contrast, non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils, offering a clear differentiation.

Tail Characteristics: Identifying Features

Examining the tail can help identify a snake’s venomous nature. Many venomous snakes possess short, thick tails, while non-venomous snakes tend to have longer, more tapered tails.

Coloration and Patterns: Visual Differences

Coloration and patterns can vary widely among snakes, but many venomous species exhibit bright, warning colors or distinct patterns such as bands or spots. Non-venomous snakes might have similar patterns, but these are typically less vivid and pronounced.

Behavioral Cues: Understanding Snake Behavior

Observing a snake’s behavior can also provide important clues. Venomous snakes may display defensive behaviors such as coiling, hissing, or striking when they feel threatened. Non-venomous snakes are more likely to retreat or remain passive.

What you need to know about Dengue in Bali

The short version: After traffic accidents, Dengue Fever is the most common health risk for travelers in Bali. It is a viral infection transmitted by a specific mosquito that bites during the day – not at night. There is now an approved vaccine in Indonesia, but it requires two doses over three months. For short-stay visitors, preventing mosquito bites is the most important thing you can do.

How is Dengue transmitted?

Dengue is carried by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Unlike the mosquito that carries Malaria – which bites at night – the Aedes mosquito is a daytime biter. It is most active in the early morning after sunrise and again in the late afternoon before sunset. It can also bite at night in well-lit areas, so protection around the clock is sensible.

Dengue is present in Bali all year round. Cases tend to increase during and after the rainy season (November to March), when standing water around homes and gardens gives mosquitoes more places to breed.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue is sometimes called “breakbone fever” – and for good reason. Symptoms typically begin 4 to 10 days after a bite and can include:

• Sudden high fever, often up to 40°C / 104°F
• Severe headaches and pain behind the eyes
• Intense muscle and joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• A skin rash, which often appears a few days after the fever starts
• Extreme fatigue

The second infection risk

If you catch Dengue for the first time as a healthy adult, you will feel very unwell for about a week but will most likely recover fully with rest and hydration. However, there are four different strains of the Dengue virus. If you get infected by a different strain a second time, the risk of developing Severe Dengue – which requires hospitalization – is significantly higher. This is why long-stay visitors and residents need to take prevention seriously, not just tourists.

Frequently asked questions about Dengue in Bali

About this guide

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Information is based on guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Indonesian health authorities. Always consult a licensed medical professional about vaccinations and treatment. If you experience severe symptoms while in Bali, visit a certified medical centre immediately.

More practical health and safety tips for Bali

More Safety & Health Tips

Bali Belly: unpleasant, mostly harmless, but highly disruptive

The short version: “Bali Belly” is the local nickname for traveler’s diarrhea. It is typically caused by a sudden change in diet or consuming food and water contaminated with bacteria. While it can ruin a few days of your holiday, it is usually harmless if you stay hydrated. However, if you cannot keep water down, develop a high fever, or see blood in your stool, contact a doctor immediately.

Common symptoms of Bali Belly

If you have caught it, you will usually experience one or more of the following within 12 to 72 hours:

• Frequent, loose, or watery diarrhea
• Stomach cramps and heavy bloating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Mild fever or general weakness

What is actually happening to your stomach?

You can get an upset stomach anywhere in the world. When you travel to a tropical climate like Indonesia, you expose your digestive system to entirely new bacteria, different hygiene standards, and unfamiliar spices. Your body reacts by trying to flush the unfamiliar intruders out rapidly – which is what Bali Belly feels like.

Frequently asked questions and treatment tips

Everything you need to know about treating and avoiding Bali Belly

About this guide

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, contact a certified medical professional or visit one of Bali’s many 24/7 medical centres.

More health and safety tips

No vaccinations are legally required to enter Bali – unless you are arriving from a country with Yellow Fever. But Bali is a tropical island, and some health risks are real. The recommendations below are based on guidance from the WHO and CDC. They are not personal medical advice – your own doctor is the right person to decide what makes sense for your trip, your health history, and how long you are staying.

Plan ahead. Some vaccines need multiple doses spread over several months. Most travel doctors suggest booking an appointment 6 to 8 weeks before departure.

Routine vaccinations – update before any international trip

These are standard immunisations most people received in childhood. Worth checking they are current before you travel anywhere.

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – Measles outbreaks are still reported in Indonesia including Bali. Two lifetime doses are recommended. If you are unsure of your status, check with your doctor.
• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) – Standard protection against serious bacterial infections. Your last tetanus booster should not be older than ten years.
• Polio – Poliovirus has been documented in parts of Indonesia. Worth confirming your booster is up to date with your travel doctor.

Recommended vaccines for Bali

These are the vaccines most travel doctors will bring up for a trip to Bali, regardless of your itinerary.

Worth considering depending on your trip

These are not standard recommendations for a typical Bali holiday, but relevant depending on how long you stay and where you go.

Frequently asked questions

About this guide

This page is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Vaccination recommendations change. The information here is based on guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Australian Department of Health (Smartraveller). Always consult a licensed travel doctor or medical professional before departure to discuss your personal health needs and itinerary.

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