Is Bali Safe for Tourists?
By Wayscore Travel Desk · Updated October 1, 2026 · Advisory checked Oct 1, 2026
Quick answer
Yes, for most visitors. The US State Department rates Indonesia Level 2: Exercise increased caution, mainly because of natural disasters, terrorism risk and demonstrations. In Bali itself, the biggest everyday dangers are road accidents on scooters, stomach bugs and bag snatching, not violent crime.
The official travel advisory
The State Department's Indonesia advisory, issued July 7, 2026, rates the country Level 2. Only two provinces far from Bali, Central Papua and Highland Papua, are Level 4. For Bali, the advisory specifically mentions pickpocketing, snatch-and-grab robberies, vehicle theft, and reports of drink spiking and sexual assault.
Bali's current level on the US State Department's 4-step scale.
Visitors also pay a one-time tourist levy of IDR 150,000 when entering Bali. Earthquake and volcano risk applies across Indonesia, including Bali.
Safest areas to stay in
Bali's main tourist areas are busy and used to visitors. Each suits a different kind of trip.
Ubud
Inland, cultural and calm. Rice terraces, yoga and great food.
Sanur
Quiet beach town with calm water and a seafront path.
Nusa Dua
Gated resort area with lifeguarded beaches. The most controlled option.
Seminyak
Beach clubs and restaurants, livelier but well established.
Where to take extra care
Kuta & Legian
Crowded bar strips. Watch drinks closely and use registered transport late at night.
Canggu
Popular with remote workers, but narrow roads full of scooters.
The real risks, ranked
| Risk | How likely | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| ● Scooter accidents | Common | The single biggest risk. Skip renting unless you are experienced, licensed and wearing a helmet. |
| ● Drink spiking & methanol in spirits | Occasional | Buy drinks from reputable bars, avoid cheap cocktails made with local spirits, and never leave a drink unattended. |
| ● Bag snatching from scooters | Common | Carry your bag on the side away from the road. |
| ● Stomach illness | Common | Drink bottled or filtered water and eat at busy places. |
| ● Monkey and dog bites | Occasional | Don't feed or touch animals. Bali has had rabies cases, so get any bite treated right away. |
| ● Strong surf & rip currents | Common | Swim between the flags on patrolled beaches. |
Pick the right base for your trip. Compare stays in Ubud, Sanur and Seminyak.
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8 safety tips that actually matter
- 1.Hire a driver for day trips instead of riding a scooter on busy roads.
- 2.Use Grab or Gojek or transport your hotel arranges, especially at night.
- 3.Avoid cheap spirits-based cocktails and buy sealed drinks where you can.
- 4.Keep your bag away from the roadside to avoid snatch-and-grab thefts.
- 5.Use ATMs inside banks or shops, and cover the keypad.
- 6.Stay away from the monkeys' reach at temples and the Ubud Monkey Forest. Secure glasses and phones.
- 7.Buy travel insurance with medical evacuation, which the State Department recommends.
- 8.Save the emergency number: 112 works across Indonesia.
Is Bali safe for solo female travelers?
Bali is a very common solo trip for women, and most have no problems. Base yourself in Ubud, Sanur or Seminyak, use ride apps or hotel transport after dark, and take the drink-spiking warnings seriously in nightlife areas like Kuta.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bali safe for tourists?+
Yes, for most visitors. The US State Department rates Indonesia Level 2 (Exercise increased caution). The main everyday risks in Bali are road accidents, stomach illness and petty theft.
Is it safe to rent a scooter in Bali?+
It is the most common way tourists get hurt. Only ride if you are experienced and properly licensed, and always wear a helmet. A car with a driver is safer and inexpensive.
What is the safest area to stay in Bali?+
Nusa Dua and Sanur are the calmest. Ubud is a safe choice for culture and nature.
Do I have to pay a tourist tax in Bali?+
Yes. Foreign visitors pay a one-time levy of IDR 150,000 on arrival.
Can you drink the tap water in Bali?+
No. Drink bottled or filtered water.
Sources
- US Department of State, Indonesia Travel Advisory (issued July 7, 2026)
- Wayscore safety score methodology (sample)
Safety conditions change. Always check the latest official advisory before you travel.