Just the thought of traveling to Bali springs up images of azure waters lapping unto golden shores, lush green rice terraces, ancient temples, active volcanoes, and colorful corals. A trip to Bali is one of exploration, self-discovery, wellness spas, and the ultimate trip for all adventure junkies (and of course, all you sun-worshipers out there).
I mean – it’s definitely called the Island of the Gods for a reason, right?
A staggering 17,500 islands make it an unbeatable destination that’s quite frankly hard to compete with. Specifically for solo travelers!
If you’re looking for palm trees and lazy waves, you’ve got it.
If you’re looking for sheer cliffs, staggering views and one crazy adventure after the other then you’ve also got it.
Delectable cuisine too?
Yup, yup, yup.
Picturesque Bali caters to all types of travelers there and has been growing in popularity – specifically around solo travelers and backpackers.
When it comes to planning a trip to Bali, things might get just a little bit too overwhelming, though.
That’s where this guide comes in – this Bali travel guide will help you plan a trip to see the Island of the Gods with its natural beauties and ancient wonders.
Why Solo Travelling to Bali is Worth It
Before you we go deeper into how exactly to plan the trip, what to see, where to go and some savvy tips and tricks, it’s first worth mentioning why Bali has risen in popularity as a solo traveling destination.
Bali is quite safe.
Here’s a rule of thumb for you that you should use wherever you travel: if you follow the same safety rules you follow at home, with just a little bit more common sense and caution, you’re bound to be okay.
Balinese people are very friendly, and the only thing you need to worry about will revolve around tourist scams. So, nothing really different than Eastern Europe.
There’s no way you won’t be making friends.
Bali is one of the top digital nomad cities in the world, and is a perfect solo traveling destination – specifically for women!
Let me tell you why:
In the past few years, Bali has become sort of a cliché (in the best way possible). Thanks to the large amounts of tourism, the hostels there are packed, the cafes are filled with expats, and everywhere you go you’re bound to meet people on the same journey that you’re on.
Hospitality and Balinese Culture go hand in hand.
Trust me on this one: Everyone who’s been to Bali has been pleasantly surprised over the Balinese kindness, tolerance, and hospitality. You’ll be on a first-name basis with everyone from the first day.
Yoga. Yoga everywhere.
Why are you traveling solo? Chances are – you’re trying to go on an inward journey of discovering yourself. And let’s be honest here, what better way to do that than by yoga amidst lush greenery and staggering landscapes? The tropical environment of Bali and the amalgamation of different religious cultures makes it the perfect place for a yoga retreat.
Getting around is easy.
Ubud is extremely walkable, and haggling with a driver for a ride on his motorbike is just another day in Bali!
You’ll be able to get by with just English.
Unless you’re planning on going off-the-beaten-path, you’ll be able to get by just fine by speaking English.
Best Time to Go
There are pretty much two main seasons in Bali: Wet season and dry season. Needless to say, the best time to go is anytime from April to October.
If you’re trying to avoid the crowds, try during the shoulder season: April-June or September-October. If you’re solo-traveling to Bali, I recommend visiting in July or August: it’ll make getting to know people much easier.
Top Things to Do in Bali
Ubud
Your trip to Bali will probably start at Ubud – the most famous area in Bali and the place you’ll probably recognize from all the pictures circulating social media right now. The town is perched right amidst sprawling rice fields (if you’ve watched Eat, Pray, Love, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about!) and there is no shortage of rich cultural monuments, yoga studios, temples and more.
Ubud is basically the place to go to get a firsthand experience of Balinese culture. It’s the place where you’ll get to enjoy stunning scenery and dive headfirst into traditional culture. There’s basically something for all types of travelers out there!
1. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest
That will basically be your obligatory first stop in Ubud (and Bali altogether). The Monkey Forest is more of an experience than anything else – and let me say, it’s quite the eccentric one.
You’ll be met with over 600 long-tailed monkeys who, trust me on this one, will not shy away from robbing you. Yup, you heard that right.
Listen up:
Yes, the Monkey Forest is absolutely beautiful and the scenery is hard to compete with, but also don’t lock eyes with the monkeys and don’t feed them!
2. Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
You know those rice paddies you see all over Instagram? Yup. That’s them! They’re definitely one of the most famous attractions in Bali and for good reason. Make sure you arrive really early in the morning to:
a) avoid the crowds.
b) Get some envy-inducing pictures.
c) Snag that sweet sweet golden sunrise lights.
3. Attend a traditional dance.
One of the best ways you can spend an evening in Ubud is by going to the palace to attend a traditional dance there.
4. Take a cooking class!
I’m an avid believer in taking a cooking class wherever I travel. Honestly – there is no better souvenir to take back home from your trip to Bali than a recipe you can reuse. You’ll dive right into the culture by learning all the exotic flavors you have and this will definitely help impress everyone you know back home!
5. Get cultured.
If you’re planning on exploring Bali’s culture on your trip, then Ubud is the perfect place to spend the most time at. This treasure trove of cultural attractions – from gorgeous architectural sites to temples, to a lot more. I definitely recommend visiting the 11th century Goa Gajah and the water temple of Pura Taman Saraswati.
6. Jump into the Tegenungan Waterfall
This is for all you nature lovers out there – Ubud has one of the best waterfalls in Bali. The scene itself is unparalleled – an azure pool, tropical palm trees, lush greenery all around….You get the point!
7. Revel in Ubud’s market scene.
Have you really visited Ubud if you haven’t haggled your way through its artisan shops and lively markets? The answer is no. There is a plethora of shops selling all types of stuff – from handicraft items to paintings and fabrics.
Kuta
If you’re looking for that effortless blend of partying and beach resorts – Kuta has got your back. Easy waves to surf, a plethora of attractions, pristine beaches, and quaint little shops – Kuta is a perfect look into the Balinese way of life.
8. Go surfing in Kuta.
Even if you’ve never surfed before: there is no better place to surf than in Bali’s Kuta Beach. Rent a body board, surf the easy waves, enjoy a cold beer by the sand and revel in Kuta’s renowned je ne sais quoi vibe.
9. Enjoy the nightlife in Kuta.
The party scene literally keeps going into the early morning in Kuta – and it’ll be super easy to meet people on your trip. The best thing? They’ll most likely be going to your same next destination.
Seminyak
Seminyak is Bali’s cool corner. A place with hip bars, cool boutique shops, a unique nightlife, slick cafes and bars and much more – Seminyak is where you go to indulge in Bali’s joie de vivre.
10. Soak the sun at Seminyak Beach.
Seminyak Beach is chock full of things to do – you’ve got the high-end pool clubs on one side, public beaches on the other side and the wildest waters.
11. Pura Petitenget.
Don’t let Seminyak’s Beaches lure you in and make you forget about Seminyak’s cultural side. This centuries-old temple boasts dozens of traditional ceremonies – make sure you attend one during sunset, dress appropriately and keep your legs covered.
Canggu
Canggu feels like a miniature L.A right in the heart of Bali. A hub for all digital nomads out there, this ocean-side destination is a place of yoga centers, nomad cafes, sandy beaches and the star of the show: volcanic black sand on its top 3 beaches.
12. Surf the waves in Canggu.
Canggu is one of the most famous surfing destinations in the world. You’ll find that the two most well-known spots for surfing are: Berawa Beach & Batu Bolong.
13. Take a day trip to Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most spectacular temples in Bali – an incredibly picturesque place, the perfect place for some tranquil sunset-watching and a great introduction to Bali’s spiritual side. Let’s just start by saying that the Pura Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic attractions and is one of the most sacred as well. Every evening, hundreds of people make their way from all over Bali to witness the sunset from this highly spiritual place, soaking up the magnificent atmosphere, taking pictures and relaxing at one of the many clifftop restaurants nearby.
14. Visit Love Anchor Market.
A trip to Bali is not complete without at least a whole day of shopping. Make sure you spend at least a few hours at the Love Anchor Market for some delicious coffee, cool handicraft items, artisan goods and much more. If you prefer some organic treats and good old vintage clothing – head to Samadi Market!
Sanur
Yes, yes, yes! Sanur is definitely one of my favorite places in Bali, and it will be definitely one of yours! Laid-back beaches, a night market that’s hard to compete with, and a gateway to two of Bali’s top picturesque islands: Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
15. Visit the Pasar Sindhu Night Market.
The night market in Sanur is one of its top attractions and possibly the best glimpse into local life that you could get in Bali. You’ll immediately be immersed in the unique, colorful vibrancy of the atmosphere, and you’ll get to experience the full hustle and bustle of the local life. Of course – there’s no need to tell you that this is a surefire paradise for all you foodies out there. From bakso dishes to gorengan to fresh tropical fruits – there’s nothing you won’t find there.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu is entirely different than the rest of Bali. It’s one of the most preferred spots for surfers from all around the world and will always remain true to its name. The rocky mainland is home to the bluest waters backed with staggering cliffs, and its coasts offer views that you’ll find nowhere else in the world. Besides the beaches, natural scenery and coral reefs, Uluwatu is also home to incredible culinary journeys, traditional dance performances, and Hindu temples.
16. Visit Uluwatu Temple
Aside from spending all your days on the beach surfing, diving or just soaking in the sun, you could also take some time to enjoy the clifftop views from Uluwatu Temple. This millennia-old temple is thought to be free from all evil spirits – and you’ll certainly feel cleansed after a magnificent visit.
More Things to Do in Bali
17. Visit Mount Batur
You’ll understand why we have hiking boots on your packing list right now. Mount Batur is an amalgamation of mountains surrounded by mystical mist and staggering views. An active volcano, a sacred place and the ultimate place for picturesque views – your trip to Bali is simply not complete without a trip to Mount Batur.
18. Relax at the Yoga Barn
The most famous yoga retreat in Bali deserves a visit. Located in Ubud, the Yoga Barn boasts five different studios with a plethora of different activities.
19. Shop for some silver at Celuk.
Celuk is a village that has always been known for its silver and its traditional souvenirs. It’s also only 30 minutes away from Ubud.
20. Go snorkeling at Amed.
There are a lot of places you can snorkel in at Bali, but Amed is definitely one of the quietest and has the best visibility when it comes to diving.
21. Go dolphin spotting at Lovina.
People visit Lovina specifically for taking a boat trip amidst dolphins.
22. Swim at the Gitgit Waterfalls
That is definitely cataract that you cannot miss out on. First, you walk through leafy trails, coffee plantations, and lush greenery to reach the waterfall. Then, you get to the waterfall and it’s instant heaven on earth.
How to Get Around Bali as a Solo Traveler
Despite the fact that Bali is a small island, getting around isn’t the easiest if you’re planning on depending on public transport. Unfortunately, there is no public transport but a plethora of other transport options that’ll make your trip to Bali a breeze.
Inside of towns.
● Scooter: I will always be an avid fan of the scooter. It’s like killing two birds with one stone. On one side you have a fast way to zip around the streets and the traffic and on the other, you have a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You can also use the GO-JEK app if fyou’re not comfortable riding a scooter on your own.
● Taxi: Taxis will be your most expensive option, and unfortunately there are no services like Uber. There is, however, an app called Blue Bird that works similarly to Uber.
● Private Car: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent your own private car and navigate around. I don’t recommend this if you’re traveling a solo traveler as your chances of getting lost are, well, let’s say quite high.
● Get a private driver: If you’re not on a super tight budget, I would highly recommend renting a driver to navigate you around the islands.
Top Tips for a Bali Trip
Respect the local culture.
If you’re going on a trip to Bali, you need to know that there are certain cultural etiquette tips that you’ll need to follow so you don’t offend the locals. For example – always make sure you dress modestly when entering temples. Cover your waist, shoulders and legs with a scarf.
Safety Tips
● Smoking is forbidden in Bali in most public areas after a law went into effect across Bali in 2011.
● Always look for red flags on the beach before you attempt to swim at any of the beaches.
● Never look the macaque monkeys in the eye so you don’t suffer a monkey attack.
● Always carry sunscreen with you.
● Drink a lot of water to avoid any heatstrokes.
● Never drink tap water.
Money Changing Tips
If you’re going to be exchanging money, try to use the ATMs to withdraw cash directly from your bank account for the best rates. If you cannot find an ATM and you need to go to a money changer, only choose the ones recognized by Bank Indonesia.
What to Pack for Bali
Bali is the textbook definition of tropical, hot and humid. Here are some essential items you’ll need on your trip to Bali:
● Hemp clothing: temperature regulating and keeps you cool when it’s really hot outside.
● Light shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and skirts.
● Hiking pants.
● Hiking shoes that have been broken into.
● Sandals – lots of sandals!
● Travel towels.
● Sunscreen.
● Swimsuits.
● An umbrella just in case.
● Portable charger/adapters.
● Daypack for day trips.
● Yoga pants.
● 1 sarong or scarf for coverups.
● Portable water bottle.
A trip to Bali is something that people spend ages planning for, dreaming about and trying to perfect. But the best way to experience Bali is to just know exactly what kind of trip you want to have, jot down a few places you want to go and let the country take you on an unforgettable adventure.
