Is Bali safe to visit in 2026? What travel advisories say and how to stay safe
Millions of people visit Bali every year, and both the Australian and US governments ask travellers to take extra care. The risks that matter most, what the official advice says, and simple habits that keep a trip calm.
Is Bali safe to visit?
Bali is a popular, generally welcoming destination, but it is not risk-free. Australia’s Smartraveller advises a high degree of caution for Indonesia, including Bali, and the US rates Indonesia Level 2, exercise increased caution. The main risks for visitors are theft, methanol in drinks, road accidents and rip currents.
Most of these risks can be reduced with simple habits: watch your phone and bag, be careful with spirits, ride only with the right licence or use a driver, and swim where the beach is patrolled.
What do government travel advisories say about Bali?
Smartraveller, the Australian Government’s travel advice, sets Indonesia at “exercise a high degree of caution” (updated 21 October 2026). Bali has no separate level, and higher levels apply only to specific provinces in Papua.
The US Department of State rates Indonesia Level 2, “exercise increased caution”, citing natural disasters, terrorism and unrest (7 July 2026). It notes that US citizens have been victims of violent crimes, especially in Bali, and that sexual assault and drink spiking have been reported in Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands and Sumatra.
What are the most common crimes against tourists?
Smartraveller lists theft, robbery, pickpocketing and bag and phone snatching, which can sometimes be violent. Card skimming and hidden cameras at ATMs and payment terminals also occur, as do money exchange, card game and taxi scams.
Keep your phone on the side away from the road, use ATMs inside banks or shops, count your money at the exchange counter, and book rides through Grab, Gojek or your accommodation.
Is it safe to drink alcohol in Bali?
Methanol poisoning is a real risk. Smartraveller reports that locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or fallen seriously ill after drinking contaminated local spirits such as arak, spirit-based cocktails and even brand-name alcohol.
Be cautious with cheap spirits and cocktails, especially where prices seem too low, and never leave your drink unattended. Blurred vision or sudden illness after drinking needs urgent medical help.
Are the roads and beaches in Bali safe?
Traffic is congested and road users are unpredictable, and Smartraveller notes that Australians have been seriously injured and killed in motorbike accidents in Bali. You need an International Driving Permit with the right category in addition to your licence. If you are not an experienced rider, use a driver or ride-hailing apps.
Many beaches are unpatrolled, with rough seas and strong rip currents, and rip currents cause the drowning of several Australians each year, including in Bali. Swim only at patrolled beaches, between the flags, and stay in the shallows if you are not a confident swimmer.
What health and legal risks should you know about?
Rabies is present throughout Indonesia and is fatal once symptoms appear. It is spread mainly by dogs, cats, monkeys and bats, so do not touch or feed animals, and get medical help immediately after a bite or scratch.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include the death penalty, and police target drug use in popular venues in Bali. Cannabis products, including CBD, are illegal even with a prescription. Indonesia also has earthquakes and active volcanoes, so follow local instructions if an alert is issued.
How do you choose a calm and secure base in Bali?
Choose accommodation with on-site security, a team that answers quickly and transport you can book. A quieter area near the beaches means you can enjoy the coast without staying in the busiest streets.
The Umalas Signature in Umalas, between Canggu and Seminyak, about five minutes from the ocean, has 24/7 security and secure parking in its 5,000 m² clubhouse. The concierge arranges airport transfers and daily drivers on request, so you do not need to ride a scooter at night.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bali safe for tourists in 2026?
Bali is a popular destination, but travel advisories ask for extra care. Australia advises a high degree of caution for Indonesia, including Bali, and the US rates Indonesia Level 2, exercise increased caution.
What is the biggest danger in Bali?
For most visitors, the main risks are road accidents on scooters, rip currents at unpatrolled beaches, methanol in drinks and theft. Rabies and strict drug laws are also important to know about.
Is Bali safe for solo female travellers?
The US Department of State reports that sexual assault and drink spiking have occurred in tourist areas of Bali. Watch your drink, use booked transport at night and choose accommodation with security.
Do I need a special licence to ride a scooter in Bali?
Yes. Smartraveller notes that you need an Indonesian licence or an International Driving Permit in addition to your national licence, and the permit must cover motorcycles.
Where can I stay in Bali that is calm and secure?
Look for a quieter area near the beaches and accommodation with on-site security. The Umalas Signature in Umalas has 24/7 security and secure parking, about five minutes from the ocean.
