BALI ESSENTIAL INFO

​ESSENTIAL INFO for Bali Travelers 

Bali is generally safe for travelers, but scams target tourists in busy areas

Here are the most common scams and how to avoid them:

TRANSPORT SCAMS 

• Use trusted ride apps like Grab or Gojek for short trip instead of random street offers.

• Agree on the price before entering a private car or taxi 

• Avoid drivers who need deposit

• For tours, book through reputable companies with real reviews, like Bali Uber Tours, Bali Gems Tours 

MONEY EXCHANGE SCAMS

• Only use authorized money changers with proper offices and receipt systems.

• Avoid exchange shops offering “too good” rates.

• Count money carefully yourself before leaving.

• Use ATMs inside banks or minimarts when possible.

FAKE TOUR  & ACTIVITY SELLERS 

• Be careful with random street sellers offering cheap tours or boat tickets.

• Check reviews on platforms like Google, Tripadvisor, Facebook Pages

• Ask what is included: entrance fees, parking, lunch, petrol, pickup, etc.

TEMPLE & DONATION SCAMS 

• Real temples may request a small donation or sarong rental, but aggressive demands are suspicious.

• At famous temples, buy tickets only from official counters.

Scooter rental scams

* Take photos/videos of the scooter before riding.

* Never leave your passport as deposit if possible.

* Wear a helmet and carry an international driving permit.

* Some shops charge fake damage fees afterward, so document everything.

Card skimming & ATM fraud

* Avoid isolated ATMs late at night.

* Cover your PIN when typing.

* Enable banking notifications on your phone.

Beach & nightlife scams

* Watch drink prices at beach clubs and bars.

* Check menus before ordering.

* Don’t leave bags or phones unattended on beaches.

Online booking scams

* Verify hotel or villa listings carefully.

* Use secure platforms like  Booking.com or  Airbnb.

* Be cautious with direct bank transfers to unknown sellers on social media.

General safety tips

* Keep copies of your passport.

* Use hotel safes for valuables.

* Don’t trust “too cheap” offers.

* Ask locals or hotel staff if unsure.

The safest approach in Bali is:

1. Check reviews.

2. Confirm prices upfront.

3. Use trusted apps/platforms.

4. Avoid rushed decisions.