Is Bali Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bali generally has a warm community and a lot of tourists around, providing some sense of safety. However, walking alone at night isn't recommended mainly due to poorly lit areas and uneven sidewalks. Moreover, while violent crime is lower, petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Hiring a reputable taxi or using a ride-sharing app is a good option when you have to move around at night.

Public transportation in Bali, including buses and minivans, is generally reliable. Most locals use these means of transport, making it relatively safe during its operational hours. However, there could be instances of overcrowding during peak hours and the routes aren't always straightforward, which might be challenging for a foreign traveler. Taxis are more convenient, although it's essential to use a reputable company. It's advisable to stay cautious and informed about your journey details.

Bali generally has a welcoming and respectful mindset towards women, both locals and tourists. Street harassment is usually minimal and less commonly encountered compared to some other global tourist destinations, but it can occur occasionally like anywhere else. The harassment might take the form of persistent street vendors and over-friendly locals. It's always important to stay vigilant, practise good safety habits, and be assertive when necessary.

Bali witness some occurrences of petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching, particularly in crowded places and on beaches. Also, drink spiking and credit card fraud are not unheard of. Always be vigilant about your belongings and surroundings. Nevertheless, locals are generally friendly and helpful.

Drinking tap water in Bali is strongly discouraged due to high contamination risks. Often it's not treated to a level making it safe to consume directly from the tap. It's recommended to drink only bottled or purified water to avoid any potential health implications like Bali belly.

The United States Government advises to exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters. Certain areas carry an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions, as well as the threat of terrorism that permeates throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Indonesia due to security risks. Check the full travel advisory.