Bali is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, known for its temples, beaches, cultural heritage, waterfalls, nightlife, and world-class hospitality. When planning your trip, one of the most common questions is: do you need a tour guide to travel in Bali? The answer depends on your travel style.
For families or groups, hiring a tour guide is often the most convenient choice. Bali doesn’t have a strong public transportation system, and distances between tourist spots can be quite long. A tour guide usually acts as both guide and driver, helping you reach different locations comfortably in a private car. They can also recommend hidden gems, handle parking, help with tickets, and adjust the itinerary according to your group’s needs which is especially helpful when traveling with elders or young children.
For solo travelers or couples, a tour guide isn’t always necessary. Many travelers prefer renting a scooter and exploring independently. Most popular destinations are well-marked on Google Maps, and scooters are affordable, giving you the freedom to stop anywhere you like. However, if you prefer to simply sit back and relax, or you don’t feel confident riding a scooter, hiring a guide with a car is an excellent option.
How Many Days Are Perfect for Traveling in Bali?
The ideal duration depends on how deep you want to explore:
- Fast Bali highlights: 10–14 days. From Uluwatu (south) to Lovina (north)
- Relaxed Bali trip: 2–3 weeks. Include sightseeing + rest days
- Bali + Nusa Islands: 3 weeks. Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan added
Most travelers spend 2 weeks to explore Bali fully in a fast pace.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season: April to October.
The weather is sunny, the ocean is calm, and it’s perfect for beaches, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
Can I Speak English in Bali?
Yes. English is widely spoken in Bali, especially in tourist areas like Ubud, Canggu, Kuta, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. Most hotel staff, tour guides, restaurant workers, and shopkeepers understand basic to fluent English.
Must-Try Food and Drinks in Bali
Food
- Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice)
- Babi Guling (Balinese roasted pork)
- Nasi Campur Bali
- Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck)
- Sate Lilit (minced fish satay)
Drinks
- Es Kelapa Muda (fresh coconut)
- Balinese coffee
- Jamu turmeric health drink
- Arak Bali (local beer, drink responsibly)
Do’s and Don’ts in Bali
Do
- Dress politely when visiting temples
- Respect religious ceremonies and locals’ beliefs
- Bargain politely in markets
Don’t
- Touch or step over offerings on the ground
- Enter temples with exposed shoulders without a sarong
- Disrespect nature or wildlife
What to Prepare Before Visiting Bali
- Sunscreen and light comfortable clothes
- International driving license (if renting scooter)
- Travel insurance
- Cash for small shops and traditional Markets. All cafés, modern clothing shops, restaurants, and air-conditioned markets accept cashless payments (card or Apple Pay).
- eSIM. Use Eskimo eSIM, which covers 140+ countries (including Bali), starting from $1.5 / GB.
FAQs
How do I get around in Bali if I don’t rent a scooter or hire a private driver?
You can use ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek (just like Uber) for short-distance trips. They are affordable and reliable for moving between nearby areas.
Do I need a visa to visit Bali?
Many nationalities can enter Indonesia with Visa on Arrival (VOA) or visa-free entry depending on their passport. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply to extend your visa while in Bali.
If I only have 7 days to visit Bali, which areas should I focus on?
With one week in Bali, the best plan is to split your time between two key areas. Spend 3–4 days in Ubud to enjoy temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural experiences. Then spend 3–4 days in Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu for beaches, cafés, sunset spots, and a more relaxed coastal vibe. This gives you a balanced Bali experience without feeling rushed.
