Why is Bali not safe anymore?
Let’s get this straight first: Bali is still a beautiful destination and millions of people visit every year without any major issues. That said, like anywhere in the world, there are risks, and some recent changes and trends have raised concerns about safety. It’s not that Bali is suddenly dangerous, but there are growing things travelers should be more aware of. Let’s dive into why some people feel Bali might not be as “safe” as it once was.
Tourist Overcrowding
One of the biggest shifts in recent years is the sheer number of tourists visiting Bali. The island’s infrastructure just wasn’t built to handle the massive influx. I remember visiting about 10 years ago, and it felt much more laid-back. Fast forward to my trip last year, and I was shocked at how busy certain areas like Kuta and Seminyak have become.
With more people come more problems—traffic jams, crowded beaches, and, unfortunately, petty crime. Pickpocketing and bag snatching have become more common, especially in busy tourist areas. I’ve seen motorbikes snatch bags right off people’s shoulders while they’re walking down the street. It's not exactly the tropical paradise vibe you’re hoping for when you visit Bali, right?
My advice: always keep your belongings secure and stay alert, especially in crowded spots. It’s not about being paranoid, but having a little extra caution goes a long way.
Traffic and Road Safety
Let’s talk about the traffic for a second—because it’s one of the biggest reasons some people feel Bali is not as safe as it used to be. The roads in Bali can be chaotic, especially in the more developed areas. Scooters are everywhere, and they don’t exactly follow the same rules you might expect back home. Add to that a lack of proper sidewalks in many areas, and things can get a little dicey.
I once rented a scooter thinking it’d be a great way to get around, but after 10 minutes on the road, I regretted it. Cars were zooming by, scooters were weaving in and out, and no one seemed to be paying attention to any kind of traffic laws. Plus, roads are narrow, winding, and often in poor condition—especially once you get out of the main tourist hubs. Accidents are, unfortunately, common, especially among tourists who aren’t used to driving in such conditions.
If you’re planning on driving a scooter in Bali, make sure you have an international driver’s license and that you’re confident in your abilities. Otherwise, hire a Bali private driver—they know the roads and can help you avoid the stress of navigating Bali’s hectic traffic.
Natural Disasters
Bali is a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means it's vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic activity. In 2017, Mount Agung erupted, causing chaos for travelers. Flights were canceled, airports shut down, and many people were stranded on the island. Even though eruptions like that are rare, Bali's proximity to active volcanoes and the possibility of tsunamis or earthquakes is something to keep in mind.
During my trip around that time, I wasn’t personally affected, but I did meet travelers who had to extend their stay due to canceled flights. It was a reminder that, despite Bali's beauty, it’s still a natural disaster-prone area. It's worth checking the status of Bali’s volcanoes and keeping an eye on local news if you’re traveling during a period of heightened volcanic activity.
Health Risks and Environmental Issues
Over the years, Bali’s growing popularity has also brought environmental issues to the forefront. Pollution, particularly in the form of plastic waste, has started affecting the beaches and oceans. I’ve been to beaches in Canggu and Kuta where the shorelines were littered with plastic debris—especially during the wet season when rain washes the trash from inland areas to the coast. Not only is this disheartening to see, but it’s also harmful to marine life and the ecosystem.
And then there’s the issue of health risks. Bali has seen outbreaks of diseases like Dengue Fever, particularly during the wet season when mosquitoes are more prevalent. It’s not like you’re guaranteed to get sick, but it’s something you need to be aware of, especially if you’re planning a trip between November and March. On my last trip, I made sure to bring plenty of mosquito repellent, and I avoided going outside at dawn and dusk when the mosquitoes are most active.
Another health concern is the island’s water quality. The phrase "Bali belly" isn’t just a myth—many travelers, including myself, have experienced stomach issues after eating food or drinking water that isn’t properly sanitized. It’s a bummer when you’re stuck in your hotel room feeling sick on what’s supposed to be a relaxing vacation. To avoid this, always drink bottled water and be cautious about where you eat, especially if you’re trying street food.
Crime and Scams
Petty crime in Bali, while not rampant, has become more noticeable in the busier areas. Theft from hotel rooms, pickpocketing in crowded places, and scams targeting tourists are on the rise. I’ve been lucky enough not to fall victim to anything serious, but I’ve met travelers who’ve had their phones or wallets stolen while they were distracted at a bar or beach club.
And then there are the scams. Taxi scams, in particular, are infamous. If you’re taking a taxi in Bali, always opt for the official Blue Bird taxis, or better yet, use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek. I’ve had experiences where taxi drivers quote me double or triple the actual fare just because I was a tourist. It can feel frustrating, especially when you’re just trying to get from point A to point B without getting ripped off.
Another scam I’ve heard about but thankfully never experienced firsthand is the motorbike rental scam. Some travelers have rented bikes only to have the rental company "steal" the bike back later and demand extra payment. If you’re renting a bike, make sure to go through a reputable company and always check the condition of the bike before you take it out on the road.
Tourism Impact on Local Culture
Bali’s rapid development to cater to tourism has also had a cultural impact, and some people feel that the island has lost some of its charm as a result. The rise of party tourism, particularly in areas like Kuta, has led to a rowdy nightlife scene that doesn’t mesh well with Bali’s traditional, spiritual vibe. I’ve definitely noticed this change over the years, and it’s something that locals have been vocal about too.
The island is still deeply rooted in its Hindu culture, and you’ll see this reflected in daily offerings, temples, and ceremonies, but there’s a noticeable tension between preserving this culture and accommodating the huge wave of tourists. Some areas, especially the quieter, more traditional villages, are still holding onto their cultural roots, but in busier towns, it can feel like tourism has taken over. I always try to be mindful of this when I visit by being respectful of local customs and making sure I’m contributing positively to the community.
So, Is Bali Still Safe?
Yes, Bali is still a safe destination overall. But like anywhere in the world, you need to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Whether it’s dealing with traffic, natural disasters, or petty crime, being informed and prepared will go a long way toward ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
For me, Bali remains one of my favorite places to visit, but I’ve learned to approach it with a bit more caution than I used to. It’s still a tropical paradise, but it’s also a real place with real challenges. The key to a great trip is knowing what to expect and being ready for any curveballs that might come your way. That way, you can focus on the beaches, culture, and incredible experiences that Bali has to offer.
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