Things Tourists Should Not Do in Bali

The things tourists should not do in Bali are simple enough: respect local customs, obey traffic rules and do not break local regulations. Even small mistakes can lead to fines or serious trouble, so learn the limits before you leave.

Bali welcomes millions of visitors every year, and most trips go smoothly. Still, some habits and rules are broken without people realising it. Here is a practical guide, written from the point of view of SiapPergi's local team, who deliver vehicles to hotels and villas across Bali every day.

Cultural and Temple Rules

Balinese society is shaped by its customs and by Hindu religion. A few things are best avoided:

• Do not enter a temple with bare shoulders or legs. Wear a sarong and a sash when entering temple grounds. Many temples lend them at the entrance, but bringing your own is more convenient.
• Do not climb statues or sacred structures for photos. This is considered disrespectful.
• Do not touch people's heads, including children, as the head is regarded as the most sacred part of the body.
• Use your right hand when giving or receiving something.
• Do not step on offerings (*canang sari*) placed on pavements, steps or floors. Walk carefully.
• Avoid noise and drunkenness in temple areas or during ceremonies.

On holy days such as Nyepi, the whole of Bali stops, including the airport and the roads. Follow local rules and make sure you have what you need before that day. Dates and rules are set by the regional government and customary councils, and they can change each year.

Driving and Traffic Rules

Traffic in Bali is dense, especially in Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu. Driving mistakes are the most common cause of trouble for visitors.

1. Do not ride a motorbike without the right licence. Foreign visitors who drive must carry their home-country licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the motorcycle or car category. Checks are carried out by the police, and the rules are set by the Indonesian government, so verify with official sources before you travel.
2. Do not ride without a helmet. A helmet is required for both driver and passenger.
3. Do not park carelessly or on the roadway. Use official parking areas.
4. Do not use your phone while riding.
5. Do not carry more passengers than allowed, or ride with children without proper equipment.
6. Do not drive after drinking alcohol.

If you rent a scooter, make sure you understand the vehicle before setting off. At SiapPergi every scooter comes with 2 free helmets, and you can add a raincoat as an extra. The original registration (STNK) and official plates are present on every unit.

Nature and Environment

• Do not litter, especially plastic, on beaches, rice fields or rivers.
• Do not take coral, sand or rocks as souvenirs.
• Do not touch or feed wild animals, including the monkeys in Ubud and Uluwatu, as they can bite and transmit disease.
• Follow the rules in conservation areas and do not enter restricted zones without permission.

Law and Drugs

Indonesia applies very strict laws to narcotics. Carrying, using or distributing drugs can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment. Never carry items belonging to someone else or accept packages for others. Luggage and vehicles may also be searched. For the latest rules, check official government sources.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

How SiapPergi Can Help Your Holiday

SiapPergi rents scooters and cars across Bali at fixed catalogue prices: scooters from Rp70.000 per day and cars from Rp310.000 per day. Vehicles are delivered to your hotel, villa, home or Ngurah Rai Airport with no delivery fee. There is no deposit, your passport is not held, and you pay in Indonesian Rupiah when the vehicle arrives. Book via WhatsApp on +6281808001102, every day from 07.00 to 23.00 WITA.

To see the vehicle options, visit scooter rental in Bali or car rental in Bali. If you want to know how to book, read the booking guide. For specific areas, see scooter rental in Ubud or scooter rental in Canggu.

If your plans go beyond Bali, we also offer car with driver in Yogyakarta for trips to Borobudur or Dieng.