Is Bali Safe to Visit? Crime Risks, Common Scams & Travel Safety Tips [2025 Update]

外資系SEOスペシャリスト

Takuma Oka (岡 拓馬)

こんにちは、岡 拓馬（おか たくま）です。
このブログでは、海外ノマド×SEO×ストック収入をテーマに、自分の経験や学びを発信しています。

高校卒業後は料理人としてスタートし、その後、航空自衛隊での勤務を経て、2016年からWebライター・SEOコンサルタントとして独立。現在は、海外の外資系企業と契約しながら、フルリモートで働いています。拠点はアジア各国を転々としており、最近はベトナムやタイ、マレーシア、フィリピンなどでノマド生活をしています。

執筆者

Bali is one of the most popular travel destinations for Japanese tourists and digital nomads alike. Beautiful beaches, affordable villas, and a rich cultural atmosphere attract millions of visitors every year.

However, despite its tropical paradise image, Bali is not as safe as Japan. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, scams, and bag snatching do occur, especially in tourist areas like Kuta and Legian.

That doesn’t mean you should cancel your trip—far from it. With the right information and a few simple precautions, you can fully enjoy a safe and memorable stay on the island.

This guide explains the current safety situation in Bali, common types of crimes and scams targeting tourists, and practical tips to protect yourself during your trip in 2025.

How to Enjoy a Safe and Worry-Free Trip in Bali

Before visiting Bali—or any country abroad—it’s essential to get travel insurance.
Your Japanese health insurance card won’t be accepted overseas, and without proper coverage, you’ll be required to pay the full cost of medical treatment upfront. Depending on the country and hospital, this can be extremely expensive.

To avoid unexpected financial trouble, make sure you’re covered by travel insurance included with your credit card or purchase a separate plan before departure.
Even if you’re confident about your health, it’s always better to be prepared for accidents, food poisoning, or lost luggage.

Check the Latest Safety Information Before You Go

Before your trip, it’s always wise to check the latest travel advisories and safety updates for Bali.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan regularly updates its travel safety information on its official website.

As of the most recent update, Bali is classified as “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” — meaning travelers should stay alert but can visit the island safely with basic caution.

This level is relatively low compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, but it’s still important to stay informed and review safety announcements before your departure.

By checking official sources, you can avoid potential risks such as local protests, natural disasters, or health alerts.

Safety by Area: Which Parts of Bali Are Safe to Visit?

Bali is larger than most people think, and the level of safety varies by area. Below is a quick overview of major regions and what to watch out for:

• Kuta: Frequent cases of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and drug-related scams. Be extra careful in crowded alleys or nightlife districts.
• Ubud: Generally very safe, though solo female travelers should avoid walking alone late at night.
• Seminyak: Safe and upscale, with plenty of resorts and cafés popular among foreigners.
• Nusa Dua: A well-secured resort area, though occasional theft from unattended bags has been reported.
• Legian: High risk of pickpocketing—keep your phone and wallet secure at all times.

If it’s your first time visiting Bali, staying in Ubud or Seminyak is recommended for a comfortable and safe experience.

No matter where you stay, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially for women.

Common Scams and Crimes Targeting Tourists in Bali

Even though Bali is a friendly and welcoming destination, tourists—especially Japanese visitors—often fall victim to certain types of scams and petty crimes.
Here are the most common ones you should be aware of:

1. Pickpocketing and Bag Theft – Occurs frequently in crowded tourist areas, markets, and beaches.
2. Overcharging and Taxi Scams – Unscrupulous drivers or shops may demand inflated prices, especially near airports.
3. Bag Snatching – Often committed by two people on a motorbike; avoid carrying valuables loosely.
4. Credit Card Skimming – Card information can be stolen at unsafe ATMs; use machines in major banks or shopping malls.
5. Money Changer Scams – Exchange booths with unusually good rates may shortchange you.
6. Drug Offenses – Possession of illegal substances in Indonesia can lead to severe punishment, including the death penalty.
7. Drink Spiking and Robbery – Be cautious if invited to dine or drink by strangers.
8. Card Game (Poker/Trump) Scams – Locals may invite you to play “friendly” games, only to swindle you later.
9. Rabies from Stray Dogs – Avoid contact with street animals; vaccination is recommended for long stays.

All of these incidents have actually happened to Japanese travelers in recent years.
By learning about them in advance, you can take simple steps to prevent becoming a victim.

Pickpocketing and Bag Theft in Bali

Pickpocketing and bag theft are among the most common crimes in Bali, especially in busy tourist areas and shopping districts. Even in hotels or “safe” areas, unattended bags can sometimes disappear.

When you need to leave your belongings behind—such as when checking in or sightseeing—store them at the hotel front desk or in a locked safe rather than leaving them in your room or in public spaces.

Pickpockets tend to operate in crowded places or narrow alleys, often targeting distracted tourists.
To stay safe:

• Keep your bag in front of you in crowded areas.
• Avoid keeping valuables in your back pockets.
• Use anti-theft travel pouches or neck wallets with RFID protection.
• Stay alert in markets, temples, and public transport.

These small habits can make a huge difference in keeping your valuables secure during your trip.

Overcharging and Taxi Scams

One of the most common problems Japanese tourists face in Bali is overcharging, especially by taxi drivers around Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar).

As soon as you exit the arrivals area, you’ll find many drivers offering rides—some of them will quote prices several times higher than normal.

Since Bali doesn’t have public trains or city buses, transportation mainly relies on taxis and motorbike taxis. To avoid being scammed:

• Use the Grab or Gojek app, which shows fixed prices and trusted drivers.
• If you must take a local taxi, agree on the fare in advance or choose Bluebird Taxi, the most reputable company.
• Avoid anyone who approaches you directly inside the airport terminal.

Staying calm and politely refusing suspicious offers will save you money and stress right from the start of your trip.

Bag Snatching Incidents

Bag snatching is another common crime in Bali, often involving two people on a motorbike. One drives while the other grabs a tourist’s bag or shopping bag as they pass by.

This usually happens on narrow streets or when tourists are walking too close to the roadside carrying valuables in plain sight.

To prevent this type of theft:

• Avoid carrying your bag on the street-facing side.
• Keep valuables in a crossbody pouch or neck wallet instead of a handbag.
• If you’re riding on a motorbike as a passenger, don’t hold bags loosely in your hand—secure them in the bike’s compartment or wear them tightly across your body.

Even a small lapse in attention can make you an easy target. Staying alert and minimizing visible valuables is the best defense.

Credit Card Skimming

Credit card skimming occurs when criminals secretly copy your card information using hidden devices at ATMs or payment terminals. The stolen data is then used to create fake cards or make unauthorized withdrawals—sometimes up to your full credit limit.

To protect yourself from skimming while in Bali:

• Avoid using isolated or poorly lit ATMs, especially in small alleys or convenience stores.
• Prefer ATMs located inside major banks, shopping malls, or airports.
• Check for suspicious attachments or card slots that look tampered with before inserting your card.
• Enable instant transaction notifications on your banking app to spot any suspicious activity quickly.

Being cautious about where and how you use your card can prevent major financial losses during your trip.

Money Changer Scams

In Bali, you’ll find many money changers offering attractive exchange rates for Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
However, be cautious—some of these shops intentionally shortchange tourists using sleight-of-hand tricks or fake calculations.

Even if the signboard shows a “better” rate than the airport or your hotel, you may end up receiving less cash than expected after the transaction.

To avoid these scams:

• Use official money changers inside shopping malls or near reputable banks.
• Avoid small stalls with handwritten signs or “too good to be true” rates.
• Always count your money yourself before leaving the counter.
• Better yet, withdraw cash directly from an ATM using your credit card (with travel insurance and fraud protection).

A little caution can save you from a big headache later.

Drug-Related Offenses

You may occasionally encounter locals whispering “Marijuana? Cocaine?” around nightlife areas like Kuta or Legian.
No matter how casually they approach you, never engage or accept any offers.

In Indonesia, drug possession is one of the most serious crimes—even small amounts can lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Police also conduct undercover operations, and some “dealers” might actually be part of a setup targeting tourists.

To stay safe:

• Politely decline and walk away immediately.
• Don’t leave your drink or food unattended in bars or clubs.
• Avoid keeping any unknown substances given by strangers.

Enjoy Bali’s nightlife responsibly—never take chances with drugs in Indonesia.

Drink Spiking and Robbery

Drink spiking is another serious threat, particularly in busy tourist areas like Kuta.
In many reported cases, friendly locals—sometimes attractive men or women—approach solo travelers, invite them to dinner or drinks, and secretly slip sleeping pills or drugs into their beverages.

Once the victim loses consciousness, the criminals steal valuables, cash, and passports, often leaving them stranded and disoriented.

To protect yourself:

• Never accept drinks or food from strangers.
• Always keep your glass in sight, even at bars or clubs.
• Avoid following new acquaintances to secluded locations.

If you start feeling unusually dizzy or unwell, seek help from hotel staff or local authorities immediately.
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.

The “Card Game” Scam

A lesser-known but clever scam in Bali involves being invited to play a “friendly card game”—often by someone who speaks fluent Japanese or English.

It usually starts innocently: a local strikes up a conversation, invites you to their home, and suggests playing cards “just for fun.”
However, once inside, you’ll often find several accomplices waiting, turning the atmosphere into a high-pressure gambling setup.

The scam ends with the tourist losing large sums of money or being intimidated into paying.

To avoid this trap:

• Never go to a stranger’s house, even if they seem friendly.
• Politely decline any invitations to play games or “practice English.”
• If you feel pressured, leave immediately and head to a public area.

If it sounds too random or too nice to be true—it probably is.

Rabies Risk from Stray Dogs

In Bali, stray dogs are everywhere—on the streets, near beaches, and even around hotels.
While many of them may look harmless or friendly, some carry rabies, which can be fatal if left untreated.

Even a small bite or scratch from an infected animal can cause serious infection.
To stay safe:

• Do not touch or feed stray dogs or cats, no matter how cute they seem.
• Teach children to keep their distance from animals.
• If bitten or scratched, immediately wash the wound with clean water and go to a hospital for post-exposure vaccination.
• Consider getting a rabies vaccine before traveling, especially if you plan to stay long-term or visit rural areas.

Avoid unnecessary contact with animals, and you’ll significantly reduce your risk of illness.

Terrorism Concerns in Indonesia: Is Bali Affected?

Indonesia has experienced several terrorist incidents, mainly in Jakarta and other major cities, often linked to extremist groups.
Naturally, this raises concerns among travelers heading to Bali.

The good news is that Bali is generally considered very safe in this regard.
Unlike much of Indonesia, the island’s population is predominantly Hindu, not Muslim, which greatly reduces the likelihood of extremist activity.

That said, travelers should still exercise awareness during Ramadan or major religious holidays, as security alerts can occasionally rise during those periods.

To stay informed, check official travel advisories before your trip and avoid large political or religious gatherings while abroad.

Volcanic Activity and Natural Disasters

Bali is home to Mount Agung, an active volcano that last erupted in 2017, causing widespread flight cancellations and economic disruption across the island.
At the time, the alert level was raised to the highest category, and many tourists were forced to cancel or postpone their trips.

Fortunately, the situation has since stabilized.
As of now, the volcano’s alert level remains at Level 1 (Normal), meaning there is no significant risk to travelers visiting Bali in 2025.

Still, it’s wise to stay updated on local news or official announcements, especially during the rainy season, when landslides and flooding can occasionally occur.

In general, natural disaster risks in Bali are low, and the island remains a safe and comfortable travel destination throughout the year.

Is Bali Safe for Families with Children?

Yes — Bali can be a safe and enjoyable destination for families, as long as you take basic precautions.
Many resorts and hotels cater to families, offering pools, babysitting services, and clean dining options.

To ensure a stress-free trip with children, keep these points in mind:

• Choose reliable hotels or villas in safe areas like Nusa Dua, Sanur, or Ubud.
• Use taxis or organized tours for transportation instead of motorbikes.
• Avoid going out late at night with children.
• Make sure to bring a credit card with travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
• If you’re concerned about health risks, consider vaccinations such as rabies or hepatitis before departure.

As long as you prepare properly and stay cautious, Bali is a great choice for family travel—with plenty of kid-friendly beaches, temples, and activities to enjoy together.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Tips: What to Be Careful About in Bali

Every country has its own customs and social rules, and understanding Bali’s culture will help you avoid misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations.
Here are four key points to remember while exploring the island:

Don’t Shake Hands with Your Left Hand

In Balinese and Indonesian culture, the left hand is considered impolite because it’s traditionally used for personal hygiene.

When handing over money, food, or shaking hands, always use your right hand.
If you must use your left hand (for example, if your right hand is occupied), simply say “Maaf” (sorry) beforehand — this shows respect.

Never Step on Offerings (“Canang Sari”)

You’ll often see small woven offerings with flowers and incense placed on sidewalks or temple entrances.
These are daily offerings to Hindu gods, called Canang Sari.
Accidentally stepping on them is considered disrespectful, so watch your step when walking around temples or markets.

Don’t Drink Tap Water

Unlike Japan, tap water in Bali is not safe to drink.
Always use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
Even a small amount of untreated water can cause stomach issues or food poisoning.

Be Cautious When Dealing with Police

While Bali police officers are usually polite, they’re not always reliable when handling minor theft or lost items.
In some cases, travelers have reported being asked for “unofficial payments.”
If you encounter problems, contact your embassy or hotel for assistance instead of trying to negotiate on the spot.

By respecting local customs and staying aware of your surroundings, you’ll have a smoother and more enjoyable trip in Bali.

Conclusion: Prepare Well and Enjoy a Safe Trip to Bali

While Bali’s safety level is lower than Japan’s, it remains one of Asia’s most beloved resort destinations — attracting over 250,000 Japanese visitors every year.

By understanding the common risks and taking basic precautions, you can avoid most of the problems that travelers occasionally face, such as overcharging, pickpocketing, or scams.

Before your trip, make sure to:

• Check the latest travel advisories and local safety news.
• Get travel insurance or confirm that your credit card includes it.
• Choose trusted accommodation and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Respect Balinese culture and customs to build positive interactions with locals.

With the right preparation and awareness, Bali can be a safe, relaxing, and unforgettable destination for your next adventure.