The big problem in Bali, which everyone complains about and yet we’re all part of the problem, is overtourism.
There are simply too many people.
In Canggu, Kuta & Ubud, while there’s no shortage of accommodation and restaurants (vegan, bbq, halal, Italian & Balinese, of course), it’s never very pleasant to visit the island’s most emblematic sites by stepping on each other’s toes, being restricted by visiting time slots or not being able to fully immerse in the spirituality of the places due to the surrounding crowd.
And yet this is a reality in Bali.
Consider temples like Pura Luhur Uluwatu, where the spiritual atmosphere is hard to feel amidst the constant flow of tourists eager to see the Kecak dance and the monkeys who gravitate toward your belongings. And let’s not forget the traffic in Ubud, which has dramatically increased in the last ten years, now struggling to keep up with the city’s development.
This wasn’t the Bali I imagined. I came seeking spirituality, hoping to meet locals who weren’t just focused on making money off me, and to explore the places they frequent. So I searched & asked for those places. And I was relieved to uncover that Bali is still full of hidden treasures, far from the fever of the Uluwatu-Canggu-Ubud trio.
In this article, I share 7 essential tips for escaping the crowds in Bali, Indonesia.
TIP 1. VISIT BALI DURING OFF SEASON
Bali’s off-peak season generally runs from November to March (with the exception of Christmas, New Year and public holidays in Bali and Indonesia). During this period, you’ll find fewer tourists, more affordable prices and a quieter and peaceful atmosphere. It can rain a lot as it’s the rainy season, but that depends on you and your luck. A friend of mine went for two weeks in November and it only rained once.
You might be to include a few possible rainy days in your schedule and be fairly flexible in case weather is really bad
this is Amed, on the north east of Bali at golden hour
TIP 2 – FIND ALTERNATIVES TO MOST POPULAR PLACES
Instead of popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud, opt for quieter spots :
- Amed is a fisherman town amazing for snorkelling & diving
- Sidemen with it’s endless green rice fields
- Munduk is home to secret waterfalls and lost temples.
You may not find large beach clubs for partying, but instead, you’ll discover small beach bars offering live music, restaurants serving only nasi goreng, and friendly locals.
TIP 3 – ASK BALINESE LOCALS ABOUT THEIR FAVORITE PLACES
If you choose to hire a guide for a trip in Bali, they can certainly recommend great places to visit afterward. Even Grab drivers, whether on motorcycle or in a car, can offer you some tips on exploring more authentic spots.
The monkeys at Tanah Lot temple are so familiar with people that they’ve learned how to trade stolen belongings for peanuts.
TIP 4 – AVOID POPULAR TEMPLES AT PEAK HOUR
If you want to visit temples like Tanah Lot in Uluwatu but prefer to avoid the crowds, I recommend going early in the morning. In the late afternoon, as the sky turns in warm shades, the crowds gather to capture the moment and assist to the traditional Kecak dance. Alternatively, instead of the famous Temple Tirta Empul you could opt to visit lesser-known temples like Pura Gunung Kawi which is also close to Ubud.
TIP 5 – TRAVEL BY SCOOTER
Renting a scooter is freedom. A freedom that you’ll might never get on tours. With my scooter I was able to discover wonderful villages on the island of Nusa Penida, take detours along very scenic roads and enjoy the surroundings of Bali’s volcano very early in the morning. And additionnaly it’s the cheapest way to go around: renting a scooter is around 100k a day and a full tank cost 50k.
I got lost on the roads of Nusa Penida, but I had the chance to witness the golden hour painting the roofs of traditional Balinese villages. Look at the golden and red hindou temple on the middle-left!
TIP 6 – EXPLORE BALI NATURAL RESERVES
I haven’t visited yet, but I’ve heard that Bali Barat National Park (or West Bali National Park), located at the north-western tip of the island, is a must-see. The park is known for its rich birdlife, including the endangered Bali starling, the island’s iconic mascot. There are several trails to explore, but it’s recommended to go with a guide. For those seeking adventure, the 5-hour Gunung Klatakan hike through the rainforest is an option, while others might prefer to visit the Teluk Terima mangroves or exploring Menjagan Island, where monks and deers coexist peacefully. The park is also known for its excellent underwater ecosystems, making it a great spot for diving!
Finally, if you’re planning to hike Mount Batur at sunrise, be prepared for company—perhaps opting for a sunrise hike is your best option to avoid the crowds.
TIP 7 – GET UPDATES FROM MY BLOG
While in Indonesia for 50 days I was able to discover places off the beaten track in Bali & the surroundings. Feel free to follow my adventures on Instagram or sign up for the newsletter to be notified when I publish new Bali tips!
An article is currently being written about 3 more local options to Bali’s most popular attractions !
Do you know some gems in Bali ? Which ones ? Don’t gatekeep !