Bali

Bali: The Island of the Gods

Emerald rice terraces, ancient temples, world-class surf and sunsets you’ll never forget. Bali is one of the most magical islands on earth, blending natural beauty with a deep and living culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a spiritual retreat, an adventure-packed trip or a romantic escape, Bali has something for everyone. It’s no wonder it’s become a favourite with South African travellers.

An Island Like No Other

Bali is an island in Indonesia, lying between Java and Lombok in the Indian Ocean. It covers around 5,780 km² and is home to over four million people. While most of Indonesia is Muslim, Bali is mostly Hindu, and its unique form of Balinese Hinduism shapes daily life on the island.

You’ll see small offerings of flowers, rice and incense, called canang sari, placed on doorsteps, in temples and even on the pavement every morning. With thousands of temples across the island, it’s easy to see why Bali is called the Island of the Gods.

Where to Stay

Bali’s different areas each have their own feel, so choose based on the kind of trip you want.

Seminyak. Stylish and lively, with beach clubs, boutiques, spas and great restaurants.

Canggu. A laid-back surf town popular with young travellers and digital nomads, full of cafés, surf breaks and sunset bars.

Uluwatu. Dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches and some of the best surfing on the island, with beautiful clifftop resorts.

Ubud. The cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by jungle and rice fields. Perfect for yoga, wellness, art and nature.

Nusa Dua. Calm beaches and large luxury resorts, ideal for families and those wanting a relaxing stay.

Sanur. A quiet, relaxed seaside town with gentle beaches and a peaceful vibe.

Amed and Munduk. Quieter areas in the east and north, great for snorkelling, diving, waterfalls and escaping the crowds.

Top Sights

Tanah Lot. A temple perched on a rock in the ocean, most beautiful at sunset.

Uluwatu Temple. Set on a cliff high above the sea, it’s famous for its sunset Kecak fire dance performances.

Besakih Temple. Known as the “Mother Temple”, it’s the largest and holiest temple in Bali, set on the slopes of Mount Agung.

Tegallalang and Jatiluwih rice terraces. Wander through stunning green terraces. Jatiluwih forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape that protects Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. A forest in Ubud home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and ancient temples.

Tirta Empul. A holy water temple where locals and visitors take part in purification rituals in the spring-fed pools.

Ulun Danu Beratan. A beautiful temple that seems to float on Lake Bratan in the cool highlands.

Nusa Penida. A short boat ride from Bali, this island is famous for its dramatic cliffs, including the iconic Kelingking Beach viewpoint.

Things to Do

Hike Mount Batur at sunrise. Start in the dark and reach the top of this active volcano just as the sun rises over the island.
Surf world-class waves at Uluwatu, Canggu and Kuta, with options for beginners and experienced surfers.
Snorkel and dive with manta rays at Nusa Penida or explore the USAT Liberty shipwreck at Tulamben.
Chase waterfalls, including Tegenungan, Sekumpul and Tukad Cepung.
Relax at a spa. Bali is famous for affordable, high-quality massages and wellness treatments.
Take a cooking class and learn to make local favourites.
Join a yoga retreat in Ubud.
Spend the day at a beach club in Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu.
Eat your way around the island. Try nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay, babi guling and bebek betutu.

When to Go

Bali is warm all year, with temperatures usually between 26°C and 32°C.

Dry season (April to October). The best time to visit, with sunny days, low humidity and good conditions for hiking, surfing and diving. July, August and December are the busiest months.

Wet season (November to March). Expect heavy showers, often in the afternoon, and higher humidity. The island is greener, prices can be lower and there are fewer crowds.

Keep in mind that Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, usually falls in March. The whole island shuts down for 24 hours, including the airport, and visitors must stay in their hotels.

Getting There From Durban

By air: There are no direct flights from Durban to Bali. Most travellers connect through Johannesburg and then Singapore, Doha, Dubai or Kuala Lumpur. Total travel time is usually between 16 and 22 hours, depending on the route and layovers.

You’ll arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar in the south of the island.

Getting around: Most visitors use private drivers, ride-hailing apps or taxis. Scooters are popular, but traffic can be chaotic, so only ride if you’re experienced and properly licensed.

Handy Tips for Your Visit

Check visa and entry rules. South African passport holders can usually get a visa on arrival or an e-visa online before travelling. Visitors also need to pay a Bali tourist levy. Always confirm the latest rules before you go.
Dress respectfully at temples. Cover your shoulders and knees, and wear a sarong and sash. Many temples provide them at the entrance.
Carry Indonesian rupiah for markets, small shops and temple entrance fees. Cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid an upset stomach.
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, as dengue fever is a risk. Speak to a travel clinic before your trip.
Be careful around monkeys. Keep sunglasses, phones and food out of reach, and don’t touch or feed them.
Allow for traffic. Roads can be very busy, so short distances can take longer than you expect.
Get travel insurance, especially if you plan to surf, dive or ride a scooter.
Stay at least 10 days to make the long journey worth it and explore more than one area of the island.

Plan Your Bali Escape

Bali is a place that stays with you. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from a volcano, wandering through rice terraces, surfing perfect waves or simply relaxing by the pool with a fresh coconut, every day brings something new. Pack your bags, open your heart to the culture and get ready to discover why so many travellers fall in love with the Island of the Gods.