Solo Female Travel to Bali: Freedom, Spirituality, and Dream Beaches
What if I told you there's a place on Earth where you can finally breathe as a woman? A place where each day becomes a new journey of self-discovery? This might not be the image you have of this Indonesian island – I was also told it was packed with tourists and had lost all its authenticity... But that's completely wrong!
Welcome to Bali, the island that's revolutionizing how women approach solo travel.
This little Southeast Asian gem hides unexpected treasures: authentic villages where locals welcome you like family, spiritual temples that soothe your soul-searching spirit, yoga classes overlooking rice terraces that reconnect your body and mind. Bali is the perfect destination for rediscovering yourself.
The safety, the kindness of the Balinese people, the cultural richness... everything comes together to make your first solo trip an unforgettable experience. Ready to discover how Bali can transform your view of the world and yourself?
Table of Contents
- My safety tips for women traveling alone in Bali
- Must-see attractions to visit in Bali
- When to travel for the best experience
- Preparing for your departure
- My tips for a successful first solo trip
My Safety Tips for Women Traveling Alone in Bali
Ah, the big question that gets everyone worked up! When I announced my departure to Bali, I got the full festival of family anxieties:
"A woman alone in Asia, are you crazy?!"
"You're going to get scammed on every corner"
"What if you get sick?"...
Is Bali a safe destination for solo female travelers?
Absolutely!
I've always felt safe in Bali, even while wandering alone in the evening through Ubud's alleyways or on Canggu's roads. The island bathes in a welcoming atmosphere that puts you at ease from the very first moments.
Balinese people and female travelers: authentic welcome or misplaced curiosity?
The Balinese radiate touching sincerity in their welcome.
Yes, sometimes you attract stares, especially with your big backpacker's bag, but it's more kind curiosity than sketchy persistence. I was even spontaneously invited to share breakfast with families who didn't know me! These moments of pure humanity are worth all the tourist guides in the world.
Potential dangers and how to avoid them
The real trap in Bali? The scooters.
Seriously, I really recommend taking a driver rather than playing daredevil on two wheels. For classic scams, watch out for inflated prices near ultra-touristy sites – a little friendly bargaining works wonders.
In the evening, stay in lively areas and avoid excessive alcohol (friend's advice!).
Useful apps and contacts for safety
Gojek will become your best friend. This app completely revolutionizes your transportation. Also think about joining the Facebook group "Bali Girls" for real-time practical advice from other female travelers.
I discovered Nomadsister by chance and it's become my go-to when I travel solo. This platform allows you to stay for free with women who open their doors to solo female travelers. It's reassuring to know I'll be welcomed by another woman who understands my concerns, plus I save a huge budget on accommodation while having an authentic experience.
Must-See Attractions in Bali
Every corner of the island of the gods exudes its own personality, and that's exactly what makes this destination so addictive. Yes, there are the must-sees like Tanah Lot Temple, but trust me, the most memorable experiences often come from spontaneous discoveries.
Ubud: Bali's Cultural and Spiritual Heart
Ubud breathes serenity in every corner. This is where I took my first yoga classes, surrounded by hypnotically green rice terraces. The local craftsmanship is exceptional, and the temples hidden in the jungle's heart offer unique meditation moments. From your arrival, you feel this spiritual energy that permeates every stone in the village.
My favorite spot: Tegallalang Café, perched in the rice fields. I experienced the most beautiful sunrise of my life there, steaming coffee in hand, watching the first rays caress the rice terraces…
Canggu: Surf, Cafés, and Bohemian Vibes
Canggu became my refuge for decompressing. This area attracts digital nomads from around the world with its trendy beaches, relaxed warungs, and permanently laid-back atmosphere. The vibe is perfect for socializing, and I made beautiful friendships there, especially in the wifi cafés.
Be aware though, the place isn't necessarily everyone's cup of tea: some female travelers find it too urban and touristy. You'll have to form your own opinion!
My favorite spot: Warung Ibu Oka, hidden by the rice fields. I tasted the best nasi goreng of my life there for less than $2. The locals go there for breakfast – 100% authentic.
Uluwatu: Cliffs, Secret Beaches, and Temples
The sunsets in Uluwatu are breathtaking. I discovered hidden beaches accessible only on foot, far from the crowds. The temple perched on the cliff offers spectacular views, especially at day's end when the sun plunges into the ocean. This region radiates an energy of total freedom that makes me vibrate.
My favorite spot: Single Fin, this bar hidden in the cliffs with an incredible panoramic view. I spent entire hours there watching surfers while sipping tropical fruit smoothies. Pure bliss!
Nusa Penida: Wild Island and Spectacular Rock Formations
The panoramas of Nusa Penida left me speechless. I explored isolated coves like Atuh Beach, nestled between immense white rocks. Angel's Billabong and its natural pools create a fairytale setting.
My favorite spot: The suspended little café Rumah Pohon, this treehouse facing Diamond Beach. I savored my morning coffee there while contemplating the diamond-shaped beach sparkling below.
Sidemen: Authentic and Rural Bali
To immerse yourself in real Balinese culture, Sidemen is a little gem. Rice terraces stretch as far as the eye can see, the calm is absolute, and traditional craftsmanship is still very much alive. I loved observing rice cultivation and joining the village's daily activities.
My favorite spot: This weaving workshop with the village women where I learned the Balinese tradition of tenun. These moments of authentic exchange are worth all the tourist temples in the world.
Itinerary for a 7, 10, or 15-Day Trip to Bali
Each region of Bali develops its own personality, and I really recommend balancing active exploration with moments of pure relaxation.
Express 7-Day Trip
- Ubud (3 days): Intense cultural and spiritual immersion
- Canggu (2 days): Surf relaxation and chill vibes
- Uluwatu (2 days): Secret beaches and magical sunsets
Discovery 10-Day Trip
- Ubud (3 days): Temples, yoga, and local crafts
- Sidemen (2 days): Preserved rural authenticity
- Canggu (2 days): Relaxed bohemian atmosphere
- Uluwatu (3 days): In-depth exploration of hidden beaches
Immersion 15-Day Trip
- Ubud (3 days): The island's spiritual heart
- Sidemen (2 days): Authentic local immersion
- Nusa Penida (2 days): Wild adventure and natural pools
- Amed (2 days): Exceptional diving and snorkeling
- Canggu (2 days): Total decompression
- Uluwatu (4 days): Exhaustive exploration of hidden treasures
Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Explore
If you're seeking authenticity, I've uncovered hidden gems for you. These magical places will let you discover a totally different Bali, far from tourist crowds.
Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan
These islands were an incredible discovery. You know, everyone talks about Nusa Penida (which remains magnificent with Diamond Beach and Kelingking Beach), but these two small islands connected by a yellow bridge completely won me over.
It's still preserved from mass tourism – I could swim with local residents, discover small secret coves that were totally deserted. You can easily go around by scooter, it's much more accessible than Nusa Penida where you absolutely must take drivers because of the dangerous roads.
Lovina and the Wild North
Northern Bali is a completely different story. Less touristy, more natural, with local encounters. The volcanoes create a striking dramatic backdrop, and the atmosphere remains infinitely more peaceful than in the south. That's where I had some of my most beautiful human interactions.
Dolphin watching at dawn from Lovina is an unmissable experience. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, with the sun rising over the ocean... chills guaranteed!
Munduk
Munduk and its secret waterfalls nestled in the tropical forest, its fragrant coffee plantations, and mysterious trails are well worth the detour.
I loved this mountainous region that offered me a breath of fresh air, with its preserved traditional villages where time seems suspended and its misty panoramas that invite contemplation.
When to Travel for the Best Experience
The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, during the dry season. The months from May to September are ideal with little rain and pleasant temperatures.
Absolutely avoid November to March: it's the rainy season with daily downpours that can ruin your plans. High season (July-August, December-January) means large crowds and inflated prices.
For the perfect compromise, I recommend May-June or September-October.
Preparing for Your Departure
What Budget Should You Plan for Your Trip?
I've learned to plan my trips according to three types of budgets:
Tight budget ($30/day): Hostels, delicious street food, and local transportation. Perfect for meeting other female travelers!
Mid-range budget ($110/day): 3-4 star hotels, nice restaurants, and some activities like yoga or a traditional Balinese massage.
Comfort budget ($200/day): Spa resorts, gourmet cuisine, and private excursions to pamper yourself.
Bali accommodates every budget - what matters most is experiencing this adventure according to your desires as a solo female traveler.
Getting Around Bali: All Transportation Methods You Need to Know
If you don't ride a scooter in your home country or don't have an international license, DON'T TAKE A SCOOTER. It's super dangerous with all the traffic. Use Grab and Gojek (scooter/car taxis), it costs 55 cents to $2 per trip, it's cheaper than scooter rental and you can chat with locals.
Private drivers cost $33-44 per day but offer you total flexibility and maximum safety. Tourist shuttles efficiently connect main destinations for $6-11. However, avoid crowded local buses that are uncomfortable for a woman traveling alone.
Essential Documents and Formalities
Valid passport for minimum 6 months, free tourist visa for 30 days (extendable once). I recommend applying for your e-visa online before leaving! I avoided a 2-hour queue at the airport thanks to that. You can do it 3 days before, I got validation the same evening. I recommend checking directly on the official government website.
Travel insurance is mandatory – personally I use Chapka which has always satisfied me. No mandatory vaccines, but Hepatitis A and B strongly recommended.
Essential practical information: respect local customs, cover yourself in temples, avoid showing your feet (considered disrespectful).
How to Find Affordable and Safe Accommodation?
Youth hostels are perfect for meeting people and cost $9-17/night. Guesthouses run by local families offer more privacy ($17-28) often with homemade breakfast included – a real plus! Eco-responsible hotels combine modern comfort with environmental consciousness.
For a unique experience, I highly recommend Nomadsister, a platform that lets you stay for free with other women to share authentic moments safely and with kindness.
Must-Do Activities
I tested many yoga classes in Ubud, The Yoga Barn really stands out. Spiritual retreats allowed me to create deep and lasting connections. Diving in Amed revealed absolutely sumptuous preserved seabeds.
Hikes to Mount Batur to watch the sunrise are unforgettable. Participating in local ceremonies greatly enriched my cultural experience. I formed authentic bonds during Balinese cooking classes with locals. Don't hesitate to sign up for traditional craft workshops: weaving, sculpture, painting... pure creative joy!
My Tips for a Successful First Trip to Bali
Traveling alone and stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary, but that's exactly what makes the experience so enriching. Start gradually, stay flexible with your plans, and above all: trust yourself.
Overcoming the Fear of Taking the Leap
I was also quite anxious before my first solo trip. The secret to keeping cool? Mixing smart preparation with letting go. Research local customs, learn a few words of Bahasa Indonesia (locals will be delighted), and keep an open mind.
Welcoming Balinese people will naturally help you as soon as you seem lost. Start with reassuring tourist areas like Ubud before venturing to more remote places. This initial apprehension quickly transforms into confidence once you're there! Bali really is the perfect destination to start the adventure.
How to Create Connections While Traveling Solo
Join Facebook groups "Bali Girls" or "Digital Nomads Bali" – goldmines of information and meetings! Canggu's coworking spaces are full of fascinating female travelers.
Participate in group yoga classes, cooking workshops, or organized hikes. Youth hostels facilitate human connections. Don't hesitate to start conversations in cafés – I met wonderful people simply by sharing a table! Cultural events and local craft workshops also create excellent opportunities for authentic encounters.
All this to say there will be plenty of opportunities for you to meet people.
I hope my advice has convinced you to go live this extraordinary experience. Have fun!
ITINERARY| TRAVEL
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Whether you are an avid traveller or a first-time adventurer, all NomadSister editors are passionate about travel. They share their advice and experiences with the desire to give you wings!
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