Traveling to Bali: A practical guide for divers and non-divers

Bali welcomes you with a sense of calm. Whether you come to dive, disconnect, or explore temples, the island has a gentle rhythm that slows you down. And if you love the ocean, you’ll find some of the most accessible and rewarding dive sites in Southeast Asia.

After several trips —both leading groups and traveling independently— I’ve created this guide to help you plan your visit in a simple, realistic and stress‑free way. Whether you dive or not.

Diving in Bali: what to expect

Bali is not a constant “big fish” destination, but it’s perfect for:

  • Divers who want easy, enjoyable dives
  • Travelers looking to improve skills without pressure
  • People who want to combine diving with culture and nature
 
Tulamben & the USAT Liberty

The most iconic dive in Bali.
Entering the water at sunrise with Mount Agung behind you is unforgettable. The wreck is close to shore and suitable for all levels

Amed

Calm conditions, colorful reefs and a relaxed atmosphere.
Perfect for slow diving and training

Nusa Penida

More demanding, but spectacular.
Mantas, drift dives, walls… and seasonal mola mola.
Recommended for experienced divers

USS Liberty wreck-Bali con Jordi Atienza -VIajes-GoPro
Pez Luna en Bali con Jordi Atienza - Viajes-GoPro

Not diving? Bali is still perfect for you

Many non‑divers travel with us, and they all agree: Bali is an easy, beautiful and inspiring destination even without getting in the water.

Some ideas:

  • Temples like Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga or Besakih.
  • Quiet beaches in Amed or Sanur.
  • Daily Balinese massages.
  • Rice terraces and traditional villages.
  • Cooking classes, yoga or handicrafts.
  • Cafés with Agung volcano views.

Everyone can enjoy the island at their own pace.

Gianyar en Bali con Jordi Atienza
Campos de arroz en Bali con Jordi Atienza

Indonesia entry requirements (updated Dec. 2025)

On my last trip, I discovered a new system that greatly speeds up the arrival process. I’ll explain it clearly here:

1. “All Indonesia” Arrival Form (mandatory)

Must be completed within the 3 days before arrival.
It’s fast and avoids queues at the airport.

https://allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id/

2. E-Visa and Autogate Facility(depending on nationality)

Travellers applying for an e‑visa, and citizens of ASEAN, Colombia, Hong Kong, Brazil, Peru, Turkey and Suriname, can use the Autogate system for faster immigration processing.

https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/

My recommendation

Submit everything as soon as the 3‑day window opens .

Practical travel tips

  • Best diving season: April to November.
  • Carry cash for small purchases.
  • Traffic is slow: allow extra time.
  • Bring your own mask and dive computer if you prefer.
  • If you don’t dive, plan time for massages and temples.

Author’s tip: stay connected as soon as you land

One of the most common questions I get when traveling to Bali is how to have internet the moment you step off the plane, without relying on airport wifi or looking for a local SIM after a long flight.

I’ve been using Airalo for a while —an eSIM you install before traveling and that activates automatically when you land. It’s fast, convenient and saves you time. There are many options out there, but this one has worked best for me.

If you want to try it, here’s a small bonus:

Use my referral code JORDI1200 to get €3 off your first eSIM,
or simply click here:

It’s an easy way to stay connected from minute one —and it helps support my work.

Airalo - Jordi-Atienza

Travel with intention: want to join our next trip?

Bali becomes easier and more meaningful when someone helps you understand its rhythm and possibilities. After several years diving and traveling here, I’ve learned what works, what to avoid, and how to create a trip that feels personal, whether you dive or not.

If this guide resonated with you, you might like to know that I organize small‑group trips, designed for travelers who value calm, safety and real experiences.

So let me ask you something simple:

Would you like to join our next trip to Bali?
Do you feel like experiencing the island with me —diving or simply enjoying the journey?

If the answer is yes —or even “maybe”— just reach out.
I’ll save you a spot and share dates, details and options

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