Bali Travel Guide for South Africans
Bali at a glance
- Flight time from Johannesburg
- 15–18 hours with one connection
- Visa for SA passport holders
- Visa on arrival for South Africans, 30 days
- Currency
- Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Language
- Indonesian and Balinese. English widely spoken
- Best time to visit
- May to September. October and November for value
- Spending money guidance
- From R5,000. The exchange rate works in your favour
- Time difference
- 6 hours ahead of South Africa
- Plugs
- Type C and F, the European two-pin
Last reviewed August 2026. Visa and entry rules change — always confirm with the embassy before booking.
When to visit Bali, month by month
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Price | Our verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January–February | Hot and wet, 24–32°C | Moderate | Medium | Rainy season. Showers are short and heavy, not all day. |
| March–April | Warm, 23–31°C | Easing | Medium | Rains tapering. Green and lush. |
| May–June | Warm and dry, 22–30°C | Building | Medium | Dry season begins. Excellent all round. |
| July–August | Dry, 21–29°C | Very busy | Highest | Peak European summer season. Book early. |
| September | Dry, 22–30°C | Easing | Medium-high | Still dry, crowds thinning. A very good month. |
| October–November | Warm, showers returning, 23–31°C | Quiet | Low | Our pick for value. Our departures land here. |
| December | Hot and wet, 24–32°C | Busy | High | Festive season prices, rainy season weather. |
Our Bali tours
What our travellers say
I’ve traveled to Dubai, Mozambique and Namibia with Thrifty Travel. Every moment of each trip was enjoyed to the fullest. The entire team from tour guides to transport team to the suppliers used are always professional. Can’t wait for my next trip with Thrifty Travel
Best of the best, Thrifty adventures is the best. A big thank you to our tour guide Mnr Jeff. Victoria falls, Zambia, Botswana.
Sandwich harbour on the Namibia tour was my highlight. I loved this more as the sights on the drive in the desert/on the dunes was breathtaking, and the picnic was a nice treat. The tour leaders; Sam and Jeff were awesome with my son. They really put effort in making him comfortable. I really appreciate it so much, he can't stop talking about the trip. Thank you so much …this was my 3rd trip with Thrifty and I hope to come back for more. Congratulations to you
Bali: your questions answered
Do South Africans need a visa for Bali?
South African passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Indonesia, valid for 30 days and extendable once. There is a fee payable at the airport. Your passport needs at least six months' validity and two blank pages. Requirements change, so confirm before booking flights.
How much spending money do I need for Bali?
From R5,000 is comfortable. The exchange rate works hard in your favour — a good meal is R80 to R150, a massage around R150. Budget more if you plan FINNS Beach Club, spa days or significant shopping.
How long is the flight to Bali?
Around 15 to 18 hours with one connection, usually through Doha, Dubai, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. It's genuinely long-haul, which is why we build the first day in Bali as a rest day rather than packing it with activities.
Ubud or the beach — what's the difference?
Ubud is inland: rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, jungle and the arts scene. Nusa Dua is coastal: calm beaches, water sports and resort comfort. Our tours split time between both, which is why they work — you get the culture and the coast without choosing.
What should I pack for Bali?
Light clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent and comfortable sandals. A sarong for temple visits — most temples provide them, but having your own is easier. A light rain jacket if you're travelling October to March.
Is Bali safe for solo female travellers?
Yes — Bali is one of the more relaxed destinations in Asia. Ordinary precautions apply. Traffic is the real hazard: be careful crossing roads and think twice about hiring a scooter. Most of our group travels solo.
What is included in your Bali tour?
Return international flights, shared accommodation split between Ubud and Nusa Dua, all breakfasts, welcome and farewell dinners, the Ubud tour, the Nusa Dua tour, entry to the Mason Elephant Sanctuary at no extra cost, a tour experience leader and ground transport.
Can I add Singapore or Dubai?
Yes. We run a Bali & Singapore combination and a Dubai & Bali combination. Both add a second destination on the way without paying for two separate long-haul flights.