Solo Travel in Bali: My 10-Day Adventure, Mistakes and All!

Jes Bellamy
3 days ago
7 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

There’s something magical about landing in Bali on your own— no expectations, just the freedom to explore an island that feels like a dream brought to life. From jungle hideaways in Ubud to golden sunsets in Canggu and the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida, Bali is one of those rare places that welcomes you like an old friend.

My 10-day solo adventure took me through serene temples, vibrant markets, breathtaking beaches, and quiet moments of reflection I didn’t even know I needed. I ended up going in April, which offered hot, dry days, the perfect weather for the trip! Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler or someone craving a reset, Bali has a way of slowing you down, filling your days with beauty, and reminding you just how empowering it is to explore the world on your own.

Here’s everything I discovered in 10 days on this island paradise—where to go, what to eat, how to get around, the mistakes I made, and the moments that made me fall in love with Bali even more.

Transportation

There are several ways to get around Bali. I mostly had private drivers arranged through tours/hotels, or used Grab vehicles, but many people rent their own bikes or use public transportation. However, I don’t recommend renting a bike; many tourists are involved in accidents because they don’t follow the rules or adjust to local driving habits. Please note that if you're renting or buying a bike to drive yourself, you need an International Driving Permit.

As for public transportation, it is available if you are on a budget, but I recommend spending a few extra dollars on a Grab; it is very affordable and safe.

Also, traffic is a big problem in Bali; it can take over 2 hours to go from one area to the next. So keep that in mind when booking transportation!

Lodging

Bali offers accommodations for every kind of traveler — from luxury resorts on sun-drenched beaches to budget bungalows tucked into rice paddies. Popular areas like Seminyak and Canggu are perfect for beach lovers and nightlife, with stylish hotels, villas, and cafes right at your doorstep. Ubud’s jungle retreats and wellness lodges offer peace, culture, and stunning natural views, while Nusa Dua and Sanur cater to families and those seeking calm beaches. For backpackers and budget travelers, Bali’s guesthouses, hostels, and homestays deliver comfort without breaking the bank, often with warm local hospitality. Private villas with pools are ideal for groups or extended stays, while unique options such as bamboo eco-lodges or treehouses offer unforgettable experiences in nature. Wherever you stay, book early for the best deals — Bali fills up fast, especially in dry season (April - October)!

My goal for Bali was to immerse myself in nature and relax, so I mostly stayed in Ubud, wanting to enjoy the jungle-like views in a peaceful setting. I decided to try an Airbnb hosted by Tivira, who was an excellent host and made the best breakfast. I also stayed at Sankara Suites and Villas, a beautiful resort where I had my own private villa with a pool and sweeping views. This accommodation is on the pricer side, and I suggest booking early to get the best room (they do sell out quickly). In addition, I stayed a couple of nights at a Marriott in Kuta, by the airport, which was affordable and centrally located.

As mentioned before, while things might seem close, traffic makes everything further away. For instance, from Despensar airport to Ubud it is about 2 and a half hours. So I recommend staying in one or more locations if you have 2 weeks or less to explore. Just go to Bali with a goal (hiking, partying, relaxing in nature, or beach vibes), and stay in the location that fulfills that goal the best!

Food!

Of course, my favorite part of traveling is the food, and Bali doesn't miss when it comes to it. I tried a variety of dishes, some basic like pizza and acai bowls, and some unique to the Balinese culture. Most of all, the food is generally healthy and really affordable.

One of the best parts of traveling in Bali solo is how easy (and safe) it is to eat well on your own. Warungs welcome solo diners, cafés are perfect for lingering with a book, and food is both affordable and incredibly flavorful. Bali’s food culture makes solo meals feel like a treat, not an afterthought.

My Itinerary

There is so much to do and see in Bali, and honestly, unless you have 2 weeks to a month, it's hard to do it all. So I recommend going to Bali with a clear objective: you're there for a “Eat, Pray, Love” vibe, you want to go for yoga or more extreme activities like hiking, or you just want to enjoy and relax by the pool in nature with a cocktail. All in all, you can make it what you want! I wanted a mix of visiting popular sites and relaxing in nature in privacy. I needed a mental reset, and that's what I got!

Day 1: Arrive in Bali
Day 2: Nusa Panida tour
Day 3: Ubud Tour
Day 4: Enjoy AirBnbs and Villas, Spas, shops
Day 5: Travel to Udaya Resort and Spa
Day 6 & 7: Enjoy AirBnbs and Villas, Spas, shops
Day 8: Udaya Spa
Day 9: Explore Kuta
Day 10: Leave for the USA

Tours and Excursions

Some most see/do attractions:

Uluwatu Temple - A sea temple that is located on dramatic sea cliffs.
Tirta Empul Temple - A Hindu Balinese water temple where you can join in a water purification.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces - One of the most famous rice fields in Bali.

Tegenunga, Sekumpul, or Kanto Lampo Waterfall - Where you can swim in the falls and get your cute Instagram pics.

Mount Batur - Where you can hike for a breathtaking sunrise view.
Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Penida, Nusa Dua, and Gili islands - Perfect for surfing, sunsets, and relaxing by the ocean.

Canguu - Where you can enjoy the nightlife, partying, and beach clubs.
Bali Swings - Get the famous "swing dress" photo at one of the many jungle swings.
Ubud - Art markets, Monkey Forest, and yoga retreats showcase Bali’s creative and spiritual side.
"Gates of Heaven" at Lempuyang Temple - One of the most famous temples in Bali, with a beautiful reflective pool.
Spas/Massages - Most resorts will have Spas. My favorite was at Udaya Resort and Spa, where you can get a flower bath and an amazing massage. Other than that, you can literally get a massage for $10 at most places!

There are multiple platforms to purchase tours, including Viator, Get Your Guide, and Airbnb Experiences. You can also book tours while in Bali. The best thing to do is explore prices from a variety of places, and don't forget to read the reviews! I also found that most of my tour guides were able to take my pictures and explore with me, which is perfect for solo travelers!

10 Mistakes to Avoid!

Bali may look effortless on Instagram, but a few common missteps can quickly turn a dream trip into a frustrating one. Here are some of the mistakes to avoid, some of which I even experienced:

Traffic - One of the biggest mistakes is underestimating travel time—traffic can be heavy, and distances that look short on a map can take hours.
Visas - Fill out your visas ahead of time online; it'll save you so much time than doing it in person at the airport!
Local Customs - Many travelers also forget to respect local customs, like dressing modestly at temples or ignoring religious ceremonies, which can come across as disrespectful.
Touristy areas - sticking only to tourist hotspots and missing out on quieter villages and lesser-known beaches that show Bali’s true charm can be a miss.
Overlooking travel insurance- I'm usually one for living in the moment, but local scams, getting hurt, or proper currency exchange can lead to unnecessary stress. A little preparation goes a long way in making your Bali experience smooth and unforgettable. I ended up using Freya, which wasn't too expensive and covered a lot!
Overpacking - The next time I go to Bali, I am only bringing a few things with me because you can literally buy everything there, including very cute outfits. Also, moving between areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu can be exhausting, so packing light can make a big difference.
Bad Accommodations - Many solo travelers also skip booking accommodations with good security or reviews, prioritizing aesthetics over safety and location. Make sure you do your research; safety always comes first!
Saying yes to everything - tours, guides, invitations—can lead to burnout or uncomfortable situations; trusting your instincts and setting boundaries are among the most important solo travel skills.
Major holiday - I ended up going in April which has a major Balinese holiday meaning...a lot attractions were closed. So pay attention to holidays when you're going to get the best experience.
Bali belly - Everyone has heard of this, and while it didn't affect me, I know a lot of people get sick from eating in Bali. I always carry Charcoal pills with me to help with this!

Traveling solo in Bali was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. The island has a way of making you feel both independent and deeply connected. Whether I was exploring temples, sharing stories with fellow travelers, or enjoying my own company by the ocean, Bali reminded me how powerful and freeing solo travel can be. It’s a destination that encourages growth, reflection, and adventure, and one I’d recommend to anyone traveling alone. I learned to trust my instincts and found strength in navigating a new place on my own. Bali isn’t just a beautiful destination — it’s a place that reminds you how capable, resilient, and adventurous you truly are as a solo traveler.