Clear entry rules
For most travelers, there are no mandatory shots to enter Indonesia for a holiday in Bali. The only exception is yellow fever proof if you arrive from a country with ongoing transmission.
Border officials do not routinely ask for a special vaccination card when you land in Denpasar. Requirements can change, so check official advice from your government and the Indonesian authorities before departure.
Smart recommendations that make sense
Even without obligations, keeping core immunizations up to date is simple prudence. That includes tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), polio, and annual influenza.
For most visitors, hepatitis A is the top recommended vaccine because the virus spreads via food and water. One dose protects quickly, and a later booster extends long-term immunity.
Typhoid is worth considering if you’ll eat very adventurously or travel off the typical route. It’s not common, but the risk rises with rural stays and street food.
Hepatitis B is advisable for longer trips, close contact, or activities like tattoos, piercings, and potential medical care. Protection is especially wise for couples or anyone not previously vaccinated.
Japanese encephalitis is usually reserved for multi-week rural stays or frequent outdoor evenings near rice fields and wetlands. Typical resort-based visits do not usually require this shot.
Mosquito-borne risks you can’t vaccinate away
Dengue is present in Bali, and there’s no standard traveler vaccine to rely on for broad use. The best defense is consistent prevention with repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
Wear lightweight long sleeves at dusk and dawn, and choose lodging with screens or air-conditioning. Consider a permethrin treatment for clothing if you’ll be outdoors for extended periods.
Chikungunya and Zika have circulated in parts of Southeast Asia, so the same mosquito measures apply. Pregnant travelers should discuss individualized guidance with a clinician before booking.
Rabies, animals, and quick action
Rabies exists in Bali’s dogs and monkeys, so avoid touching or feeding animals. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination can be useful for long stays, kids, or activities with higher risk.
If you’re bitten or scratched, wash the wound with soap and water immediately and seek medical care. You may need post-exposure treatment, which is most effective when started promptly.
“As travel clinicians like to say, ‘Plan with facts, not with fear, and you’ll protect both your health and your holiday.’”
Food, water, and the famous Bali Belly
Traveler’s diarrhea is common, so stick to sealed bottled water and avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s safe. Choose food that’s thoroughly cooked and served piping hot.
Carry oral rehydration salts and an antidiarrheal for urgent situations. If fever, blood in stool, or prolonged symptoms occur, seek medical attention.
A practical pre-trip checklist
- Check routine vaccines and schedule hepatitis A (and possibly typhoid, hepatitis B, or JE) with a travel clinic.
- Pack strong mosquito repellent (20–30% DEET or 20% picaridin) and lightweight long clothing.
- Bring a compact first-aid kit with ORS, antiseptic, bandages, and basic medications.
- Arrange travel medical insurance that covers evacuation and urgent care.
- Save clinic and hospital contacts near your accommodation, plus emergency numbers.
- Practice smart food and water habits, even in upscale restaurants.
Timing and logistics
Book your travel health appointment four to six weeks before departure. Some vaccines need multiple doses or time to develop robust protection.
Late planner? It’s still worth going, because many shots and prevention tips can be started even close to your flight. Bring documentation of past vaccines if you have an existing record.
The balanced bottom line
For the vast majority of visitors, no compulsory vaccines are needed to enjoy Bali. A few well-chosen protections, basic mosquito measures, and food hygiene go a very long way.
Think of preparation as your passport to relaxed travel rather than a source of stress. With sensible planning, Bali’s temples, beaches, and cuisine are yours to savor with healthy confidence.
