Learn which vaccines are recommended before traveling to Bali, including dengue, hepatitis, typhoid, and rabies, plus essential health tips for a safer trip.
Planning a vacation in Bali? Besides booking your flights and accommodation, it’s also a good idea to think about your health before you travel.
The good news is that most travelers do not need any mandatory vaccinations to enter Bali. The only exception is for visitors arriving from countries where Yellow Fever is present, who may need to show proof of vaccination.
Even so, Bali’s tropical climate means certain infectious diseases are more common than in many other destinations. That’s why travel health experts, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend reviewing your vaccination status before your trip.
Keep in mind that this article is for general information only. The vaccines you need may vary depending on your age, medical history, travel plans, and how long you’ll be staying in Indonesia. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider about 6–8 weeks before departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses.
Routine Vaccinations You Should Check
Before traveling internationally, it’s worth making sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Measles outbreaks still occur in Indonesia, including Bali. If you haven’t received two lifetime doses of the MMR vaccine or aren’t sure about your vaccination history, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor before traveling.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
The DTP vaccine protects against several serious bacterial infections. Adults should generally receive a tetanus booster every 10 years to maintain protection.
Polio
Although polio has become rare worldwide, cases have been reported in some parts of Indonesia. If you’re unsure whether your polio vaccination is current, ask your healthcare provider whether you need a booster.
Recommended Vaccines for Most Travelers
Travel medicine specialists commonly recommend the following vaccines for visitors heading to Bali.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water. Since anyone can be exposed, even while staying in luxury hotels or eating at reputable restaurants, this vaccine is recommended for nearly all travelers visiting Bali.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is another food- and water-borne illness. The vaccine is especially recommended if you plan to eat at local food stalls, explore smaller towns, or stay in Indonesia for an extended period.
Typhoid vaccines are available as either an injection or oral capsules.
Dengue Fever
Dengue is one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in Bali and affects both residents and international visitors. Because mosquitoes carrying dengue can be found throughout the island, including popular tourist areas, preventing mosquito bites is essential.
Indonesia was the first country in Southeast Asia to introduce QDENGA, Takeda’s dengue vaccine. The vaccine is approved for eligible children and adults based on local recommendations and offers an additional layer of protection against dengue.
If you’re planning a longer stay in Bali, such as for work, study, or remote working, it may be worth discussing dengue vaccination with your doctor before your trip or considering vaccination after arriving in Indonesia.
For shorter vacations, travelers should continue using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves when possible, and staying in accommodations with window screens or air conditioning.
Rabies
Rabies is present in Bali, particularly among stray dogs and monkeys.
If your trip includes hiking, cycling, surfing in remote areas, volunteering with animals, or spending significant time outdoors, your doctor may recommend a pre-exposure rabies vaccine.
Even if you’ve been vaccinated, avoid touching stray animals and seek medical attention immediately after any bite or scratch.
Vaccines That May Be Recommended for Certain Travelers
Some vaccines are only recommended under specific travel circumstances.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious mosquito-borne disease. Vaccination may be considered if you’ll be spending more than one month in Bali or visiting rural areas, rice fields, or pig farming regions.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids. The vaccine may be recommended if you expect to receive medical care, undergo cosmetic procedures, or get tattoos during your stay.
Many adults have already been vaccinated as children, so it’s worth checking your immunization records.
Malaria
The risk of malaria in Bali’s main tourist destinations is considered very low. Most travelers visiting Bali do not need malaria medication.
However, if you’re planning to explore remote islands or other regions of Indonesia where malaria remains more common, ask your healthcare provider whether preventive medication is appropriate.
Other Health Tips for Bali Travelers
Bali Belly
“Bali Belly” is the nickname for traveler’s diarrhea, one of the most common illnesses affecting visitors to the island. It usually results from consuming contaminated food or water.
While there isn’t a vaccine specifically for Bali Belly, vaccines such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid can help protect against more serious food-borne infections.
To reduce your risk:
- Drink bottled or properly filtered water.
- Be cautious with ice from small street vendors.
- Avoid raw seafood or undercooked food.
- Wash your hands regularly.
If diarrhea lasts longer than three days or is accompanied by high fever, dehydration, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly.
Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is not found in Bali or anywhere in Indonesia.
However, travelers arriving from countries where Yellow Fever is endemic may be required to present an International Certificate of Vaccination upon arrival.
Prescription Medications
Before traveling, check whether your prescription medications are legal in Indonesia.
Some medications that are commonly prescribed elsewhere, including certain ADHD medications and cannabis-derived products such as CBD, THC, medicinal marijuana, and hemp products, are strictly regulated or prohibited under Indonesian law. Bringing these products into the country without understanding local regulations can result in serious legal consequences.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, preparing for a trip to Bali is straightforward: make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date, consider recommended travel vaccines such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid, and discuss additional vaccines like dengue or rabies if they fit your travel plans.
Along with practicing food safety and preventing mosquito bites, staying current with recommended vaccinations can help you enjoy a safer and healthier holiday in Bali.
