What's So Special About Bali?

Bali has long been considered a rite of passage for Australian backpackers — and for good reason. This Indonesian island paradise offers an intoxicating blend of affordable travel, jaw-dropping natural beauty, ancient spiritual traditions and a modern, thriving culture that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Bali veteran, there's always something new to discover on the Island of the Gods.

Bali Travel is Affordable

One of the biggest drawcards for Aussie travellers is just how far your dollar stretches in Bali. You can comfortably travel on a budget of $45 to $90 per day, covering accommodation, food, transport and activities. Flights from Australia are frequent and cheap, with budget airlines regularly offering competitive fares from major Australian cities. Once you land, everything from street food to spa treatments costs a fraction of what you'd pay back home.

Amazing Accommodation Options

Bali's accommodation scene is truly something else. No matter your budget or style, you'll find something that blows your expectations out of the water. Think charming bamboo cabins nestled in the jungle, hidden hillside hideouts with infinity pools overlooking rice terraces, and sprawling private villas with your own staff.

To give you an idea of value — you can book a beautiful cottage for around $26 per night, or splash out on a luxurious villa with a private pool for around $199 per night. Compared to Australian prices, it's an absolute steal.

Wonderful Towns to Explore

Ubud

Ubud is widely regarded as the cultural heart of Bali. Surrounded by lush rice fields and dense tropical forest, this town is a haven for yogis, artists and spiritual seekers. It's where you'll find world-class yoga retreats, traditional Balinese dance performances, and some of the island's most spectacular scenery. Nearby, you can trek up volcanoes, chase waterfalls, and take on the famous Bali swings that hang high above the jungle canopy.

Canggu

Canggu has rapidly become one of Bali's most popular destinations, yet it still retains an authentic charm that many other tourist hotspots have lost. Rolling rice fields stretch out between hip cafes and surf breaks, giving the town a unique character. Located on the south of the island, Canggu is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area while enjoying a laid-back, creative atmosphere.

Sanur

If you're looking for beautiful beaches and great surfing without the intensity of Kuta, Sanur is your spot. Situated on the east coast, the waves here are calmer and more forgiving, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers. The beachfront promenade is perfect for morning walks, and the town has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe that's hard to beat.

Sidemen

Sidemen is Bali's hidden gem — the kind of place that makes you feel like you've stumbled upon a secret. Tucked away in the mountains, this quiet village is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking rice field scenery on the island. It's a fantastic base for white water rafting, mountain trekking, and simply soaking in the stunning landscapes without the crowds.

Stunning Nature

Bali's natural landscape is nothing short of extraordinary. The island is home to two majestic volcanoes — Mount Agung, the highest point on Bali and a sacred spiritual site, and Mount Batur, famous for its stunning sunrise treks. The iconic rice terraces are spread across the island, with the most famous being Tegalalang near Ubud, Jatiluwih (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the lesser-known terraces around Canggu.

Beyond the terraces, Bali's jungles offer incredible trekking opportunities through dense tropical forest, and the island is dotted with spectacular waterfalls — from the towering Sekumpul Falls to the hidden gems tucked away in the island's interior.

Magnificent Temples

Bali is often called the "Island of a Thousand Temples", and it's easy to see why. Temples are woven into every aspect of Balinese life, from grand clifftop complexes to tiny shrines on street corners.

• Uluwatu Temple — Perched dramatically on a 70-metre cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu is one of Bali's most iconic temples. The sunset Kecak dance performances here are unforgettable.
• Tirta Empul — This sacred water temple is famous for its purification pools, where Balinese Hindus come to cleanse themselves in the holy spring water. Visitors are welcome to participate in the ritual.
• Tanah Lot — Built on a dramatic volcanic rock formation jutting out into the sea, Tanah Lot is one of the most photographed temples in Bali, especially at sunset.
• Besakih — Known as the "Mother Temple" of Bali, Besakih is the largest and holiest temple complex on the island, set high on the slopes of Mount Agung. It's a sprawling complex of 23 separate temples that has been a place of worship for over a thousand years.

The People

Ask any traveller what stands out most about Bali, and chances are they'll mention the people. The Balinese are widely regarded as some of the friendliest and most hospitable people you'll encounter anywhere in the world. Their warmth is genuine — from the staff at your hotel to the local vendors at the market, you'll be greeted with smiles and kindness everywhere you go. Compared to many other popular tourist destinations, Bali also has fewer scams, making it a comfortable and welcoming place for travellers of all experience levels.

A Thriving Digital Nomad Hub

In recent years, Bali has become one of the world's top destinations for digital nomads and remote workers. The island is packed with co-working spaces and co-living communities, particularly in Canggu and Ubud. High-speed internet, affordable living costs, and an endless supply of incredible cafes make it easy to balance work and play. Add in Bali's vibrant nightlife and social scene, and it's no wonder that thousands of remote workers from around the globe have made the island their base.

The Best Way to Travel Bali

With so much to see and do, planning a Bali trip can feel overwhelming. That's where iFlyGo comes in. Our preplanned itineraries take the stress out of organising your trip, ensuring you hit all the highlights while still leaving room for spontaneity. Whether you're after a cultural deep dive, a surf and sun holiday, or a bit of everything, we've got a Bali itinerary that's perfect for you.