Is Denpasar Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Denpasar, located in South Bali, is the capital city of the island of Bali, Indonesia.

What makes it so attractive to tourists are his temples, palaces, and museums.

In case you decide to visit some of its temples, the dress code is obligatory and you must wear a sarong and sash with you.

There are various tourist attractions like Alun-Alun Puputan, better known as Puputan Square.

Also, very frequently visited is the Bali Museum and Bali Art Festival.

Tourists usually spend an amazing and fantastic time on Bali Beaches, like Sanur Beach and Kuta Beach.

Warnings & Dangers in Denpasar

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

If we take into account the fact that the safety index is only 60, a person might believe that Denpasar can be dangerous for tourists. However, tourists may feel safe while in this city as long as they remain attentive. It rarely happens that tourists report being the victim of a violent crime. It might be risky to leave your valuables in the rooms of certain villas.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Driving in Denpasar is not advisable and bear in mind that police are corrupted. It may change the direction on busy intersections and you might get lost. Walking is recommended in the city center. Taxi prices are not determined and it is advisable to avoid taking the taxis waiting at the Airport.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

The peak time when pickpockets operate is a period of the festival and celebrations. In busy areas, there have been reports of bag snatching. If you practice common sense and do not show passports, cash or credit cards in public, the risk of being robbed is relatively low.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

The location of Denpasar makes it possible for earthquakes and tsunamis to happen and the existence of volcanoes may lead to eruptions that occur regularly. Sometimes heavy rains can cause landslides and flooding.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Mugging and kidnapping are unlikely to happen to you in Denpasar, especially if you are a tourist. Although the risk is low, it still exists, so try not to go to dangerous areas at night.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorism risk is present throughout the world and the possibility of the attack exists everywhere. Local authorities try their best to prevent any kind of terrorist activity since the terrorists are likely to carry out these attacks anywhere, especially in tourist areas full of people.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Drink spiking is possible in Denpasar as well as credit card fraud. To avoid being the victim of these scams, always keep an eye on your card during transactions and do not accept the drinks from strangers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

When female travelers are in question, Denpasar may be considered very safe, but only if you do not walk alone in distant areas at night and do not accept drinks from unknown people.

So... How Safe Is Denpasar Really?

Denpasar is the city of numerous festivals which attract crowds of people from different parts of the world.

Alun-Alun Puputan is the main square of the capital, mostly safe, but you should not carry your bag on the side of the traffic since motorcycle bag-snatching is possible.

Dogs are holy creatures and there might be a problem with stray dogs that can attack you, which is not the case in other counties.

Even though Balinese people are friendly and hospitable you never know what type of person you have to deal with.

Your belongings might disappear from the villa, so do not leave valuable things inside when you are out.

Tourists should pay special attention to strange-looking people around them and look after their passport and bank cards.

Try not to travel alone and be aware of thieves in public transport.

Use only licensed taxis.

Bali is a place to be visited, so if you have a chance, do not be afraid to go there, because Bali is a safe island, with lots to do and explore.

How Does Denpasar Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

The USA citizens do not need a visa for entering Indonesia if their stay is less than 30 days long. However, if you’re traveling for more than 30 days, you can get a visa before your journey or on the arrival at a cost of 35 USD. The e-visa system is introduced in Indonesia and a handwritten visa application form is not accepted anymore.

Currency

The official currency of Indonesia is the rupiah. Using the ATM is the best and most profitable way of exchanging money. Here in Bali, prices are always negotiable and it is advisable to barter since locals might ask for higher prices than the real ones.

Weather

The dry season in Indonesia lasts from May to October and that is the best time to visit Bali. If you are not fond of crowds, try to avoid coming here in August, since that is the peak season.

Airports

Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport, better known as Denpasar International Airport, is 13 km south of Denpasar and it belongs to the group of the busiest international airports in Indonesia. Another very well used airport is Soekarno–Hatta International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Once you decide to come to Bali, travel insurance is necessary, to make sure that both your health and your belongings are protected. Be aware of the fact that Indonesia is reported as having a risk of Zika virus transmission.

Denpasar Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Indonesia - Safety by City