These days, Bali and Instagram are practically inseparable. Snapping that perfect photo has become a must-do for many travelers, and honestly, who can blame them? With jaw-dropping landscapes, dreamy waterfalls, ornate temples, and stylish resorts, the island is basically a highlight reel waiting to happen.
But here’s the thing: what you see online isn’t always what you’ll get in real life. A lot of those beautiful shots have been filtered, staged, or edited to look more magical than they actually are. And some places? Totally overrun with tourists.
Sure, some people share unfiltered photos that capture Bali’s natural beauty. But plenty of others rely on Photoshop, clever angles, and good lighting to create an image that’s just… not the full story. So before you go chasing the most Instagram-famous spots, here’s what you should really expect.
Sure, some people share unfiltered photos that capture Bali’s natural beauty. But plenty of others rely on Photoshop, clever angles, and good lighting to create an image that’s just… not the full story. So before you go chasing the most Instagram-famous spots, here’s what you should really expect.
1. Those iconic photo spots? Prepare to wait.
You’ve definitely seen the Gates of Heaven at Pura Lempuyang—a peaceful-looking traveler standing between two tall stone gates with a perfect reflection at their feet and a volcano in the background. Looks magical, right? Reality check: that “reflection” is actually a guy holding a mirror under your phone. And that serene vibe? It’s more like a crowd of 100 people all waiting for their turn.
Some visitors have waited up to three hours just for one photo. And it’s not just Pura Lempuyang—other places like Handara Gate and Tegallalang Rice Terrace are just as popular. If you want a shot without 50 people in the background, you’ll need to be there by 7 a.m., no joke. Otherwise, be ready to queue and wait for your turn like everyone else.
2. The heat is no joke.
Bali is tropical, which means humid, sunny, and hot. Most days, you’ll be sweating before 10 a.m.—especially if you’re walking around temples, climbing down to waterfalls, or exploring rice fields.
Influencers might look flawless in long dresses and full glam, but behind the scenes, it’s a sweaty mess. Be smart about it. Lightweight clothes, a big bottle of water, sunscreen, and some shade breaks will save your sanity. A hat and a handheld fan wouldn’t hurt either. And trust me, that iced coffee at a roadside café will feel like the highlight of your day.
3. The locals are seriously the best part.
Even with all the crowds and chaos, one thing that really stood out was how warm and kind the Balinese people are. My Airbnb housekeeper still checks in with me on Instagram, and I love that we stayed in touch. It’s those little connections that make the trip feel personal and memorable.
Outside the main tourist hubs, people went out of their way to help—offering directions, sharing snacks, or just smiling and waving as I passed by. If you’re craving a calmer, more authentic vibe, check out areas like Uluwatu or Munduk. They’re less showy than places like Canggu, which, while trendy, sometimes feels more like a stylish expat bubble than the real Bali.
4. Monkeys aren’t just cute—they’re clever little thieves.
I’ll admit, I was excited to visit the Ubud Monkey Forest… until I saw how those monkeys operate. They know how to unzip bags, grab sunglasses, and swipe anything that looks remotely like food. I saw someone lose a snack in under 10 seconds—and when they tried to take it back, the monkey hissed. Hard pass.
And about those monkey selfies? They’re not random or spontaneous. Handlers bait the monkeys with food to make it look like the animal is posing with you. It’s not unsafe per se, but definitely not as natural as it seems online. Keep your stuff zipped and close, or maybe just admire them from a distance.
5. Mosquitoes are a whole thing.
Some Bali photos show you standing peacefully under a waterfall or lounging near a rice terrace. What don’t they show? The swarm of mosquitoes that might be circling your ankles.
I learned the hard way at Tukad Cepung Waterfall, where I stood barefoot in a pool waiting for my turn to take a photo, only to walk away covered in bites. Don’t underestimate Bali’s bugs. Bring a solid insect repellent (look for one with DEET), and use it often. If you’re staying in a villa near rice fields, you’ll also want mosquito nets and maybe even a plug-in repellent just to be safe.
6. Those “easy” hikes are not so easy.
You’ve seen the pictures—people standing beside waterfalls or walking ridges with flowing dresses and perfect smiles. What do those photos not show? The trek it took to get there.
Places like Tegenungan, Aling-Aling, and Campuhan Ridge Walk are absolutely beautiful, but they’re not always a breeze to reach. Think steep steps, uneven ground, and long paths under the hot sun. If you’re not dressed for it or if you’re hauling camera gear, you’ll feel it.
You don’t have to be super fit, but do come prepared. Wear proper shoes, carry water, and accept that you might sweat a lot before getting that magical shot. But hey, sometimes the journey is half the story.
Final Thoughts
Bali is beautiful. It’s colorful, spiritual, messy, inspiring, and chaotic all at once. But it’s also not as perfectly curated as Instagram might lead you to believe.
Between the traffic, the heat, the unexpected hikes, and the swarms of people at all the hotspots, you’ll probably experience a few reality checks along the way. But you’ll also meet kind locals, stumble onto breathtaking views, and collect stories you never planned for.
You’ll sweat through your shirt, get bitten by a mosquito, lose a snack to a monkey, and still find yourself smiling at the end of the day. So yes, Bali is worth the trip. Just go with realistic expectations, stay curious, and don’t forget to pack that bug spray.