While lounging on the beach or by the pool can be rejuvenating, navigating Bali during the holiday season can turn into quite the challenge. The influx of tourists leads to traffic jams and road congestion. Bali’s Transportation Agency (Dishub) predicts that during the 2025 Christmas and New Year holidays (Nataru), up to 322,000 vehicles will enter or leave Bali, with 289,000 passing through Gilimanuk Port and 32,000 via Padangbai. Among the 2.7 million travelers arriving and departing Bali, 1.5 million will use the airport, 1.1 million will travel through Gilimanuk, and 95,000 through Padangbai.
Fortunately, there are several ways to sidestep the holiday frenzy. Here are some simple tips to ensure your high-season vacation leaves you with fond memories.
Avoid wasting time figuring out local apps or waiting for taxis after landing. Booking a VIP transfer in a comfortable vehicle can save you time and energy, making the start of your trip stress-free.
Travelers seeking solitude should consider staying away from crowded southern areas like Kuta, Canggu, or Nusa Dua. Instead, explore less populated regions such as Amed, Lovina, Tabanan, or near Bali Barat National Park. These locations offer serene settings closer to nature.
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One way to avoid Bali’s holiday crowds is by spending a few days on nearby smaller islands. Trips to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Nusa Ceningan provide peaceful alternatives. Meanwhile, a longer getaway to the Gili Islands for the New Year is a dream for many travelers.
However, marine transport is often overwhelmed during this period, and accommodation on these islands is in high demand. Booking well in advance is crucial to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for speedboats from Bali to the Gili Islands, especially Gili Trawangan, sell out quickly during the holidays. Travelers struggling to find transfers from Sanur Port should also check options from Padangbai and Serangan, where boat services are often less crowded and traffic to the harbors is lighter. Platforms like MyBaliTrips allow you to book tickets online in advance.
Check forecasts for peak travel days during the holiday season and avoid driving or taking boats on these dates if possible. Christmas traffic peaks are expected on December 21-22 and December 25-26, while New Year peaks will follow on December 31 and January 1. Be prepared for road congestion and sold-out ferry and speedboat tickets during these times.
To bypass heavy traffic between popular spots like Canggu and Uluwatu, opt for a sea taxi or even a helicopter. For example, while the 32 km drive between Canggu and Uluwatu takes around an hour under normal conditions, holiday traffic can extend this to 2-3 hours. In contrast, a boat ride between these destinations takes just 35 minutes, offering stunning views of Badung’s coastline—a sight you’d likely miss in traffic.
With the rainy season in full swing, regular weather warnings include information about high waves and dangerous ocean conditions. Boat operators between Bali, the Nusa Islands, and the Gili Islands have faced criticism in the past for continuing operations despite unsafe conditions.
Travelers are advised to check weather forecasts on the day of their trip and coordinate directly with the transport operator for alternative arrangements in case of poor weather.
By planning ahead and considering these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable Bali holiday, even during the busiest time of the year.
Sources: detik.com
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