Eco-Friendly Tourism in Bali: How to Travel Green (2025)

Summary

Bali is paradise — but like any heavily visited destination, it struggles with over-tourism and waste. This guide helps you explore Bali responsibly, reduce your impact, and support sustainable initiatives.

Introduction

Bali has it all: jungles, beaches, temples, surfing, wellness retreats. But the island also battles plastic pollution, water shortages, and an overburdened infrastructure.

Eco-friendly travel isn’t about perfection — it’s about small, conscious choices. Here’s how to experience Bali at its best, while doing your part to protect it.

1. Choose Sustainable Accommodation

🏡 Look for eco-certifications

• Book hotels or guesthouses with certifications like Green Globe, EarthCheck, or EcoBali
• Some hostels (e.g. In Da Lodge, Tribal Bali) offer composting, water refill stations, and plastic-free kitchens

🛏️ Stay with local hosts

• Homestays and small guesthouses often have a lower footprint than big resorts
• Ask about waste practices and water use

2. Reduce Plastic Usage

💧 Refill your water

• Tap water isn’t drinkable, but there are refill stations everywhere
• Bring a reusable water bottle (Hostels often have filters)

🛍️ Say no to plastic bags and straws

• Carry a foldable tote
• Use bamboo or metal straws (or none!)

♻️ Support zero-waste cafes

• Look for places like Zero Waste Bali, The Shady Shack, or Give Cafe in Ubud and Canggu

3. Use Low-Impact Transportation

🚲 Rent a bicycle or electric scooter

• Especially in Ubud, cycling is scenic and peaceful
• E-scooters like Gojek GoRide Electric now available in some areas

🚌 Use shuttle buses or shared vans

• Book with Perama Tour or BaliBus for intercity trips

🚶‍♀️ Walk more

• In places like Ubud, Seminyak, or Sidemen — walkable neighborhoods exist. Embrace the slower pace.

4. Respect Nature & Sacred Sites

🌿 Stay on trails

• Don’t trample rice paddies or sacred spaces for the ’gram
• Stick to marked paths when hiking

🧘‍♀️ Be temple-aware

• Wear sarongs and cover shoulders
• Don’t climb on altars or pose disrespectfully
• Avoid loud talking, especially during ceremonies

5. Support Ethical Experiences

🐘 Avoid animal exploitation

• Say no to elephant rides, dolphin shows, or anything that uses chains and cages
• Visit ethical sanctuaries like the Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre or Turtle Conservation And Education Center

🛍️ Shop local and handmade

• Choose locally made crafts over cheap mass imports
• Ask vendors about where their products are from

6. Join Eco-Initiatives

🌊 Participate in beach cleanups

• Join local events organized by Trash Hero, Bye Bye Plastic Bags, or even hostels

🌱 Learn & volunteer

• Take a permaculture class
• Visit the Green School Bali or take a tour of Kul Kul Farm

Conclusion

Eco-friendly tourism in Bali is about connection — to the land, to the culture, and to yourself. By making thoughtful choices, you help preserve the beauty that draws travelers here in the first place.

Bali doesn’t need “perfect” tourists — it needs present, respectful, and curious ones.

Go light, tread gently, and enjoy it all 😽