Bali offers a vibrant blend of spirituality, nature, and culture, but for wheelchair users, accessibility across the island can be inconsistent. While certain resort areas like Nusa Dua and Sanur provide smoother experiences, many streets, sidewalks, and attractions remain difficult to access without assistance. This guide highlights what does work and provides practical tips for navigating Bali as a wheelchair traveler.
Getting Around Bali
Accessible Transportation Options
Public transportation in Bali is not wheelchair accessible. However, private accessible transport can be arranged with specialized providers:
- Bali Access Travel offers a rear-entry van and is experienced with assisting travelers who use wheelchairs. Book in advance.
- Blue Bird Taxis can sometimes accommodate foldable wheelchairs, but their availability varies. Not all vehicles are accessible—be sure to request specifically.
- Private Drivers hired through resorts may assist with loading manual wheelchairs, but always confirm capabilities ahead of time.
Where to Stay
Most Accessible Areas
- Nusa Dua – Modern resort zone with wide, flat paths, paved beachfront promenade, and multiple high-end hotels with ADA-style rooms.
- Sanur – More relaxed atmosphere with a long beachfront boardwalk and resorts that cater to international tourists.
Tips for Booking
Contact hotels directly to confirm features like:
- Step-free room entry
- Roll-in showers
- Grab bars
- Bed height and space around the bed
Some resorts label rooms “accessible” but may only offer minimal features.
Accessible Beaches
| Beach | Features | Access Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Sanur Beach | Long, paved beachfront path; calm shoreline; some resorts offer mats | Good |
| Nusa Dua Beach Walk | Smooth promenade; some accessible dining | Good |
| Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu | Soft sand, no beach mats, crowded streets, no ramps | Poor |
Bring your own beach chair if needed, and contact your hotel for assistance reaching the shore.
Attractions & Sightseeing
Temples, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks often involve stairs, gravel, or steep paths. However, some partial access is possible.
| Attraction | Accessibility Summary | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Tirta Empul Temple | Some flat paths and partial views; temple area has steps | Partial |
| Ubud Palace | Entry requires navigating stairs | Not Accessible |
| Sacred Monkey Forest | Narrow, uneven stone paths; limited access | Not Accessible |
| Rice Terraces (Tegallalang) | No ramps; only scenic views from the road | Limited |
| Bali Safari & Marine Park | Offers accessible transportation and some flat paths | Accessible (with planning) |
Sidewalks & Street Conditions
In most towns and villages, sidewalks are:
- Narrow, broken, or missing
- Blocked by trees, signage, or motorbikes
- Occasionally sloped steeply or end abruptly into traffic
Manual wheelchair users may need assistance or choose to stick to resort zones. Nusa Dua and Sanur are the most reliable for smooth pedestrian paths.
Equipment & Local Support
- Senang Hati Foundation (Ubud) is a local nonprofit supporting people with disabilities and may be a helpful contact for travelers.
- Mobility Equipment Rental is very limited on the island. Bring essential gear or coordinate in advance with Bali Access Travel or your hotel.
- Bring a portable ramp if you’re using a manual chair and plan to explore beyond resorts.
Travel Tips
- Stay within walkable areas: Choose resorts in Nusa Dua or Sanur that offer beachfront access, restaurants, and amenities nearby.
- Use WhatsApp to coordinate: Most drivers and local businesses prefer communication via WhatsApp.
- Avoid peak traffic hours: Roads can get congested, and detours may add difficulty if sidewalks are impassable.
- Confirm details directly: Accessibility claims can be vague—always double-check before booking.
Final Thoughts
Bali offers moments of beauty and connection for wheelchair travelers—but only with careful planning. Resorts in Nusa Dua and Sanur, a few paved beach promenades, and private transportation options make visits possible. However, most temples, sidewalks, and rural attractions remain inaccessible without significant assistance.
By knowing what to expect and focusing on the places that do work, wheelchair users can still enjoy Bali’s rich culture and tropical charm.
