As Bali gears up for another busy holiday season, local authorities are working hard to avoid the traffic headaches that marred the island last year. In 2023/4, Bali’s roads were overwhelmed, and the sight of tourists abandoning their taxis and sprinting with luggage down the Bali Mandara Toll Road to catch their flights became an all-too-familiar scene.

This year, officials are determined to ensure that visitors can enjoy their holidays without the stress of gridlock.

While Indonesia is largely a Muslim country, Christmas and New Year are still widely celebrated public holidays, particularly by the growing Christian and Catholic communities. Bali, with its tropical allure and festive spirit, has long been a favorite destination during this time, drawing a mix of international and domestic travelers.

Most international tourists arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, while many domestic visitors prefer to drive to the island. This influx of vehicles—on top of Bali’s already congested roads—creates the perfect storm for traffic jams, especially during peak holiday periods.

To help alleviate these issues, Bali’s authorities are focusing on key trouble spots, including the airport, Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua, Canggu, and other popular tourist routes. Increased traffic management and more on-the-ground staff are part of the strategy to keep things moving smoothly.

A Few Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday in Bali

If you’re planning to visit Bali this holiday season, it’s important to be prepared. Traveling between popular spots, catching flights, or simply heading out for a leisurely day might take longer than usual, so it’s a good idea to leave extra time for your journeys. Even with traffic measures in place, delays are inevitable, so allowing yourself some breathing room will help you avoid stress.

Bali’s charm remains timeless, and with a bit of patience and planning, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer—without the worry of getting stuck in traffic.