In Bali, public tap water doesn’t meet international safety standards for drinking.
In Bali, poor infrastructure and exposure to sewage or agricultural runoff make water from the tap unreliable. Even in developed areas, recontamination during delivery is common.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Bali.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve taken a close look at dozens of travel water filter bottles—comparing them on filtration quality, traveler convenience, durability, and packability. The ones we recommend make it easy to drink safely from taps, fountains, or even rivers, without relying on disposable plastic or constantly buying bottled water. You’ll find our top selections just below, based on what actually works for real-world travelers.
Health Risks for Travelers
Travelers may be at risk of water-related illnesses, even though locals seem unaffected. This is often due to differences in gut flora, immune response, and exposure to local pathogens.
- Health risks from unsafe drinking water may include:
- Acute diarrheal disease caused by E. coli
- Parasitic infections like giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis
- Viral illnesses such as hepatitis A, especially in areas with poor wastewater management
- Toxic exposure to heavy metals or residual industrial waste
Contamination is more likely in:
- Villages or isolated areas with untreated surface water
- Places where flooding or poor infrastructure compromises sanitation
- Dwellings with outdated plumbing systems or neglected storage tanks
Clear water isn’t always clean water—invisible pathogens, bacteria, and pollutants can pose serious travel health hazards if consumed unfiltered.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Bali, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Bali
Tap water in Bali is generally not safe to drink. Locals and visitors usually boil it or use filters. In some areas, traditional purification methods like the Jempeng stone filtration system are still in use.
FAQs About Tap Water in Bali
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Brushing your teeth with tap water in Bali isn’t recommended, especially if you’re not used to the local microbes.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Yes, you can usually wash your face with tap water without any problems, as long as you don’t swallow it.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, the ice probably isn’t either—so skip it unless you know it’s filtered.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Many travelers shower without concern, as long as they avoid ingesting any of the water.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Contaminated tap water can linger on produce, so use safe water to avoid getting sick.
Is bottled water expensive in Bali?
Compared to the risk of getting sick, bottled water is a cheap and worthwhile expense.
If you’re visiting Bali, you may also be exploring nearby Australia. Tap water safety differs between these destinations—especially between islands and countries.