Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for a reason. It has everything: stunning scenery, pristine beaches, lush jungles, delicious food, and friendly locals. Add to that a rich culture and history, and it’s easy to see why Bali is so special.
But, how big is Bali? With all the talk about this famous destination there is still so much still unknown to many.
But, we’re here to change that! Since we live here we feel qualified to answer that and other commonly asked questions about Bali. Let’s go!
How big is Bali island?
Bali is an island that is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers) wide and 70 miles (112 kilometers) long.
With a land area of 2,230 square miles (5,577 square kilometers), it is about half the size of the Big Island of Hawaii. See Bali vs Hawaii for a complete comparison between the two destinations.
Interesting to note, Bali is a part of the massive Indonesian archipelago which is made up of approximately 18,000 islands and islets-of which about 6,000 are inhabited.
Bali weighs in as the 15th largest Indonesian island in terms of size.
How long does it take to drive around Bali?
Maybe it’s the Dora the explorer in me, but there is something so fascinating about driving completely around an island. We first started this tradition when we moved to the Hawaiian islands a few years ago we made it a point to drive around each of the islands that we visited.
To drive around Bali you can plan on about 12-14 hours depending on traffic and how often you stop. Note, this doesn’t include the Bukit peninsula.
Looking to rent a car in Bali? Check out this detailed post detailing everything you need to know about renting a car in Bali.
How big is Bali compared to a state?
Bali is about the land size of Delaware. It’s slightly larger than 2,200 square miles or 5,500 square kilometers.
In terms of population, it’s home to around 4.2 million people which is similar to the state of Oregon.
How long does it take to see all of Bali?
The longer the better. It would take about two weeks to see all of Bali if you’re just visiting the major sights and attractions. However, if you want to truly experience the island and everything it has to offer, you’ll need at least a month.
Of course, this also depends on how much time you spend in each place and how long you stay in Bali overall. If you’re just stopping by for a week or two, you’ll have to focus your time on a few key areas.
The good news is that Bali is relatively small and easy to get around. There are plenty of transportation options available, so you can easily explore the island at your own pace.
What is the elevation of Bali?
The average elevation of Bali is 289 feet (88 meters). So, the majority of the island is fairly flat but as you go north the elevation increases and the terrain becomes quite mountainous.
Bali’s highest mountain is Mount Agung, also known as “mother mountain.” It is 9,944 feet (3,031 meters) high.
Hopefully, you now have a better feel for the size of Bali.
Here are some other Bali frequently asked questions that we often get.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Bali is in Asia lying almost centered in the archipelago country of Indonesia. If you’re looking at a map, you find Bali just to the north of Australia and southeast of mainland Asia. Indonesia’s neighbors not only include Australia but also Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Timor, and Papua New Guinea.
Yes, Bali is generally a safe place to visit. Of course, as with any destination, there are always some risks to be aware of. The most common dangers in Bali include things like scammers and pickpockets.
However, as long as you’re cautious and use common sense, you should have no problems enjoying your time in Bali.
No, Bali is not a country. Bali is an island that is located in the country of Indonesia. Because of the insane popularity of this modestly sized island, Bali often overshadows the very country that it resides in.
Bali is home to some 4.2 million people as of the date of this writing in 2022 and it’s growing! This growth is largely attributed to the increasing popularity of Bali as a tourist destination. In fact, it’s interesting to note that over 3 million plus people visit Bali every year which is nearing the total number of people that call Bali home.
The main religion in Bali is Hinduism. Around 83.5% of the population follows this religion.
Bali is unique in Indonesia because it is the only province that has a majority Hindu population. The island’s history, culture, and even architecture are deeply influenced by Hinduism.
But Bali isn’t just a Hindu island. There is a sizable Muslim minority (around 13.37%) and a small number of Christians (2.61%).
The two main languages spoken in Bali are Balinese and Bahasa Indonesian.
Balinese is a form of Austronesian language and is related to other languages spoken in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Madagascar. It is the native language of about 3.4 million people.
Bahasa Indonesian is the national language of Indonesia. It is a standardized form of Malay, which is spoken throughout Indonesia. We wrote an entire post about languages spoken in Bali.
Bali offers something to do for everyone. Surfers can enjoy the waves at one of the many beaches, while nature lovers can explore the island’s volcanic mountains, rice terraces, natural water slides, and insane waterfalls.
Culture vultures can visit temples and traditional Balinese villages, while party animals can enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife. There are also plenty of spas and resorts for those who just want to relax.
Conclusion: How big is Bali?
Bali is a modest-sized island that is only about the size of the state of Delaware. But it’s big on life with plenty of things to see and do. From the vibrant and colorful artisan markets to the stunning cliffside Uluwatu Temple, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.
Bali may be small in size, but it is big on culture, history, and natural beauty. So, if you’re looking for an island getaway that has it all, then Bali is the perfect destination for you.