Bali is paradise, with stunning beaches, tropical weather, and unforgettable sunsets, but paradise isn’t without its creepy crawlies. Whether you’re chilling by the pool, exploring rice fields, or just enjoying the warm nights, you’re bound to come across a few of the island’s more irritating residents.
From tiny ants to buzzing mosquitoes, and even the occasional venomous centipede or alarming spider, Bali is home to a wide range of insects and bugs.
While most are harmless, some can bite, sting, or just make your skin crawl. A little awareness goes a long way, and with the right knowledge, you can stay safe, avoid skin irritation, and get on with enjoying your tropical holiday.
Don’t panic, we have you covered! This guide breaks down everything you need to know about bugs in Bali, and what (if anything) you should actually do about them.
Rove Beetles
Rove beetles, or Tomcats as they’re known, are a tiny orange and black beetle, not much bigger than an ant. Don’t let their size fool you, though; these critters pack a punch!
Rove beetles don’t bite or sting; instead, they secrete a nasty toxin that can cause a severe reaction on your skin, known as paederus dermatitis.
The beetles secrete the toxin when disturbed, so if you see one on your body, then gently blow it off; whatever you do, do NOT squash it, after which there’s no escaping the toxin.
These nasty creatures aren’t super common, but anyone who’s been affected by one will remember it. They like rattan mats, so if you’re about to lie on one, just give it a shake.
If you do get caught out, you’ll know about it. The rash starts red, like a small burn or bad allergic reaction, and turns into a welt over the next few days. Keep it clean, out of the sun, and apply some cream from a local pharmacy. It’ll clear up in a few days.
Spiders
There are a few common species of spiders in Bali (in fact, over 60 species in total!), but they’re not exactly everywhere, and none of them pose a real threat to life. While they do carry venom (as all spiders do), it’s not potent enough to be dangerous to humans.
That said… they can be absolutely terrifying, like these two, for example:
Huntsman Spider
Huntsman spiders are the stuff of nightmares for arachnophobes, big, fast, and prone to appearing out of nowhere. But here’s the thing: they’re not aggressive, and their bite, while painful, is incredibly rare and not medically serious.
In fact, they’re kind of your roommates in disguise. Huntsmen eat cockroaches, moths, and other pests. Most people just guide them back outside with a broom (or call someone braver to do it). If you’re unlucky enough to be bitten, it might cause mild pain and swelling, but nothing life-threatening.
Keep your cool, give them space, and remind yourself they’re the lesser evil when it comes to unwanted houseguests.
Golden Orb Weavers
You might spot these striking spiders along trails, in gardens, or even strung between trees near your villa. With long legs and a golden-tinged web, Golden Orb Weavers look intimidating, but they’re completely harmless to humans.
They tend to hang out in the same spot for days, rarely moving unless disturbed. Their bite is very rare and only mildly irritating if it happens at all. Despite their size, they’re not aggressive and actually help control mosquito and fly populations.
In short: look, don’t touch, and let them do their job.
Giant Centipede
Now here’s a creature that really freaks people out: the giant centipede. Long, fast, and venomous, this multi-legged nightmare isn’t something you want to mess with. They tend to hide in damp, dark places, such as bathrooms, shoes left outside, or under rocks in the garden.
A bite from a giant centipede is not fatal, but it is extremely painful, with swelling, redness, and a burning sensation that can last several hours or even days.
To avoid any surprises, shake out shoes and towels before use and don’t go barefoot in overgrown or damp areas at night. If bitten, clean the area and seek medical attention. Local clinics can help with pain relief and prevent infection.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are probably Bali’s most annoying residents. They’re everywhere, especially around sunset and particularly during the rainy season. Most bites are harmless, but some mosquitoes carry dengue fever, which is fairly common on the island.
Your best protection is a strong repellent, long sleeves in the evening, and a mosquito net if you have one. Many villas and hotels also use coils or plug-in devices to keep them away.
Dengue symptoms include high fever, aches, and sometimes a rash. If you feel unusually unwell after getting bitten a lot, head to a clinic as soon as possible.
Scorpions
Yes, there are scorpions in Bali. No, they’re not something to panic about. They usually keep to themselves and prefer to hide under rocks, in crevices, or occasionally in shoes left outside overnight.
Most stings in Bali are mild to moderate. They can hurt, but they’re not dangerous to life. Still, it’s a good idea to get checked out if stung, especially if the area swells or you feel numb.
As always, check your shoes and towels if you’ve left them on the ground, particularly in rural areas or places surrounded by nature.
Bed Bugs
No one wants to think about them, but yes, bed bugs do exist in Bali, just like anywhere else in the world. They’re more likely to pop up in budget accommodation or poorly cleaned guesthouses, though even mid-range places aren’t immune.
The good news? They don’t spread disease. The bad news? Their bites are itchy and annoying, and once they’re in your stuff, they’re tough to get rid of.
Before you unpack, do a quick check of the mattress seams and headboard area for tiny black dots or shed skins. If you wake up with bites in a line or cluster, it might be bed bugs. Let the staff know right away, and consider moving rooms (or hotels entirely).
Sandflies
Often confused with mosquitoes, sandflies are tiny, hard-to-spot insects that bite silently and leave behind incredibly itchy red bumps. They’re commonly found on the beach around sunrise or sunset, especially in more remote or less developed coastal areas.
The bites tend to show up hours later and can be itchier than mosquito bites, sometimes lasting for several days. Sensitive travellers might even develop a rash or skin irritation.
To avoid them, use insect repellent with DEET or natural alternatives like eucalyptus or citronella, especially around your ankles and feet. If bitten, try not to scratch, and apply soothing cream or antihistamines from a local pharmacy.
Wasps
You won’t see many wasps in Bali, but they do exist. Unlike the friendly little bees buzzing around the frangipani trees, wasps can be aggressive if you get too close to their nest.
The sting is sharp and painful, and in rare cases, can cause an allergic reaction. If you know you’re allergic, bring antihistamines or an EPIPen just in case.
Wasps are usually not a problem unless you go looking for them. If one gets too close, stay calm, move away slowly, and definitely don’t go poking around in trees or under rooftops where they might be nesting.
Ants
Ants are everywhere in Bali, especially sugar ants and red ants. Sugar ants are tiny and harmless, but if you leave food or drink out, you’ll soon see a line of them. Red ants, on the other hand, can give a small but sharp bite if you sit or walk near their nests.
To keep them away, wipe up spills quickly and avoid leaving snacks or crumbs out. If you get bitten, it might itch or sting for a few minutes, but you won’t need treatment.
Cockroaches
These tropical pests love warm, damp environments, so don’t be surprised if you spot one scuttling across the bathroom floor or around your villa’s outdoor kitchen. They’re more active at night and tend to hide in drains or under appliances.
As unpleasant as they look, they’re not dangerous to humans. Just keep food sealed, dispose of rubbish properly, and let your accommodation know if they’re becoming a problem. A few sprays of insect repellent can send them packing.
Bug Tips: Stay Safe and Enjoy Bali
Bug Tips: Stay Safe and Enjoy Bali
Bali is an incredible destination full of natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. Don’t let the bugs hold you back! Here are some simple tips to keep you comfortable while you explore the island:
Cover up in rural areas – When you’re out in the rice fields, forests, or less developed spots, wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn or dusk can help keep mosquitoes and other bugs away.
Use mosquito repellent – Especially during Bali’s rainy season, mozzies are more active, so a good repellent is your best friend.
Check your sleeping area – Use mosquito nets where available and give beds a quick check for any unwanted guests like bed bugs.
Handle bugs with care – If you spot rove beetles or spiders, avoid squashing them, gently brush them off instead to prevent irritation or bites.
Don’t fear the spiders – Most are harmless and help keep pests like mosquitoes and flies under control.
Seek medical help if necessary – If you experience a severe reaction from a bite or sting, don’t hesitate to get professional care.
With a little awareness and care, bugs won’t spoil your tropical getaway.
Bug Spray
If your hotel or your favourite spot is overrun with bugs and you really can’t handle them, or even if they just give you the creeps so much that you can’t stand to see one on the road in front of you, then you might just find your new best friend in an insect spray. And we’re talking the real bug killer here, not just a gentle mist of preemptive mosquito repellent!
The good news? It’s available just about everywhere in Bali, from Alfamart to Circle K to your local family-run shop. Whether you’re staying in a jungle villa and afraid of what might jump out at you, terrified of a cockroach running up your leg in a restaurant, or just sick of ants turning your kitchen into a motorway, a can of bug spray will do the job.
You’ll find different variants and different strengths; some are for flies and mosquitoes, others are made for full-on cockroach warfare! You’ll find the strong ones in red or orange cans, and if you’re unsure which one is the best, then just ask the shop clerk for help.
Remember to read the safety label carefully, and keep bug spray away from children, animals and food. And don’t let some rogue bugs ruin your day; instead, you can ruin theirs!
FAQs
Are There Other Poisonous Or Venomous Creatures In Bali?
Yes, of course, no tropical paradise would be complete without venomous snakes!
Sure, there are several species of venomous snakes in Bali, but they are rarely spotted by the average traveller. If you see a snake and you’re not an expert in the field, then keep a safe distance from it.
In addition, there is one poisonous frog in Bali, well, it’s a toad actually, the Asian Black Spined Toad.
What Time Of Year Are Bugs Worst In Bali?
Bugs in Bali are around all year, but they’re most active during the rainy season, which typically runs from November to March. Warm weather combined with damp conditions creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, rove beetles, ants, and more.
That doesn’t mean you should avoid Bali during this time, just come prepared. Use repellent, wear longer clothing in the evenings, and check your bedding and towels before use, especially in more rural or open-air accommodations.
Can I Bring My Own Mosquito Repellent to Bali?
Absolutely, and it’s not a bad idea, especially if you’re particular about ingredients or have sensitive skin. Insect repellent is widely available in Bali, but the brands and formulas may differ from what you’re used to.
Just make sure to pack aerosols in your checked baggage, and opt for a DEET-based spray or a natural citronella/eucalyptus oil version if you prefer. You’ll also find mosquito coils, plug-in repellents, and even natural creams in local minimarts and pharmacies.
Should I Be Worried About Ants In My Hotel Room?
Ants are everywhere in Bali. Most are harmless and just after a snack. You’ll often see them form neat little trails, especially if you’ve left food out.
While a few ants are nothing to panic about, it’s worth keeping your room tidy and storing snacks in sealed containers or the fridge. If they become a problem, most hotels and villas will deal with it quickly, just let the staff know.
Final Thoughts On Bugs In Bali
Yes, there are bugs in Bali. Some are venomous, some poisonous, but most are simply terrifying or just a nuisance. At the same time, though, all are amazing creatures that should be respected (well, apart from them pesky mosquitoes and gross bed bugs!).
It’s unlikely that you’ll see most of the creatures mentioned, and if you do, then hopefully this guide has helped you identify what is what and what to do.
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