Bali, often known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is also becoming a top destination for eco-conscious travellers. As the island faces growing environmental challenges, sustainable tourism is on the rise, and many businesses are making eco-friendly changes to preserve Bali’s natural beauty. From eco-resorts and organic eateries to nature-friendly activities, here’s your guide to enjoying a sustainable, eco-friendly trip to Bali.
1. Stay in Eco-Friendly Resorts
Bali offers a range of eco-conscious accommodations, where sustainability is woven into every aspect of the experience. Here are a few top picks:
- Bambu Indah (Ubud) – This boutique eco-resort focuses on minimizing environmental impact while providing a luxurious, nature-centric experience. The resort uses bamboo for construction, operates on a zero-plastic policy, and relies on organic gardens for fresh produce.
- Fivelements Retreat (Mambal) – A wellness retreat that prioritizes sustainability, Fivelements incorporates eco-friendly architecture, vegan cuisine, and a focus on wellness practices. The retreat sources local, organic ingredients and uses natural, biodegradable products.
- Munduk Moding Plantation (Munduk) – This eco-resort sits in the cool highlands of North Bali, surrounded by coffee plantations and pristine forests. It promotes sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting, solar power, and reforestation initiatives. Guests can also take part in farm-to-table dining experiences.
2. Dine at Organic and Zero-Waste Restaurants
Eating sustainably in Bali is easier than ever, with several restaurants committed to zero-waste and organic practices. Here are some must-visit spots for eco-conscious foodies:
- Locavore (Ubud)
One of Bali’s most famous restaurants, Locavore focuses on sourcing local, organic ingredients from Balinese farmers. Their “zero-kilometer” concept ensures minimal carbon footprint in the food chain, and they offer an innovative plant-based menu.
- I Am Vegan Babe (Canggu)
This plant-based restaurant is committed to sustainability, offering delicious, eco-conscious meals without compromising on taste. They use locally sourced ingredients and practice waste reduction in both food preparation and packaging.
- Zero Waste Bali (Seminyak)
A pioneer in Bali’s zero-waste movement, this bulk-food store and café promotes sustainable living by offering refillable products and plastic-free groceries. They also host educational workshops on reducing waste.
3. Eco-Friendly Activities
Bali offers plenty of eco-friendly activities that allow you to explore its natural beauty while keeping sustainability in mind. Here are some activities you can enjoy:
- Explore Bali’s Rice Terraces – Visiting the iconic rice terraces like Tegallalang and Jatiluwih is a must. These UNESCO World Heritage sites not only offer stunning views but also highlight Bali’s traditional, sustainable farming practices that have been in place for centuries.
- Go Snorkeling in Coral Conservation Areas – To minimize damage to Bali’s delicate coral reefs, opt for eco-conscious snorkelling tours that support coral conservation. The Reef Seen Divers Resort in Pemuteran is a great option—they’re committed to restoring coral reefs and protecting sea turtles.
- Join a Beach Cleanup – Bali’s beaches are beautiful but often impacted by plastic waste. Organizations like Bali’s Biggest Clean Up and Bye Bye Plastic Bags organize beach cleanups where you can help make a tangible difference during your stay.
4. Shop for Sustainable Souvenirs
While shopping in Bali, look for stores that support local artisans and use eco-friendly materials. Some great places to find sustainable souvenirs include:
- Threads of Life (Ubud) – This fair-trade gallery sells handcrafted textiles made using traditional, natural dyes by local artisans. Buying here helps support Bali’s cultural heritage while promoting eco-conscious practices.
- Bamboo Indah Shop – Specializing in eco-friendly home goods and clothing, this shop promotes bamboo as a sustainable material, offering beautifully designed, environmentally friendly products.
5. Transportation and Carbon Footprint Reduction
One of the most significant aspects of eco-friendly travel is minimizing your carbon footprint. Here are a few tips to reduce your environmental impact while getting around Bali:
- Rent Electric Scooters – Instead of traditional gas-powered scooters, consider renting electric scooters for a cleaner, quieter way to explore the island. Services like Gogreen Bali offer electric scooter rentals in several areas.
- Opt for Carpooling – Bali’s roads can be congested, so opt for shared transport options like carpooling or using the GoJek app, which offers shared rides, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and helping cut emissions.
Eco-friendly travel in Bali is not only possible but deeply rewarding. Whether you’re staying in eco-conscious resorts, dining at organic restaurants, or participating in sustainable activities, your efforts help protect this beautiful island for future generations. By making mindful choices, you can enjoy Bali’s natural beauty while ensuring it remains a paradise for years to come.
Shamal Travels guarantees a premium, personalized travel experience. From unique dining to preferred accommodations, we tailor every detail to meet your specific needs, ensuring an unforgettable trip. Visit our website for more information about hotels and packages.