Indonesian currency information

Indonesian money

The currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (Rp.). Money changers are always open at Denpasar airport when you arrive in Bali, but offer exchange rates a little below average.

The Indonesian Rupiah (Rp.) is used for all daily shopping. Foreign currencies are usually only accepted in Bali at international hotels, for airplane tickets, or for tourist activities such as scuba diving and rafting.

The smallest denomination Indonesian Rupiah note is Rp.1,000 and the largest is Rp.100,000. Be careful with Rp.10,000 vs. 100,000 notes as they look very similar and can easily be confused. Coins are almost worthless in Indonesia.

Bali exchange rate information

The exchange rate in Bali is about US$1 = Rp. 11,000, although it fluctuates daily.

US$ notes that are issued 1996 or earlier, or are in poor condition, or are issued year 2001 with serial number starting 'CB' may not be accepted by banks or money changers in Bali. Larger denomination notes in good condition get the best exchange rate.

There are many dishonest money changers in Bali. This advice may help when changing money;

Change money at your hotel or a bank (for a slightly lower exchange rate)
Change money at a reputable money changer – take local advice
Don't change money at small money changers with higher or negotiable rates
Don't let anybody touch the money (or recount it) after you have counted it
Don't let anybody distract you while you are counting it
Don't accept Rp.10,000 notes instead of Rp.100,000 notes (they are very similar)

Bali Credit Card Information

Master and Visa are accepted in major hotels in Bali, and in tourist areas there are many banks and ATMs which you can use to withdraw Indonesian rupiah from your home bank account. Most small towns will have ATMs and a bank too. Some ATMs allow multiple withdrawals without re-entering PIN number, so take extra care to remove your credit card from the machine after use.

In Bali there is usually a 3% - 5% bank charge added to credit card transactions. American Express is less common than other credit cards and the bank charge is usually higher. Smaller hotels and most local shops and restaurants only accept rupiah cash.

Travellers cheques in Bali

Most money changers, banks and international hotels will accept common traveller's cheques. Smaller hotels in Bali may prefer cash or credit card.