Bali Tourists Face New Risks as Volcanic Eruptions in Indonesia Cause Flight Cancellations and Safety Concerns: What Tourists Need to Know for Safe Travels in 2025
Bali, Indonesia – As one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations, Bali continues to draw millions of visitors annually with its idyllic beaches, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. However, in 2025, the island’s tourism sector is confronting new challenges due to increased volcanic activity in nearby Indonesian regions. Recent eruptions have not only raised safety concerns but also caused significant disruptions to air travel, posing challenges for tourists planning their visits to Bali.
Recent Volcanic Eruptions Affecting Bali Travel
On July 7th, 2025, Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki on the island of Flores, near Bali, violently erupted, emitting ash, gas, and lava that soared up to 19 kilometers into the atmosphere. This major eruption has led to the highest Level IV alert, prompting authorities to enforce a strict six-kilometer exclusion zone around the volcano. The ash clouds generated by the eruption disrupted operations at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, resulting in at least 24 flight cancellations or delays. These disruptions affected international flights connecting Bali to countries such as Australia, South Korea, and Singapore. Airlines including Virgin Australia and Qantas have advised passengers to closely monitor flight statuses due to potential further interruptions from volcanic ash clouds.
Additional volcanic activity from Mount Raung in East Java, which has been erupting intermittently since January 2025, and Mount Seramu, which erupted on July 4th, has compounded travel disruptions. Mount Raung, at a Level II (Alert), continues to emit ash clouds capable of affecting flights near Bali, while Mount Seramu’s recent eruption has resulted in regional safety warnings and restricted access zones.
Why Is Volcanic Activity Increasing in Indonesia?
Indonesia lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a tectonically active area where several plates frequently collide, leading to high seismic and volcanic activities. The country is home to over 130 active volcanoes, with eruptions being a relatively common occurrence. Experts attribute the current increase in volcanic events to several factors:
- Tectonic Movements: Ongoing shifting and collisions of tectonic plates beneath Indonesia cause frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
- Seasonal Changes: The rainy season can increase volcanic activity as interaction between groundwater and magma often triggers eruptions.
This combination of natural factors has led to a marked increase in eruptions throughout 2025, impacting various Indonesian islands in proximity to Bali.
Impact on Bali Tourism and Traveler Safety
Though Bali itself is not experiencing volcanic eruptions directly, its proximity to affected regions means travelers face considerable risks and inconveniences:
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Flight Disruptions: Volcanic ash can seriously endanger aircraft engines and flight safety, resulting in widespread delays and cancellations. Bali’s international airport has experienced several such disruptions due to ash clouds drifting from neighboring islands.
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Health Risks: Volcanic ash poses respiratory hazards, particularly for individuals with existing conditions such as asthma. Tourists in affected areas are advised to wear protective masks and avoid prolonged exposure to ash clouds.
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Safety Concerns: Tourists venturing near active volcano sites risk exposure to lava flows, ash fallout, and earthquakes. Observing official warnings and maintaining distance from eruption zones is critical for safety.
Essential Safety Tips for Tourists Visiting Bali in 2025
Travelers planning their trips to Bali should take proactive steps to navigate the evolving situation safely and smoothly:
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Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), local authorities, and airlines for the latest volcanic activity and flight status information.
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Follow Travel Alerts: Subscribe to notifications from travel agents and carriers, especially if flying with airlines like Virgin Australia or Qantas, which have issued guidance on monitoring volcanic hazards.
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Maintain Flexible Plans: Prepare for potential changes, including flight delays or cancellations. Purchasing travel insurance covering natural disasters and disruptions is strongly recommended.
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Avoid Risk Zones: Do not venture within the exclusion zones around active volcanoes—typically three to six kilometers as specified by authorities—to minimize exposure to volcanic hazards.
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Prepare for Ashfall: If volcanic ash is forecasted, take precautions such as wearing protective masks, closing windows, and staying indoors to protect against respiratory and eye irritation.
Outlook for Volcanic Activity and Tourism in Bali
Volcanic activity can be unpredictable, but experts anticipate heightened seismic events may persist through the coming months, especially considering seasonal influences on volcanic systems. Despite these challenges, Bali remains a robust and resilient tourism destination, supported by Indonesia’s advanced volcano monitoring and alert systems that promptly inform and safeguard visitors.
Travelers are advised to stay vigilant, heed official advisories, and prioritize safety to enjoy Bali’s stunning natural and cultural attractions with minimal disruption.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Safe and Enjoyable Bali Visit in 2025
While volcanic eruptions in Indonesia’s surrounding islands continue to present challenges, Bali remains a top choice for global travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. By staying informed, following safety protocols, and maintaining flexible travel arrangements, tourists can still explore Bali’s beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes with confidence. Prioritizing health and safety will help ensure an enjoyable visit amid the ongoing volcanic activity near Indonesia.
For routine updates on volcanic activity and travel advisories, monitor official sources and stay connected with your airline or travel agent to receive timely information critical for safe travels in Bali throughout 2025.
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