Bali Reptile Park is the first and only reptile park on the island, known for its rich collection of several species. Established in 1996, the park is actively involved in the conservation and rescue of reptiles. It is beautifully situated amidst lush greenery, with large trees providing shade and relief from the hot Balinese sun.

Our original plan was to visit the Bird Park, but we found the Reptile Park upon our arrival and decided to go there instead, as Marcel was very interested in the reptiles.

Photo: Our group photo at Bali Reptile Park

At first, we wandered around on our own without a guide, mainly viewing snakes, crocodiles, and lizards. We enjoyed the park because of the ample shade provided by the massive trees, making it pleasantly cool even on a hot day. The staff were very friendly and always willing to help, especially if anyone wanted to touch or hold an animal—though perhaps not the crocodile 😊!

Photo: Bali Reptile Park

The highlight of the visit was the garden with turtles, iguanas, and other lizards, which we could stroke or hold under the supervision of a guide.

Photo: Me with the boys and an iguana

Aliya was brave enough to stroke, and later even hold a little turtle. It’s important to handle reptiles calmly and gently, the guides reminded us, as sudden movements can trigger their defensive instincts.

Photo: Aliya with a turtle

Photo: Aliya with a turtle

Filling our heads with new facts, plus a snake!

Interestingly, Indonesia is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world, particularly when it comes to cold-blooded animals like reptiles. Scientifically, they are called “ectothermic” animals, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Indonesia ranks fourth in the world for the number of endangered species and third for the number of endangered reptiles.

Towards the end of our visit, we had the chance to hold snakes under the supervision of an instructor. Marianna and her mum decided that this time, the snake would sit on their heads.

After leaving the Reptile Park, we had about 60 to 90 minutes of free time, so we headed over to the Bird Park’s ticket office. Unfortunately, the ticket price, which came to around 100 GBP for six people, made us reconsider. Perhaps we would have visited if we had more time. The Reptile Park cost about half that, around 50 GBP for six people.

Photo: Marianna with a Boa constrictor on her head

Photo: Marianna’s mum with a Boa constrictor

And here’s a short video with the iguana.