Bali’s monkeys are practically celebrities in their own right—just ask anyone who’s visited the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud. But don’t let their adorable antics fool you. These little creatures are smart, quick, and always on the lookout for snacks or shiny things to swipe.
It’s not uncommon for monkeys to steal sunglasses, hats, cameras, or even water bottles from unsuspecting visitors. In some places, especially temples like Uluwatu or Ubud, they’ve been known to demand food in exchange for the return of stolen items—a behavior that’s been encouraged by tourists over the years.
While these encounters are often more amusing than dangerous, things can escalate if you try to wrestle your belongings back. Monkeys can bite if they feel threatened, and a bite could mean a trip to the doctor for rabies shots.
To avoid monkey drama, keep your distance, hide your valuables, and don’t feed them—even if they seem friendly.
