The Day We Found a Biawak Under the Bed in Bali

Ever wondered what kind of unexpected surprises Bali has in store for families? Let’s just say, ours involved discovering a biawak — a large monitor lizard — lounging under our bed. 🦎 It was Galungan, a major Balinese holiday, and the banjar (local community) was busy with ceremonies. Left to our own devices, we noticed a strange rustling sound while tidying up the room. Pulling back the sheet, we made eye contact with a two-foot-long visitor! With no one to call and a house more tropical than sealed, it became a DIY relocation mission. Armed with a pool scoop and a brave face, we gently guided our scaly guest out of the house and safely back to the garden where it belonged. Not exactly how we planned to spend the morning, but hey — Only in Bali. Biawak are native to Southeast Asia and not uncommon in rural and residential areas here. They’re generally shy, non-aggressive, and play an important role in the ecosystem — but we’d still prefer them to stay outside. For families living or traveling in Bali, this was a good reminder: nature is always close by. Simple tips like checking the screen doors, keeping food sealed, and regularly inspecting entrances can help keep wildlife from making surprise cameos in your home. Our kids were surprisingly calm through it all — maybe it was the thrill of a real-life Nat Geo moment. And while we can now laugh about the "Biawak Under the Bed Incident," we’re definitely sealing that entry point! Life in Bali is full of beauty, culture, and yes — the occasional wildlife encounter. It's all part of the adventure of parenting abroad. So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and maybe a pool scoop — just in case.