Getting Around Bali
Last updated: February 2025
Overview
Bali does not have a public metro, train, or comprehensive bus system, so getting around requires a bit of planning. Ride-hailing apps Grab and Gojek are the most affordable and convenient options for short to medium distances, offering both car and motorbike rides at metered prices. For day trips to places like Uluwatu, Sidemen, or the north coast, hiring a private driver for the full day (typically 500,000-700,000 IDR for 8-10 hours) is an excellent and surprisingly affordable option. Renting a scooter is the most popular choice among longer-term visitors, giving you complete freedom to explore at your own pace, though Bali traffic — especially in the south — can be intense and chaotic.
Essential Tips
Download both Grab and Gojek before arriving — sometimes one has better availability or pricing than the other depending on your location. Both apps work with cash or credit card payments.
Be aware that Grab and Gojek are officially banned from picking up at the airport, many hotels, and some tourist areas controlled by local taxi cartels. Walk a short distance away from restricted zones to book a ride.
Scooter rental costs around 60,000-80,000 IDR per day or 700,000-1,200,000 IDR per month. Always wear a helmet, carry your international driving permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement, and inspect the bike for existing damage before riding off.
For airport transfers, pre-book through your hotel or use the official airport taxi counter inside the arrivals terminal to avoid aggressive touts. Expect to pay 150,000-350,000 IDR depending on your destination.
If you plan to visit the Gili Islands or Nusa Penida, fast boat transfers can be booked through operators like Marlin Lembongan, IdolA Express, or Golden Queen. Book at least a day in advance during peak season and expect travel times of 30-90 minutes.
Perama Tour is a budget shuttle bus service connecting popular tourist areas like Kuta, Ubud, Sanur, Padang Bai, and Lovina. It is slow but cheap and useful for backpackers.
Traffic congestion in southern Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Denpasar) is severe, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM). A 10-km journey can easily take an hour by car. Plan accordingly or travel by scooter.
When hiring a private driver, agree on the price and itinerary before starting. Your accommodation can usually recommend a trusted driver, or ask fellow travelers for recommendations.
Important Information
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is technically required to ride a scooter or drive a car in Bali. Police occasionally set up checkpoints and can fine you 500,000-1,000,000 IDR if you lack one. Travel insurance policies often do not cover motorbike accidents if you do not hold a valid IDP. Traffic drives on the left side of the road, which may take some getting used to for visitors from right-hand-drive countries.
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