Your Bali Transport Guide to Getting Around the Island of The Gods

Getting around Bali may be confusing and overwhelming, especially for first-time travellers who just want to explore the island safely. The choice of transportation in Bali greatly depends on itinerary, activities planned, and the distance between destinations. While the more popular tourist destinations may be centered around the Seminyak and Canggu area, more surf spots and hidden nature gems are located further out. 

Whether you’re looking to drive your own vehicle or are more comfortable being driven around a new and unfamiliar territory, we’ve put together a Bali transport guide to help you choose between the many transport options on the island.

A list of Bali transport options

Here’s a quick list of available modes of transportation in Bali.

• Scooter rental
• Car rental
• Online ride-hailing services
• Airport transfer
• Speedboats and ferries
• Public buses

Scooter rental

Because of Bali’s narrow roads, scooters are the preferred mode of transportation on the island for both locals and visitors alike. 

If you have an international driving permit, you’re eligible for a Bali motorbike rental. This option is best for solo travellers who want to explore the island on their own. There are plenty of rental companies to choose from, and some accommodations even provide a small fleet to rent. 

Scooter rental in Bali depends on the type of scooter, but prices will generally vary between US$4 to $6 per day. You’ll be responsible for refilling your own petrol, which comes down to around US$1 to $3 per refill. 

Before renting, be sure to check the condition of the bike thoroughly and note any existing imperfections. This ensures a smooth return of the vehicle when your trip is over. 

Remember to always wear a helmet when driving and to follow local traffic regulations. Be wary of potholes, rogue dogs crossing the street (or monkeys in some areas!), and any road closures – which are common during religious holidays and large ceremonies. 

Car rental

Another popular Bali transport option is to rent a car. This is perfect and more effective for those travelling in a group, especially if you’re covering larger distances. Provided you have an international driving permit, you have the option of either renting a car and driving it yourself or hiring a private driver. 

A Bali car rental with a private driver will cost around US$30 to $70 depending on the type of car. This includes driver fee and petrol for 8 to 10 hours. Without the driver, the car alone will cost between US$15 to $30 to rent.

It’s important to note that some areas may become congested at peak hours, so make sure to leave for your destination with plenty of time to account for traffic, navigation, and the time it will take you to find parking. 

Online ride-hailing services, the most popular Bali transport option

In addition to rentals, you also have the option to book scooters and cars from the Grab or Gojek app. These are two of the most reliable ride-hailing services in Bali. 

Pricing for Grab and Gojek in Bali vary based on distance and the time of booking, with fares hiking up during peak hours. 

Short trips on a motorbike can cost as low as 60 cents to $2, increasing to $5 to $8 if you’re going further. 

A car ride will set you back anywhere between $2 to $10, with longer trips costing more. 

Airport transfer

Fares are generally more expensive when leaving the Bali airport. Hotels and some budget accommodations do offer airport pick up – this may be a good option if you’re visiting Bali for the first time.

Alternatively, you can also take an airport taxi or order from the Grab and Gojek airport services. These rides will cost anywhere between US$15 to $35, and may cost more if your accommodation is located in areas further from the airport. 

For a more detailed guide to navigating the Bali airport, click here.

Speedboats and ferries

Bali is connected by sea to many surrounding islands which are conveniently a speedboat or ferry ride away. This makes island hopping easy for travellers and locals alike. 

To cross to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, take the boats from Sanur harbour. You can book a seat beforehand or do so on the spot. 

You can also get to Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Java from the harbours in Tanjung Benoa, Padang Bai, and Gilimanuk. 

Additionally, there are speedboats that travel between Canggu in North Kuta and Uluwatu in South Kuta. The ride takes around 35 minutes and can be booked via the GoBoat app. This Bali transport service is a good option for those wanting to skip heavy congestion in the island’s most crowded area. However, the experience greatly depends on weather conditions, as bad winds may make for a bumpier ride. 

Public buses

For travellers on a budget, public buses run through most of the island’s main areas. The Trans Metro Dewata bus service runs five different routes until 10pm:

• Corridor 1: Central Parkir Kuta to Terminal Persiapan Tabanan
• Corridor 2: Terminal Ubung to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport
• Corridor 3: Terminal Ubung to Pantai Matahari Terbit Sanur
• Corridor 4: GOR Ngurah Rai to Ubud Monkey Forest
• Corridor 5: Central Parkir Kuta to Politeknik Negeri Bali Jimbaran 

Bus tariffs are around 27 cents per ride and can be paid through e-money cards which you can purchase and top up at minimarts around the island. 

Once you’ve figured out which Bali transport option is right for you, you’re free to explore Bali and all the wonderful things it has to offer. 

Whether you’re getting around by scooter, car, or bus, reward yourself with a memorable dining experience. Stop by Merah Putih restaurant, one of the island’s culinary highlights located in the heart of Petitenget. Enjoying fine dining, elevated Indonesian and Balinese cuisine is a great way to wrap up your trip. Book a table with special gift vouchers today. 

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