You’ll find five reliable ways to explore Bali’s vibrant landscape. Renting a scooter gives you freedom at just $5-7 per day, while private cars with drivers offer comfort and local insights for $40-60 daily. Blue Bird Taxis are perfect for short trips in busy areas, and ridesharing apps like Grab and Gojek provide fixed pricing with both car and motorbike options. Public buses and shuttles work well for budget travelers who don’t mind following schedules. Each option fits different needs and budgets, so let’s explore which one matches your travel style.
Rent a Scooter
Renting a scooter in Bali stands out as the most popular way to get around the island. You’ll find rental shops everywhere, offering daily rates between $5-7. It’s the cheapest and most flexible option to explore Bali’s hidden gems at your own pace.
Before you hop on, let’s cover some essential scooter safety tips. Always wear a helmet, even if locals don’t. Keep your speed moderate, especially on unfamiliar roads. Watch out for potholes and loose gravel. Don’t forget to drive on the left side of the road – it’s Indonesian law.
Here are some vital rental tips to protect yourself. Take photos of the scooter before renting to document existing damage. Only rent from shops that let you keep your passport copy instead of the original. Make sure you get proper insurance coverage. Check the brakes, lights, and horn before leaving the shop.
You’ll need an international driver’s license to ride legally. Keep it with you at all times, along with the scooter’s registration papers. Local police often set up checkpoints, and you don’t want any trouble during your adventure.
Private Car With Driver
While scooters give you freedom, a private car with driver offers comfort and convenience. You’ll stay cool in the air conditioning while your experienced driver handles Bali’s chaotic traffic and local driving customs. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family or want to avoid the stress of maneuvering unfamiliar roads.
Most hotels and travel agencies offer vehicle rental tips and can arrange a driver for you. Daily rates typically range from $40-60, including fuel and driver. You can also find reliable drivers through popular ride-hailing apps or ask your accommodation for trusted recommendations.
Your driver doubles as a local guide, sharing insights about Bali’s culture and suggesting hidden spots tourists often miss. They’ll wait while you explore temples, beaches, or markets, and you won’t have to worry about parking or getting lost. Be clear about your itinerary and negotiate the price upfront.
For long-distance trips or full-day tours, having a private car makes sense. You can store your shopping bags, carry water, and relax between destinations. Plus, you’ll avoid getting caught in sudden tropical rainstorms that make scooter rides uncomfortable.
Taxi Services in Bali
In Bali, taxi services offer a convenient way to travel short distances, especially around busy areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Denpasar. You’ll find that Blue Bird Taxi is the most reliable and trusted company on the island, known for using meters and following local regulations strictly.
For taxi safety, always make certain you’re getting into an official Blue Bird Taxi – they’re light blue with a bird logo on top. Don’t accept rides from random taxis that approach you on the street, as they mightn’t use meters and could overcharge. You’ll want to download the Blue Bird app to book your rides directly, which helps avoid any confusion or scams.
Keep in mind that taxis aren’t allowed in some areas of Bali due to local regulations and agreements with local transport providers. This is especially true in Ubud’s central areas and some parts of Canggu.
When taking a taxi, always insist on using the meter – it’s your right as a passenger. If a driver refuses to use the meter or claims it’s broken, simply find another taxi. Remember to carry small bills for payment and keep the taxi company’s number handy.
Ridesharing Apps
Ridesharing apps have become increasingly popular in Bali, with Grab and Gojek leading the market. These apps let you book rides directly from your smartphone, often at better rates than traditional taxis.
You’ll find both car and motorbike options available, giving you the freedom to choose based on your needs and traffic conditions.
One of the main ridesharing benefits is fixed pricing – you’ll know exactly what you’re paying before starting your journey. Both Grab and Gojek offer similar services, but there are some differences.
Grab typically has more cars available, while Gojek excels in motorbike services. You can pay with cash or card on both platforms, and they’re available in English.
Download both apps to compare prices and waiting times. They work best in popular areas like Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu.
In more remote areas, you might experience longer wait times or limited availability. Remember to check your pickup location carefully, as some hotels and venues have designated rideshare pickup spots.
You’ll need a local SIM card or reliable internet connection to use these services effectively.
Public Transportation Options
Public transportation in Bali offers budget-friendly alternatives to private rides. Local buses operate across the island, connecting major towns and tourist spots. You’ll find these buses are basic but functional, running on loose schedules throughout the day. It’s a cheap way to travel, though you’ll need patience and flexibility with timing.
Shuttle services provide a more comfortable option for getting around. These minibuses run set routes between popular destinations like Kuta, Ubud, and Seminyak. You can book them through your hotel or local travel agencies. Most shuttles are air-conditioned and offer scheduled pickup times, making your journey more predictable.
When using local buses, look for the main terminals in each town. Don’t expect English signs – it helps to write down your destination in Indonesian. Shuttle services are easier to navigate, with many companies offering online booking options. You’ll find regular departures during peak hours, but services might be limited in the evening.
Remember that public transport in Bali isn’t as developed as in Western countries. It’s an adventure that lets you travel like locals do, but it requires planning and adaptability.
