Welcome to your ultimate guide to Bali’s gateway – Ngurah Rai International Airport! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Bali traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate everything from arrival to departure with ease.

The Basics

Bali has just one airport, and it’s a beauty! Here’s what you need to know:

  • Official Name: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar International Airport)
  • Airport Code: DPS
  • Location: Southern Bali, about 13 km south of Denpasar
  • Website: bali-airport.com
  • Flights: Serves both domestic and international flights

So when booking your flight to Bali, look for flights to DPS or Denpasar. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place – it’s the only international airport on the island!

Inside the Airport

Ngurah Rai International isn’t just functional – it’s an experience in itself:

  • Architecture: The airport features stunning Balinese-inspired design throughout
  • Terminals: Separate international and domestic terminals
  • Facilities: Prayer rooms, smoking areas, showers, massage services, restaurants, cafés, and duty-free shopping
  • WiFi: Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal – perfect for that “Just landed in Bali!” selfie
  • Layout: After landing, follow signs to immigration, collect your luggage, and proceed through customs

Travel Times from Airport to Popular Destinations

Knowing how long it takes to get from the airport to various destinations is essential for planning your itinerary:

Southern Bali

  • Kuta: 15-35 minutes depending on traffic
  • Seminyak: 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Nusa Dua: Just 10-15 minutes via the Bali Mandara toll road
  • Sanur: 30-45 minutes
  • Jimbaran: 15-20 minutes

Central Bali

  • Ubud: 1.5 to 2 hours (up to 2.5 hours during peak traffic)

Western Bali

  • Canggu: 45 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes during daytime

Inter-Area Travel Times

  • Kuta to Seminyak: Approximately 6 minutes by car
  • Seminyak to Canggu: About 12 minutes by car
  • Canggu to Ubud: Around 55 minutes by car

Best Transportation Options from the Airport

Several options are available for getting from the airport to your destination:

  1. Pre-booked Airport Transfer: The most reliable option with fixed prices and English-speaking drivers who will wait for you with a name board
  2. Ride-sharing Apps: Gojek and Grab now legally operate at the airport and can be more affordable than traditional taxis
  3. Official Airport Taxis: Ngurah Rai Taxi has a counter just before the duty-free exit, with fixed prices based on your destination (around Rp250,000 to popular areas)
  4. Regular Taxis: You can haggle with taxi drivers outside the duty-free area, but be prepared to negotiate firmly
  5. Car Rental: Available from companies like Avis and local operators, but not recommended for first-time visitors due to Bali’s hectic traffic conditions, unique driving customs, and complex road systems
  6. Scooter Rental: A popular option for those traveling light, but we strongly advise against this for first-time visitors unfamiliar with Bali’s traffic patterns and road conditions. If you’re experienced and interested, check our Bali Scooter Rental Guide for safety tips and rental information

For detailed information about each transportation option, including how to book in advance, current pricing, and tips for a smooth journey to your accommodation, visit our Bali Airport Transfer guide. We’ve covered everything from luxury private cars to budget-friendly shuttle services to help you start your Bali adventure stress-free.

Accommodation Near the Airport

If you need to stay near the airport for a night, you have several good options:

For a more upscale experience in the Jimbaran area (south of the airport), consider the Platinum Hotel Jimbaran Beach (5-star).

Money Matters

Currency Exchange

There are several money changers available at Bali Airport, but they typically don’t offer the best rates compared to those in tourist areas. If you need immediate cash upon arrival:

  • Money changers are located alongside ATMs after you exit customs
  • For better rates, consider waiting to exchange money at reputable places like BMC or Central Kuta Money Exchange in tourist areas
  • Always count your money carefully before you leave

For comprehensive information about Indonesian currency, including current exchange rates, tips to avoid scams, and the best places to exchange money across the island, check out our Bali Currency Guide. This guide will help you understand denominations, accepted payment methods at different establishments, and strategies for getting the most value when exchanging your money.

ATMs

ATMs are readily available at the airport, offering a convenient way to withdraw Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) directly.

Car Rental Options

Renting a car at Bali Airport is straightforward:

  • Major rental companies like Avis and Eurocar operate at the airport
  • Local companies like TRAC Astra Rent A Car offer competitive rates
  • You can take a shuttle from the terminal to nearby rental car lots
  • Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates

However, we strongly recommend considering alternatives to self-driving in Bali, especially if this is your first time visit. Bali’s traffic conditions can be overwhelming for newcomers, with narrow, winding roads, unique driving customs, and congestion that can turn a short journey into a stressful experience.

Customs Regulations and Requirements

Before arriving in Bali, you’ll need to complete several online forms as part of the entry requirements for Bali:

  1. Online Customs Declaration Form: Must be submitted within 48 hours before arrival. You’ll receive a QR code to show upon arrival
  2. Bali Tourist Tax: A one-time fee of IDR 150,000 (approximately $10 USD) per person, payable online at the LoveBali.BaliProv website or at the airport upon arrival
  3. Indonesia Health Pass: A free health form monitoring travel history for disease control

For a comprehensive breakdown of all entry requirements, including the latest updates on customs regulations, required documentation, and step-by-step instructions for completing online forms, visit our Bali Entry Requirements guide.

Items that must be declared include:

  • Animals, fish, plants, and their products
  • Prohibited substances
  • Cash exceeding IDR 100 million
  • Foreign currency over IDR 1 billion
  • Tobacco and alcohol beyond duty-free limits (200 cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 100g tobacco; 1 liter of alcohol)
  • High-value goods worth more than USD $500 per person
  • Commercial goods

Visa Information

Most nationalities can get a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival in Bali. If you need longer, check if you’re eligible for a Visa on Arrival, which can be extended once for another 30 days. Our detailed guide on Indonesian Visa Requirements covers everything from eligibility criteria to application processes for different visa types.

Additional Tips for Bali Airport

  • eSIM/SIM Cards: Purchase an eSIM before arrival for the best experience, or buy a tourist SIM card at the airport (expect to pay $15-30 USD for a 30-day package)
  • IMEI Registration: If staying less than 90 days, you don’t need to register your phone’s IMEI. For longer stays, registration is required to use Indonesian SIM cards
  • Arrival Time: For international flights, aim to arrive 3 hours before departure
  • Traffic Considerations: Bali’s traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours (typically 4:00 PM onwards). Always allow extra time for your journey
  • Night Travel: Most destinations are quicker to reach at night due to reduced traffic, though some transportation options may be limited after dark
  • Toll Roads: The Bali Mandara toll road significantly reduces travel time to southern destinations like Nusa Dua

Final Thoughts

Bali’s airport is your first taste of the island’s famous hospitality. From the soothing sounds of gamelan music to the intricate architectural details, it sets the tone for your Bali adventure.

Remember, patience is key – especially during peak seasons. But don’t worry, you’ll be sipping a coconut on the beach before you know it!

Safe travels, and welcome to Bali!