Bali is an Indonesian island celebrated for its dramatic volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, and coastline dotted with bustling beach towns and serene temples. Understanding Bali’s main transport options helps considerably in fully exploring these incredible locations.
For most tourists, the best way to get around Bali is to use local rideshare services like Grab or Gojek. These services offer a convenient, safe, and cost-effective way to navigate the island and allow visitors the choice of travelling by car or scooter. Most trips are very economical, costing less than 50,000 IDR (~$5 AUD) for most local journeys.
Another highly popular way to travel within Bali is renting a scooter. While this option allows for more independence, it’s crucial to prioritise safety by ensuring you have a license and experience on a scooter or motorbike, always wearing a helmet, and never riding under the influence of alcohol.
For shorter distances, Bali is a great place to explore on foot, especially in touristy areas like Kuta, Seminyak or Nusa Dua, which are typically lined with shops, markets, cafes and massage parlours. Other options for getting around town easily include taking a taxi with reputable companies like Bluebird Group or hiring a private driver for the day, which allows you to choose your own itinerary. An airport transfer from Bali airport (I Gusti Ngurah Rai) is easiest to arrange through your hotel and is typically included free with your reservation. Depending on traffic, it takes around 15-30 minutes from the airport to reach southern tourist spots like Seminyak and Kuta, and it takes 1-2 hours to get to Ubud.
Local buses (such as “bemo” and Kura Kura) are very cheap but not commonly used by tourists to get around Bali because they are often slow, overcrowded and don’t always follow a strict schedule.
The seven main transport options in Bali are given below.
Book a Rideshare Service like Grab or Gojek: Grab or Gojek are rideshare apps that allow you to book a ride via your mobile device, providing a cost-effective way to navigate Bali’s main towns like Ubud and Seminyak.
Hail a Taxi: Taxis in Bali, especially from the Bluebird Group, are reliable and use meters to ensure fair pricing. Visitors either hail them on the street or book them through a mobile app for convenient travel.
Explore on Foot: Walking is an excellent way to explore densely packed tourist areas like Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud, where attractions, eateries, and shops are closely clustered.
Hire a Private Driver: Hiring a private driver allows for a personalised itinerary and expert local insights, making it ideal for comprehensive day tours to popular attractions like Tanah Lot or cultural experiences in Batubulan.
Rent a Scooter: Renting a scooter offers freedom and flexibility, ideal for navigating Bali’s narrow roads. Scooters are recommended for those with prior experience and provide an adventurous way to explore less accessible areas.
Take the Bus: Bemos, the traditional Bali minibuses, provide a low-cost, authentic travel experience for short distances within local areas. Other public bus services such as Kura Kura connect key tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, and Ubud.
Hire a Car: Renting a car is an option for those with an international driving license who want to explore Bali independently, particularly less-visited areas like the central highlands or the southern coast, providing the freedom to travel at your own pace.
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Table of contents
- How to Get Around Bali
- What is the cheapest way of getting around Bali?
- Is there Uber in Bali?
- What are the alternatives to Uber in Bali?
- Can I take public transport in Bali?
- How to get to Bali from the airport?
- Is Bali safe to travel around?
- How do you rent a scooter in Bali?
- Is Riding a Scooter in Bali safe?
- What is a Bemo?
- How long does it take to get from one part of Bali to another?
The best way to get around Bali is to book a scooter or car ride using the local rideshare services Grab or Gojek. Grab is a Southeast Asian technology company offering ride-hailing, food delivery, and digital payment services via a mobile app. Gojek, an Indonesian technology company, provides similar services, including transportation, food delivery, and various on-demand services. These services allow you to book your ride through their official apps, and provide an affordable, convenient and safe way to navigate the island.
Grab and Gojek work similarly to Uber, allowing visitors to easily book low-cost rides without having to negotiate fares, overcome language barriers or compromise safety. Like Uber, they provide a convenient and cost-effective way to get around in Bali’s main towns like Ubud and Seminyak. Bookings for Grab or Gojek are made via their mobile apps, requiring you to have international roaming activated or otherwise use a Bali SIM card. It typically costs less than 100,000 IDR (~$10 AUD) for local trips using either Grab or Gojek, with the option to travel by scooter as well.
Using a rideshare service like Grab or Gojek to rent a scooter is the cheapest way to travel around Bali. Ride-hailing apps offer an affordable rate, typically less than 40,000 IDR (~$4 AUD) for scooter trips under 10 kilometres. This option suits those not comfortable with longer-term rentals or navigating Bali's roads on their own. It's an ideal choice for budget travellers looking to manage costs while enjoying the convenience of spontaneous short trips around the island's busy tourist areas like Kuta or Seminyak. However, it is limited to shorter distances and depends on the availability of rideshare services in the area. For your safety, it’s important to remember to ask for a helmet from your driver if you are being driven by a scooter.
It is worth mentioning that Grab and Gojek are not allowed in some areas of Bali, such as Sanur, Padang Bai, Uluwatu, and parts of Canggu. At the airport, rideshares are restricted within the premises, but visitors often take one a few metres away from the airport. The designated pick-up area is just a short walk from the terminal, ensuring you have a hassle-free start to your journey in Bali.
As a side note, both Grab and Gojek also offer food delivery services, making it convenient to get meals delivered to your accommodation or anywhere on the island of Bali.
2. Hail a taxi
Taxis in Bali are a reliable way to travel, especially when you need a quick ride back to your accommodation or you don’t have a data connection to order a rideshare option like Grab. Starting at about 15,000 IDR (~$1.50 AUD), with each additional kilometre costing approximately 7,000 IDR (~$0.70 AUD), Bali’s taxis are both accessible and economically feasible. The best-regarded option for taxis in Bali is Bluebird Group, easily recognisable for the bright blue colour of their vehicles. Bluebird Group (Blue Bird Group) is a well-established transportation company in Indonesia, known for its reliability and professionalism. The company operates a fleet of taxis across major provinces in Indonesia, including Bali. Bluebird taxis are equipped with meters, ensuring transparent and fair pricing for passengers. Payment for Bluebird taxis is made in cash or via various digital payment methods, including credit/debit cards and mobile payment apps like GoPay. To book a Bluebirdtaxi, you simply hail one on the street or book through the Bluebird mobile app, which is available for download on both iOS and Android devices. The app allows you to request a taxi, track its arrival, and estimate the fare. Alternatively, call the Bluebird call centre to book a taxi if you don't have access to the app or prefer to speak with a representative.
Another notable taxi service in Bali is Maxim. Maxim is a taxi service that offers competitive pricing and reliable service. Like Bluebird, Maxim also provides a mobile app for easy booking and offers various payment options. The service has been gaining popularity due to its affordability and user-friendly app interface.
3. Explore On Foot
Walking is a practical method of transportation in popular tourist areas of Bali such as Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud. These locations are well-suited for pedestrians, with numerous attractions, eateries, and shops clustered together. However, walking is less advisable in more rural or less developed parts of Bali, such as Munduk or Uluwatu, where roads are often narrow and steep. Planning what to wear in Bali carefully in terms of footwear is important if planning to walk a lot. We recommend bringing a comfortable pair of walking shoes and wearing breathable fabrics suitable for Bali’s tropical climate.
Walking around in Bali is particularly effective in densely packed tourist areas like Seminyak, where you get to leisurely explore shops, cafes, and beaches without worrying about traffic or parking. It’s the best way to soak in everything Bali has to offer and get the general vibes of the place you’re exploring.
While Bali does not have many areas that are exclusively walking zones, some efforts have been made to reduce vehicle congestion in busy tourist spots. For instance, in Canggu, concrete bollards have been installed to prevent cars from using certain narrow shortcuts, making these areas more pedestrian-friendly.
It's essential to be cautious when walking in Bali, especially regarding the footpaths. Some sidewalks have large holes or uneven surfaces that are often hazardous. Additionally, be mindful of traffic when crossing streets. In Indonesia, vehicles drive on the left, so make sure you look right first before crossing. Taking these precautions helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable walking experience in Bali.
4. Hire a Private Driver
Hiring a car with a driver for the day combines privacy with the luxury of travelling at your own pace. Private drivers are ideal for planning a Bali day trip, allowing you to put together your own itinerary and without the hassle of arranging transportation multiple times throughout your trip. Daily rates for a private car and driver start at around 700,000 IDR (~$70 AUD) to 800,000 IDR (~$80 AUD), which typically includes 8 to 10 hours of service. Private transportation services are usually easy to source through your hotel, with various packages to suit different group sizes and preferences.
For comprehensive day tours to popular attractions such as the temples at Tanah Lot or cultural experiences in Batubulan, hiring a private driver is the safest and most convenient option. Typically, private drivers have plenty of knowledge about Bali’s main attractions, and they’re able to offer insights and recommend places that most tourists could not discover on their own.
Highly rated private driver companies include Bali Car Drivers and Bali Trip Driver, both of which have received 5-star ratings on Google. These companies are known for their excellent service, knowledgeable drivers, and flexibility in catering to tourists’ needs. Most private drivers communicate via WhatsApp, making it easy to arrange pick-up times, locations, and any special requests you might have.
Some areas and activities best explored with a private driver include Ubud and the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and Northern Bali's Lovina Beach and Gitgit Waterfall.
Ubud and the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are known for their stunning rice fields and traditional arts and crafts. A private driver typically takes you to less crowded spots and introduces you to local artisans, making the experience more personal and insightful. The driver is also skilled at navigating the narrow roads and challenging terrain that are typical in this area, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
Northern Bali, including destinations like Lovina Beach and Gitgit Waterfall, is further from the main tourist hubs. A private driver allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive, making stops at viewpoints and local eateries along the way. Lovina Beach is famous for its dolphin sightings and calm black sand beaches, while Gitgit Waterfall offers a striking natural setting that is perfect for a refreshing dip. The convenience of having a private driver allows you to explore these remote locations without worrying about transportation logistics, which is perfect for those who want a stress-free holiday.
5. Rent a Scooter
Renting a scooter is a common choice for tourists travelling to Bali, allowing visitors the freedom to get themselves from one location to another with ease and at a low cost. Typically the price of a rental scooter is around 60,000 IDR (~$6 AUD) to 80,000 IDR (~$8 AUD) per day in Bali. That being said, precautions such as wearing a helmet and not speeding are required when driving a scooter. In fact, scooters are only recommended for those with prior experience riding a motorbike or scooter. A driver’s license and downpayment are usually required for the rental.
While this option allows for more independence, it’s crucial to prioritise safety and consider the following four rules.
Never ride a scooter in Bali without prior experience
Never ride under the influence of alcohol
Always wear a helmet
Understand your travel insurance policy in case of a road accident
For those who prefer a bit more adventure and flexibility, renting a scooter allows for a personal exploration of Bali’s less accessible areas, allowing you to stop on the way to take pictures or just enjoy the surroundings. Scooters are ideal for navigating the narrow roads of rural areas where traditional transport options are less frequent, like the rice terraces of Jatiluwih or the mountainous regions around Mount Batur. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy the local scenery.
There are various types of scooters available for rent, ranging from small 110cc scooters suitable for city travel to larger 150cc or 250cc models that offer more power and are better suited for longer distances and higher speeds. Most rental scooters have automatic transmissions, making them easy to handle, even for beginners with some experience.
Certain areas in Bali are particularly good for scooter travel, such as Ubud, Seminyak, and Kuta, where the roads are relatively well-maintained and there are plenty of attractions within a short distance. However, areas like the narrow and steep roads in Munduk or Uluwatu can be more challenging and are better suited for more experienced riders.
When renting a scooter, there are various features and options available. Some scooters come with USB charging ports, storage compartments, and even navigation systems. Rental companies often provide helmets and, in some cases, rain gear. It’s also common for rental services to offer drop-off and pick-up options, making it convenient for tourists to start their rental directly from their accommodation. Highly-rated scooter rental companies in Bali include Niko Rental Motor Bali, Canggu Scooter & Car Rental Wira Services, and TwoBrothers Scooter Rental & Tour. These companies are known for their reliable service, well-maintained scooters, and flexibility in catering to tourists’ needs.
Renting a Scooter provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and is more economical for longer stays. However, first-time riders must be very cautious, as Bali's roads are challenging due to traffic jams and narrow or irregular roads. Beginners or inexperienced riders are advised to take a short training session or at least stick to less congested areas at first to build confidence. It is also wise to have travel insurance that covers scooter riding, as lacking the right insurance and getting into an accident can lead to large fines and make renting a scooter much more expensive than expected.
6. Take the Bus
Local buses and rental cars are less common transport options in Bali. Local bus services, such as the Kura Kura bus, operate across several key tourist areas in Bali, connecting places like Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. Prices for bus rides range from 30,000 IDR (~$3 AUD) to 90,000 IDR (~$9 AUD), depending on the destination. While local bus services provide a reliable way to navigate major tourist spots affordably, be mindful that schedules are sometimes affected by traffic.
Bemos, Bali’s traditional minibuses, represent the cheapest public transport option, typically costing only about 20,000 IDR (~$2 AUD). They offer an extremely low-cost and authentic local travel experience. However, their routes are often infrequent and unpredictable, making them less convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the local transportation system. Bemos are best used for short distances within local areas and offer a more authentic travel experience at a very low cost, though they don’t always suit everyone’s comfort or travel schedule.
Bemos are colour-coded to indicate different routes that connect many parts of Bali, including tourist hotspots and key local areas. Operating from major terminals like Denpasar, they provide routes to places like Kuta, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. Though they lack a fixed schedule and often get quite crowded, Bemos are effective for navigating short distances. They are especially useful for experiencing Bali's urban and suburban scenes, as they often pass through local markets and less touristy zones.
In addition to Bemos, there are three main public transport companies in Bali. These are Trans Sarbagita, Perama Tours, and Kura-Kura. Trans Sarbagita buses connect Denpasar with other Bali regencies such as Badung, Prices for journeys are low, ranging from 3,000 (~$0.30 AUD) IDR to 5,000 IDR (~$0.50 AUD). Perama Tours, which is another major public transport provider in Bali, operates less frequently but offers economical routes between major points such as Kuta and Ubud, charging around 60,000 IDR (~$6 AUD) for a one-way trip. Kura-Kura, though not as extensive, provides modern and frequent services primarily in southern Bali and up to Ubud, with trips costing from 20,000 IDR (~$2 AUD) to 80,000 IDR (~$8 AUD). They also offer 1 to 7-day unlimited travel passes, which are cost-effective for frequent travellers.
Local buses are not a popular option for tourists to get around Bali because they are often slow, overcrowded, and don’t always follow a strict schedule. However, they are useful in certain situations, such as travelling between cities or for budget-conscious travellers who have the time to navigate less predictable schedules. For most tourists, however, using ride-hailing services like Grab or Gojek might be a better option due to their convenience, reliability, and flexibility.
7. Hire a Car
Renting a car in Bali is an option for visitors with an international driving license who want to explore on their own terms. Cars are perfect for travellers eager to see less-visited areas, like the central highlands with its beautiful temples and lakes or the southern coast known for its surfing spots. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop wherever you like and discover new places at your own rhythm, which you can't always do with scheduled transport.
That being said, car rentals are not as popular of an option in Bali compared to other destinations. This is primarily due to the island's traffic conditions, narrow roads, and the abundance of more convenient transportation options like scooters and ride-sharing services.
Typically, car rentals range from 150,000 IDR (~$15 AUD) to 500,000 IDR (~$50 AUD) per day. Reputable car rental companies in Bali, such as BaliCarFinder and Avis, offer a range of vehicles and additional services, including GPS navigation and child seats, to enhance your driving experience.
What is the cheapest way of getting around Bali?
The cheapest way to get around Bali is via Bali’s traditional minibuses, called Bemos. A Bemo ride typically costs only about 5,000 IDR (~$0.50 AUD). However, it is not common for tourists to take Bemos because the routes are less flexible and often infrequent, making them less convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the local transportation system.
However, for most tourists in Bali, the cheapest practical way to get around is by using a rideshare service like Grab or Gojek. These services offer affordable rates (around $2 for a 10-minute journey) and greater convenience compared to local transport.
Is there Uber in Bali?
No, there is no Uber in Bali or Indonesia. The two main rideshare services are Grab and Gojek, both widely used on the island to get around Bali and deliver food within the island. With Grab and Gojek, you just tap the app to request a door-to-door ride, similar to how Uber operates.
Uber ceased its operations in Southeast Asia in 2018 when it sold its business to Grab, the most popular ride-hailing app in the region next to Gojek. The move was part of a strategic exit from the region, which allowed Uber to secure a significant stake in Grab and focus on other markets. Today, Grab and Gojek have become the leading ride-hailing alternatives to Uber in Bali, offering easy-to-use platforms for booking rides and delivering food in Bali.
What are the alternatives to Uber in Bali?
The primary alternatives to Uber in Bali are rideshare services like Grab and Gojek, and Bluebird’s metered taxis. Rideshare services provide extensive coverage across the island, offering both car and scooter rides at competitive prices. Grab and Gojek are affordable and convenient, typically arriving within 5 minutes of being ordered and costing less than 50,000 IDR (-$5 AUD) for a ride under 10 minutes. For those not comfortable with driving or riding scooters in Bali's often chaotic traffic, Grab and Gojek apps are a practical choice. For higher comfort and reliability, Bluebird taxis are another alternative to Uber in Bali. Bluebird taxis are equipped with meters, which calculate the fare based on the distance travelled, ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing.
Can I take public transport in Bali?
Yes, you can take public transport in Bali. However, it is not a popular option amongst tourists. This is largely because navigating Bali’s bus system tends to be confusing, and using rideshare or taxis is relatively low-cost anyway.
That said, there are a few options for public transport in Bali. The most common form of public transport is the Bemo, an open-air minivan that operates along many of Bali's main roads. Bemos are suitable for short distances and allow you to hop on and off anywhere along the route, although they don’t always take the most direct path to your destination. They are colour-coded to indicate different routes, connecting various parts of Bali, including tourist hotspots and key local areas. While they offer an authentic and low-cost travel experience, they can be less convenient for tourists due to their infrequent and unpredictable schedules. Other public transport options in Bali are the Trans Sarbagita buses, which connect Denpasar with other Bali regencies such as Badung, and Perama Tours, which connect Kuta and Ubud. Lastly, Kura-Kura buses provide modern and frequent services primarily in southern Bali and up to Ubud, with the option of 1 to 7-day unlimited travel passes.
How to get to Bali from the airport?
There are three main ways to get to Bali from the airport. These are hotel transfers, rideshare services and taxis. Typically, the easiest way to reach Bali from Denpasar airport is by hotel transfer, which most hotels in Bali provide for free as part of your reservation. Alternatively, another option is to use the Grab rideshare service, which has a lounge at the airport's exit. For international arrivals, follow the signs to the International Car Parking Building to find the lounge, while for domestic arrivals, head towards the domestic arrival park and continue through the corridor to reach it. A third dependable option is the Bluebird Taxi service, which is the airport's official taxi company.
More information on the three main options for travel to and from Bali’s airport is provided below.
Hotel Transfers: Many hotels in Bali provide their own transfer services from the airport, which are typically arranged before your arrival. Hotel transfers offer a seamless connection from the airport to your accommodation, making them an excellent option for those unfamiliar with Bali or carrying a lot of luggage.
Rideshare Services: For travellers without access to hotel transfers, ride-hailing services such as Grab and Gojek are widely used throughout Bali. While Grab and Gojek drivers are generally not permitted to pick up directly from the airport, designated pick-up areas are found a short walk from the terminal, just outside the airport’s premises.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at Denpasar Airport for those seeking immediate transport. Bluebird Taxis are booked at taxi counters located in the Arrivals area of both the domestic and international terminals. These taxis operate with fixed fares depending on the destination. For example, a ride to Kuta typically costs around 100,000 IDR (~$10 AUD), while a trip to Ubud costs about 350,000 IDR (~$35 AUD).Bluebird Taxis, are easily recognised by their light blue colour and bird logo, and are known for their honesty and reliability. They are located outside the terminal, or head to the Departures level to catch one as they drop off passengers from the airport.
The approximate travel times by car between Denpasar Airport and major tourist areas of Bali are given below.
Denpasar to.from Kuta: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Denpasar to/from Seminyak: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Denpasar to/from Legian: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Denpasar to/from Uluwatu: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Denpasar to/from Sanur: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Denpasar to/from Ubud: Approximately 60-90 minutes
Is Bali safe to travel around?
Yes, Bali is generally considered quite safe. That being said, it’s important to be aware of your personal surroundings as petty crimes and scams do sometimes happen. Another issue is road accidents, which are common in Bali. Remember to wear a helmet if driving a scooter and never drive under the influence.
More sinister forms of crime are relatively rare in Bali compared to other global travel destinations. This is in part owing to the local population, who are predominantly Balinese Hindu and known for being very friendly and considerate to visitors. In general, Bali’s religious and cultural underpinnings emphasise community and hospitality. For example, Tri Hita Karana is a Balinese philosophy that emphasises harmony and peaceful living.
That being said, it's important to follow certain tips to avoid petty crimes when visiting Bali. Always carry bags securely and wear them in front of you or diagonally across your body. Further safety measures include staying alert in crowded places, particularly in night markets, beaches, and during festivals, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.
Another safety consideration to be mindful relates to the predominant mode of transportation in Bali: scooters. Using a moped, scooter or motorbike to get around Bali requires particular caution due to the often chaotic traffic, often narrow and unmaintained roads and the varying levels of driving experience amongst tourists.
How do you rent a scooter in Bali?
Renting a scooter is one of the most popular ways of getting around Bali. Scooters are available from local rental stores and online providers like Bikago for about 80,000-150,000 IDR (~$8-$15 AUD) per day. You will be required to provide a driver's license, and it's crucial to wear a helmet at all times.
To rent a scooter in Bali, follow these 11 crucial steps.
- Comply with Requirements: Always ensure you have a valid international driving permit (IDP) or a local driving license that permits you to ride a scooter. That being said, most Balinese rental shops allow you to get a scooter if you have a driving license from your own country.
- Find a Rental Shop: The best places to rent a scooter are typically traditional scooter rental shops or even an online platform like BEBALI. Scooter rental shops are abundant in Bali, particularly in tourist hotspots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. Popular street shops include Niko Rental Motor Bali, Canggu Scooter & Car Rental Wira Services, and TwoBrothers Scooter Rental & Tour, while the most popular online platform for scooter rentals is Bikago. It is also common to rent a scooter at the hotel where you’re staying.
- Choose a Scooter: Most scooter shops in Bali allow you to choose from various models, such as the Honda Scoopy or Vario 110cc which are both highly popular in Bali. The cost of renting a scooter for the day in Bali typically ranges from 70,000-110,000 IDR (~$7-$11 AUD). More powerful models like the Yamaha NMax cost around 100,000 - 200,000 IDR (~$10-$20 AUD) per day. Always inspect the scooter’s condition, including brakes, lights, and tyres.
- Agree on Terms: Make sure you understand the terms of the rental, including the rate, insurance coverage, and any additional charges, such as for helmets or delivery.
- Provide Documentation and Sign the agreement: Provide details such as a copy of your passport photo or a photo of it sent from WhatsApp when signing the rental agreement. Make sure not to leave your original ID or passport at the store. After agreeing to the terms, sign the rental contract. Ensure you read it carefully and clarify any doubts.
- Complete the Payment: Typically, payment for rental scooters is made in cash. That being said, some shops do accept credit cards. Ensure all additional fees are settled.
- Document the Condition of the Scooter: It is a good idea to check the general conditions of the scooter when you pick it up, taking photos of any visual damage to avoid potential charges for damage that was pre existing.
- Wear Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, which is typically provided by the rental shop. Usually, there will be a selection of helmets to choose from, in various sizes. Make sure the helmet fits well and is not damaged.
- Familiarise Yourself with Bali Traffic Rules: It’s crucial to understand Bali’s basic traffic rules before you depart on your first drive. Always drive on the left side of the road, yield to pedestrians, and observe speed limits, which are lower in densely populated or tourist-heavy areas.
- Return the Scooter: Return the scooter as agreed, ensuring it's in the same condition as when you picked it up, to avoid extra charges.
Is Riding a Scooter in Bali safe?
Riding a scooter in Bali is safe to a degree for those with prior experience on a moped. It is unwise to ride a scooter for the first time in your life while in Bali. Scooter accidents, including serious and sometimes fatal ones, do happen in Bali, so it's important to stay alert and follow traffic rules. Always drive carefully, observe local traffic laws and never ride under the influence of alcohol.
While insurance is not mandatory, taking out coverage for potential accidents and damages is highly recommended. Many insurance policies only cover scooters with engine sizes under 250cc, so it's important to verify this detail to ensure coverage. Beginners or inexperienced riders are advised to consider taking a short training session or initially stick to less congested areas to build confidence before they are ready to ride on busier streets.
Purchasing an appropriate travel insurance policy can offer protection for a range of issues you might run into in Bali, including scooter accidents. Our partner Cover-More offers two levels of insurance coverage for travel to Bali: Comprehensive and Essentials. Get a quote for Bali travel insurance and make sure to purchase before you go.
What is a Bemo?
A Bemo is a small minibus that serves as a common form of public transport in Bali, particularly in and around urban areas like Denpasar. Bemo minibuses are inexpensive, typically charging around 5,000 IDR (~$0.5 AUD) to 15,000 IDR (~$1.50 AUD) per trip, making them a budget-friendly option for both locals and tourists. Bemos follow specific colour-coded routes that cover major parts of the island, including tourist destinations and local hubs. However, the Bemo schedules are irregular and they are often crowded.
Bemos operate from several key terminals in Bali, offering routes that connect central points like Denpasar to surrounding areas such as Kuta, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. Despite the lack of a strict timetable, Bemos are a practical choice for short distances and provide a unique insight into the local way of life, navigating through less touristy areas and often bustling local markets.
How long does it take to get from one part of Bali to another?
Getting to the main areas of Bali from Denpasar Airport or from one town to another typically takes anywhere between 15 minutes to 2.5 hours. From the airport to popular southern coast areas like Kuta and Seminyak, it typically takes 10-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Ubud is further away, taking 1.5-2.5 hours from the airport depending on congestion and time of day.
Flights to Bali
You know how to get around Bali, so now it's time to book your flights! Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Bali from major Australian cities, including:
