Bali may be a small island, but getting from A to B is not always straightforward. With winding roads, unpredictable traffic, and a mix of transport options ranging from scooters to private drivers, it helps to know your way around. Whether you are staying in Seminyak, exploring Ubud, or chasing sunsets in Uluwatu, this guide covers all the options you need to get around Bali safely and easily.
Taxis
Taxis are common in South Bali, especially in places like Seminyak, Kuta, and Sanur. It is possible to find taxis in Ubud and farther afield, however do not rely on them being plentiful.
· Bluebird Taxis are the only reliable metered taxi company. These taxis have “Bluebird” written across the windscreen and drivers always wear a uniform collared shirt.
· There are many similar looking cars that may give the appearance of being a Bluebird taxi. Be aware of these and always ensure the meter is turned on or will be used before stepping in.
· Avoid unmarked or “freelance” taxis. Overcharging is common with these and drivers will usually quote exorbitant fares.
· Pro Tips:
o Download the MyBluebird app for easier bookings and fair pricing.
o If no meter is being used, agree on a fare with the driver before starting the trip.
o You can hail a taxi anywhere on the street.
o Have close to the correct fare and if warranted you can round up to give a small tip. Do not expect drivers to have change.
Rideshare Apps
Grab and Gojek are South East Asia’s Uber or Lyft equivalents.
· Available for cars and also scooters.
· Fares are disclosed when making your booking on the app and are usually cheaper than a taxi service.
· You can pay via either cash, loading credit onto the application, or linking your credit card.
· Service can be limited in certain areas due to local taxi monopolies (especially Ubud, Canggu, and parts of Uluwatu).
· In these “restricted zones” your app may say “pickup not available” or direct you to walk to a nearby pickup point.
· Pro Tips:
o Use rideshare bikes for quick hops through traffic in congested areas and at peak times. Helmets are provided and must be warn.
o Grab and Gojek both have counters at the airport, and staff will be happy to assist you place a booking using the complimentary wifi.
o If planning to use a rideshare bike, make sure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover this activity (you do not need a licence to be a passenger).
o If you take a rideshare transfer and are happy with the driver, ask them for contact details (usually will provide a Whatsapp number), so as you can book them directly for other trips whilst in Bali.
Hiring a Private Driver
Hiring a private driver is one of the best and most comfortable ways to explore Bali, especially for full and half day tours or when visiting remote areas where getting a return transfer may be difficult.
· Many drivers double as guides and speak good English.
· Cost is about IDR 750-800,000 (8-10 hours) for a full day and IDR 400-450,000 for a half day (4-5 hours).
· You can arrange a private driver through your hotel, villa manager, or directly via WhatsApp, Facebook groups or for the best experience use one of the drivers I recommend below.
· Try to source a driver from the area you are going to as they will most likely have better knowledge of the sites and roads to take (for example, if going to Amed, try and find an Amed-based driver).
· My recommended drivers are:
o Nyoman Adnyana (WA +62 818 553 696)
o Andreus (WA +62 851 0212 1297)
o Bagus (WA +62 821 1249 7103)
o Hamdan (WA +62 812 1308 3314)
o Juni (Sidemen based WA +62 857 0463 5701)
o Putu (Nusa Penida based WA +62 812 4638 1318)
Renting a Scooter
Scooters are Bali’s unofficial mode of transport. They are cheap, fast, and popular, but not for everyone!
· Rental cost is around IDR 70–100,000 per day for a Scoopy or N-Max.
· You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement to ride legally.
· Wear a helmet at all times.
· Traffic is usually chaotic. If you are not very confident on two wheels, skip it and hire a driver.
· Important: Accidents are common and many travel insurance policies will not cover scooter crashes unless you hold a valid licence, wear a helmet, have not been drinking and have specific cover for motorbikes.
Renting a Car
While technically possible, renting a car in Bali is not ideal unless you are familiar with local driving conditions.
· You need an International Driving Permit with a car endorsement.
· Roads are narrow, traffic is intense, and signage can be unclear.
· Parking is limited, especially in tourist zones.
· Pro Tip: Hire a private driver instead. It will cost less than the car rental plus insurance, and you will enjoy the ride instead of worrying.
Other Transport Options
· Push bikes can be a good option in quieter areas like Sanur or the village areas around Ubud.
· Walking is possible in areas like Ubud and Seminyak. Just be careful of the footpaths as they are rarely even or without cracks and holes. At peak hour on Jl Raya Seminyak, walking will be much quicker than taking a car.
What is Best for You?
| Transport Mode | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| · Bluebird Taxi | · short rides· airport transfers | · metered· regulated | · not always easy to find |
| · Rideshare (Grab or Gojek) | · affordable transport in tourist areas | · cheap· can be cashless· convenient | · not available in some areas |
| · Private Driver | · day trips and touring· groups· longer distances | · comfortable· safe· good value | · needs to be pre arranged so requires planning |
| · Scooter Rental | · solo travel· short distances | · flexible· cheap | · dangerous· need licences |
| · Car Rental | · experienced drivers | · secure and can use in all weather | · stressful· traffic and parking issues |
| · Walking or Biking | · explore local villages | · very cheap· eco friendly | · footpaths and cycle ways are not well maintained |
Final Tips
· Always wear a helmet and carry your licence if riding a scooter
· Avoid peak traffic hours in main tourist areas if possible (usually 8 to10am and 4 to 6pm).
· Use offline maps or Google Maps for navigation.
· Do not be afraid to ask locals for help.
· Familiarise yourself with some of the scams that local transport and non-Bluebird taxis will try.
· Sometimes it is better to pay more for the convenience – many times in wet weather or when I am tired and hot I have just hailed the nearest “taxi”.
· Keep your wits about you and always choose the safest option based on your situation.
· Distances on maps can appear short, however are rarely quick because of the traffic and road conditions. Allow plenty of time to get to the airport or appointments.
Whether you are beach hopping and shopping in the south, rice-field cruising in Ubud, or sunset chasing in Uluwatu, there is a transport option to suit every type of traveller. Pick the one that matches your comfort and confidence and enjoy the ride!
