From Grab rides to scooter rentals and private drivers — here's everything you need to get around Bali safely and affordably.
Your main ways to get around Bali — each with different trade-offs on cost, convenience, and safety.
Ride-hailing apps
The easiest and safest way to get around Bali. Both apps offer cars, motorbike taxis (ojek), and food delivery. Prices are fixed upfront — no haggling.
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Cons
Full-day hire
Hiring a private driver for the day is excellent value in Bali. Your driver waits while you explore, knows all the best spots, and handles parking.
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Cons
Self-ride
The most popular way for experienced riders to explore Bali. Cheap, flexible, and lets you discover hidden spots. Only recommended if you have prior motorbike experience.
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Self-drive
Self-drive car rental is available but Bali's traffic and road conditions make it challenging. An international driving licence is required. Most visitors prefer a private driver.
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Cons
Approximate ride costs for common routes in Bali (USD). Grab prices vary with demand.
| Route | Grab/Gojek | Private Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Airport → Seminyak | $8–10 | $20–25 |
| Airport → Canggu | $8–10 | $15–20 |
| Airport → Ubud | $20–25 | $40–50 |
| Airport → Uluwatu | $20–25 | $35–45 |
| Seminyak → Ubud | $15–18 | $25–35 |
| Canggu → Ubud | $15–20 | $30–40 |
* Prices approximate, subject to change. Grab/Gojek prices may vary with surge.
Download both apps before you arrive. They're the safest, most transparent way to get a fixed fare.
Best for: Cars and longer trips — slightly more reliable for airport runs
Best for: Motorbike taxis (GoRide) for quick short trips through traffic
For experienced riders only. Cheap, flexible, and the most authentic way to explore Bali's back roads.
Well-maintained bikes, flexible rental periods, and delivery to your villa. Staff are friendly with first-time renters and provide a quick safety briefing.
An excellent option for longer stays. Multiple pick-up locations across Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud. Good bike selection with competitive weekly rates.
Roadside rental shops are everywhere in Bali. Inspect the bike thoroughly before paying — photograph any existing damage. Prices are negotiable for longer rentals.
Avoid travelling between 5pm–7pm — this is rush hour in Canggu and Seminyak, and traffic can be severe.
Google Maps is reliable for Bali — use it to check traffic before leaving and to discover lesser-known route shortcuts.
The bypass roads (Sunset Road, Bypass Ngurah Rai) are faster than coastal roads on most days.
Ubud can get very congested — park outside and walk or take a scooter for the final stretch into the centre.
Allow extra time for airport transfers — traffic can add 30–60 minutes beyond Google's estimated travel time.
For flexibility, renting a scooter (IDR 60,000–80,000/day) is most popular. For comfort and convenience, hiring a private driver (IDR 500,000–700,000/day) is excellent value. Grab and Gojek apps work well in Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. Taxis (Blue Bird) are reliable in tourist areas.
Yes — you legally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement. Police checkpoints do occur and fines are common for foreign riders without a valid permit. Your IDP must be obtained in your home country before you travel.
Kuta: 15 min (~IDR 100,000 by taxi). Seminyak: 25 min (~IDR 120,000). Canggu: 40 min (~IDR 150,000). Ubud: 75–90 min (~IDR 300,000). Use the official taxi counter inside the airport or pre-book a private transfer to avoid touts.
Yes — both apps work well in South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Denpasar). However, local taxi associations restrict them in some areas like Ubud, Nusa Dua, and near the airport. In restricted zones, use Blue Bird taxis or negotiate with local drivers.
Kuta ↔ Seminyak: 20–30 min | Seminyak ↔ Canggu: 20–35 min | Kuta ↔ Ubud: 60–90 min | Ubud ↔ Amed: 90–120 min | Kuta ↔ Uluwatu: 40–60 min. Traffic is heavy around Denpasar and Kuta, especially 4–7pm.
A full day (8–10 hours) with a private driver costs approximately IDR 500,000–700,000 ($30–45 USD). This is outstanding value — your driver will also act as a guide, wait for you at all stops, and can be booked through your hotel or via apps like Klook.
Bali’s roads can be chaotic and are not ideal for inexperienced riders. If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, practise in a quiet area first. Always wear a helmet, avoid riding at night, and watch for potholes. Many travellers prefer a driver for longer trips.