Getting around Bali: plan transport around your stay

Solve the arrival journey first

Before flying, decide how you will reach your first accommodation. The airport publishes ground-transport information, but pickup arrangements should also be confirmed with your chosen provider. Share your flight details, luggage count and any specific seating needs before accepting an offer.

Ask for a clear meeting point and a way to communicate if your mobile connection is not working. Keep the destination and check-in instructions offline. If you are arranging transport through your accommodation, confirm who is responsible for changes when a flight is delayed.

Official resources: Ngurah Rai Airport: ground transport

Build a realistic daily transport plan

List your frequent journeys and test them at useful times. A short distance on a map does not establish a short trip, and a quoted estimate is not a guaranteed arrival time. Allow a buffer for important appointments and avoid scheduling several viewings back to back across unfamiliar areas.

For hired transport, clarify the vehicle, passenger and luggage capacity, waiting time, stops and what the quoted price includes. If you need a child seat or have accessibility requirements, ask for explicit confirmation rather than assuming these are standard. Check the pickup point when leaving a busy venue.

Using Gojek and Grab

Gojek and Grab offer app-based transport in Bali. Gojek lists GoRide for motorcycle trips and GoCar for car trips; Grab offers GrabBike and GrabCar. Check the app for services, current fares and availability at your actual pickup point rather than assuming every option operates everywhere or at every hour.

Set the entrance pin carefully and follow the app’s pickup instructions, particularly at airports and busy venues. Match the driver and number plate to the booking before getting in. Keep the booking and payment within the app’s offered process, and use its help tools for a problem. A car may be more practical for luggage or wet weather; confirm child seats or accessibility separately. Do not assume that a motorcycle ride suits every traveller.

Official resources: Gojek: services in Bali · Grab: GrabBike and GrabCar in Bali

Renting a scooter: checks before accepting the keys

Compare a written rental quote covering the hire period, deposit, delivery, fuel, damage liability and breakdown assistance. Inspect the tyres, brakes, lights and helmet, record existing damage and retain a receipt. Do not ride a vehicle you cannot confidently control. Being able to rent a scooter does not prove that you are legally licensed or insured to use it.

Check the licence and permit rules that apply to your nationality and the motorcycle category, not just car driving. Australian Government advice, for example, requires an Indonesian licence or an International Driving Permit alongside the Australian licence, with the appropriate vehicle entitlement. Confirm your insurer covers the activity and vehicle. Wear a properly fitted helmet, never ride after drinking, and choose a driver instead if you lack experience or conditions feel unsafe.

Walking also needs a route-level check. Look at crossings, lighting and pavement continuity rather than measuring distance alone. Choose a base that still works if you decide not to drive. A transport plan that fits your abilities and needs is more useful than one built around what other visitors happen to do.

Official resources: Australian Government: Indonesia driving and motorcycle advice