Bali Local Transport & Taxi Guide: Best Ways to Get Around

Key Takeaways

• Bali has no subway or public buses. The Kura-Kura Bus serves major tourist areas but with limited routes.

• Blue Bird taxis are the only reliable metered taxis. Use their app or official cars to avoid scams.

• Grab and Gojek apps offer cheap, cashless rides by motorbike or car, but face “no-ride-hailing” zones in places like Ubud and Canggu.

• Scooter rentals are popular and affordable, but require experience and an international driving permit to avoid fines.

• Hiring a private driver is best for day trips and groups, offering comfort, fixed rates, and local insights.

• Airport taxis often overcharge. Prefer pre-booked rides or ride-hailing apps outside restricted zones.

• Always avoid fake taxis and drivers refusing to use meters, walk away, and rebook if needed.

Bali is paradise, until you need to get somewhere. No trains. No subways. Barely any public transport. And taxis? Let’s just say not all of them have your best interests (or your wallet) at heart.

Every traveler in Bali faces the same dilemma: How do you get around without overpaying, getting scammed, or spending half your trip stuck in traffic? The answer? It depends. Want speed? Grab a motorbike. Prefer comfort? Hire a private driver. Need something budget-friendly? Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab will be your best friend.

But here’s the catch: some areas have “no-Grab zones” controlled by local taxi mafias. Some taxis refuse to use meters. And if you don’t have the right license, renting a scooter could get you fined on the spot.

This guide cuts through the chaos. No fluff, no tourist traps, just straight-up, practical advice on how to navigate Bali like a pro. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few months, knowing your transport options can save you money, time, and a whole lot of frustration.

Let’s dive in.

Can You Rely on Public Transport in Bali?

Short answer: No, not really.

Bali has no subway, no commuter trains, and no real public bus system. The only public transport option is the Kura-Kura Bus, a tourist-friendly shuttle service with fixed routes connecting major destinations like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua.

Kura-Kura Bus Pros

Affordable (tickets from IDR 20,000 / $1.30 per ride)

Air-conditioned

Safe and reliable

Cons

Limited routes & schedules

Doesn’t go to remote areas

Slower than taxis or motorbikes

Verdict: If you’re on a budget and sticking to major areas, Kura-Kura Bus is decent. Otherwise, you’ll need taxis, ride-hailing apps, or private drivers.

Taxis in Bali: The Good, The Bad & The Scams

Taxis in Bali can be a lifesaver or a nightmare, depending on who you ride with.

Blue Bird Taxis – The Only Legit Option

If you must take a taxi, make sure it’s Blue Bird. They are:

• Metered and fair-priced

• Reliable and won’t scam you

• Available in major tourist areas

How to spot a real Blue Bird taxi?

• Light blue color with a Blue Bird logo

• Drivers always use a meter (if they refuse, don’t get in)

• You can book via the official Blue Bird app to avoid fake taxis

The Fake Blue Bird Scam

Many taxis imitate Blue Bird by painting their cars blue and using similar logos. But these drivers often overcharge tourists, refuse to use meters, and even take longer routes.

How to avoid scams?

• Always book through the Blue Bird app or hail one with the official logo

• Never accept a taxi where the driver says, “Meter broken.”

• If unsure, use ride-hailing apps instead

Ride-Hailing Apps: Gojek & Grab (Your Best Bet)

The easiest, safest, and cheapest way to get around Bali is through ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab. These apps work just like Uber and allow you to book motorbikes (ojeks) or cars instantly.

Why Use Gojek or Grab?

✔ Cheaper than taxis (no haggling needed)

✔ Fixed prices so you won’t get ripped off

✔ Motorbike option to beat Bali’s traffic

✔ Cash & cashless payments available

How Much Does It Cost?

• Gojek Motorbike (Ojek): Short rides from IDR 10,000-30,000 ($0.70-$2)

• GrabCar/Gojek Car: Airport to Seminyak? Around IDR 150,000 ($10)

• Ubud to Canggu: Around IDR 200,000-250,000 ($13-$16)

🚨 Important Warning: Some areas in Bali (like Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu) have “No Ride-Hailing Zones” where local drivers block Grab & Gojek. If you get stuck, walk to a nearby road or use a local driver.

Renting a Scooter: The Bali Favorite (But Not for Everyone)

Bali’s most popular way to get around? Renting a scooter. It’s cheap, flexible, and lets you avoid traffic—but it comes with risks.

Should You Rent a Scooter?

✔ If you have experience riding and feel comfortable in chaotic traffic

✔ If you want to explore Bali at your own pace

✔ If you’re staying longer than a few days

You Should NOT Rent a Scooter If:

✖ You’ve never ridden one before (Bali’s roads are not for beginners)

✖ You don’t have an International Driving Permit (IDP)—police often stop tourists for this

✖ You’re not comfortable riding through traffic jams

How Much Does It Cost?

• Daily rental: IDR 50,000 - 80,000 ($3-$5)

• Monthly rental: IDR 600,000 - 1,200,000 ($40-$80)

• Fuel: Dirt cheap! Around IDR 10,000 ($0.70) per liter

Important Safety Tips:

• Wear a helmet (seriously, it’s the law)

• Drive defensively—Bali’s traffic can be chaotic

• Always check for damages before renting (or risk paying for “repairs” you didn’t cause)

Hiring a Private Driver (Best for Day Trips & Families)

For longer trips (like Ubud, Uluwatu, or the North), hiring a private driver is the most stress-free way to explore.

Why Hire a Private Driver?

✔ More comfortable than scooters

✔ No need to navigate Bali’s crazy roads

✔ Perfect for families or large groups

✔ Flat-rate pricing (no surprises)

How Much Does It Cost?

• Half-day hire (4-5 hours): IDR 350,000 - 500,000 ($22-$33)

• Full-day hire (8-10 hours): IDR 600,000 - 900,000 ($40-$60)

Pro Tip: Book drivers via GetYourGuide, Viator, or ask your hotel for recommendations.

Bali Airport Transport: Avoid the Arrival Taxi Scams

Landing at Ngurah Rai Airport? Here’s how to get to your hotel without getting ripped off:

Best Options from the Airport

✔ Blue Bird Taxi – Safe & metered (but not always available)

✔ Grab & Gojek – There’s a designated pick-up point outside the airport

✔ Pre-booked private car – Best for stress-free arrivals

Avoid: Random taxi drivers shouting, “Taxi, taxi!” in the arrivals hall. These guys will overcharge you heavily.

Conclusion

Bali’s transport scene is chaotic, unpredictable, and sometimes frustrating. But with a little planning, it’s completely manageable.

Stick to Blue Bird taxis if you must take a cab. Use Gojek or Grab whenever possible (just watch out for the no-ride-hailing zones). Rent a scooter only if you know how to ride confidently, and make sure you have an international driving permit to avoid hefty fines. If you’re traveling far, hiring a private driver is worth every rupiah.

Avoid airport taxi scams. Don’t fall for the old “meter broken” trick. And if you find yourself in a local taxi standoff where ride-hailing isn’t allowed, sometimes it’s best to walk a block away and book from there.

Bali is an island of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredible experiences. Don’t let bad transport decisions ruin it. Travel smart, move efficiently, and spend your time enjoying the beaches, temples, and waterfalls, not arguing with a taxi driver over a fare.

Now go explore. And may your rides be smooth and scam-free.

For more no-fluff tips on getting around and exploring Bali, check out our Bali Travel E-Guide packed with itineraries, hidden gems, and a custom Google Map.