Transport in Indonesia: what actually matters to know

From real experience

• Toll roads in Bali do not accept cash. Payment is exclusively via a 'toll card' (e.g., e-Toll, e-Money). These cards can be purchased directly from attendants at the toll booths, typically for 100,000 IDR, which includes an initial balance. Contactless payments like Apple Pay (with foreign cards) or local QRIS systems may also be supported, but a physical toll card is the most reliable method.
• Exchange rates at Bali airport are generally worse than in the city. However, the difference might not be critical for small amounts needed for a SIM card or taxi. For larger sums, it's advisable to exchange money in the city during business days.
• Passport validity must be at least 6 months at the time of entry into Indonesia. For international transit, especially with separate tickets, travelers must ensure the airline's policy allows boarding, as airlines are strictly liable for transporting passengers with insufficient passport validity for their final destination.
• Electronic traffic law enforcement (ETLE) has been implemented in Ubud, targeting illegal street parking (specifically on Jalan Raya Ubud). Violators will be fined digitally. Renters of cars or motorbikes should use designated parking spaces to avoid fines that will be forwarded to rental owners and charged to the renter's deposit.
• Driving without a valid license in Indonesia risks confiscation of the vehicle and official fines. During police raids, negotiating with officers is often ineffective and can lead to vehicle impoundment. Always wear a helmet and dress modestly to attract less attention from traffic authorities.
• Driving a scooter in Indonesia requires an international driving permit with a valid 'A' (motorcycle) category. Local Indonesian driver licenses for tourists without a KITAS are often illegal or invalid in case of accidents. Driving without the correct license category makes you legally liable for any accident and invalidates insurance coverage.
• Bali is not a walkable destination. Transportation relies heavily on scooters/bikes and taxis (Grab/Gojek). Travel times are significantly longer than distances suggest due to heavy traffic congestion, particularly in tourist hubs like Canggu. Expect 1.5+ hours for relatively short distances during peak hours.
• To find a motorbike instructor in the Badung area of Bali, look for local driving schools or individual instructors. Many local 'teachers' offer affordable lessons, often in English. It's recommended to inquire through local community groups or search online for 'motorbike driving lessons Bali' or 'scooter lessons Badung' to find contacts. Some private individuals also offer instruction.
• An onward or return ticket is a legal requirement for entry into Indonesia. While some travelers successfully bypass checks via automated e-gates, airlines frequently deny boarding at departure points without proof of onward travel. Furthermore, immigration officers regularly conduct manual checks, especially for families. Travelers should possess a valid onward flight ticket or a verifiable booking to avoid entry denial.
• It may be possible to use electric scooters (e-scooters) in Bali even without a Category A license, but regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and rental company policies.
• Police stops on motorbikes in Bali are less likely if you are wearing a helmet, dressed appropriately, and following traffic rules. If you ride recklessly (e.g., without a shirt, running red lights), the chance of being stopped increases significantly. There are specific areas where police frequently set up checkpoints.
• Users are discussing the cost and necessity of repairing minor damages, such as scratches, on rented scooters in Bali. There's a debate on whether these are considered normal wear and tear or require payment.
• Lake Yeh Malet in Karangasem has officially reopened to visitors after a major clean-up operation that cleared decades of silt and overgrowth. It is safe for swimming and local fishing, and offers clear, scenic views of Mount Agung. It serves as an excellent alternative stopover destination for travelers heading to or from Amed.
• There is no traditional taxi service on Nusa Penida. The primary means of transportation are rental scooters or hiring a private driver for a daily rate (typically 800k–1,000k IDR for a ~10-hour duration).
• Speedboat operators at Padang Bai harbor (Bali) and Lombok routinely inflate ticket prices for walk-ins. Always verify pricing on official operator websites or 12go.asia beforehand; presenting these online rates to ticket agents instantly lowers the price (e.g., from 1,000,000 IDR to 600,000 IDR for two people). Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab do not operate on Nusa Penida. Local port drivers charge high flat rates (minimum 100,000 IDR for short trips), making pre-arranged scooter rentals delivered to the harbor the most cost-effective option.
• Renters of scooters in Bali must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a Class A (motorcycle) endorsement. Almost all rental scooters on the island (like Vario 125cc or NMax 155cc) exceed the engine capacity limits of Class M (moped) or Class B (car) licenses, making them legally invalid.
• As of June 10, 2026, fuel prices in Indonesia have been adjusted. Pertamax price increased by approximately 30% to 16,250 IDR per liter. Subsidized Pertalite fuel remains stable at 10,000 IDR per liter. Local authorities describe this as a regular cost adjustment.
• Immigration authorities in Indonesia may conduct 'administrative checks' at the airport during departure. Even with valid visas (e.g., 33g), previous visa history or sponsor company issues can trigger entry/exit restrictions. It is advised to verify visa status with professional agents before travel and ensure all past visa closures were handled correctly.
• NMAX scooter for rent, model year 2025, with 4 months of usage. Available for long-term rental at 1.6 million per month. Contact via private message.
• During the peak dry season in August and September, Bali experiences cooler temperatures and cold evening winds driven by winter air masses moving from Australia. Ocean water temperatures also decrease by a few degrees. Travelers planning night-time scooter rides or staying near coastal areas should bring light jackets or hoodies.
• To find affordable bike rentals in Bali, search 'bike rent' on Google Maps. Many listings include WhatsApp numbers or websites, allowing you to find options like new Yamaha bikes for approximately 3 million IDR per month without requiring a deposit.
• New traffic management scheme for Uluwatu (Ungasan/Pecatu) starts June 1, 2026, to address congestion near Nirmala intersection. Expect changes in traffic routing at major junctions.
• When traveling to Nusa Penida from Padangbai, taking a rented scooter on the ferry requires the original vehicle registration document (STNK) and a valid license, despite rental agencies claiming copies are sufficient. Ferries frequently suffer delays of 3 hours or more. The recommended alternative is to take a speedboat as a passenger and rent a scooter on Nusa Penida for approximately 100k - 200k IDR per day.
• Travelers visiting Gili or Nusa Penida are advised to store large luggage at their Bali hotel or at dedicated 'Self Storage' facilities (e.g., in Padang Bai). Carrying large suitcases onto boats or islands is difficult due to logistics and terrain. Storage facilities in Padang Bai are typically located within 500-700 meters of the ferry/boat departure points.
• Speed boat services from Bali (Serangan) to Java (Banyuwangi) are operated by Express Bahari, with four departures per week. However, online schedules and booking options may not be available directly on their website. It is recommended to check for available routes and ticketing information.
• Standard taxi prices from Bali airport are significantly inflated; utilizing ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek is highly recommended to avoid overcharging (typical fair price is around 100k-160k IDR). Official airport taxi counters are another safer alternative to avoid extortion.
• Driving a scooter in Bali without previous experience is highly dangerous due to traffic conditions. Essential requirements: valid motorcycle driving license (Category A) and international driving permit. Without a license, travel insurance policies typically do not cover accident-related medical expenses, which can be extremely high. It is highly recommended to take professional driving lessons before attempting to ride in traffic.
• Travelers report frequent scams involving fraudulent third-party ticket agents for Bali-to-Island transfers. Verify ticketing agencies through official sources or purchase directly at port ticket counters to avoid 'no-show' scams where bookings are invalid or non-existent.
• Driving in Bali presents challenges due to narrow streets, traffic congestion, numerous scooters, left-hand traffic, and right-hand side steering wheels. While scooters are common, cars can offer a more relaxed driving experience.
• For ferry travel from Padang Bai to the Gili Islands, choose large and stable ferries like Eka Jaya, avoiding wooden boats. Ferries departing from Sanur or Serangan might be a longer but cheaper and more convenient option if arriving by taxi.
• Road reconstruction of the key 8km section Sampalan-Toyapakeh on Nusa Penida started in mid-2026 and is scheduled to last for 240 days. Expect heavy traffic delays and poor road conditions on the western side of the island.
• Yes, you can buy boat tickets for the Bali-Gili route at the port. However, tickets can sometimes sell out, so it's recommended to purchase them in advance.
• Driving a scooter without a valid license (International Driving Permit with Category A) in Indonesia can result in fines up to 1,000,000 IDR and vehicle impoundment. Crucially, most travel insurance policies will deny medical claims for accidents occurring without a valid license.
• To legally drive a motorbike in Bali, you need a valid driver's license. While rentals may not always check for a license, you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a local Balinese license. Russian domestic licenses are generally not sufficient for driving legally or for insurance purposes in case of an accident.
• Riding a motorbike without a helmet is highly dangerous and common in Bali. Local law enforcement and residents strictly enforce helmet rules on toll roads. Wearing a personal, well-fitting helmet is strongly advised.
• A method for dealing with motorbike stops when riding without a license: hide keys, license, and passport in the hotel. Threaten with towing to negotiate a lower fine.
• To obtain an Indonesian driving license (SIM) independently, foreigners must visit Polresta Denpasar with a valid KITAS, medical certificates, and pass theoretical and practical driving tests. The actual cost of self-registration runs close to 1.5 million IDR. Because of this, many choose to use local expediting helpers at the station who charge approximately 1.6 million IDR to bypass the testing process entirely.
• Bike rentals are available at Nusa Penida ports for approximately 150,000 IDR per day. Due to poor road conditions (potholes, loose gravel), renting lighter bikes is recommended over heavy models like NMAX or XMAX for better maneuverability.
• Officially obtaining a motorcycle license in Indonesia requires a KITAS. 'Buyable' licenses often lack true legal standing in the government database, which can lead to insurance companies denying medical claims after an accident.
• Renting a scooter without an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Indonesia is common but dangerous. Without a valid license, insurance claims are invalid, and the rider is typically held liable in any accident. Police checks may result in fines or demands for informal payments, though official traffic operations make bribes impossible.
• To hire a driver for a day in Bali, look for services labeled 'driver for the day'. These can often be found on platforms like Trip.com. The driver will be able to take you to desired locations.
• Travelers transiting through Singapore on their way to Indonesia generally do not require a separate Singaporean visa if they meet the transit requirements (typically 96-hour transit visa exemption). It is advised to have a printed onward ticket to the final destination and to verify visa requirements with the airline during check-in at the departure airport.
• Food availability: convenience stores (like Circle K) sell basic snacks and ready-to-eat items; for fruit or groceries, look for larger supermarkets like Pepito or Grand Lucky. Transport: ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek) is the standard for avoiding traffic issues. For visa extensions, the fee is 1,000,000 IDR (official). Always check official government sources for immigration updates.
• For motorbike riding in Bali, hiring an instructor is highly recommended to avoid injuries. Essential safety gear includes a helmet, valid license, and insurance. The clutch is on the left, and the brake on the right. Standard intersection rules apply.
• Bali experiences a cooler 'dry season' (winter) during June-August, where nighttime and early morning temperatures can feel chilly, especially when riding a scooter. Water temperatures also drop by a few degrees compared to the December rainy season peak.
• Renting and riding a motorbike on Bali without a license: Renting a motorbike without valid international driving permits is risky. While local rental services might offer to overlook this, in case of an accident, insurance will not cover damages. It is highly recommended to obtain the appropriate license before riding.
• When flying to Bali with a connection in Jakarta (CGK) Terminal 3, a layover of 1 hour 35 minutes is highly risky. Even with through-checked baggage, passengers must go through Indonesian immigration and customs at the first point of entry (Jakarta) before transferring to the domestic terminal. A minimum connection time of 2.5 to 3 hours is recommended.
• The average daily cost of renting a car with a private driver in Bali ranges between 700,000 and 800,000 IDR. This rate typically covers fuel and driver services for standard routes across the island.
• Registering for Gojek/Grab with foreign SIM cards can be problematic. A workaround is using virtual Indonesian phone numbers via services like 5sim. After registration, do not change the phone number to your primary one, as this often disables card payment features within the apps.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for driving vehicles in Bali. If renting a motorbike, ensure the permit includes the motorcycle category. For cars, the IDP should cover car rentals. Local police may still question drivers even with a valid IDP.
• For storing luggage and parking a motorbike safely on Nusa Penida, consider leaving your suitcase at your hotel or using luggage storage facilities. For motorbike parking, options may be available near Sanur port if traveling from there.
• When using taxi services like Gojek in Bali to reach the airport, the entrance fee (parking/gate fee) is typically not included in the ride price shown in the app. Drivers may request the passenger to pay this additional amount (approx. 15,000 IDR) upon entering the airport area.
• Importing new electronics in original retail packaging into Indonesia may trigger customs duties of up to 40%. Devices containing batteries must be carried in hand luggage to comply with airline safety regulations and avoid extra scrutiny during baggage scans.
• You can get local Balinese driving licenses for cars or motorbikes, valid for 5 years, and ready the next day. This allows you to drive safely and avoid fines. Contact +62 817 9677-771 for assistance.
• Transport on Bali is expensive for tourists using standard taxis or ride-hailing apps for long distances. Renting a car with a driver for a full day (8-10 hours) costs between 700,000 and 950,000 IDR. Motorbike rental is significantly cheaper but requires an international driving permit (IDP) and a category A license.
• For a 14-day stay in Bali, budget accommodation can be found in guesthouses. Estimated food costs for two adults for 14 days can range from 2.8 million IDR (approximately 100,000 IDR per person per day) if eating local food, or higher if opting for European cuisine. Transportation costs vary, but scooter rental is generally affordable.
• Public transport in Bali is non-existent. Visitors rely on ride-hailing apps (Gojek, Grab) or private car hire for point-to-point travel. Car with a driver for a full day typically costs around 700,000 IDR.
• Bali car rental promotion by BaliMotion: Free child car seat or booster with car rental until June 25th. Use promo code SAFETY. Rental starts from 350,000 IDR per day. Offers include: cars in excellent condition, delivery, 24/7 Russian support, damage and theft insurance.
• Riding a scooter without a valid license in Bali carries an official fine of IDR 1,000,000. Frequent police checks occur, especially during raids. Local driving licenses valid for 5 years can be obtained through authorized agents, providing legal coverage across ASEAN nations and avoiding frequent bribery attempts.
• Official taxi counters are available at Bali airport exit. Apps like Grab and Gojek can be used for transport. A local SIM card (approx. 10 USD) simplifies app usage, though registration via email is possible. Avoid hotel transfer premium prices if possible.
• Queue times at Bali airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport) are unpredictable, ranging from 40 minutes to 2 hours. Allocate ample time for departures.
• Waterboom Bali is a water park located in the heart of Kuta, Bali. It features slides for all levels, including the 'Climax' capsule slide. Online ticket purchase is recommended for avoiding queues and arranging transfers.
• Using fake flight bookings for immigration purposes in Bali is risky and can lead to serious consequences, including fines or deportation, if checked and found to be fraudulent. Immigration officials or airline staff at check-in may verify bookings. It is safer to purchase a legitimate, inexpensive outbound ticket to a nearby country (e.g., Medan or Penang) to meet immigration requirements.
• Honda Brio is a recommended car rental option for traveling in Bali. It is suitable for small groups of up to 4 people or families with two children. The car is economical and capable of handling hilly terrain. Daily rental cost is 350,000 IDR, including insurance, delivery to most areas, and 24/7 Russian-speaking support.
• While motorbike rentals in Bali may not always check for a license upon rental, you need a valid license to drive legally. International Driving Permits (IDP) or local Balinese licenses are recommended. Domestic Russian licenses are not sufficient. Rentals are typically by the day or longer terms.
• At Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali, travelers without internet access can easily order Grab or Gojek at their physical airport booking counters located near the exit. Staff will book the ride at official app rates, provide Wi-Fi to coordinate, and guide the passenger to the pickup zone. Cash payment is fully accepted.
• Comparing costs between Southeast Asian destinations requires a holistic approach, including airfare and visa expenses, not just local item prices. Medicine and specific services can vary significantly; sometimes medical tourism between neighboring countries is cheaper than local retail purchase.
• To travel from Bali to Lombok by water, the primary option is the public ferry from Padang Bai. Additionally, various fast boat services also operate between Bali and Lombok, offering quicker but generally more expensive transfers.
• Bali travel expenses vary significantly by lifestyle. Basic local meals (warungs) cost ~30k-50k IDR. Mid-range aesthetic restaurant dining costs ~200k-500k IDR per person. Massages range from 100k IDR to 2m+ IDR in luxury spas. Budgeting should account for taxes (usually 15-21% in restaurants) and transport time, as traffic congestion can significantly impact travel costs between districts like Uluwatu and Ubud.
• Key attractions in Ubud include the Monkey Forest, the Artists' Trail, the Reptile/Bird Park, souvenir markets, and nearby waterfalls and rice terraces like Tegalalang. While some attractions like temples are within the center, most others require transportation (taxi or motorbike). Walking is not practical for most sights outside the immediate center.
• Traffic fines in Indonesia are regulated by Law No. 22 of 2009. Common local traffic fines: Driving without a license: 1,000,000 IDR. Driving without a helmet: 250,000 IDR per person. Driving against traffic/on sidewalks: 500,000 IDR. While 'on-the-spot' payments are common, they are technically informal/corrupt practices. Lack of a proper driver's license (Category A for motorbikes) invalidates most travel insurance policies in the event of an accident.
• Bali offers numerous shops with affordable and good-quality linen and cotton clothing for both men and women. While carrying some essentials is recommended, you can find suitable items on the island, potentially saving on luggage weight. Prices for a long-sleeved linen shirt for men can vary, but expect them to be reasonable.
• The monthly rental price for an NMAX scooter is between 1.8 to 2.2 million (currency unspecified, likely IDR). The price depends on the condition of the scooter.
• When visiting Bali, consider exploring different areas. For beautiful beaches, start or end on the Bukit Peninsula (Nusa Dua). Allocate most of your time to Ubud for its nature and atmosphere. Canggu is recommended for a lively scene, while the northern parts of the island offer tranquility and fewer tourists. Assistance with accommodation and itineraries is available.
• Travelers in Indonesia should verify ferry prices on official company websites or aggregators like 12go Asia before purchasing tickets at ports. Port vendors often inflate prices significantly, but are willing to negotiate down to official rates when presented with evidence.
• Traveling to Sumbawa by land and sea (ferry/boat) is generally not feasible within a 24-hour period. It's a time-consuming journey. For ferry and boat schedules, check relevant travel websites or inquire in local transport chat groups.
• When traveling from mainland Bali to Nusa Penida, departing from Kusamba Port in East Bali is a highly recommended alternative to Sanur Port. It shortens the open water speedboat crossing to just 20 minutes (as opposed to 40-50 minutes from Sanur), minimizing motion sickness from rough sea waves. Rental motorbikes are widely available for hire directly at the Kusamba pier upon arrival.
• There is no online ride-hailing coverage (Grab/Gojek) near Mount Batur (Kintamani). Tourists taking one-way taxis to the volcano get stranded. Advise booking a round-trip driver for the day (costing around 40-50 USD/600,000-800,000 IDR) or traveling by rented scooter.
• Road traffic operation 'Patuh Agung 2026' takes place on Bali from June 8 to June 21, 2026. Authorities will enforce strict traffic compliance, including seat belt usage, helmet compliance, lane discipline, and valid driver's licenses, utilizing both mobile patrols and automated traffic cameras.
• Job offer: Assistant needed for one day for private property tasks including garage cleaning and pushing a car into the garage. Payment is 6000 rubles plus a bonus of up to 1200 rubles for lunch.
• A fire dance performance, known as Kecak dance, is held at Uluwatu temple in Bali. It is a traditional Balinese ritual performed at sunset. It is advisable to check for specific timings and ticketing information.
• Ubud is located in the center of Bali and lacks immediate beach access. Travel time to major beaches (Sanur, Nusa Dua, Virgin Beach) typically takes 60-90 minutes by car, significantly impacted by heavy island traffic.
• When choosing accommodation on Nusa Penida, it's recommended to stay in an area with at least a couple of restaurants or cafes within walking distance. Since Nusa Penida is relatively small, from any location, it's possible to arrange transportation with a driver to visit the main attractions. Consider your budget and preferred hotel type.
• Never rent a car in Bali without insurance. Rental agencies operating without insurance coverage pose a high financial risk to the traveler in the event of an accident, theft, or damage, regardless of who is at fault.
• Driving a scooter in Bali legally requires an international driving permit with category A (motorcycle) endorsement. 'Tourist licenses' or fake documents are not legal. Lack of valid documents invalidates medical insurance and increases risk in case of accidents. Local police frequently stop tourists; wearing a helmet and proper clothing significantly reduces the chance of being stopped.
• Speed boats to the Gili Islands operate from Padang Bai harbor in Bali. While Sanur is also a departure point, Padang Bai is often considered a convenient and cost-effective option. Travel time and cost can vary depending on the chosen operator and sea conditions.
• Indonesian immigration actively monitors local Telegram channels and social media. Posting public ads to sublet rooms, find roommates to split rent, or rent out personal bikes without a proper work visa (KITAS) is considered illegal commercial activity. This can lead to heavy fines, detention, and deportation. Use private channels for such arrangements or have the official property owner handle the listing.
• Registering for Gojek with a foreign phone number (e.g., Russian) can be difficult or impossible. Grab is generally more accommodating for foreign numbers. Other local ride-hailing apps like Maxim and MyBluebird might also allow registration with non-Indonesian phone numbers. For reliable access to ride-hailing services in Bali, using a local SIM card is recommended.
• For travel to Bali, T-Bank (formerly Tinkoff) Premium subscription offers insurance coverage. Key points: it is valid for up to 90 days of stay, but users must leave the country and return (or visit another country) to reset the period. Coverage amount is typically up to 100,000 USD (verify with bank support). The subscription also provides lounge access.
• User received a bike fine and is seeking information on how and where to pay it, and how much it costs. They are also questioning the legitimacy of the fine as their bike number is not listed.
• For a scenic motorbike route from Amed to Tulamben in Bali, consider taking the main coastal road (marked in blue on maps). This route generally offers comfortable riding conditions and beautiful coastal views. While there might be occasional traffic, it's considered the most suitable option for motorbikes.
• Fuel situation in Bali: Gasoline is fine. Diesel prices have increased slightly, but it's not critical. Subsidized fuel, often used by taxi drivers, has also seen a small price increase. However, one source claims diesel prices have doubled.
• Airlines departing for Indonesia often strictly enforce the return or onward ticket requirement for foreign travelers. If a passenger lacks proof of exit from Indonesia, the airline is liable for deportation costs, which results in boarding being denied until a valid onward ticket is purchased.
• In ports like Padang Bai, local taxi cartels restrict app-based ride-sharing services (Grab/Gojek). Travelers are often forced to negotiate high prices with local drivers. To avoid confrontation and potentially use ride-hailing apps, moving several hundred meters away from the main port arrival area to a quieter street or nearby café area is recommended.
• For mobile connectivity in Indonesia: 1. Local SIM cards (Telkomsel) are generally cheaper and required for registering local taxi/ride-sharing apps. 2. eSIMs (via Trip.com) are convenient for instant activation upon arrival. 3. 5-10 GB of data is sufficient for a 2-week trip if excluding video streaming.
• Indonesian low-cost airlines (e.g., Batik, Lion Group) are prone to delays and cancellations, sometimes without prior notification. For self-transfer flights, a minimum layover of 10 hours is recommended to mitigate risks. Consider arriving a day earlier for critical connections. Unplanned delays can lead to financial losses, missed flights, and visa expiration issues.

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