How to Get Around Bali: Fast Guide to Bali Transport

Going to Bali and thinking of being a passenger or riding a scooter, moped or motorcycle or even driving a car in Bali and not sure what kind of license you need? Want to know the safety requirements for getting around the roads? Fast Cover have compiled a list of what you need to know!

Getting around in Bali, Indonesia 

Bali, Indonesia is called the Island of Gods because of its exotic scenery and beautiful people. There are a number of popular transport options for navigating and exploring Bali. Though many Aussies call Bali their second home, the transport and road rules in Bali are very different to Australia.

1. Riding a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter in Bali

Riding a motorcycle, moped or scooter in Bali is very common, and quite frankly one of the best ways to get around. If you hire a scooter or motorcycle in Bali the engine capacity will likely be around the 125cc mark. Regardless of how large or small the bike it is a good idea to check with your travel insurance company to see whether you need to obtain a specific type of policy to cover you for any medical injuries you may sustain while riding or being a passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter. 

Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack is an optional extra for travellers planning to ride or be a passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter. Cover is available for being the rider or passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter. You must be aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue to purchase the Motorcycle Pack. 

Keep in mind that eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

License Requirements for Riding a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter in Bali 

If you are covered by a travel insurance policy you will likely need an international driver’s license, which you should apply for before you leave for your trip.  

Below are the license requirements under Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack if you are the rider in control of a motorcycle, moped or scooter with the following engine capacity: 

If you are the passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter, the person in control must hold a current licence (Provisional or higher) valid for the same class of motorcycle, moped or scooter that is valid for the country that you are in.  

While many Balinese vehicle vendors may not care if you have a license or if you know how to ride. Keep in mind that this may not be legally allowed. You must comply with the restrictions of Your Australian license, as well as the local laws, otherwise you may not have cover under your policy. 

Even if you have purchased the Motorcycle Pack, below are some of the circumstances that are excluded under our policies, not all, so it is important to read the relevant PDS prior to deciding which policy is right for you. 

There is no cover available: 

• For riding off road 

• For motocross, jumping, racing or competition of any sort 

• If you or the person in control of does not hold the relevant licenses 

• If You were under the influence of drugs or alcohol 

• If You were not wearing a crash helmet 

• If You were acting in an unlawful manner 

• If You are riding or are the passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter being ridden off road or on a closed road 

• For any medical or ancillary expenses incurred in Australia 

• If the claim or loss is for Permanent disability under Benefit 10, personal liability under Benefit 18, or Rental vehicle excess under Benefit 19 

Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riding in Bali

The most important thing to remember is that riding a motorcycle anywhere in the world should be treated with care, whether you are a novice or rider extraordinaire. Follow these general safety tips when riding a motorcycle or scooter in Bali: 

• Consider taking out travel insurance which may help provide some cover for unexpected medical injuries while riding or being a passenger overseas. Ensure you review the policy terms, conditions and exclusions before purchasing your policy 

• Have a basic understanding of the roads – where your hotel is or landmarks near it if you get lost riding on your own 

• It’s a good idea to ride with someone if you can - there is strength in numbers 

• Make sure to wear a protective helmet and check that your helmet has not yet expired 

• Invest time to find a motorcycle that suits you and is comfortable to ride 

• Wear enclosed shoes and protective clothing 

• If you can, wear eye protection as it can be a bit dusty when travelling on their roads 

• Follow all the laws, such as local road rules, speeding limits and license requirements 

• Riding a scooter or moped in Bali can be considered similar to catching a bus; used frequently and without much discrimination, so the roads will be dense with traffic, keep alert! 

Ready to Embark on your Balinese Adventure?

Explore the benefits and cover options available with Fast Cover's travel insurance for your trip to Bali.

2. Driving a Rental Car 

Renting a car is a great option for travellers with an international driving license and is a convenient way for a group to get around together – ideal for group holidays. It allows you to explore Bali at your own pace and gives you the freedom to stop when and where you want.  Keep in mind that it may be difficult to navigate the narrow roads and traffic conditions. 

If you do choose to rent a car in Bali, consider taking out optional Rental Vehicle Excess insurance with Fast Cover. This benefit covers the rental vehicle excess component of the rental vehicle insurance that you have with your car hire company.  You can purchase the Rental Vehicle Excess cover for either up to $5,000 or $8,000 with the Standard Saver, Comprehensive, Snow Sports Plus or Frequent Traveller Saver Policies by paying an additional premium.  

Keep in mind that eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs. 

License Requirements for Driving a Car in Bali 

Make no mistake, you can’t drive in Bali with only an Australian license or any other foreign license. 

The good news is you can still obtain a temporary local driver license in Bali that can be purchased from the police station at a cost of around $30USD. This is available for anybody between 18 and 70 years old. Keep in mind that you may be stopped by the police without a license or a helmet. 

Ensure that you check the up-to-date requirements for Bali prior to your trip, as their regulations may change from time to time. 

Safety Tips for Driving and Renting Car in Bali 

• Road conditions can be poor so always watch the road for potholes, stones or anything that can cause harm 

• Keep an eye out for animals as you will likely be sharing the roads with animals such as dogs, chicken and cows 

• Plan your car trip in advance via apps and share your location with someone if possible 

• Always signal with your horn when overtaking 

• Don’t speed under any circumstances 

• No drugs or alcohol – ever!

• The traffic rarely goes faster than 40km/h and on main roads 70hk/h max 

• Ask the rental car company about taking out insurance and make sure you keep their number in case something happens 

3. Riding Quad Bikes and Recreational All-Terrain Vehicles in Bali 

Riding a quad bike or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) can be an exciting way to explore Bali’s diverse landscapes off the beaten path that are usually inaccessible by other vehicles. Quad bike tours allow travellers to experience Bali’s unique nature and culture, driving through scenic routes from rice paddies and traditional villages, to jungles, waterfalls and even some beaches. 

A recreational all-terrain vehicle is a small, open motor vehicle having three or more wheels fitted with large tyres designed chiefly for recreational use over roadless terrain. They are sometimes referred to as quad-bikes, trikes or buggies. 

If you decide to ride a quad bike or ATV in Bali, you should know that your travel insurance policy does not automatically cover you for quad bike riding. Cover is available for quad biking and recreational all-terrain vehicles (ATV) with Fast Cover, if you: 

• Take out the Adventure Pack and pay the additional premium, 

•  Ride the quad bike or ATV under the direct supervision of a properly licensed recreational organisation, 

• Obey all relevant safety codes, 

• Wear protective gloves and a crash helmet suitable for the activity, 

• Are a single rider with maximum one passenger, and 

• Do not engage in jumping, racing or competition while riding the quad bike or ATV. 

It is important to note that the Adventure Pack is not available with the Basics policy. 

Keep in mind that eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs. 

Safety Tips for Riding a Quad Bike or ATV in Bali 

Remember that failing to meet the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy, including following safety requirements, will mean that may not have cover if you need to make a claim relating to riding a quad bike or ATV. Below are some helpful tips to help keep you safe when riding a quad bike or ATV in Bali.  

• Some tour operators may not require you to wear safety gear or follow strict safety or road rules. Make sure you find a reputable and properly licensed recreational organisation for your quad bike or ATV tour. 

• Pay close attention to safety briefings and follow all the safety and road rules, regardless of your tour guide’s leniency. 

• Wear appropriate safety gear including protective gloves and a crash helmet suitable for the activity. 

• Wear close-toed shoes or boots to protect your feet and provide better grip as you navigate around different terrains. 

• Consider wearing goggles or sunglasses to shield your eyes from debris, particularly if you are riding through dirt or mud. 

• Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing that allows you to move freely and is suitable for the type of terrain you will be riding on. For example, consider waterproof clothing if your tour involves riding through wet and muddy conditions. 

4. Booking a Rideshare Service 

Another popular way to get around Bali is booking a car or scooter ride using Bali’s local rideshare services such as Grab or Gojek. These services work similarly to Uber (which is currently unavailable in Bali), allowing users to book a ride through their official apps, making it a convenient and affordable way to navigate around Bali. 

5. Taking the Bus 

Public buses are one of the most common forms of transport in Bali for islanders without their own car or scooter as they provide affordable connections to Balinese towns. However, keep in mind that you will likely need to make multiple bus changes if you are making a long-distance journey across the island. 

6. Exploring on Foot 

Exploring popular tourist destinations such as Ubud and Seminyak by foot is practical and allows you to take in all the sights and stop by all the local shops and pedestrian areas. Be sure to research the areas you will be visiting in Bali as more rural areas like Uluwatu may be harder for walking where the roads are narrower and the terrain is steep. Use maps or a trip planning app to help you plan your trip and set pitstops along the way. 

Discover Fast Cover’s Travel Guide to Bali 

Before you plan your trip, explore our Bali travel guide to learn more about travel advice and safety tips for Bali.