Car Rental In Bali

If you’ve ever wondered how long it takes to drive around Bali, buckle up (pun intended). This isn’t as straightforward as whipping out Google Maps and saying, “Oh, it’s 145 kilometers around the island, so that’s like… three hours max, right?” Nope. Driving in Bali is its own special kind of adventure—beautiful, yes, but also filled with twists, turns, and a few surprises that’ll definitely stretch out your timeline.

The Quick Answer (Spoiler: It’s Not That Quick)

To physically drive around Bali’s coastal roads, you’re looking at roughly 12 to 15 hours if you’re doing it non-stop. That’s assuming light traffic (rare), decent weather (fingers crossed), and no stops (what even is the point of that?). But let me tell you, nobody does it all in one go unless they’re on a dare or some kind of crazy time trial. Bali’s not just about the destination—it’s about the journey. And on this island, the journey involves taking it slow and soaking up the vibes.

Traffic: The Unofficial Timekeeper of Bali

Here’s the thing: Bali’s roads aren’t your typical highways. They’re narrow, winding, and often packed with everything from scooters carrying whole families to trucks piled high with supplies for the nearest warung. In tourist-heavy areas like Kuta, Ubud, and Canggu, traffic can slow to a crawl during peak hours. I once spent nearly an hour covering just 5 kilometers near Seminyak because, well, everyone else had the same brilliant idea to head to the beach at sunset.

If you’re venturing out into rural areas—say, the northern coast near Lovina or the eastern stretches by Amed—you’ll breathe a little easier. The roads are quieter, but they’re also more unpredictable. Watch out for potholes, chickens, and the occasional temple ceremony that’ll stop traffic entirely (yes, this happens, and it’s kind of magical when it does).

Driving Tips From a Guy Who Learned the Hard Way

Driving around Bali is as much about strategy as it is about endurance. Here’s what I’ve figured out after a few misadventures:

1. Start Early: Like, before sunrise early. The roads are calmer, and the morning air just hits different. Plus, you’ll avoid the mid-morning rush when scooters take over the streets like ants at a picnic.
2. Plan Your Pit Stops: You can’t just power through Bali like it’s a highway road trip. You’ll want to pause—trust me, you’ll need the breaks. Popular spots like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces or the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple aren’t just great for sightseeing; they’re perfect excuses to stretch your legs.
3. Factor in Rain: If you’re traveling during the rainy season (November to March), add an extra hour or two to your plans. Roads can get slick, and visibility drops faster than you’d think.
4. Skip the Google Maps Shortcuts: Oh, this one. Google Maps loves to send you down “shortcuts” that are basically goat paths disguised as roads. Stick to main routes unless you’re ready for a mini heart attack.

Breaking Down the Drive by Regions

Let’s say you really want to tackle the full loop. Here’s what you’re in for:

• South Bali (Denpasar, Kuta, Nusa Dua): Traffic central. This stretch can take 2-3 hours just to get out of, depending on where you start.
• East Bali (Sanur to Amed): A stunning drive with views of Mount Agung, but the roads are narrow. Give yourself at least 4 hours, especially if you stop at Tirta Gangga or Lempuyang Temple.
• North Bali (Amed to Lovina): My favorite stretch. It’s peaceful, and the coastal views are unreal. Budget 3-4 hours with stops.
• West Bali (Lovina to Tabanan): This area is wild and lush, but there’s not much infrastructure. The West Bali National Park is worth a visit, though. 4-5 hours easy.

Is It Worth Doing the Full Loop?

Honestly? It depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you’re all about ticking off boxes, sure, you can say you “drove around Bali.” But most people—myself included—find it way more enjoyable to break the trip into chunks. Spend a day exploring one region deeply instead of rushing through everything. For example, base yourself in Ubud for a few days to hit up central Bali’s highlights, then move north or east.

So, how long does it really take? If you’re driving non-stop, 12-15 hours will do it. But if you’re driving like someone who actually enjoys life, I’d say split it up over 3-5 days. That way, you can actually experience Bali instead of just zipping past it.

And hey, if you don’t feel like driving yourself, hire a driver (hint: like me!). That way, you can kick back, take all the photos, and let someone else deal with the chaos. Win-win.

Why Driving in Bali Feels Like Its Own Adventure

Driving around Bali isn’t like cruising through other tropical islands where you just set cruise control and vibe. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible—until it’s not, because sometimes it’s also chaotic. One moment you’re rolling through serene rice paddies, wind in your hair, thinking, This is paradise. The next, you’re trying to figure out how to squeeze your car through a tiny alley flanked by parked motorbikes and a random cow (yes, that happened to me once).

It’s not just about the scenery, either. Driving in Bali is a crash course in adaptability. For instance, traffic rules? They’re more like suggestions here. Everyone just kind of… flows. Scooters will zip past on both sides, pedestrians might cross out of nowhere, and occasionally you’ll hit a jam because there’s a ceremonial procession blocking the road. Pro tip (oops, I said it): Just smile and embrace the madness. If you fight it, you’ll stress yourself out.

Renting a Car vs. Hiring a Driver

Okay, let’s talk about the two big options you’ve got when it comes to tackling Bali’s roads:

1. Renting a Car and Going Solo
   Renting a car sounds tempting, especially if you like the freedom of going wherever, whenever. But here’s the tea: unless you’re super confident navigating narrow streets and unpredictable traffic, it’s not for the faint-hearted.
   o Pros: Total control over your itinerary, no need to wait on anyone, and it’s cheaper if you’re splitting costs with friends or family.
   o Cons: Parking is a nightmare in touristy areas, Google Maps doesn’t always get Bali roads, and there’s always that little worry about getting lost or stuck. (Once, I accidentally ended up on someone’s private farmland because Maps said it was a shortcut. Spoiler: it wasn’t.)
2. Hiring a Driver
   This is hands-down the best option if you want to actually relax and enjoy the ride. Balinese drivers know the roads, the shortcuts, and the best spots to stop for views, snacks, or a quick nap. Plus, they’re usually a goldmine of local knowledge. Want to find a quiet beach or the best babi guling (suckling pig)? They’ve got you covered.
   o Pros: No stress, no navigation worries, and you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. Also, it’s surprisingly affordable—around IDR 600k–800k (~$40–$55) for a full day.
   o Cons: Less spontaneous, and you’ll need to communicate your preferences clearly to get the most out of the day.

Timing Your Bali Road Trip: A Sample Itinerary

If I were planning the ultimate Bali driving loop, here’s how I’d do it:

Day 1: South Bali to East Bali

• Start early from Kuta or Seminyak.
• Drive along the coast, stopping at Goa Lawah Temple (the bat cave temple) and Tirta Gangga Water Palace.
• End your day in Amed, a laid-back beach town perfect for snorkeling and chilling out.

Driving time: 5-6 hours with stops.

Day 2: East Bali to North Bali

• Head toward Mount Agung for stunning views (but don’t try to climb it unless you’re prepped).
• Stop by Pura Besakih, Bali’s “Mother Temple,” and take your time exploring.
• Make your way to Lovina, known for its dolphin tours and relaxed vibes.

Driving time: 4-5 hours.

Day 3: North Bali to Central Bali

• Cruise through the green, hilly roads of Bedugul, stopping at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
• Don’t miss Gitgit Waterfall—it’s a short hike, and the reward is worth it.
• Spend the night in Ubud, where you can enjoy everything from monkey forests to cozy cafes.

Driving time: 5-6 hours.

Day 4: Central Bali to South Bali

• Wrap up your trip by exploring Ubud’s surroundings: Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Tirta Empul, and maybe even some cheeky shopping at Sukawati Market.
• Head back to the southern beaches to relax or catch a flight home.

Driving time: 3-4 hours.

The Unexpected Joys (and Challenges)

Let’s talk about the stuff you won’t find in guidebooks. Like, the absolute delight of stumbling across a tiny roadside warung that serves the best mie goreng you’ve ever had. Or that time you got stuck in a traffic jam behind a slow-moving truck, only to end up chatting with friendly locals on scooters while you waited.

And sure, there are challenges. Parking in Ubud feels like playing Tetris in real life, and navigating mountain roads in the rain can be nerve-wracking. But those moments of frustration? They’re part of the story. They make the quiet stretches—where it’s just you, the road, and the sound of waves—feel even more magical.

Is Driving Around Bali for You?

Honestly, it depends on your vibe. If you’re someone who loves a good adventure and doesn’t mind a bit of chaos, go for it. But if the thought of navigating unfamiliar roads stresses you out, don’t hesitate to let someone else take the wheel. Bali’s beauty isn’t just in the views—it’s in the experience, however you choose to have it.

Either way, take your time, be flexible, and don’t forget to actually enjoy the ride. After all, you’re not just driving around Bali. You’re living it.