Balinese road is often used as parade grounds
for festival processions. They are becoming increasingly crowded,
and traffic jams are frequent. Driving in Bali is dangerous, the
roads are narrow, dogs and chickens frequently stray onto them.
Self-drive car hire is available on producing
a valid Indonesian or international driving license, or tourist
driving permit from the police station in Renon. Bookings can
be made at your hotel or at car rental companies.
There are some alternatives of transport if tourists
like to get around.
Public Transport
Bemo may be hot, dusty mini-vans spouting exhaust, but they are
a great way to meet the locals. Colt (mini-buses) goes all over
the island. Simply flag one down and yell 'stop' when you want
to get off.
Taxis
Taxis are available for day trips. Taxis are chartered, generally
on the basis of a half-day or a full day. Metered ones are reliable.
Motorcycles
If tourists decide to rent a bike, please ride slowly and practice
defensive riding. Helmets are required and the ones provided by
the agency are often flimsy. Should a tourist expect to ride a
motorbike in Bali, please make sure that helmet is still in a
good condition.
There are no fixed rates for motorbike hire,
which vary according to factors such as the condition of the bike,
period of rental and whether it is peak season.
An international motorbike license is required.
Alternatively, obtain a temporary permit from the police station
in Renon, valid for three months on Bali only. Tourists should
take along your passport, visa, three passport-sized photos, a
valid driving license from the country of the tourists.
Bicycles
Mountain bikes can be rented from anywhere. Please make sure the
wheels align properly, the brakes work well and it has a lamp.
