Car Hire in Bali
This information is correct as of April 2015
Hire a car in Bali and discover the Island of the Gods at your own pace and on your preferred schedule. Visit beautiful secluded beaches, explore the lush hills and mountains of the interior, and drop into peaceful fishing villages for lunch by the sea. With Skyscanner you can compare prices on car rental in Bali to find the best deal for you and your trip.
Where to hire a car in Bali
Most of the car rental locations are concentrated around the south tip of the island, near the airport and in Denpasar City. Most of the car hire firms are local brands. There’s a Toyota Car Hire inside the airport, with a few companies nearby including Jepun Bali Car Rental, Bali Island Rent Car, and Ari Mas Rent Car. There are lots of car rental companies in the streets backing onto the beach, so you can easily pick up your hire car after booking into your hotel.
Driving in Bali
Traffic in Bali drives on the left side of the road, just like in Britain, so no culture shock there. Aside from that, drivers in Bali definitely have plenty of their own customs you will need to get used to. The traffic sometimes comes to a standstill due to religious parades and celebrations. Don’t get stressed out by this, just relax and appreciate that it’s a different culture. Always drive defensively and pay close attention to what’s going on around you. The locals have a reputation for ignoring the rules of the road: people don’t often give way, pedestrians will walk out in front of traffic, and you may find yourself having to slam on the brakes. Roads in Bali aren’t always signposted, so bring a map: or better yet, an up to date sat-nav that can read you directions.
Parking in Bali
Most hotels and restaurants in Bali have free car parks for their guests. If you’re parking on the street you will usually have to pay a parking warden 2000 IDR (about 10p)*: this charge also applies at shopping malls, supermarkets, and department stores. In more popular tourist areas like Dreamland Beach the price rises: usually between 3000 and 5000 IDR (about 15-25p) although this fee is sometimes included in the attraction’s entry fee.
Great day trips in Bali
West Bali National Park
The island’s only national park sits at Bali’s most north-westerly point, and covers around 10% of the island. The scenery is extremely diverse, with rainforest and savannah, lowland forest and acacia scrub. You need to buy a permit to visit the park (350 thousand IDR, about £17.80*) and if you want to hike the trails you will need to go with a tour guide.
Sanur Beach
Bali is known for its beaches, and Sanur Beach is definitely one of the best. The waters here are crystal clear and calm enough for swimming, while the golden sand is perfect for a day of lounging around. The beach is to the south east of Denpasar City.
Mount Agung
Bali’s highest peak is home to the island’s most important temple, the Mother Temple of Besakih. The peak is also an active volcano, with its last eruption recorded in 1963. The mountain is sacred, and is sometimes closed during religious holidays. If you’re planning on climbing it’s a good idea to hire a guide, as they will be able to sort out permissions and arrange your passage with the temple staff.
*Prices subject to change
