Hi! My name is Michael, a digital entrepreneur and recovering workaholic.
I leased a villa in Bali a few years ago after coming to a crossroads in my life, and like many people decided I wanted to spend more time living the life I wanted, and less time working insane hours for years on end without a break.
When my family and friends would come to visit (the attraction of a luxury 3 bedroom villa in Seminyak may have been a strong drawcard) they peppered me with questions. Was it safe to use ATMs in Bali? How do you exchange cash for Indonesian Rupiah at a money changer and what scams to watch for?
So I started by copying and pasting the emails to friends and family, then because I am lazy, I made a website and posted the content to make it easier to just send a link.
Then guests staying in my holiday villas asked even more detailed questions. Where are the best waterfalls in Bali, and what was the best way of getting there? Which Balinese temples are most worth visiting and what is the etiquette for visiting them?
Seasoned travellers started asking for tips about arriving at Bali Airport, how to get from Denpasar Airport to Seminyak and what scams to look for when hiring a taxi in Bali and tips for renting a scooter.
Read the reviews and remember… Bali is always a good idea.
Safe travels, Michael
I can’t recommend his services and his advice enough!
I randomly found Michael’s website a few months before our first trip to Bali and I am so thankful I did! We literally followed his tips exactly for getting through customs, buying a SIM card and getting out cash and it was so smooth. We booked an airport transfer and 4 full days with a private driver… which I was a little nervous about at first (just to be honest), but everything worked out perfectly. Having a private driver ensured we saw all we wanted without having to deal with the tricky local taxis and it gave us peace of mind knowing who we would be with every day. I can’t recommend his services and his advice enough!
Hi we are visiting in May and would be looking at two day trips one from Tanya Lot (so do not need to include the temples there) the second from Ubad (not including any sites there) can you suggest something please)
Best regards Brian
Hi Brian, perhaps you will like to choose any of these day tours.
Safe travels, Michael
We are travelling from Australia to Bali but are UK citizens, we have picked up mixed messages regarding visa requirements our question is do we still require a visa or has this requirement now been dropped.
Hi Brian, you can read my post on visa requirements for Bali which answers your question.
Safe travels, Michael
Is it worth hiring a driver to cafe hop in Kintamani area? Looking at a few cafes like Montana del cafe, Okuta , Paperhills etc
Any advice would be appreciated
Hi Hannah, you can book a private car and driver for the day. I guess it’s up to you as to if that is worth it or not.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello!!
I was just curious when your bookings for airport and private car transfers will be open for 2024. Planning a trip for 4 and already have plane tickets and villas, so just wanted to make sure we can get to where we are going to.
Your site is absolutely wonderful by the way. Thank you so much for the effort you have put into it.
Caresse
Hi Caresse, I only take bookings 10 months in advance, so put a reminder in your calendar. And thank you for the kind words, it really is very much appreciated.
Safe travels, Michael
hello hello i have a bar in legian bali can i advertise fi your website please call us 087864859151
Hi Aldi, I’ve sent you an email regarding advertising.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello,
Now that it is possible for Australians and other international travellers to purchase visas online prior to arrival, have the queues at immigration become shorter?
I also note that you say in your recent post re tips for getting through the airport quickly that fast track is only for people with business in Bali? I was told to get fast track services at Denpasar airport by a girlfriend and given a contact who provides these services and who she has previously used but is this no longer possible?
Thank you for your time – I am travelling from Sydney next weekend…
Jane
Hi Jane, because many people are applying online for the VOA the queues at the airport for applying for the VOA have by definition decreased significantly. But the same number of people must still be processed through immigration. It depends entirely on how many other aircraft arrive at the same time or just prior than yours.
I have no idea about the services your friend recommends, so I can’t possibly comment.
Safe travels, Michael
Good morning. Is it possible to book half day on first day, whole day on second day and half day on the third day. Thank you
Hi Melvin, yes of course. Book a half-day here and a full day here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello,
My husband and I and our 6 month old baby are visiting Bali next week, and would like to spend one day travelling to the sights outside of Ubud. We would need a baby car seat – is that something you can provide?
We would like to see the following; Tirta Gangga, Lempuyang Temple, Tukad Cepung and Tegallalang rice fields. I see you offer this as a sunrise tour but, as you can imagine, we’d rather leave a little later than 4am with a baby!
Many thanks, Abby
Hi Abby, not sure how you are going to get a baby down through the river bed to Tukad Cepung. My advice is to hire a private car and driver including a child seat selecting the East Bali option and advise your driver where you would like to go on the day. You can choose any pickup time you like. This doesn’t include tickets to Lempuyang Temple like the sunrise tour does, but you can buy them yourself at the temple.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
We may be trying to pack too much into one day, bur I was wondering if you think this is feasible. We wanted to do the Ubud day tour (Itinerary 1: Ubud + Temples + Rice Terraces). How long is this tour usually?
We are staying in Ubud and could do an early start (7am) but we wanted to finish at Alas Harum / Cretya and also trying to fit in a jewellery making class after Alas Harum that lasts 3h, the place closes at 9pm. Do you think this is feasible?
Hi Guillermo, you could fit this in if you start your jewellery class around 4-5 pm so your driver will pick you up to return home around 7-8 pm. For anything over 10 hrs you can pay the driver 100k per hour or part thereof directly on the day as explained in the booking details and confirmations.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
We are 4 people, and need to rent a car with driver
We were in Bali 5 time exploring the island by scooter. But this time want organize for a dive group our own trip.
begining the
22.8 2023 from Padang Bay – continue to Goa Raja, besakih and Amed (1 day)
23.8.2023 No transport because we will dive in Amed
24.8.2023 In the afternoon drive from Tulamben to Sekumpul
25.8.2023 No transport because trekking
26.8.2023 Drive from Sekumpul to Munduk stoping in Pura Dani temple
27.82023 In the afernoon Drive from Munduk to Pemuteran
28.8.2023 Drive from Pemuteran to Canggu
Hi Micaela, you will need to make separate bookings for a private car and driver, choose your closest location, and select North Bali Tour, except the last day when you need to select South Bali. Hope this helps.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael. On the day we leave Bali, we fly out at 10:50 PM. Have to check out of lodging by noon. Would it be reasonable to hire car & driver for the day & have them drop us at airport around 8 PM ?
Thank you.
Jim & Kathy
Hi James, that’s an excellent plan.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
My husband and I will arrive from Sydney late on 2 March. We’ll stay that night at an airport hotel and will need to transfer to our hotel in Ubud the next day. The check-in there is only at 2pm. So I was wondering whether it would be doable to add in some sightseeing beforehand, eg visiting Tanah Lot. Does this sound like a good idea or is it too ambitious? And would I then need to book the driver for a full day?
Not sure if I’m putting this question in the right forum. My apologies if I got this wrong.
Thank you so much.
Karin
Hi Karin, that’s a good plan. This Ubud Tour probably suits you, or this one if you want to make a long day of it, and yes you will need a driver for the day.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks a lot, Michael.
All the best,
Karin
Hey, great site you have here! I am a solo traveler looking to book a trip to Nusa Penida–are there public tours I can join? I don’t need to pay for a private tour–especially if it will save me some $$. Thanks!
Hi Aaron, there are public tours but none that I organise and I can’t think of any operators off the top of my head.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Aaron – that’s a really interesting question, and one I get asked a lot. I would love to provide tours for singles and couples who want to join in with others to make for a shared experience. My problem is that booking shared tours is incredibly difficult. How do I “allow” people to book a group tour when I would only do it when enough other people wanted to also join?
I’ve been giving this a lot of thought, and trying to solve the logistics around getting like-minded travellers together. If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them.
Safe travels, Michael
Hey mate. What’s the best location for whiskey and cigars near kuta?
Hello, I had a question about the “airport transfer plus day tour booking” option. We are a family of 5 (2 adults, 3 kids) and we will be staying near Ubud area arriving mid 230pm on Saturday. For the price quoted, it did not say how long we would have the driver for? Any suggestions on where to visit on the first day of arrival?
Hi Diana – you will have your driver for 10 hrs from booked arrival time.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Diana – follow-up to your questions, where to go on your first day? It all depends on your destination, but I would keep the itinerary light to make sure you are always headed towards your accommodation, and not go sightseeing in the opposite direction.
Never underestimate the power of Bali traffic to chew up time, so find ask your driver is my advice, take a relaxed pace and make sure you enjoy the rise as opposed to trying to “tick off” a bunch of attractions.
Reply with your destination and I may be able to narrow down a couple of great spots along the way.
Safe travels, Michael
You have a very useful website, Michael. Really helps a lot!! Can I ask the list of your DJ’s? I am planning to host my 30th birthday party in Ubud and I am looking for professional DJ. I’d appreciate if you can give me some contacts. I wish you more luck!!
Hi Danica – let me get back to you.
Safe travels, Michael
Good morning. We will be traveling to Bali from Sydney in April. This is our 3rd time so am wondering if it is possible to just do a half day tour to one of the waterfalls. And also a half day tour to Nusa Pineda. We will be staying in Seminyak. Also do you have any recommendations for a half day cooking class. My husband will also be hiring a scooter. Thanking you in advance.
Hi Helen, you cannot do a half-day tour to Nusa Penida. And it all depends on where your pick-up location is and how far away the waterfall is you want to visit. Half day private car and driver is usually for short shopping excursions and transfers, not sightseeing, as most everyone underestimates how long it takes to get from one place to another.
Safe travels, Michael
Michael,
I would like your advice and costs (not sure if you can do discount for multiple day trips, just asking) for organizing multiple day trips as per information below. My wife (who has never been to Bali as she is from Kazakhstan) and I will be in Bali on the following dates:
Arrive Feb 15th afternoon and will go to Padma resort Legian
15th to 20th at Padma Legian
21 – was thinking 20/21 2D1N – Nusa Penida
Transfer to Ubud
21 – 23 – Padma resort Ubud.
23 – fly to OZ.
Day trips my wife would like are:
Instagram trip
Waterfalls
Quad bikes
Rafting
Ubud – swings
Look forward to your ideas and reply.
Cheers
Grant
Hi Grant, we don’t do discounts for multiple tours. The drivers are already working for relatively low amounts. Here are my recommendations:
15 – Airport Transfer, including return.
16 – Gitgit Waterfall Tour
17 – Instagram Tour
18 – Quad Bike and White Water Rafting (I’m making a tour with both in one day)
18 – Kintamani Tour or Mt Batur Sunrise Trek
20 – Nusa Penida Trip (stay on the island, return next day)
21 – Transfer to Ubud
22 – Ubud Highlights
23 – Return transfer to airport
Hope this helps. Safe travels, Michael
Michael,
Thank you for your time and all information. The trips we would like to book are:
16 – Gitgit Waterfall and Tanah Lot Temple
17 – Instagram Tour
18 – Quad Bike and White Water Rafting (I’m making a tour with both in one day)
20 – Nusa Penida Trip (stay on the island, return next day)
21 – Transfer to Ubud
22 – Ubud Highlights
23 – Return transfer to airport
Please let me know the full costs and if you would like me to transfer a % or what your preference is.
Also – Please note that a third person will also attend on 17 and 18.
Best Regards
Grant
Hi Grant, we only take bookings online so you can make the bookings directly yourself. This removes massive amounts of administration, incorrect details and mistakes, and you get immediate confirmation. The costs are dependent on how many people and where your pickup point is. The booking forms are quite clear.
Except the combined quad bike and rafting tour, which I’m still making.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks Michael,
Awesome site, awesome responses, great service love your work mate. My wife is Kazakh so she will be over the moon as its her first trip to Bali.
Quick question – What do I select for the two day Nusa Penida trip? and for the transfer (initial pick up in Legian for NP but drop off when return is Ubud).
Hi Grant, thanks for the kind words. That’s a good question – I think I’ll need to make something different as that booking form is only good for a day trip. Go ahead and book the rest while I work on this over the next day or so.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Grant – I saw your first 3 tour bookings come through. You can now book the combined ATV and White Water Rafting Tour, and the Airport Transfers.
I’m still working on the 2-day Nusa Penida trip.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi,
U was looking to book a car and driver through you for 14 days in April/may. The quoted price is coming out at $1367.5, is this correct? Because after reading all of the intro about expected costs and even higher costs booking via my hotel this still comes out way more expensive than even what you say a hotel will over charge me? You said a hotel could be upwards of 800k/day but your quote is 1.5mil/day?
I’m a little confused but would also love your site.
Regards
Steve
Hi Steven, I see your confusion but also a mistake in your math. First of all, I hadn’t updated the post about hiring a private driver since prices went up due to the dramatic increase in the price of fuel.
However, hiring a private car and driver from me will currently cost AUD $1367 for 14 days, which at today’s exchange rate works out to be around IDR 1.050k per day, which is correct.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi can you provide minivan tours for 6-8 people? Also transport to Ubud from seminyak with a minivan?
HI ST, yes we do provide minivans with private driver.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
Just booked a car for today and wondered if I can have a whats app contact please to confirm details as it’s for this afternoon?
Thanks
Rachael
Hi Rachel, I replied to the email you sent regarding another driver booking.
Hi Michael
I’ve just booked and paid for a car for today and wondered if you have a what’s app number please to get the details of the driver?
Thanks
Rachael
Hi Rachel, I replied to the email you sent regarding another driver booking.
Hello,
thank you so much for all the information you have shared on your site. I was wondering if there is the option to reverse the Seminyak to Ubud transfer and do the transfer from Ubud to Seminyak instead?
Thank you for your help.
Hi Heather, do you mean this one?
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
Thank you for this. Are we able to add a couple of sight seeing stops along the way? Like a temple or 2 and some nice photo stops?
Thank you
Hi Michael,
I’m really glad we came across your site. Thank you for putting all the information together, it is really helpful for the trip planning.
We have one question regarding the airport transfer. We are arriving to Bali on December 31st and need to book transfer from the airport to Dash Hotel Seminyak. Booking.com quoted 16.61 CAD for 3 people and through your booking engine it is quoted at 45 CAD.
The day tour prices that you have on your website are very reasonable and we are planning to book few of them so I’m not sure if I’m missing something on the airport transfer.
Thank you,
Valery
Hi Valery, we are not the cheapest airport transfers because I believe in paying our local network of drivers a decent rate. I also provide an extra layer of service and security by emailing tips on how to get through the airport along with photos of your driver and vehicle so there is zero chance of being scammed.
By all means, book wherever you feel most comfortable.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi, trying to book the ride from the airport to where I’m staying in Kuta for tomorrow, flight arrives at 17:30. It keeps saying that the time is invalid. Is it possible to book? Tod
Hi Todd. If you’re trying to book an airport transfer I use AM/PM as people kept getting 24-hr time wrong. Try 5:30 PM instead.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello, I am interested in your sunrise Batur sunrise hike, including tour of the rice fields. Since it ends at 1pm, I was wondering whether we could explore the waterfalls after, as an add on? If so, could you please advised how much that would be?
Looking forward to your reply. Thanks.
Hi SJ, towards the bottom of the Mt Batur Sunrise Tour description, your itinerary is flexible, so if you choose to go over time you can simply pay your driver the extra IDR 100k per hour or part thereof.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
We are interested in the “4 Best Waterfalls Near Seminyak Tour” for the 9th of January 2023. However, we still have some questions prior to booking, but could not find any contact details or possibility to ask questions before booking. Could you get in contact with us please? We are excited about the waterfall tour, looks amazing!
Best regards!
Eva
Hi Eva, ask away. What would you like to know?
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael, I’m looking to do a Firefly tour in a Taro Village. There’s a dinner involved also. I don’t see it on here, but it makes me wonder if it’s worth even doing. I really just want to see some fireflies in a field.
Hi Efren, great idea. I’m currently investigating what it takes to make a tour, and when I get it completed I will let you know.
Safe travels, Michael
We are in Seminyak and are hoping to book a driver for our own itinerary this what we would like to do .there are 3 of us -reasonably fit middle aged woman
We would like to do 3 of the waterfalls – on the waterfalls near Seminyak tour – we just thought we would skip Kanto Lampo.
Is there a chance that we can fit in a stop at ubud for some shopping at the end of the day if this means changing the order of the waterfalls then we are fine with that .
Would this work time wise into a day tour .
Also we are keen to do sunrise Mt batur hike with your company just looking at weather forecast to see what day has the least amount of rain before we book how many days in advance is required to book.
Is there any other method in ways of contact as in what’s app
Thanks
Hi Tracy, yes you can change the itinerary of the Waterfalls near Seminyak Tour and do some shopping in Ubud. In fact, you can change the itinerary of any of my day tours, just speak to your driver on the day about your requirements and feel free to lean on their local knowledge.
You will need to book the Mt Batur Sunrise Trek with 2 days’ notice.
And I also responded to your messages on Facebook and here, so not sure why we would need another method of communication.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael, am wanting to book a one-way trip from Kuta to Ubud to my accommodation for 4 people. Is it best to book the “half day Ubud” tour for this?
Regards
Jackie
Hi Jackie – you can book a transfer to Ubud here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael – We will be in Bali Saturday, Feb 4 – Thursday, Feb 9, 2023, as part of our honeymoon, staying in Seminyak. I was in Bali in 2017 for 5 days, also in Seminyak. It was a girls trip, so we just did spa treatments every day, pool time, shopping, beach and restaurants. So, no sightseeing. Would like to do some this trip, but we also want beach, spa and shopping time too. So, maybe hire a car for two of the 4 days???? So, with only two days for more remote travel, what do you recommend? Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary? Elephant ride? Rainforests and waterfalls? A temple or two? With only two days, I know our options are limited. Love your car hire tips! When I was in India we did the same as you are recommending; hired a private car and driver for two weeks and he took us everywhere. He was amazing! So your advice is spot on because taxis and other private drivers may not be the best option. Also, I have the WhatsApp, but the new iPhone 14 does not utilize a SIM card anymore. Do you know how that will work with the app now? I can try to google the answer too. Or get an international plan for a month. Do you have a direct email for communications, or is this the only forum in which to communicate with you – other than completing your form to retain a driver and car?
Hi Renee – have a look at my day tours and pick a couple. My favourites are the Ubud Day Tour and the Ubud and East Bali Day Tour.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks for the quick reply, Michael! Great information and suggestions. You have created an amazing service for travelers! Thank you! I don’t see where I can sign up for your newsletter. Can you please direct me? Or is it simply that I ask you to put me on the distribution? Thanks!
Hi Renee – thanks for the kind comments. I had the newsletter subscription turned off while testing. If you come back to this page it should appear for you.
Safe travels, Michael
Got it! Thanks. One last question, for now….I see that you charge in AUD, is your quote also in AUD? The quote has a $ sign, so I don”t know if that is AUD or USD, since both use the $ sign. Thank you.
Hi Renee, AUD.
Hey Michael,
Nice to meet you and thank you for your useful information when I was new to Bali. Very useful! Currently applying for the KITAS (pending, only 1 week to go) and will be working as a DJ in Bali. I read your article; “How to Book a DJ for your Private Party in Bali” and I was wondering if you could promote me and my website within your list of Party Managers and DJ’s, or in a direct link on your page. Please contact me about the policy details. (See my contact details on the website)
Cheers
Hi Michael, we’re planning a trip to Bali from 4-7 Nov. Just wondering if we car seats are needed for private hires or taxis if we have a 9mo infant who will be travelling with us? Thanks.
Hi Julia – when you book your airport transfers or a private car and driver you have the option to book child seats.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi
Will be in Seminyak from 20th November to 26th
Would like to hire a private car/ driver for a full day
No idea where to go but want to make most of sightseeing and attractions
Any ideas on it itinerary and cost please
Just myself and husband
Thanks
Hi Dawn – You can hire a private car and driver and make your own itinerary, or ask your driver, or you could choose one of the many day tours I’ve already put together.
Safe travels, Michael
We are family of 8 , 2 persons over 60 , four adults and 2 kids , do you have a transport option for us in one vehicle – like a mini bus – long van etc ?
Hi Ajay – you can find the minivan with private driver hire in the transport guide.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi,
Last minute: looking for a half a day driver but with pick up from Sekumpul this Friday, October 15th.
Would it be possible?
Thanks
Hi Amanda, not a half day. It isn’t economically worth it for the drivers to get to Sekumpul for a half-day hire.
Safe travels, Michael
We want to use your car service for both airport pick up and driving around for the week. Would we have the same driver for both pick up and car service?
Thanks
Yes, of course, I can arrange that. After you place your airport transfer booking, then book the private car and driver for however many days you want and I’ll make sure you have the same driver for all days.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael, Any chance of a last minute half day driver booking for today Thursday 15 Sept? Just to go to a couple of cultural sites. I am staying next to airport and fly tonight.
Hi Helen – if you tell me what time I have one driver free around 2:30 pm this afternoon?
Oh thank you Michael for your reply. I ended up following your blog advice and secured one through my hotel. Thanks for your response. I had a great time all thanks to your website. Cheers Helen
Hello Michael, a lot of good info on your website ! Only one problem, I will be visiting Bali mid October for a 5 day holiday break with my family and we are all of age (parents 70+, me 50++) and not to smart, and need a guide that can hold us by the hands and help us to get most hassle free break and show us the island. Can you recommend somebody that can guide us from arrival to departure, your help is highly appreciated,
Milko
Hi Milko – I totally understand. I recommend you make the following driver bookings and you get a private car and driver who will also be your guide. Couldn’t be simpler.
Book a Bali Airport Transfer for arrival and choose the Transfer + Day Tour option.
Then book a return Transfer to Bali Airport, again choosing the Transfer + Day Tour option.
Then book 3 days Private Car and Driver for the remaining days of your trip.
When I see the bookings I will assign them all to the same driver who will make an excellent guide as well as take care of all your transport needs.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks for your quick reply, any suggestions on accommodation so that the driver knows where to pick us up and deliver us to 😃.
Milko
Hi Milko… of course. I also run a villa booking website 🙂
Fabulous website and I would recommend his services – makes it so much easier to plan for a two week holiday adventure for a group of 16
All trips for the whole group booked via this and the booking process so easy to use
Hi Michael,
Fabulous website! Lots of very useful information for newbies to Bali.
My daughter and myself will be landing early September for 14 nights and have accommodation booked in Seminyak.
I am interested in the fast track through the airport as well as private driver for many outings.
Have ideas already of what we want to see and do and hoping your team can help us achieve what we want whilst we are there.
Also would like private driver for some local day trips.
Can we liaise via email about this.
Cheers
Sherry
Hi Sherry – you can book a private car and driver here. Plus we have lots of speciality day tours and airport transfers.
Safe travels, Michael
Can you help me find the best official Visa Agents in Bali. It’s for a more complex type of Visa that requires an agent.
BTW I love your site. Thanks for your help. Kim
Hi Kim, yes I can. I will email her details directly to you. She is without doubt the best visa agent in Indonesia, let alone Bali.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael. If I am 61 and friend is 57 can she come thru the over 60 lane with me please?
Hi Carol – I am sorry I cannot answer your question. It is up to the regulatory authorities at the airport.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello Michael,
I have a confirmed group of 12- 14 pax from 15th January to 29th January 2023.
I need a minivan with a driver for these group for several days in Bali.
If you can send me your contact details I’ll write the daily group plan.
As soon as we agreed all the prices for the whole period we can pay by credit card or by wire transfer.
Ellen
Hi Elena, you can book a minivan and private driver here. Have already emailed you directly.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi, I am Ayush and I am planning to visit Bali with my mother in the month of November from India. How can I contact you? Looking for a car for about 4 days to explore Bali.
Hi Ayush – you can hire a private care and driver for as many or as few days as you like.
Safe travels, Michael
Sure, can I have your whatsapp contact / email ID? For an easier communication. I am landing on 6th Nov and will be there till 12th….. And how much would it cost me per day? I am planning for 3 days in ubud and 3 days in semniyak……. I just discuss details with you so that it’s easier for me to plan
Sure Ayush, but I will end up directing you to the private driver booking page and Bali Airport Transfers anyway. The cost starts at AUD$85 per day depending on destination.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
I am planning to visit Bali on 15th Aug’22. Will stay for 5 days. Can you suggest SUVs for 5 people.
Hi Piyush – yes I can. You can book a private car and driver here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I’m currently staying in Bali with my mum. The hotel we’re staying at organised a driver to collect us from the airport and take us on a shopping trip. We really like the driver and would like to engage with him directly….exactly because of the reasons you highlight that the hotel likely takes most of the money. The driver gave us his card and we’re moving to a new hotel tomorrow (we planned to spend a few days in two different locations).
Is it ok for us to contact the driver directly and hire him for our activities moving forward?
From what he’s told us he isn’t employed directly by the hotel.
Thank you
Hi Georgia – of course you can, that’s why he gave you his card 🙂
Safe travels, Michael
Dear Michael,
we would like to contact you to find out availability and prices for a private driver for a day tour tomorrow from seminiyak to Ulu Watu and a transfer to Ubud including some stops on the way on Tuesday.
Hi Birte – you can book a private car and driver for your tour tomorrow. On Tuesday you can also book a private car and driver, and simply arrange to be dropped off at Ubud instead of returning to Uluwatu.
Let me know if you need further help.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
My family are headed to Bali for 9 days from 1 August. I was wondering if your snorkeling tour is likely to be available by then, or if not, whether you can recommend a snorkeling tour that ideally includes Manta Bay. We have 3 kids aged 9, 7 and 7 (yep, twins 🙂
Hi Scott – I’m putting the final touches on the snorkelling tour in the next day or so. I will let you know when available.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Scott – the Manta Bay Snorkelling Tour is operational again so book ahead.
Let me know if I can help you with anything else.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi, I will be staying in North Bali (Jl. Wanagiri – Munduk No 11, Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng, Bali, 81161) for a few nights in early August before heading to Ubud and was hoping to find a driver. On the booking page, Wanagiri isn’t listed under the pickup area so I wanted to check to see if it’s possible to book a driver with you to begin and end in that area, or ask if you happen to have any recommendations for drivers if you don’t service from Wanagiri. I’m most interested in these sites: Ulun Danu Temple, Sekumpul waterfall, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Angseri Hot Springs, Batukaru Coffee Estate & Retreat for a tour of the plantation, Candikuning market, Wanagiri Hidden Hill, and Munduk Molding Coffee Plantation if they allow tours. I’m open to suggestions and would be okay adjusting some of these plans or adding on something more unusual things like a vanilla plantation or any local suggestions. Thank you so much! I’m so glad I found your site and appreciate the resources you’re providing!
Hi Jenna – thanks for getting in touch. Yes, we do service pickups from Wanagiri and I’ve added it to the list on the private car and driver booking form. All of the attractions you mentioned are in the local area, so choose the North Bali option. My drivers will be able to provide insight as to other attractions and you can adjust your itinerary on the day to suit.
Safe travels, Michael
Awesome, thank you so much! I’m just waiting on confirmation of my accommodation and then I’ll complete the form. I appreciate you updating to add Wanagiri area, and am excited to book a private car and driver soon. Take care!
Hi!
Thank you for this amazing website!
We are coming as a family (2 kids 7 & 4) and are looking for a nanny for a few days/ evenings.
We will be staying in Sanur for a 6 days and Ubud for 5.
Do you have any advice/recommendations?
Thank you!
J
Hi Julian – let me say how refreshing it is for someone to offer such a compliment before asking a question! So thank you, and you’re welcome.
And while I can offer many behind-the-scenes concierge services, nanny services are not one of them. If you are staying at a large-scale hotel they will undoubtedly provide nanny services when asked. If staying elsewhere, like a private villa for example, then they may or may not.
At my villa I do, but that’s because I have worked with her for many years and built a level of trust that cannot be easily replicated.
It’s also your kids, so I would never presume to recommend anyone without knowing and personally vetting them.
Personally, I believe Balinese to be incredibly trustworthy and exceptionally family-oriented, so finding a local nanny service would be best be found by asking your accommodation provider. There will be many services, but I do not know of any, so cannot make a solid recommendation.
I wish you luck – from experience, albeit it was a long time ago, hiring a babysitter is a big decision that only you can make.
Hope you and your family have a wonderful Bali holiday.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
My wife and I are coming over for a holiday from 4-11 Aug 22, and will be looking to get the hotel transfers to/from our hotel ‘The Haven’ in Seminyak. We are also looking at organizing a car and driver for 3 days during the trip and are happy to take your recommendations for best places for our first visit to Bali and shopping for those copy items and souvenirs.
Can you please let me know the best way to complete the forms for this.
Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks Shane & Michelle
Hi Shane. Here’s my recommendations:
1. Book your arrival transfer.
2. Book your departure transfer.
3. Look through these day tours, but for only 3 days outings I would recommend the Ubud Day Tour, Aling Aling Waterfall Tour or Mt Batur Sunrise Trek if you want some adventure, possibly a Nusa Penida Tour and 1 other day with your itinerary to be decided after you know your way around a bit.
My drivers know all the best places for souvenir shopping, so that won’t be a problem depending on what you are after.
And as always, booking ahead is always a good idea to ensure availability.
Hope you have an awesome Bali holiday.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
Thanks for your response (blimey, it must be the middle of the night there!) and your reassurance. I will indeed talk it over with my daughter and we can decide on trip ideas together before booking anything. I take it then that you are ok with a mere two travellers rattling around in the back of a six seater and that we don’t have to feed the driver (!)
I didn’t mean to message anonymously, I don’t think your site likes the format of my email address. The given fields aren’t labelled and in frustration, I just stuck my email address in every single one!
Thanks again.
Hi Victoria – yes it is the middle of the night. I had a large group of guests arriving at an airport (rock stars like to feel special), so I responded while waiting.
I’m conscious of your timing, so I have emailed directly.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello Michael
Coming to Bali later this week (based in [redacted] for a fortnight) with my daughter. She booked the flights and hotel (we are there for a wedding), but she hasn’t had the time to do planning for day trips and the like.
I’ve started research this weekend and it looks like booking a private car and driver from time to time is going to be the best option if we want to make the most of our visit. I’ve never travelled this far and without my husband, I’m a little nervous being two lone females.
Also, as it’s just the two of us, booking a car for six seems a bit extravagant. Are we ok to do this? Do we need to pay for the driver’s food on the day as well?
The choice of sights is a little overwhelming, can I book a day or two in advance once we’re there and we have a chance to look at your available tours together?
I had initially thought about using the Kura-Kura shuttle bus, but I can’t seem to get to the bottom of whether it is running or not. Are there other alternatives we can use?
Thanks for your help. I’m so glad I found your website, It has some really useful information.
All the best, Victoria
Hi there – thanks for getting in touch.
There is nothing wrong with being nervous. Making travel decisions can be stressful. I suggest you talk with your daughter and decide what you both want to do together before booking anything. And only then, hire a private car and driver, or go on tours that you are comfortable with.
I have no experience with the shuttle service mentioned, so will not make comment. I also emailed you separately and look forward to your response as to how I can help further.
You made this comment with an anonymous email address, so I’m guessing you are comfortable with this reply.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael, we are coming to Bali on Boxing Day for a week as a group of 6 adults. We are staying in Sanur in 2 villas and are keen to see as much of Bali as possible. We are keen on hiring a driver for at least 4 days to see Ubud and the surroundings, mount Batur, temples and waterfalls. Is the price per day $110-130 for the whole group or pp? Most of our group are keen on walking, hiking, cycling, rafting, snorkelling and zipwiring.
I am also keen to look at a day trip to swim with mantas off Nusa Penida, is that something you could arrange? Thanks Helen
Hi Helen – Thanks for getting in touch.
You need to book these separately, so here are my recommendations to see as much as possible over 4 days:
1. Ubud day tour
Choose the Tanah Lot itinerary to max out your day. You can get a short hike in around the rice terraces at Tegalalang.
2. Mt Batur Sunrise Trek
3. Aling-aling Waterfall Adventure
Drop Tanah Lot from this and I’ll find a zip lining adventure for you.
4. White water rafting
I’m also putting together a package to do rafting and either ATV or biking on the same day.
5. A Nusa Penida snorkelling adventure tour is being put together. We’re just finalising arrangements with ferries and snorkelling companies now that Bali is reopened for tourism.
Hope this helps.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi I am keen to chat to you about Aling Aling Tour for 6 in Jan 2023. Could you please contact me to discuss further. Thank you
Hi Georgina – will do.
Hi Michael
Could I get in touch with you about travelling with a group of 7, one of whom is a disabled boy aged 4.
Hi Julian – sure, I’ll shoot you an email.
Hi Michael
I am visiting Bali in two weeks by myself and would like a private tour guide, happy to jump on a scooter with them instead of a car too! Do you offer this?
Jessie
Hi Jessica – I sometimes take guests for private scooter tours depending on my schedule. Will contact you by email.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael!
My husband and I are traveling to Bali from July 15-22nd and are looking to hire a private driver for the entire trip. We have a rough itinerary that we’d like to follow (4 days in Ubud and 4 in Seminayak) and were hoping to book your services. Would you be able to email me so I can send you what we are thinking and get your thoughts if it’ll work?
Hi Forum – I can do that. Just for reference, I will likely direct you to the private care and driver booking page.
Safe travels, Michael
Morning
We are a group of 16 Deaf people, coming to Bali from 11-25 September 2022, staying in Kuta.
Obviously while we are there we would like to visit the key places but difficult to know which places we should visit and whether we can do 2 or 3 attractions in the same area in one day – are you able to offer advice as to what our itinerary should look like please – so we have some idea ( will also be looking to book private taxis etc to help us get around – so if you can let us know what attractions we should plan for and where it would help us a lot
Many thanks in advance
Tony
Hi Tony – thanks for getting in touch. I will follow up by email, but as a start you should read my Bali tourist map and have a look at the pre-planned day tours as they are the most popular.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I would like to get in touch about arranging a larger group for various tours and airport transfers to Tabanan. There might be a few different requirements.
Cheers
Shann
Hi Shannon – email sent.
Hi Michael,
I need a driver to pick me up at my hotel in Ubud about 7:00pm, drive me to DPS airport to pick up a friend arriving at 9:05pm, then drive us both back to Ubud that evening. Wasn’t sure how to book this on your system, though. Could you let me know if you could do this and the price?
Thank you,
Courtney
Hi Courtney – we can manage that easily. Simply book a private car and driver with your pickup address in Ubud. It will cost AUD$85.
Let me know if you need any help.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
I’m due to arrive tomorrow evening. Is it too late to book a transfer?
Hi Jen – booking an airport transfer for the next day is totally fine.
Hi Michael,
we are a family of 6 travelling to Bali for two weeks arriving July 20th. I would like a driver for the whole duration and help with the planning. I want some of the already proposed tours but some other custom tours with things we have in mind.
we will be staying two days in Seminyak and the rest in Ubud. How can I book the custom tours since I don’t know exactly how many hours they will take? Also, we will have 5 large suitcases that will travel with us for two of those days. Will there be room in the suv?
Hi Stéphanie. Thanks for getting in touch. My advice would be to book a private car and driver for the whole duration of your trip, making sure to select the slightly larger SUV option. That way you can go on any of the tour itineraries whenever you want, with the convenience of always having a driver and the flexibility to change plans whenever you like.
Should you take day tours to North Bali, to Gitgit waterfall for example, you can simply pay the driver the extra IDR200k required on the day.
And when you change hotels, transferring your 5 large suitcases, between my driver and I, we can arrange a 2nd car to help with the transfer from Seminyak to Ubud and then from Ubud to the airport.
It’s a solid plan. Let me know if I can help with anything else.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello Michael
Would you recommend a fasttrack to help go through customs? My son is arriving next week and I would like to help him out and get that for him if you think helpful. I was also looking at airport transfer is it advisable to book ahead?
Hi Lisa — unfortunately since Bali airport reopened for international travel I haven’t been able to connect with any fast-track services. That doesn’t mean they are not operating, they could be, but I’m not aware of any.
You may want to read how to get through Bali airport, and yes, booking an airport transfer ahead of time is highly recommended.
Safe travels (for your son:), Michael
Hi,
I am visiting Bali with my family of 4, and would like to do sight seeing in Bali, I was not sure if it would be good get a private car and driver and manage all the sightseeing ourselves in Bali, or it would be better to take package tours where the tickets and itinerary would be managed by the travel company.
Hi J – that’s a tough one to answer without knowing how long you are travelling here, with kids or adult children, what kind of activities you wish to engage in or where you are staying. However I highly recommend hiring your own private car and driver – my drivers are exceptionally knowledgable and can help build an itinerary for you on the fly, leaving you with the most flexibility.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
Thank you for sharing all your travel tips! I was trying to book a transport from the airport (DPS) to Seminyak but the site is not responsive ( it keeps spinning and never gives me a confirmation or error message ). Can you help? Thank you in advance.
Caroline
Hi Caroline,
Thanks for getting in touch. I. Apologise for the inconvenience. There was indeed a javascript error caused by a recent update, but that has been resolved and I just made a booking myself to test and everything works fine.
If you try again and have any difficulty please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
I also sent a follow-up email directly.
Safe travels, Michael
Dear Michael,
we are staying in Jl. Gunung Agung, Baturiti, Tabanan.
I couldn’t find this as a pick up place.
We would love to book a day-tour with you.
Is this possible from where we are staying?
Please reply by email, I couldn’t find your mail-adress.
Thank you for your reply, Michael!
Best
Lisa
Hi Lisa. I’m adding Tabanan as a pick-up for certain tours and will send an email to you shortly.
Safe travels – Michael
Hi Michael, I love your website. So helpful! A question about your book: If I order this do I get a hard copy (physical copy?) posted to me (I’m in NZ). Or is the $AU 19.90 a digital only download price?
Also, do you have any updated info on the Covid 19 (and any mandatory testing) situation in Bali? We’ve a trip booked for July.
Many thanks.
Hi Claire. Thanks for the feedback!
The book is digital-only, all hardcovers are long sold out. If you sign up for the newsletter you will get a welcome email with the latest in the covid requirements.
Safe travels – Michael
Hi Michael
I am trying to book a driver for 2 days but the site wont let me – its saying that my card is failing
can you help?
I’ll be in touch directly by email
Hi, Michael!
Could i contact you by email please?
Looking forward from you soon
Hello, Michael!
Can I contact you by email?
Hi Michael,
We will need a transfer from Canggu to Candidasa on June 7th, & transfer to the airport from Candidasa on June 14th, if all goes to plan!
Can you help with this?
Cheers, Brian & Lyn
Hi Brian and Lyn, that’s great to hear. You can book a transfer to Candidasa here and an airport transfer from Candidasa here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hello Michael
Not sure if my message of 5 mins ago got through to you .
Trying to book airport transfer to Canggu but no options on your dropdowns for Vietjet or Vietnam Airlines .
Thank you
Andrew
I sure did, and I already added Vietjet as an option and left a reply for you.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks so much for your informative site, such a great resource! I’ve booked our airport transfer through your site, and I hope this generates a small contribution to funding the site.
Hi Jenny. You are too kind! Of the 668 comments people have left on this website, you have left by far the nicest 🙂
Your encouragement really means a lot. Terima kasih banyak ?
Selamat jalan, Michael
Hello! I hope you are doing well! I have a question. We booked a hotel in Seminyak for 4 nights and we will need a driver from Seminyak to Muduk (North Bali). If we purchase the 10 hour private driver, would this include the drive from hotel (Seminyak) to hotel (Muduk) + with whatever hours are left we can visit the area such as waterfalls? We booked hotels at very far locations from one another.
Would this always include the drive to our next hotel + the extra hours to visit around? Thanks so much
Hi Claudia. You can use the South Bali to North Bali transfer service. Munduk is definitely in North Bali, so it’s longer than a 10-hour South Bali Tour. And yes, you can definitely use the time to go sightseeing and visit different attractions along the way.
You may want to take get some inspiration from my custom itineraries for day tours.
Just remember that a tour to North Bali includes 12 hours driving, but you need to leave your driver 2 hours to return home if being dropped off up North.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I have a couple of questions for you
1) Do you offer airport transfers from hotel/villa to the airport? Your site and the form to book an airport transfer only seems to reference transfers from the airport to hotel/villa.
2) If we want to book a private driver for multiple days if we like the driver are we able to ensure we have the same drive for all of the days? Conversely, if we do not like a driver can we have a different drive for the following days?
Thanks so much for your help and for the detailed guides!
Jason
Hi Jason. Yes, we provide a transfer to the airport. It’s also linked to from the airport transfer page.
We generally assign the same driver for multi-day bookings, and while we have never had a request to change the driver, I would be happy to do so should the need arise. All you need do is reply to me from the itinerary confirmation you will receive after booking.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
I’ve been drooling over your different tour suggestions and just have a quick question before booking 🙂
Would it be a feasible itinerary to make the following stops in a day, when the starting point is Canggu?
1. Lempuyang temple (Gates of heaven)
2. Tirta Ganga temple
3. Ulun Danu Beretan
4. Tanah Lot
Thanks for a some great guides to Bali!
Louise
Hi Louise,
I wouldn’t recommend that itinerary to anyone, to be honest. You are literally looking at 4 points of the compass and circumnavigating most of Bali.
Looking at your aspirations, and assuming you wat an epic temple tour, I’d recommend (if you only have one day) Danu Beretan, Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi, Goa Gajah, Tanah Lot back to Canggu.
You can see the route map here. It’s a big day, but far more achievable than trying to get from Lempuyang to Danu Beretan and Tanah Lot on the same day.
If you want, I’ll even make a customised tour page so you can book it through me. Or you can simply book a private car and driver with the East Bali option and advise your driver of your itinerary by return email after receiving the confirmation. What date are you looking at?
Safe travels,
Michael
Thanks for the prompt response?
You make a good point. I have at least a day more to go exploring at a later stage, was thinking, as you rightly surmised, to start my exploring of with a boatload of temples ?
Your suggestion sounds perfect, I’d like to book it through you, on this coming Saturday 18th if possible?
Hi Louise,
Your Bali 5 Temple Tour itinerary is ready to book.
Hope you have a great day!
Safe travels,
Michael
Thank you so much ?
The form only has different mt. Batur trips in the drop down menu, should I just ignore that and inform you via mail that it’s the temple trip, once I receive the confirmation?
All fixed! Book away 🙂
Awesome ?
Hello Michael. Is there a discount for hiring a driver for multiple days? We would be thinking of 5-10 days. There are two of us and the dates would be between March 14th and March 23rd.
Hi Catherine,
Thanks for getting in touch. As you are paying for the driver’s time at bare minimum rates I’m afraid there is no discount.
Hope you have a great time in March!
Safe travels,
Michael
Hey mate.. Can we email you our contact you to ask questions before filling out a booking form?
Hi Julian,
Sure thing, I’ll email you now. Just checking that you have read through the detailed descriptions for our transfers and tour bookings here.
Safe travels,
Michael
I’m travelling to Bali on 3rd Jan with seniors (group of 4). My mother is 80 year old. Checking to see what are the places recommended for sight seeing. Staying at Seminyak: 3-6 Jan; Staying at Ubud: 6-9. Appreciate ur response over email.
Hi R,
Thanks for leaving a comment. I’ve written several posts on Attractions in Bali.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael – Great website and resources! I’m interested in booking a car/driver through you for a family trip to Bali in Feb 2020. Would like to review some more details and get your suggestions via email first.
Hi Connie,
I’ll send an email, but wanted to ask first if you have read Expert Tips for Hiring a Private Driver in Bali and checked out the private car and driver options here?
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Connie,
Just a note to say I have read and responded to your emails. Sounds like an epic trip! Best wishes for Xmas and New Year to you and family.
Safe travels,
Michael
Michael, hey! Wanted to use your driving service but was not able to get in direct contact via email.
Hi Ilya,
Thanks for getting in touch. I’ll send an email but all the private car and driver bookings can be made here.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
I want to book a car for a number of days but would like you to check my itinerary first to ensure it is feasible and to get recommendations. Can you please send me your email address.
Many thanks
Sharon
Hi Sharon, you will get this reply. Just so you know I only provide simple help on itineraries for free.
Safe travels, Michael
I randomly found Michael’s website a few months before our first trip to Bali and I am so thankful I did! We literally followed his tips exactly for getting through customs, buying a SIM card and getting out cash and it was so smooth. We booked an airport transfer and 4 full days with a private driver… which I was a little nervous about at first (just to be honest), but everything worked out perfectly. Having a private driver ensured we saw all we wanted without having to deal with the tricky local taxis and it gave us peace of mind knowing who we would be with every day. I can’t recommend his services and his advice enough!
Thank you so much Aimee.
It was a pleasure providing you with both travel advice and a car and driver (the drivers are stoked from your feedback). And thanks for letting me know by email that arriving at Bali Airport was made much easier because of my insider tips.
It’s because of the feedback from people like you that I keep writing this website. We very much hope to see you in Bali again someday.
Terimah kasih banyak!
Safe travels Aimee,
Michael
Hi. I’m interested in taking the aping along waterfall tour. I prefer to pay by cash instead of via your website. How do I book for the tour and pay by cash? I could pay in full.
Hi Hussain,
Thanks for getting in touch. We only take confirmed booking paid with a credit card beforehand – but you can book the Aling-Aling Waterfall Tour with just a deposit, and the rest paid by cash on the day.
This helps to avoid no-shows and last-minute cancellations which is unfair to our drivers. Hope this helps.
Safe travels,
Michael