Hiring a Bali private driver for sightseeing some of Bali’s extraordinary attractions or just to drive you for the day while visiting markets, beach clubs and restaurants for dinner is a great idea. This article will teach you how to hire a private driver in Bali, what you should pay and help you make a booking.
1. Why hire a Bali private driver?
If you are within walking distance to the beach, shops and restaurants from your accommodation, and will only be going further for the odd sightseeing day then you only need a private car and driver on an ad-hoc basis for day tours.
However, if you will be going further than walking distance for most days I highly recommend hiring a private car and driver for the full length of your stay. Having a driver on call for most if not the whole day and evening will help make your Bali holiday friction-free because you remove the hassle of constantly getting taxis in Bali, which can be a real pain.
Whether you and your crew are looking to spend the day at a beach club, visiting the unique attractions like temples, rice terraces, the Bali swings, some of the amazing waterfalls or just spending the day shopping, hiring a car and driver can make a huge difference.
- If you are just venturing out locally, then hire a taxi.
- For trips to attractions further than 5 km away, then hire a private car and driver.
- If you will be gone for more than 4 hours, then hire a car and driver.
- Thinking of hiring a rental car and driving yourself? Just don’t. A local driver will cost fractionally more. And he will be a much better navigator through Bali traffic conditions than you ever will.
- Want to go on a shopping expedition? Hire a car and driver.
2. How much you should pay for a private car and driver for the day?
Let’s start with the basics. A rule of thumb is the cheapest you will get a private car and driver for the day is IDR600k. That’s rock bottom for a small compact car, not an SUV. If you are offered anything cheaper then do not take it. You are simply being set up to pay more later from the usual scams — making you wait, being asked for more during the trip, running out of petrol or just being intimidated. You have been warned.
An experienced driver who knows their way around, can adapt to your specific needs and has a solid grasp of English with a high-quality, air-conditioned 6-seater SUV will cost between IDR 800k – 1000k for the day to travel anywhere around South Bali. That’s for a medium-sized SUV like a Toyota Avanza or similar as pictured below.
While it’s comfortable enough for 4 – 5 passengers, a slightly larger Toyota Innova or similar is highly recommended. You will spend a little more but the comfort level is higher, especially with 5 – 6 passengers or if you are 4 people with luggage.
A private driver with a Toyota Innova, like the one pictured below, will cost between IDR 900k – 1.200k per day depending on where you are travelling to.
If you are going for a day tour to North Bali (which I highly recommend you do) to see the spectacular waterfalls, the floating temple or Kintamani, it will cost a little more. Factor in an extra IDR 200k – 400k per day above the usual rate for touring to locations in North or East Bali.
The age-old maxim of you get what you pay for is never more relevant than when hiring a private car and driver in Bali.
And be careful of the referral from a friend who has been to Bali, possibly many times before, and has their mate Ketut to look after you. I’ve heard from many people who were disappointed in the service they were provided. That’s why I only ever work with a small, knowledgeable group of drivers I know and can trust.
3. Book a private car and driver online.
Since starting Bali Holiday Secrets, I have had so many inquiries asking to book the same drivers that I use for my family, friends, and villa guests that I’ve made a secure, online booking system that takes away the risk, stress and hassle of finding your own reliable, trustworthy, English-speaking private car and driver.
I have personally vetted all the drivers I work with. They text me when they pick you up and again when you have been dropped off at the end of the day. I also email your driver’s name, profile photo, vehicle photo and phone number beforehand to ensure your safety and provide confidence.
If you would like to book one of my trusted, English-speaking drivers with a 6-seater air-conditioned SUV you can do so using my private car and driver booking system.
4. Can I book a car and driver for just half a day?
Yes, you can. Due to popular demand from the comments and emails I have received, I have worked out a rate with my driver network for a 5-hour private car and driver hire.
Perfect for when you want to go shopping, move hotels or just want to be dropped off at a special spa or restaurant for a couple of hours (yes, they will wait for you).
5. Understand the basic geography of Bali.
Don’t forget that it will cost slightly more to travel to attractions in the North and East regions of Bali. Or to look from the opposite point of view, it is cheaper to book a private car and driver if you are only touring within the South Bali region. This is simply because trips to the other side of Bali take longer, use more fuel and are harder on vehicles than just touring locally.
Attractions in South Bali:
South Bali includes Canggu, Gianyar, Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Sanur, Ubud and Uluwatu.
- Bali Bird Park
- Bali Safari & Marine Park
- Bali Swing Park
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana
- Goa Gajah
- Gunung Kawi
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall
- Tanah Lot
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Tibumana Waterfall
- Tirta Empul
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- Ubud Art Market
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Ubud Royal Palace
- Uluwatu Temple
- Waterbom Theme Park
- and of course, all the beaches from Canggu all the way down to Uluwatu.
I am simply listing the attractions that are in the South Bali area – this is not an itinerary – it would take several days to see all of these,
Attractions in North Bali:
North Bali includes Bedugul, Lovina, Singaraja, Plaga and Kintamani.
- Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Bedugul Market (Pasar Candi Kuning)
- Danu Beratan Temple
- Gitgit Waterfall
- Handarah Golf Course Gates
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- Lovina
- Mount Batur – Kintamani
- Nungnung Waterfall
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- basically all the good waterfalls.
I am simply listing the attractions that are in the North Bali area – this is not an itinerary – it would take several days to see all of these,
Attractions in East Bali:
East Bali includes Besakih, Sideman, Karangasem, Candidasa, Mount Agung, Amlapura and Amed.
- Lempuyang Temple
- Besakih Temple
- Amed
- Virgin Beach
- Tirta Gangga Temple
6. Be clear about the destination and what you expect.
Most drivers are reactive, not proactive, so if you ask to go to a destination that is very far away or may encounter heavy traffic they will generally just follow orders. Being proactive means discussing where you want to go, understanding the realistic, expected elapsed travel time, and whether that leaves you enough time for your other destinations and the trip back home.
There is a big difference between a cheap hire and a driver who actually knows the places and attractions you want to visit.
Engage with your driver before you get in the car — don’t be pressured into hopping in and getting the trip going because he is holding the door open. Engage in straightforward terms using simple language — and I don’t mean simple because of intellect, I mean simple because of the language barrier.
Engaging early with your driver will tell you how much English he actually understands. A great driver will begin to form a rapport with you and ask what kind of things you like and make adjustments accordingly.
Pro-tip: already know the rough itinerary of where you want to go, what times you would like to be there and engage with him so you can change plans according to conditions and not be disappointed because the clock ran out and you missed something you really wanted to see.
7. Going to a beach club or tourist attraction?
What most people don’t realise is that getting to a place is often quite easy. But getting from there back home can be a nightmare. The reason is the local transport services (think local taxi mafia) will always charge a much higher fee to get you back than it’s worth. Sometimes outrageously high.
Because they have a monopoly on the transport options if you don’t already have a private car and driver you are literally at their mercy. Depending on supply and demand and which way the wind is blowing you may have to pay up to 2-5 times the amount that a normal taxi fare would cost you.
For example, a taxi fare on the meter from Eat Street in Seminyak to Finn’s Beach Club in Canggu will cost you around Rp 120k. But when you want to leave, the local set prices will knock you back Rp250 – 500k (and sometimes much more during busy times at night).
8. Shopping expeditions can be awesome with a car and driver.
Going on shopping expeditions in Bali is why many people come here. Even leaving the souvenirs alone, the chance to buy homewares, textiles and artworks that are unique to Bali is more than tempting. It’s downright addictive if you know where to go. Along with shopping malls and supermarkets, there are local markets galore and some speciality streets for things like homewares and larger artworks.
If you treat shopping like a full-contact blood sport with bargains as the scoreboard and showing off to your friends and family back home is something you like the idea of, then hiring a private car and driver makes perfect sense.
Loading up the back of an SUV while the driver waits patiently for you to make the next “it’s like saving money” purchase is a pleasure. Trying to get a taxi while standing beside the road with a bunch of shopping bags or some seriously large artworks wrapped in bubble wrap is not so much fun.
A private car and driver is the most useful investment you can make to lower the friction of getting around and going on shopping expeditions in Bali.
9. Booking a driver from your hotel.
Every hotel provides a booking service for a private car and driver, especially for day tours. It’s one of the many revenue streams a hotel depends on, so don’t be surprised that they take a significant markup.
Their biggest markups come from short trips where they can charge many times the rate that would be charged by a taxi. A prime example is a trip from the hotel to one of the local restaurants that are only a couple of kilometres away, and because they don’t allow taxis or ride-sharing providers to enter their property you are at their mercy.
I have a Golden Rule never to pay more than IDR100k for a ride to somewhere local from a hotel, and that’s being generous. For around $10 you should be able to get anywhere within a 5km radius.
If you book a private car and driver for a day tour from a hotel, expect to pay upwards of IDR 1 million+ for 8 hours. That will include a 40-50% commission to the hotel and if the driver is employed directly by the hotel then the driver will likely only be receiving a fraction of that.
If you do book a day tour from a hotel make sure you follow the next tips and make sure your driver speaks passable English, the destination is crystal clear and the waiting time and the number of hours are clearly communicated with the driver.
The most common mistake is to book a driver with the hotel and expect the best. They will undoubtedly be providing the lowest cost driver possible, and while the car may be in a decent condition your driver will most likely not have a clue as to your expectations.
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!
10. Be really clear about the time frame and how much you will be paying.
If there is one thing you can do before hopping into a private car or SUV, it’s engage with your driver to set crystal clear expectations about how long you expect their services and the total cost.
For example, if you intend to see a waterfall on the northern side of Bali, good drivers will be quoting for a 12-hour day. Daily hire of a car and driver is usually 10 hours, plus 100k per hour thereafter.
However your driver may have somewhere to be later, so don’t count on unlimited time. Ask clearly what their expected number of hours are for the trip, and make a point to set a specific time you want to be back at your hotel or villa.
Have a look at the booking forms for hiring a private car and driver plus some speciality tours to Ubud, Waterfalls, Danu Beratan, Lempuyang and more here.
11. Waiting time is built-in to the cost of a private driver.
If you want to be dropped off at a beach club or restaurant, don’t think that you can pay less because your driver is waiting for you. The time they spend waiting for you is all part of the hire, and let’s be honest — a big attraction for hiring a driver is to get going when you want to get going.
They will wait for you while you are there — that’s not an issue — but the key is communication. That’s why WhatsApp is so important. Having a good time at the pool bar? No sweat, just text your driver that you will be staying a bit longer. Enjoying your lunch and can’t be bothered hitting the next temple on the tour itinerary? Not a problem, just text your driver and let him know.
The more he knows about what you are thinking about your day the better service you will receive. Did you decide not to tell your driver you wanted to miss the next stop on your pre-arranged itinerary? Maybe he’s already headed towards where he thought you wanted to go and turning around now takes another 30 minutes. Communication is the key.
Wherever possible download and use WhatsApp, a free text and calling app over wifi, to communicate with your driver, giving him a heads-up 10-20 minutes before you are ready to leave for the next destination. He may have had to park some distance away from your current location depending on the availability and cost of parking in the immediate vicinity.
If you start your tour in the morning it will be assumed you have had breakfast. If you want to stop somewhere for breakfast make that clear, although it will naturally cut into your travel time.
The same for lunch — it’s always best to have at least the kind of food you want for lunch — be it a local warung (restaurant) or a popular well-known eatery.
13. Connect with your driver using WhatsApp.
Download WhatsApp. Everyone in Indonesia uses WhatsApp — a free smartphone application that allows you to text and call using the Internet or WiFi, and is very cost-effective if you bought a SIM card at the airport so you don’t get hit with exorbitant data roaming charges from your home telco provider.
It’s an easy learning curve and I’ve had anyone with a smartphone of all ages using it easily and painlessly in minutes.
The best thing is you can be in constant contact with your driver, so you don’t have to worry about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. One of the best features is to send your current location via text which provides a GPS map directly to where you actually are.
Even better — you can send a photo of what’s in front of you so there is no doubt where you are. Think about this common scenario. You are shopping your way down Ubud markets and have arranged with your driver to meet at the northern entrance when you were dropped off. The northern end is a terrible place to be picked up anyway, so you should shop your way down to the southern end of the laneway. Sending a photo makes it crystal clear where you are and avoids simple misunderstandings and mistakes when getting your driver to meet you.
13. Plan your toilet breaks and communicate with your driver.
Communicate with your driver well beforehand so you don’t get caught in traffic or a rural area without somewhere that has clean, serviceable toilets.
A great driver will know where the best toilet stops are. Maybe at a Mcdonald’s if travelling back via the highways from Ubud, or a little-known warung with clean and serviceable toilets in the middle of nowhere. A great driver will know where the best bathroom breaks are. Make sure you ask for a toilet break at least 20 minutes ahead of time, or at the very least your driver knows how to stop and find it while travelling through suburban areas with no public amenities.
14. How much to tip your driver.
Tipping practices in Bali vary greatly, but here are some simples rules that will help you tip the appropriate amount and reward great service.
As I write above, the length of time a driver will be at your disposal ranges from 8 to 12 hours. If you get a cheaper driver it will likely be for 8 hours, but the amount my drivers work for is 10 hours for a full-day hire or 12 hours for trips to North Bali.
While no tip is expected, it’s always welcome and demonstrates your appreciation in a very direct financial way while also making your driver feel valued. A small tip would be IDR50k. Less than that wouldn’t be an insult, but it could be viewed negatively relative to the total amount paid for the day.
I recommend IDR100k – 300k if your driver has done a great job and you’ve experienced an excellent day out. IDR500k – 1.000k per day will be greeted with joy and represents a solid bonus for an excellent job. This isn’t much in foreign currency terms – around AUD$50-100.
Considering the minimum monthly salary in Bali can be as low as IDR2.200.000 (or lower), it is a meaningful amount. If you have a multi-day booking then these guidelines still apply.
If your driver books tickets for attractions for something like Elephant Park rides, White Water Rafting or other adventure activities they quite likely get a commission on ticket sales, usually around 20% but sometimes more. There’s nothing wrong with this at all, as it augments their income and is a naturally accepted part of the tourism business in Bali.
I’m so glad I used Michael’s network of the best drivers!
Very good rates for one-way transfers and full-day drivers (10-12 hours), often much better pricing than your fancy hotel will offer you. My driver was smart and kind and the car was nice, cool, and comfy. I'm so glad I used Michael's network of the best drivers! And it's a wonderful bonus that you can pay with a credit card too. 🙂
I would like to explore Ubud, East Bali, and North Bali over 7 days. I know I can book day tours to these areas from Ubud, but it seems like I could see more and be more efficient if I stayed overnight in these areas – maybe two or three nights in Ubud, and a couple nights apiece in East and North Bali? Does it make sense to hire a driver for this entire trip? How would that work? Or does it really make more sense just to stay in Ubud for a week and take a series of day trips?
Hi Jim,
A very good question.
I do have the “Overnight Option” when booking a Private Car & Driver for the day .
It would make sense if you’re really trying to fill out your 7 days rich of activities.
Alternatively, if you stayed in Ubud for the week and opted for the day trips, it might be a bit much for you to go back and forth, with a lot of potential time lost to simply driving, (of course depending on how far away you’ll be headed.)
If only a couple of day trips, I would suggest staying in Ubud and exploring from there.
But if you have a lot to see, it would be better to book a driver for those days and have the freedom, and also save a ton of time.
Safe travels,
Michael
Going to Book Ubud #3 tour for day 1 and a driver for day 2, not sure how to indicate that on the booking form. For Day 2 I plan on having the driver take me to Tulamben to scuba dive (booked seperatly) and want to make a few stops on the way there and back.
Thanks!
Hi Kasey,
I would suggest booking 2 separate tours as they are different costs.
For Day 1, you’ll be booking the Ubud Day Tour (Itinerary 3)
For Day 2, you’ll be booking a Private Car and Driver and selecting East Bali Day Tour
Safe travels,
Michael
Michael,
We are planning a trip to Bali where at a certain point we will be heading off to Nusa and Gilli. What’s the best way of going about arranging transport in this situation? As for the 4/5 days where we are on the islands we wont need a driver but are likely to need one on our return.
For extra fun, we leave for the trip in less than a week!
Many thanks, Ben
Hi Ben,
If I read this correctly, you will need a private driver when you’re back to Bali from Gili?
You can still book your private driver for the day(s) that you return.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael, I will be travelling to the Sidemen area from Ubud for 2 days then Munduk area for a further 2 days as per details below..
Sidemen 23-24 July
Munduk 25-26 July
Back to Sanur on the 27th July..no touring this day, just travel cost back to Sanur.
Can I book a car and driver for these days and provide my own itinerary? If so could you please advice cost.
Many Thanks,
Kim (male)
Hi Kim, you can book a private car and driver for as many days as you like and make your own itinerary. Travel back to Sanur can be booked here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
We are a group of 9 traveling to Bali this coming July. I assuming we will need to book two private drivers due to the size of our group. However, my main concern is that out of our group, there are 4 of us that plan to surf every day. For the first part of our trip, we are staying in Seminyak, and we would like to mainly surf in Canggu or Kuta. From research, it looks like the drive to these beaches will be about 25-30ish minutes from where we are staying. Do you have any experience with people using drivers for consistent surfing? For surfing, I am assuming it’s going to be a 3-4 hour time commitment as we would surf in the morning, go back to rest, and then travel with the broader group. Because of this, should we book a separate driver solely for surfing and book another two drivers for travel with our group of 9, or should we have two total drivers and have one of them booked all day (10 hours). I am just unsure of the latter option as we may not go straight from surfing to traveling as we may need some rest. I appreciate all the help thank you!
Hi Nate, You can make 2 bookings for a private car and driver, or book a 13-seat minivan. If you want a short day, book a half-day tour to go surfing.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
My family and I (2 adults, 4 kids aged between 10 & 5) will be traveling to Bali for the first time on 25 July 2023. We’d like to arrange a pickup from the airport to our accommodation in Ubud for the 6 of us. Are we able to arrange a driver to pick us all up from the airport, help us navigate getting through the airport (incl. purchasing sim cards, etc) and get us to our accommodation?
We’re almost certainly interested in a doing a couple of tours from Ubud as well but we’re wondering if it would be best to work that out once we arrive.
Hi Tim, that’s no problem at all. Book an airport transfer with a minivan to Ubud on arrival to account for all your luggage. After booking I’ll email a confirmation that includes my pro tips on stopping at an ATM and buying a SIM card before meeting your driver. You can also read my pro tips for navigating your way through the airport on arrival.
And then when ready for excursions book a private driver for the day, or any one of my day tours.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
Am looking for a morning half day tour to Ubud (9:30 to 2:30pm) – Temple and rice terraces visit is 5 hours enough to cover?
and hoping for another 5 hours to the sunset Kecak fire dance in the late afternoon (3:30 to 8:30pm).
should i ju book a 12 hrs car hirer or 2 half days car rental
Hi Belinda, I think an Ubud Day tour plus Uluwatu and evening show is too much for one day. But a half-day for each is definitely not enough to get there and back. If you want to push it, book an Ubud Tour and see if you can get back in time and then do the evening show in Uluwatu, and pay your driver an extra IDR 100k per hour over 10 hrs for a long day.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I just found your site while doing some research prior to my Bali trip from 30 June – 6 July. It’s my first time and all I have booked so far was 3 nights accommodation in Ubud and 3 nights in Kuta. I really like the idea of hiring a private driver for our trip and would really appreciate if you could help link us with a good one. We are a family of 5 (2 adults and 3 children aged 15, 12, 9). Also, if you could advise us of some itineraries for our time there? Thanks so much!
Hi Trang, I replied to the comment you left on another page asking exactly the same questions. You can book and airport transfer here, and a private car and driver for as many days as you like here. You can get some inspiration for day tour itineraries here.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
We will be traveling to Bali with our two kids of 3 and 5yrs old. Is it possible to book a car with car seats for our kids or are these not available? Thanks in advance.
Cheers,
Ineke
Hi Ineke, not sure if you looked at the booking form for a private car and driver, but it has the option of adding child seats.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
Your blog are really useful and informative for Bali visitors!
Me and my husband will visit Bali in late April. We just roughly planned our first day schedule for now:
arrival at DPS airport around 15:30 —> leave airport and go to a beach at west Uluwatu (e.g., Bingin Beach) for sunset and dinner—> stop by a supermarket —> our hotel (Hideaway Villa near the middle of Uluwatu).
Based on this travel plan, will you recommend hiring a private driver? or any other suggestions? Thank you very much.
Hi Jan, sounds like the airport transfer + day tour is perfect for you.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi,
Michael, I am visiting Bali on 30th May and will be there for 10 days. We are 6 adults. We will be in Ubud for 4 days, 2 days in Amed and 4 days in Legian/Kuta.
Is it advisable to book a driver and car in advance for a period of 10 days or should I book the car with driver in each location.
Also I would spend 1 day each at the Bali Zoo/Bird Park and Bali Safari including night safari. Since the full day will be spent inside the Zoo / Park, we will require the car only for drop and pick-up on those days. Is it possible to book drop and pick-up on those days?
Hi Pricilla, considering your changing itinerary, I would recommend booking each day separately – although you can book multiple consecutive days for the places you’ll be staying from the same location, as the pricing for south and north Bali is understandably different.
Even though you want to be dropped off and picked up, the driver is still committed to you for the day regardless of the down time in between, and cannot take other bookings, so they still require full day bookings.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
I’m wondering what the biggest vehicle is that can be hired. My husband and I are bringing our 3 kids and their partners over in June for 8 days and we require a vehicle and driver. We’re 2 days in Ubud, then 2 in Nusa Lembongan and 4 days in Seminyak.
Regards
Kim
Hi Kim, you can hire a 13-seat minivan or a 16-seat minibus.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
Thanks for the great information.
I’ll leave my hotel in south Bali at 1 am heading towards Mount Batur and I’ll be back after sunrise. Maybe 7 am. Would you recommend hiring a driver for this even though I’m not going to many places?
Same thing when I arrive in Bali, I will be arriving early in the morning way before hotels check-in. Can I get a driver and go to Uluwatu temple with all my luggage?
Thanks again 🙂
Hi Elsma, you can book a Mt Batur Sunrise Tour for your trek, and you can book an airport transfer plus day tour for your arrival.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael, thanks for all the information on the website! It is very useful.
We (2 adults + 2 kids – 5 and 2 years old) will be travelling to Bali in the first week of Feb. Since our kids are very young, they may not be able to handle a full day of driving around, so we like the half day option that you have available.
We will have two days, so we will most likely book two half days with a private driver.
Do you have any itinerary suggestions for the two days? We will be based in Sanur and would like to see some cultural sites and some other popular tourist attractions. We are all vegetarian, so the seafood dinner would not work for us.
Thanks!
Hi Aj, Bali Bird Park and Bali Zoo are popular with kids, as is Waterbom theme park in Kuta. 5 hours return doesn’t take you far, but your driver can help advise on the day depending on traffic some local cultural attractions.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi, looking at a waterfall day tour on the 4th of February with a pickup from Champlung Mas in Legian for 2 people. We have selected 7 waterfalls that we would like to see. Tegungan, Kanto Lampo, Goa Rang Reng, Tibumana, Tukad Cepung, Peweempu and Sekumpul. If there is time, we can do any extras if suitable.
Thanks
Geoff and Jenny
Hi Geoff, you can hire a private car and driver and choose the North Bali option. You can set your own itinerary with the driver once he has been assigned.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael
I just started planning a 3-4 wks family vacation (2adults 2 children 12 & 8) for May/June 2023 Bali/Gili and found your website. We would like to go with a private driver for transfers, day trips and multiday trips, staying eachtime 3-4 nights at different places (with 5-6 nights at Gili. ). So we would need quite flexible driving options. I will book accomodations in advance.
Can we plan this tour with your driver services? Do I have to do single bookings for the different steps or better book for the whole time except i.e. the Gili week.
Thanks for your feedback.
Ute
Sorry, had trouble sending the question, might come in double
Hi Ute, yes your question came through twice. To maintain flexibility I would be inclined to book a private car and driver for the whole period, excluding the Gili trip. That will give you the most flexibility. If you are planning on staying anywhere except South Bali, please choose the North Bali option and select the driver overnight option so your driver can take you further that just the southern tourist strip.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I am coming to Bali in March-April
I want to enquire about a few trips:
1. One day trip from Ubud to Tirta Empul and Tukad Cepung Waterfall and other interesting places along the way (please advise what else I could see)
2. One day trip from Ubud through Jatiluwih Rice Terrace on the way to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall (and a stop at Munduk village if time permits). Is this possible in one day?
3. One day trip to Lempuyang Temple and Amed from Candidasa
4. One day trip to Sidemen from Candidasa and other interesting places along the way (please advise what else I could see)
5. One day trip to Virgin Beach from Candidasa and other interesting places along the way (please advise what else I could see)
6. Shopping trip to outlets (not sure what the best one is, but I am interested in beachwear and summer clothes – so Rip Curl, Billabong, Roxi, Thaikila and other brands).
Please let me know what else you suggest and how much it would cost for each ot these day trips?
I have already been once to Bali and already did parts of Ubud, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Monkey Forrest, coffee plantation, Goa Gajah, Saraswati temple, Seminyak, Seminyiak beach clubs, Canguu, Uluwatu, Uluwatu temple, Uluwatu beaches and beach clubs, so I don’t want to do those again.
Please let me know.
Thanks,
Adina
Hi Adina, that’s quite a long list of open-ended questions. I will try to respond as best I can with the limited time to provide free advice that I have.
1. You can book an Ubud Day Tour.
2. Yes. Book a Danu Beratan Tour and tell your driver your expected itinerary.
3. If you book an East Bali Day Tour it included entry and shuttle tickets to Lempuyang Temple. Simply set your pickup location to Candidasa and tell your driver you want to go to Amed.
4. You can book a private car and driver for the day and he can be your guide for the day.
5. You can book a private car and driver for the day and he can be your guide for the day.
6. You can book a private car and driver for the day and he can be your guide going to all the shopping outlets and malls along Jalan Sunset Road.
You can find the cost for these tours on the links I have included in this reply. The cost depends on location, the number of passengers and type of vehicle, so you can see for yourself the exact cost on the booking forms.
Safe travels, Michael
Thanks a lot, Michael. I plan to come end or March/early April. Appreciate your help!
Hello MIchael,
Travelling to Bali in Nov and staying out of town
Petak Kaja, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80515, Indonesia
Looking to utilise car and driver for our transport needs.
15 day stay with a mix of Full-Day and Half-Day journeys
Most likely 10-12 hires.
Is it best to do day to day via our villa personnel or make a larger booking?
Is there any cost difference doing day to day vs larger booking?
Looking forward to your advice.
Cheers
Rod
Ho Rodney, you can book your private car and driver directly through me if you want my personally vetted drivers. You can choose to book individual days, or for any number of consecutive days. There’s no cost difference between individual day bookings and longer bookings as our drivers are already on the lowest rate possible. You can also book your airport transfers too.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
After having to cancel a Covid time trip, I’m finally coming to Bali in January! I’ve already booked my airport fast track (will forward passport details when my new passport arrives), a day tour from Ubud and a transfer down to Nusa Dua.
I’m thinking of a couple more day tours while I’m there. What would be your top recommendations from Nusa Dua?
Hi Sally, let me get back to you in a few days, as I have an itinerary that will suit you perfectly.
Fantastic!
Hi Sally – OK, I’ve made some new tours, so here are my recommendations for you. And if you want to change the dates of some of your existing tour bookings, let me know. When in Nusa Dua, do the Uluwatu Day Tour and take in the Kecak Dance performance at sunset. It’s spectacular.
I would swap out you’re existing East Bali Day Tour for the Ubud and East Bali Tour and use it as your transfer from Nusa Dua to Ubud (or vice versa).
Before that, I would recommend any of the Mt Batur Sunrise Trek, Gitgit Waterfall + Tanah Lot Tour or the Ubud Highlights Tour.
That should keep you busy 🙂
Safe travels, Michael
That Uluwatu tour looks perfect!
I will need to rejig a couple of bookings- East Bali #620 on 18/1 & transfer from Ubud #465 on 20/1 so I can do the East Bali/ transferto Nusa Dua combined & book something else for 18/1. Payday next week,so I’ll have a proper sort out then!
Thanks for the suggestions!
Hi Michael
Not sure I have reached.
Posting a second time. Apologies.
Hi Michael
Traveling to Bali in two parts. We are three people on two different airlines and arrival and departure dates and time.
Part One – 23-26 September.
23rd afternoon – Airport transfer to A hotel in Ubud.
24th Morning – Airport transfer to the same hotel.
24th Day Tour
25th Day Tour
26the morning – Airport transfer for all 3 to go to Yogya.
PART – II
2nd October – Airport transfer to Ubud hotel for all three people.
2nd October : Day tour.
3rd October Day Tour/shopping / museum
4th October – airport transfer for one person [ flight at 10.00 am] and car to be used by other to go around.
4th October. airport transfer for the other group = flight out at 5.00 pm.
Thankyou for putting together a very precise and useful website. It is immensely helpful.
Ms Irpinder Bhatia INDIA
Hi Irpinder – just to be clear, I do not see any bookings under your name or email address.
You can book airport transfers here, and if you want to spend the whole day as opposed to just being dropped off at your hotel choose the + Day Tour option.
Regarding you day tours, you can book a private car and driver or look through some of my itineraries to find what suits your requirements.
And for transfer back to Bali Airport the same applies.
Hope this helps. Let me know if there is anything else you need.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
Do the drivers/guides that you pay for the day pay for their own entrances to the tourist attractions/sites? Or is it expected that we pay for theirs as well as our own on top of the 500k-900k day fee?
Many Thanks,
Theo
Hi Theo – it depends. The daily rate that I charge for our driver network (I can’t speak for others) doesn’t include entry fees to attractions, but then they don’t usually go into the actual attractions, they help you get tickets then park and wait. If you want them to, then you would be expected to pay for their entrance fees.
Safe travels, Michael
Thank you for the prompt response.
Final couple of questions from me. How much does it typically cost for a taxi for each of the below journeys?:
1. Seminyak (centre) to Aiport
2. Seminyak (centre) to Ubud (centre)
Hi Theo – you can book a transfer to the airport from Seminyak will cost AUD$45.
You can also book a transfer from Seminyak to Ubud for AUD$55.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
My husband and I will be arriving on Dec 25th 2022 at 13:00 on the Oceania Cruise Ship at the Benoa Cruise Terminal and departing on Dec 26th at 17:00. We are interested in booking a half day tour for the 25th and a full day tour for the 26th. My question, will your driver be able to pick us up from the cruise terminal.
Looking forward to your replay. Thank you,
Irene
Hi Irene – yes, you can be picked up from the terminal.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi Michael,
I am looking for a driver in September for my partner and myself, pick up in Kintamanu at approx 0400, catch sunrise at Pura Lempayung, and then drive down to our next accommodation in Uluwatu. I understand it’s about 5 hours driving, plus temple time so it would be the 12 hour tour is that correct?
Also do your drivers recommend food stops along the way or would I have to map out Warung stops myself?
Kind regards
Olivia
Hi Olivia – I replied in more detail to the same comment you left on the private car and driver booking page.
Oh sweet, I got an error message so thought it hadn’t posted, sorry for the double up,
Olivia
No problem, happy to help.
We are wanting to hire a driver to take us from our first hotel Rumah Luwih in Gianyar to Ulu Segara near Nusa Dua with maybe a little sight seeing on the way and don’t know the best way to organise this or what the cost would be
Hi Michelle. A lot would depend on how many people you have and how much luggage needs transferring. I recommend booking a private car and driver here for 1-4 people with luggage, or a minivan with driver for more than 5 people with luggage for the day. That way you can take your time and do some sightseeing.
Saf travels — Michael
There is no real tipping culture in Bali, although a tip of course is always appreciated. If you’re not happy with the service the driver has provided then don’t feel obliged to tip at all. Just as an aside, I think that 500,000 rupiah for a 10 hour day is too little.
Hi,
Is it possible if the private car will pick us up at the airport, go directly to the tour then drop us after at the hotel?
Hi Arnaldo. Yes, that is why we have an airport transfer plus day tour service.
Safe travels, Michael
Hi, could you tell me where I could change South African Rands in Bali ,thanks
Hi Cheryl. Sure can. I wrote a post on how to change cash at money changers in Bali.
Safe travels, Michael.
If you booked a driver for 4 days going from east to north Bali then back down south and that driver was staying with you how much would you expect to pay? I’d like the price to include car, fuel, driver, parking fees, and their accommodations. Thanks
Hi Jes,
I’ve updated the private car and driver form, so it now displays an overnight fee option for your driver should you be doing a longer trip to North or South Bali.
The overnight fee is IDR 300k, which includes the driver’s accommodation and meals. That way you can book a driver for several days and stay anywhere in Bali.
Hope this helps 🙂
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
Please let me know the charges for private cab with driver for the following Itinerary.
I think I would need private cab+ driver only for Day 2 & Day 4. Planning to visit mid Feb 2020.
Day2: Pick from The Kayon Resort by Pramana, Ubud – Visit – Tegallalang rice terraces, Bali Pulina Coffe Plantation,
Tegenungan waterfall, Lunch with Mt Batur view (The Lookout Resto & Bar – Lakeview Hotel, Kintamani) – Return to resort
Day4: 6:00 am reach Lempuyang temple (start by 4 or 5) – The Gates of Heaven, Tirta Gangga, Lunch and Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple. Return to Hotel.
Questions:
1. Charges for Day 2 & Day 4 private cab+driver.
2. DPS airport to The Kayon Resort by Pramana, Ubud charges.
3. U Paasha Seminyak Hotel to DPS airport drop charges.
Hi Michael,
There are changes in itinerary .
Day 1. DPS airport to Vrindavan ubud villa.
Day 2. Tegallalang rice terraces, Bali Pulina Coffe Plantation,
Tegenungan waterfall, Lunch with Mt Batur view (The Lookout Resto & Bar – Lakeview Hotel, Kintamani) – Return to resort
Day 3 – Transfer to U Paasha seminyak hotel and in evening tanah lot temple sunset tour
Day 4 – 6:00 am reach Lempuyang temple (start by 4 or 5) – The Gates of Heaven, Tirta Gangga
Day 5 – leasure
Day 6 – U Paasha Seminyak Hotel to DPS airport drop charges.
Kindly let us know the charges. We would require private cab + driver on Day1 to Day 4 and on Day6.
Hi Michael,
This is Mahesh planning to hire a cab for 3 days in Bali excluding pick up from airport to the hotel (near to airport only). we already planned a few places to visit an will let you know once I get an email from you. Please let me know the price and other details to the email I’d attached below.
Thanks,
Cheers,
Mahesh
Hi Mahesh,
The price is shown on the booking page for hiring a private car and driver for your day tours. I’m assuming that’s all you need to know. If there is something else, please reply to this comment and I will do my best to help.
Safe travels,
Michael
Yeah, Thank you Michael for your kind words and happy to see your response. I was confused with the figures and deposit amount? Could you please explain to me the total amount charged and deposit to be paid? In addition, May I know whether there is any time limit like 10 hours per day? Looking forward to hearing back from you soon.
Hi Mahesh,
If you are confused that means my booking process is confusing. And I want to make this easy for you (and everyone else).
You can book a private car and driver for IDR 800k per day – which includes up to 10 hours drive time – and anything over that at IDR 100k per hour.
While I have made the booking forms to only take a deposit, with the remaining amount payable in cash to the driver, I’m thinking this makes things confusing.
I will amend the booking forms to charge the total amount payable – making things simpler and easier to understand.
I hope this helps. Your comments are very much appreciated.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi, I was wondering if 3 day car hire would fit my plan of this itinerary this december and how much would it cost?
dec2. from sleepwell seminyak hotel to gitgit, hidden hills, handarah please advise a temple to add a temple? can we do pura tirta empul? then back to hotel
dec 3. from sleepwell seminyak hotel to ubud tegalalang paddocks and swing with coffee break later on to try kopi luwak. , besakih temple ubud royal family temple taman saraswati back to hotel
dec4. early check out then to uluwatu temple tanah lot bedugul market garuda vishnu kencana check in at new hotel at bukal sari villas then lunch at sundays beach club all afternoon then hotel
thank you
huda and gem
Hi Huda,
Thanks for asking. I will send you an email tomorrow regarding the cost of your itinerary – but please know what you describe is physically impossible. Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot and Bedugul are literally the furthest apart attractions you could choose. I have a much easier itinerary for you, including all the attractions you mention. But right now I’m in transit from Vietnam. so cannot email immediately.
Safe travels,
Michael
thank you micheal, will wait for your email about pricing and the itinerary.
hi micheal, is the price per person or per car/daily? I tried to book and look at the pricing for 3 days it summed up to 127.50 aud. However the deposit is 127.50?
Please advise
thank you
huda and gem
Hi Huda,
The price is per car, not per person. You are paying for the driver’s time, and unlike other services, I do not charge more for (or less) for day tours based on the number of passengers.
The AUD$127.50 represents a 50% deposit, with the remaining 50% being paid directly to the driver at the start of your tour. I do this so you have the confidence to book, knowing that only 50% of the booking is non-refundable.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi, I was wondering if 3 day car hire would fit my plan of this itinerary this november.
nov 2. from sleepwell seminyak hotel gitgit, hidden hills, handarah please advise a temple to add can we do pura tirta empul? back to hotel
nov 3. from sleepwell seminyak hotel ubud tegalalang paddocks and swing with coffee break later on to try kopi luwak. , besakih temple ubud royal family temple taman saraswati back to hotel
nov 4 early check out then to uluwatu temple tanah lot bedugul market garuda vishnu kencana check in at new hotel at bukal sari villas then lunch at sundays beach club all afternoon then hotel
Hi Huda,
Just letting you know I responded to several of your other comments and sent you an email.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
I’m looking to use your service to book a driver for a few days. We’re going to be staying in a hotel in Canggu and Ubud. Is it a problem to book a driver for a day starting from a Canggu Hotel, a day from one to the other and then a day from Ubud? And should it be separate bookings if starting from different hotels or combined?
Many thanks
Sean
Hi Sean,
Just make one booking for 3 days, with the pickup from the day one hotel, and then let your driver know which hotels to pick you up from for the following day.
Safe travels,
Michael
i know its late but flying out at 11 pm tonight. i wana do a half day but will pay for full day. staying at kuta paradiso. happy to leave at 10 if that gives you time. i want to go to the monkey forest and maybe the falls. is that enough time? need to be back by 7 at latest.
Hi Jimmy,
Sure thing. Just use the booking form and make a reservation.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael, I would like a driver to drive from Seminak to Lovina and then three days later Lovina to Legian. Is it possible to arrange that with you. What would be the cost? We will require the service in December. I can provide dates in email if that suits.
Hi Sonya,
I’ll send an email so you can respond with dates.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael
Thank you. Would it be possible please for you to advise me of your email address so I can send you the dates.
Hi Sonya,
Even better than an email, I’ve made a booking form specifically for transfers from South Bali to Lovina – and another for transfers from Lovina to South Bali.
Hopefully, this will make booking your transfers dead easy.
Safe travels!
Michael
Hello Michael,
Me and my family are arriving into Bali on Sunday, is it possible to arrange a pick up from the airport and keep the car for the entire day to go to the zoo? Is it possible to get your whatsapp number? Mine is [——]
Hi Karan,
You can book an airport pickup plus day tour here. That way you can get picked up from the airport and keep the car and driver for up to 10 hours to going sightseeing and shopping exactly as you described.
I don’t publish my number for security reasons, and I’ve edited yours out of the comments so it isn’t visible to everyone.
Trust this is what you are after.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
My wife and I are taking our first trip to Bali from Australia next March. We are staying at the Melia Bali in Nusa Dua and were thinking of hiring one of your drivers for a day just to drive us around other nearby areas like Kuta and Seminyak etc just to take in the local sights at our own pace – not knowing Bali at all. Are your drivers able to do this without any real guidance from us on where to go and show us the best sights.
Regards, Gary
Hi Gary,
Absolutely. My drivers know Bali exceptionally well and will take you to see the sights with little or any guidance.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Micheal,
I am plainning to visit Bali from 08th March 2020 to 14th March 2020.
Can you please provide a cost for the below itinerary?
8th March – pick up at the airport, Denpasar & drop to Kampung Resort, Ubud
9th March – Visit Lempuyang Temple/ Tirta Gangga/ Tukad Cepung Waterfall and drop back at Kampung Resort, Ubud
10th March – Morning trek to Mount Batur and then Wanagiri Hidden Hills/ Jungle Swing and drop back at Kampung Resort, Ubud
11th March – Pick up at Kampung Resort, Ubud drop at Padang Padang Inn.
13th March – Shopping at Kuta & drop at Maharani Beach Hotel
14th March – Shopping at Denpasar and lunch at Mrs Sippy Bali then visit Tanah Lot and drop back to Maharani Beach Hotel.
Appreciate if you can provide me the transport cost per day ASAP.
Thank you in advance
Hi Viraj,
Thanks for the inquiry. That’s a great itinerary! I’ll drop you an email soon with detailed pricing.
Safe travels,
Michael
I am genuinely grateful to the holder of this web page who has shared this fantastic post at at this place.
Michael, You have a ton of good stuff to read. I read somewhere you mentioned “your villas” but I don’t see any listed. Do you offer villa rentals?
Thanks
Faruza
Hi Faruza,
Have a look at this luxury villa in Seminyak.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
Do you have 10 – 12 seater van with driver? How much would it be for 8 hours?
Hi Soo Ping,
Yes, I do. You can book a private driver and 12-seat Minivan here.
If you reply to this comment with how many days you need it for, the number of people and expected destinations I may be able to put together a quote including driver overnight charges if you plan on travelling around Bali.
Safe travels,
Michael
Thank you for all of the wonderful details provided. I am a travel writer visiting Bali for the first time in November and your information was extremely helpful. I need to hire a driver for 7 full days, but I was wondering if you have anywhere I can see reviews of your services? I am unable to find your services anywhere else and feel uncomfortable about paying up front without more details. Thank you very much for your help!
Hi Aimee,
Thanks for dropping by and asking about reviews. So far I’ve only been publishing some ad-hoc reviews sent to me by customers. I haven’t yet set up a review system because as yet I haven’t needed one, nor have I been asked before, as we only take a 50% deposit on booking.
I understand if this doesn’t inspire confidence, but I’m pleased my writing is something you found extremely helpful.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Aimee,
As we previously discussed, having a dedicated review page is worth the effort to make, so I did – you can read all the reviews submitted so far here.
Great idea, thanks for the feedback 🙂
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael….
Looking for some advise.
Are we trapped?
I booked us into a resort, was told it was 1 1/2 hours from Kuta…. it’s not… it’s 3 hours west. Puri Dajuma… we would like to hire a driver to come pick us up and take us to Kuta/Seminyak for some shopping for a few hours then take us to the airport. On Sunday …. it would be a full day., maybe more than 10hours….
I can’t find any local drivers and the hotel charges $80AU just to take us to and from the airport (each way). $80 for 3 hours….
Do you know of any drivers up towards this way?
We are feeling a little stranded and cornered to pay the hotels transfers….
Very misled on how far away this is, as beautiful as it is! (And it is a stunning resort).
Any advise would be appreciated….
Kind regards
Dee
Hi Dee,
You can book a driver for the whole day here. It’s an extra IDR100k on the day because you are so far away from the normal service area of South Bali. That should solve your issue of being trapped.
Safe travels,
Michael
Thanks Michael!
Will book tomorrow for pick up Sunday.
Appreciate your help!
Hello,
Although the website says book a day in advance, can I book from today for tomorrow? And, is there a way where I could have my driver pick me up at 2 am to start a trip to mount Batur (reach at sunrise)? How much is it if we extend till 12 hours instead of 10 (or is that possible)?
thanks for the tips, most informative website I saw
Hi Dee,
The reason we need a day before booking is to allow time to allocate a driver. You didn’t mention where you would like to be picked up from, and without that, I can’t get in touch with a local driver to ask if being picked up at 2 AM is going to be OK. Do you have a pickup address I can use as a reference?
And as the article describes if you go over 10 hours, IDR100k per or part hour is payable directly to the driver, which is only fair for such a long working day.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael,
I’m in bali now and we want to book a driver with you for this sunday the 15th if possible.
> But what’s the price for a 10 hour day? I saw something of 600K?
> And can i send you our time schedule so you can check if it’s feasible please?
I have an indonesian phone number but my whatsapp is connected to my Belgian number..
Thanks!
Hi Phil,
The price for a day tour anywhere in South Bali is IDR800k. You can make a booking here.
The most efficient method for figuring out if your itinerary is feasible is to use Google Maps to plot your intended route. That will give you an approximate travel time, which is usually underestimated because it’s not allowing for traffic conditions.
If you do book a day tour we will connect you with your driver a few days beforehand so you can co-ordinate your intentions with him, and your tour is flexible, so if you spend a lot of time at one destination you can adjust so you return home when you feel like it.
Or if you leave a comment with your intended destinations, I’ll check with one of my drivers to see what they think regarding total trip time.
Hope this helps!
Safe travels,
Michae
Hi Michael,
I’m looking for a lift for myself and my daughter for tomorrow, 13th September, from Ubud to Nusa Dua. Is it too late to book? If not, what is the cost and is it worth stopping anywhere on the way?
Best wishes
Nette
Hi Nette,
You can book a driver for the day online for tomorrow if you book in the next hour.
And if you’re looking for inspiration have a read of the best attractions in Bali.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi ,
We will highley recommand Putu! He was our private driver for a day and did a very good job !
Thank you !
Lore and Louise
Hi Lore,
Thanks for the shout-out, I’ll make sure to let him know.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi there Michael!
My friend and I will be in Bali the second week of October. We wanted to know your availability and a quote as well if possible!
Thanks.
Hi Anna,
What did you have in mind that I should be available for? ???
“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” – Anthony Bourdain
I hope this answers your question.
Safe travels,
Michael
Hi Michael, I found your website today, is it to late to hire a driver for tomorrow (25 Ago)?
Hi Javier,
I’m afraid so 🙁
Bookings need at least 1 days notice. But thanks for stopping by!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
What is the best way to contact you for this service? I have a couple questions for you before booking!
Thank you,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Feel from to leave a question in the comments and I’ll attend to them as soon as I can. Thanks for dropping by.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
Thank you for all the great information! Two quick questions for you. I’m hoping to book a drive for multiple non-consecutive days (Sept 12-13 and Sept 16-17 but in different locations). Would this be 4 separate bookings (one per day) or two separate bookings? If the latter, does that mean I also pay for the overnight costs even though it’s one location?
Secondly, do your drivers do one-way drop offs (i.e. start in Seminyak and drop off in Ubud?) I’m assuming I would pay for their time back to the original location, but I’m trying to figure out the best way to get to different cities on the island!
Thank you and please let me know!
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
If I read your question correctly, you need a driver for pickup for a day tour in one location on one day, and another location on the 2nd day. That’s fine for one booking, so that way you keep the same driver. As long as the pickup is in the service area described, no problem.
Yes, you can be dropped off somewhere other than the pickup location – as long as you’re mindful of the tour day ending with enough time for the driver to return home.
Hope this helps,
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
I’m visiting Bali in October and was hoping to get a private driver who can pick me up as early as 4:30am to Lempuyang Temple from Ubud. I’m wondering if your drivers can manage that early pick up? I am solo traveler by the way. Is there any additional charge if you are solo? Thank you!
Hi Jannna,
Yes, they can pick up that early. Travelling solo is to be applauded – there is no extra charge 🙂
Hope you have a great Bali holiday!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
I am traveling to Bali next month for few days, and it’s my first time being there. I am having a hard time to decide some of the better place among so many amazing destinations in Bali. Can I have some suggestions? And if I book with you, is there an option get the entrance tickets (if any) ahead of time?
Hi Francis,
Thanks for dropping by. Your comment about entrance tickets makes me think you want recommendations for attractions, in which case you might want to read my article on the best tourist attractions in Bali.
I don’t sell entrance tickets to these, but you can easily get them on the day. If this doesn’t answer your question, please let me know. I’m happy to help.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
First of all splendid work on the tips & tricks for visiting Bali. I’m traveling alone so it’s really interesting.
Perhaps a stupid question. But when you use a taxi (or private driver), when do you pay? Because if you pay at the start, they can simply disappear with the money. But if I pay at the end, they probably don’t want to drive me.
Another question. What about renting a scooter? The traffic jams are great, I’ve heard? Perhaps good for shorter distances?
You have some good rental companies for this?
ps: I’ll be arriving on the 4th of September and staying for a month. Probably I will be using your services, because I don’t like to bother too much with fee negotiations or false drivers on holiday.
Thanks a lot!
Hi Phil,
Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement, it’s very much appreciated.
When you use a taxi – please read my article on catching a taxi in Bali – you should insist on using the meter and pay at the end.
If you are using a private driver that you have hired yourself, its normal practice to pay at the end of the day. If you book a private car and driver online with me, by definition you are paying upfront – but the risk is removed because we are clearly and demonstrably a trusted service.
You may want to read my article on renting a scooter in Bali for some tips and advice, and a couple of trustworthy rental companies that include insurance.
Hope you have a great time!
Cheers,
Michael
Thanks Michael for your response!
One more thing..How long in advance should I book a driver with you? I’m not sure what my planning is going to be. I love the “go with the flow”-vibe, you see 🙂
Thanks a bunch!
Hi Phil,
Two days minimum, but a week is optimal to make sure we can cater to your needs.
Enjoy your Bali holiday!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi there
Would you have a driver available for day on 13th aug for family of 4 to travel from Legian to Ubud- to visit
swings, rice fields, water fall and Kintamani?
Thank you
Hi Tania,
Yes, we do. You can make a booking here. Have a great trip!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael, I would like to book a driver for 7 days for a group of 6 pax. We will be arriving from airport on Nov 24 and traveling from Jimbaran (Nov 25) to Baturiti (1 night) to Pemuteran (2 nights) to Ubud (2 nights) & then back to airport. Would it be possible to arrange lodging for your driver in these farther away locations? We may not need a driver on Nov 17, but I am willing to hire them for the duration if it makes the whole arrangement possible. Thanks for your consideration.
Hi Olivia,
I’m making arrangements with my drivers now and will email you the details shortly. Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment 🙂
Cheers,
Michael
Hi
Do you cater for day trips from Seminyak to Uluwatu, and back to our hotel in Seminyak?
Hi Bianca,
Sure do. Book a private car and driver and you can be picked up from your hotel in Seminyak for a day trip to Uluwatu and be dropped off back at your hotel.
Thanks for dropping by 🙂
Cheers,
Michael
I will be in Bali for 10 days September 25 to October 7, myself and wife want to hire driver for day, any recommendations, say from 9am till 6 pm.
We are staying at Segara Village in Sanur.
Thanks
Tommy Nolan
Hi Tommy,
Thanks for leaving a comment. Not sure if you read the article, but you can hire a private car and driver right here. Everything you need to know about the service is explained so you know what you’re getting.
Trust this helps!
Michael
Is it possible to book one of your private drivers if our day tour will start from our hotel and end at the airport?
Hi Joshua,
Yes is it, that’s totally ok. Just tell your driver at the beginning of the trip so he can plan on getting you there in time, and be mindful if you go over 10 hours or part thereof to pay the extra IDR100k per hour in cash.
Enjoy your tour!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi, I will be staying at candidasa.. will u provide drivers there
Hi Amritha,
I’m afraid not. It’s a little too far from where all my best drivers are based, but thanks for getting in touch.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi, We are looking for a driver for wedding shoot and also sightseeing and shopping, the dates are 23july to 26 july this year. How are the rates like and any recommendations. Thanks!
Hi Benjamin,
Thanks for your comment. Did you read the article? It explains rates in some detail, and there is also a link to the online reservation form to book my recommended drivers directly.
Hope this helps and good luck with the wedding!
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael, I think there is an issue with the links? Can you please email me – we are a couple planning to stay from 26-Aug to 30-Aug and are exploring options on whether to book a driver for the entire duration or go day-wise. Hoping to hear from you.
Hi Swayam,
You didn’t specify what links you are having an issue with. I’ll send you an email as requested. Happy to help.
Cheers,
Michael
Hello. Do you have recomendations for drivers in august? Very helpful article 🙂
Thanks!
Hi Paola,
Thanks for the comments, much appreciated. The small number of trustworthy drivers I use for the guests in my villa prefer I make the arrangements, so there are no communication issues or double bookings. I’ll send you an email.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael, thank you for this post. It’s super helpful. I’d like to know the names of some drivers whom you’d recommend for a 8-10 hour day?
Hi Xiaoyun,
Thanks for the comments, much appreciated. The small number of trustworthy drivers I use for the guests in my villa prefer I make the arrangements, so there are no communication issues or double bookings. I’ll send you an email.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi,
My wife and I spending a few days in Seminyak 8-13th August followed by the remaining days in Ubud 13th – 16th August. We are considering some options for tours or alternatively taking a driver and viewing the locations at our own pace. What’s the cost of a driver?
Thanks
Hi Farooq,
There is a whole section under # 5 in the article above dedicated to pricing. Rather than repeating the entire section here I’ll just point you towards reading it if that’s ok?
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Micheal,
I am going to Bali in June 2020 with my family and will be based in Ubud. I would like a good recommendation for a driver who can do a full day trip to Gunung Batur region and Jatiluwih. A large air conditioned SUV for my family of 5 would be great. Is it also possible to leave at 7am, with return projected to be around 630pm? Thank you in advance!
Hi Clarence,
Thanks for the comment. They prefer I book for them so there are no communication issues or double bookings. I’ll send you an email.
But leaving at 7 am, and returning at 6:30 pm is no problem. Just remember that over 10 hours is an extra IDR100k per hour.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael, my husband and I are coming over in August and are interested in booking a driver for a few tours, shopping, day trips and evening outings. Some days we may stay local. To be flexible, it best to book a driver for the whole trip and just pay for a day even if it’s not used?
Hi Leah,
That’s exactly what I recommend to all my guests. If you book a driver for your whole trip, then you have the freedom and flexibility to go where you want, when you want. And if you miss a day, then it’s so cheap it doesn’t really matter. Although the chances are you’ll still use him for shopping or going to dinner.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael,
Would you mind sharing contact information of your preferred drivers?
Cheers,
Jelle
Hi Jelle,
Thanks for the comment. They prefer I book for them so there are no communication issues or double bookings.
I’ll send you an email.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael
Thanks for your post – very informative and helpful.
My wife and i will be visiting Seminyak Bali at the end of July. 24th to 31st.We would like to look at hiring a reliable driver that knows the places to see in Bali /Udub such as Waterfalls Elephants temple etc etc and also use him for shopping trips night markets etc on an hourly basis.Could you please advise us the name of a driver and expected costs.
Thanking you in advance
John
Hi John,
If you want a private car and driver (6-seater air-conditioned SUV) I can book one for you at a cost of IDR800k per day.
It’s incredibly good value and cheaper than adding up all the taxis and other transport you may need during your holiday.
I have a very trustworthy driver that I use frequently. He makes an exceptional tour guide and gets consistent 5-star reviews. He’s available for 8-10 hours each day, includes fuel and will wait for you while sightseeing or dining.
Booking early is important to confirm availability.
I just sent you an email, so let me know either way.
And thanks for the kind comments, much appreciated.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael
Thank you for your post – very helpful
We have never been to Bali and are heading over early August for a short trip – we only have 5 days so thought a car and driver would be a great way to see the highlights of Bali for a day. Does the driver you recommend have a sightseeing itinerary like this or would we need to specify what we would like to see? Would love the contact for your driver please – we use Whats App also if this is the easiest? Many thanks
Hi Sonya,
I just sent you an email with some details.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi
I am leaving for Bali in August. Any good recommendation for a driver? What is the best way to book for a driver.
Hi Nabila,
If you want a private car and driver (6-seater air-conditioned SUV) I can book one for you at a cost of IDR800k per day.
It’s incredibly good value and cheaper than adding up all the taxis and other transport you may need during your holiday.
I have a very trustworthy driver that I use frequently. He makes an exceptional tour guide and gets consistent 5-star reviews. He’s available for 8-10 hours each day, includes fuel and will wait for you while sightseeing or dining.
Booking early is important to confirm availability.
I just sent you an email, so let me know either way.
Cheers,
Michael
How much a private driver charge for a day? Any good recommendation of the driver? We are going in August.
Thank you
Hi Karen,
A reliable, trustworthy, knowledgeable driver with a large 6-seater SUV will cost Rp800k for an 8-hour day (possibly stretching to a 10-hour day for no extra charge) with overtime at a very cheap Rp100k per hour.
You can get cheaper, but you will be compromising on the vehicle, reliability, trustworthiness or knowledge.
I’ll send you an email directly with my recommendations.
Cheers,
Michael
Just wondering what “one day” means? 8, 10 or 12 hours or…?
You don’t really say.
You mention that IDR800k (a day) would be the cost for a good driver.
Hi Deborah,
Thanks so much for the comment. A day generally refers to 8 consecutive hours. Some drivers include up to 10 hours in their daily rate.
I’ll update the article accordingly, and thanks again for dropping by and leaving a comment. Much appreciated.
Hi Michael! Left a comment earlier but don’t see it posted so hope you don’t mind the double posting! Your website has been such a great help in giving advice on how to get around bali for us newbies! We are planning to get a driver for a half day airport pick up to our hotel in Kuta, then full day driver service for the next 3 days to explore beach clubs in seminyak and jimbaran! Is it possible to have the same driver for the 3.5 days? As I saw the booking pages for half day and full day tours are separate. Hoping for your advice! Thanks~
Hi Chloe – I am replying. The problem is you are leaving asking questions in random comment threads left by other users, some as far back as 2019.
I’ll send you an email.
Safe travels, Michael