Bali, a picturesque vacation destination, attracts visitors from all over the world. When planning your trip to this island, you’ll inevitably face an important question: Should you hire a private car or use ride-hailing services? In this article, I’ll share our experiences with both options to help you make the best choice.
The safest and most convenient transportation methods in Bali are ‘private car hire’ and ‘ride-hailing services.’ Private car hire allows you to use a driver for a set period (usually 10 or 5 hours) to take you wherever you want, while ride-hailing services like Gojek or Grab offer point-to-point travel similar to taxis.
Further Reading: Essential Apps for Traveling in Indonesia/Bali: A Complete Guide to Gojek
Pros and Cons of Private Car Hire
- Customized Itinerary: Private car hire offers a personalized travel experience, allowing you to arrange your schedule based on your preferences and needs, with flexible timing for visiting attractions and complete control over your travel pace.
- Professional Guide: Most private car drivers are local guides who are familiar with the culture and attractions, providing expert navigation services.
- Pre-Trip Planning: The driver will discuss your itinerary with you to ensure a smooth journey.
- Comfort: Private cars offer a private and comfortable space, allowing you to relax during your travels without external disturbances.
- No Waiting: Once you finish visiting a site, a quick call or message will have your driver ready to take you to the next destination, offering VIP treatment.
- Attentive Service: Many drivers can help watch your children, take care of your luggage while you explore, and quickly arrange for any sudden cravings or shopping needs.
- Photography: If you’re lucky, some drivers may even take photos for you, and some are quite skilled at it. However, it’s worth noting that this is not their obligation, so consider it a bonus.
- Cons: Higher cost, typically around IDR 600,000 (USD $39) or more for a 10-hour rental (including driver and fuel).
Pros and Cons of Ride-Hailing Services
- Cost-Effective: Hailing a ride is usually more economical than hiring a private car (only via apps), especially for short trips or when you need transportation to and from a single destination.
- Instant Availability: You can hail a ride anytime, anywhere, without needing to book in advance, making it ideal for sudden transportation needs.
- Flexibility: You can change your itinerary and destination on the go, without being tied to a pre-arranged schedule.
- Avoid Traffic Jams: There’s also a “motorbike taxi” option, where you ride on the back of a motorcycle. This is the least affected by traffic congestion.
- Drawbacks of Hailing a Ride: You might have to wait outdoors in the heat for the ride to arrive, which could take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes. Most drivers are concentrated in busy areas, so if you’re in or heading to a remote location, it might be harder to find a driver willing to take your request. Most drivers aren’t keen on chatting, and some don’t speak English. They can’t provide services like “suddenly craving mangosteens,” “wanting to try snake fruit for the first time,” or “do you know where to buy small scissors?”
Private Car or Hailing a Ride? How to Choose?
If your itinerary involves long-distance travel, there may be fewer drivers willing to accept your request, as they’d be leaving their familiar area and risking an empty return trip. In such cases, hiring a private car might be a better option. This saves you time and energy, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your trip without constantly hailing and waiting for rides.
You can refer to/apply the following formula to choose the most cost-effective/safe transportation method:
- Need to exchange currency, get a SIM card, or go to the supermarket upon arriving in Bali ▶ Private car
- Visiting more than two or three attractions in a day ▶ Private car
- Itinerary includes long-distance travel across regions ▶ Private car
- Popular photo spots (with long queues) ▶ Private car
- Moving within busy areas ▶ App-hailed ride
- Short round trips to a single destination ▶ App-hailed ride
- Heading to non-busy areas ▶ Private car
- Solo female traveler prioritizing safety ▶ Private car
- Traveling with two or more people ▶ Private car (costs are more affordable when split)
- Traveling with kids and needing extra help ▶ Private car
- Wanting someone to take group photos ▶ Private car
- Changing accommodations/flight return with luggage and sightseeing/dining ▶ Private car
- Short solo trips within the city ▶ App-hailed motorbike
- Unstable weather (rainy season) ▶ Private car
- Staying in suburban/remote areas ▶ Private car
- Don’t want to wait for rides/need VIP treatment ▶ Private car
- Want to chat/need basic explanations ▶ Private car
- Want to make local Balinese friends ▶ Private car
Any good private car driver recommendations? Check out the “Recommended Quality Drivers List” shared by fellow travelers here.
FAQ
Choosing a driver recommended by travel groups adds an extra layer of safety for solo travelers.
1. How much does a private car cost?
The cost of hiring a private car varies depending on the driver’s language skills, the length of the trip, and the duration. Generally, a 10-hour day costs around USD$40.
2.How long does it take to get a ride via the app?
The waiting time for a ride is usually around 10 minutes, but it may be slightly longer during peak hours.
3.Do I need to bring a private driver when visiting attractions? Do I need to cover the driver’s meal expenses?
Generally, it’s not necessary. In most cases, the driver will wait nearby until you need their services. You don’t need to cover the driver’s meal expenses as they will handle it themselves.
4.Which ride-hailing app is cheaper?
Typically, Gojek tends to be slightly cheaper.
5.Can I hail a taxi on the street?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. There’s a high chance of encountering drivers who overcharge.
Other Private Car FAQ > Click Here
Conclusion
Whether you choose private car hire or ride-hailing, each has its unique advantages and suitable scenarios. Before making a decision, consider your needs and preferences to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
More About Private Car Hire
- Motorbike vs. Private Car in Bali: Which Should You Choose?
- Complete Gojek & Grab Ride-Hailing Guide with Screenshots
- Arriving in Bali: Airport Transfer Options & Day-1 Tips
- How to Use Gojek Ride-Hailing in Bali
- Bali Motorbike Rental Guide: Prices, Safety & What to Know
- Must-Have Bali Travel App: Complete Gojek Guide
- Nusa Penida Transport Guide: Taxi, Gojek, Car Hire & Scooter
- Bali Mandarin-Speaking Drivers, Guides & Car Hire Tours
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