Car Rental in Denpasar, Bali

Where to drive

• Drive to Ubud, Bali's cultural heart, approximately 35 km (1 hour drive) from Denpasar, to visit the Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
• Explore the stunning beaches of Uluwatu, about 25 km (45 minutes drive) south of Denpasar, famous for its clifftop temple and surf breaks.
• Embark on a scenic journey to Mount Batur, an active volcano offering breathtaking sunrise treks, located approximately 70 km (2 hours drive) northeast of Denpasar.
• Visit Tanah Lot Temple, a iconic sea temple situated on a rock formation, around 20 km (40 minutes drive) west of Denpasar.
• Discover the less-traveled east coast, including Candidasa and Amed, roughly 60-80 km (1.5-2 hours drive) from Denpasar, known for their diving spots and traditional villages.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Bali, you will typically need a valid national driving license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your passport. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their license for a minimum of one to two years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Denpasar vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from approximately 25-35 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 50-100 USD or more daily. Prices generally increase during Bali's peak tourist months, especially July, August, and December.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Indonesia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways, though these are often approximate and rarely strictly enforced outside of major incidents. The legal blood alcohol limit for driving is very low, effectively zero tolerance. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are not always readily available from local rental agencies, so it's advisable to check in advance if traveling with young children. Headlights should be used at night and in poor visibility.

Parking

Parking in Denpasar can range from designated paid lots in commercial areas to informal roadside parking. In tourist areas, official parking attendants may collect a small fee (a few thousand IDR). Always ensure you park in a safe and legal spot to avoid fines or towing. Free parking is rare in bustling areas but can be found near less crowded attractions or accommodations.

Fuel stations

Fuel (Bensin) is widely available at Pertamina stations across Bali, including Denpasar. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally inexpensive, approximately 10,000-15,000 IDR per liter (around 0.65-1.00 USD per liter) for standard gasoline. Most stations accept cash, and some larger ones may accept cards. Smaller roadside stalls also sell fuel in bottles, often at a slightly higher price.

Which car to choose

For navigating Denpasar's often congested streets and exploring Bali's varied terrain, a compact or mid-size SUV with automatic transmission is often the best choice. It offers better ground clearance for some unpaved roads and provides ample space for luggage and passengers. An automatic transmission is highly recommended due to frequent stop-and-go traffic.

Frequently asked questions