Car Rental in Ubud, Bali

Where to drive

• Drive to the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, just an approximate 20-minute drive (8 km) north of Ubud, to witness stunning landscapes and enjoy a swing over the rice paddies.
• Journey to the sacred Tirta Empul Temple, an approximate 30-minute drive (15 km) from Ubud, for a unique spiritual cleansing experience in its holy spring waters.
• Explore the artistic village of Celuk, known for its silver and gold craftsmanship, located an approximate 25-minute drive (10 km) south of Ubud.
• Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), an archaeological site with historical significance, only an approximate 15-minute drive (5 km) from Ubud center.
• Take a scenic day trip to the Kintamani region for breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, an approximate 1-hour 30-minute drive (40 km) northeast of Ubud.
• Discover the hidden beauty of Tibumana Waterfall, an approximate 45-minute drive (20 km) east of Ubud, offering a refreshing swim in a tranquil setting.

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) which is highly recommended and often required by local authorities, and your passport. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ubud vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars typically start from around $15-$25 per day during off-peak times, while mid-range SUVs might range from $30-$50 daily. Premium vehicles can go upwards of $60-$100 or more, especially during peak tourist months. Expect prices to be highest from June to September and around major holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Indonesia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally around 70-80 km/h on open roads and 40-50 km/h in urban areas, though these are often informally observed. The legal blood alcohol limit for driving is approximately 0.05%. Headlights should be used at night and during heavy rain. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for young children, though availability from rental companies can vary.

Parking

In Ubud, parking can be challenging, especially in the town center. Many popular attractions have designated paid parking areas, usually managed by local attendants, with fees ranging from a few thousand to ten thousand Indonesian Rupiah. Free parking is rare, and street parking is often limited and can lead to congestion. Always look for official parking signs or ask locals for guidance.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol/gasoline) is readily available at official Pertamina gas stations throughout Bali, including around Ubud. Prices are government-regulated and relatively affordable, typically around 10,000-14,000 Indonesian Rupiah per liter (approximately $0.65-$0.90 USD per liter, current 2026). Payment is usually cash-only at smaller pumps, while larger stations may accept cards. Many small roadside stalls also sell fuel in bottles, which is convenient but often slightly more expensive.

Which car to choose

For Ubud and central Bali, a compact SUV or a small to medium-sized sedan is generally recommended. These vehicles offer enough ground clearance for some of the uneven roads and can navigate narrower streets more easily than larger cars. Automatic transmission is highly preferred due to frequent traffic and hilly terrain. If you plan extensive trips to more remote or mountainous areas, a 4x4 might be beneficial, but for most tourist routes, it's not strictly necessary.

Frequently asked questions