If you’re planning a trip to Bali and wondering how to explore beyond your hotel without the chaos of figuring out local transport or haggling with random taxis, then this one’s for you. Honestly, The Best Bali Day Trips You Can Do with a Private Driver aren’t just about convenience — they’re about freedom. You get to explore the island at your own pace, stop where you want, and avoid the tourist crowds that big bus tours can’t dodge. I’ve been traveling around Bali for years — sometimes for work, sometimes just to get lost — and having a private driver has always made those experiences so much richer (and way less stressful).
When people ask me, “Is hiring a private driver in Bali really worth it?” my answer’s always the same: absolutely, 100%, yes. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in the north, sipping coffee in Ubud’s jungles, or watching the sunset over Tanah Lot, having your own driver means you control the vibe. No waiting, no rushing, just Bali on your terms.
Let me walk you through some of my favorite day trip itineraries — the ones I personally recommend to clients who want to see the real Bali, not just the Insta-famous bits.
Read also: Rent Car with Driver In Bukit Peninsula Bali
Ubud and Central Bali: Culture, Rice Terraces, and Coffee That’ll Ruin Starbucks for You
Ubud isn’t just a place — it’s an energy. Every time I come back here, something about the smell of incense, the soft gamelan music, and those endless green rice terraces reminds me why I fell in love with Bali in the first place. This route is perfect if you’re into culture, nature, and a bit of quiet soul-refreshing time.
Your driver can pick you up from your hotel early — say around 8 AM. The drive to Ubud from Seminyak or Canggu usually takes about 1.5 hours depending on traffic (which, trust me, can be unpredictable).
First Stop: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
These iconic terraces are probably one of the most photographed spots in Bali. I used to think they were overrated until I saw the sunrise mist rolling through the palms one morning. If you go early, you’ll avoid most of the tour buses. There’s a small entrance fee, and if you want to do the “Bali Swing” thing, it’s extra — but totally optional. The terraces themselves are stunning even without it.
Next: Ubud Monkey Forest
Now, I know some travelers skip this because they’ve heard stories about cheeky monkeys stealing sunglasses — and yes, that’s true — but the forest is worth it. It’s more than just monkeys; it’s an ancient temple area wrapped in giant banyan roots and mossy stone carvings. Just keep your valuables zipped up, and you’ll be fine.
Lunch in Ubud Center
I usually stop at Warung Biah Biah or Clear Café — both are affordable, relaxed, and delicious. Ubud has a massive vegan scene too, so even plant-based travelers eat like kings here.
Afternoon Stop: Tegenungan Waterfall or a Coffee Plantation
If you still have time (and energy), ask your driver to take you to Tegenungan Waterfall. It’s about a 30-minute drive south of Ubud. You’ll probably need to climb a bit, but the cool mist and sound of rushing water are worth it. Alternatively, visit a coffee plantation where you can taste kopi luwak, Bali’s famously expensive civet coffee. (Just make sure it’s ethically sourced — some places aren’t.)
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ubud remains one of the top three most visited cultural destinations in the country, drawing millions of travelers each year who seek “authentic Balinese experiences.” And honestly, that tracks. There’s just nowhere else quite like it.
East Bali Adventure: Temples, Mountains, and Quiet Coastal Villages
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves scenic drives and fewer crowds, East Bali will hit all the right notes. This area is full of ancient temples, local life, and some of the most photogenic landscapes you’ll see anywhere on the island.
Start Early: Lempuyang Temple (The “Gates of Heaven”)
You’ve probably seen the famous photo — Mount Agung framed perfectly between temple gates. The trick? That mirror reflection isn’t real; local photographers use a glass trick. But hey, the view’s still breathtaking. If you go early, like 6 AM, you’ll beat the long lines (I once waited 2 hours just for a photo when I came at 9 AM). Bring a sarong or borrow one at the entrance.
Next Stop: Tirta Gangga Water Palace
About an hour from Lempuyang, this royal water garden is peaceful and stunning. Fish swim beneath stone walkways, fountains spray into the sunlight, and it’s all surrounded by tropical plants. You can even feed the fish for a few rupiah — locals will hand you fish food right at the gate.
Lunch in Karangasem
There’s a cozy warung called Warung Alam Karangasem — super simple but the grilled fish is so fresh it almost melts. Most drivers know this spot; if not, ask for something “dekat Tirta Gangga” (near Tirta Gangga).
Afternoon: Taman Ujung Water Palace or Virgin Beach
If you’ve still got daylight, continue south to Taman Ujung or chill at Virgin Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih). The latter’s a quiet white-sand beach that feels almost secret. The road there can be bumpy, but that’s part of the fun.
By the time you start heading back, you’ll realize East Bali feels like a different island altogether — slower, simpler, and deeply spiritual. Having a private driver makes it easy because public transport barely exists out here. I’ve seen tourists try to do it with scooters, but trust me — the roads are steep, and GPS can get sketchy in rural areas.
North Bali: Waterfalls, Lakes, and Mountain Air That Feels Like a Different World
Whenever Bali gets too hot and crowded, I escape north. The air’s cooler up here, and the landscapes are unreal — think misty jungles, crater lakes, and waterfalls that look straight out of a movie.
Start Early: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
This floating temple on Lake Beratan is probably one of Bali’s most photographed landmarks, but it’s even more stunning in person. I still remember my first time seeing it at sunrise — the reflection of the temple in the water was just perfect. It’s peaceful, especially before 9 AM when the tour buses start arriving.
Next Stop: Banyumala Twin Waterfalls or Sekumpul Waterfall
If you’re after waterfalls, these two are unbeatable. Sekumpul’s the more famous (and a bit more of a hike), but Banyumala is gentler and quieter. The trails can be slippery, so wear good shoes. Your driver will usually wait at the parking area while you explore — it’s nice not having to worry about leaving your scooter somewhere remote.
Lunch: Bedugul Local Warung or Café Eco
There’s this little roadside place near Bedugul where I always stop for nasi campur and bali kopi. Nothing fancy, but it’s the kind of food that reminds you why local warungs beat fancy restaurants every time.
Afternoon Option: Handara Gate or Wanagiri Hidden Hill
Okay, yes, Handara Gate is another Instagram spot, but it’s worth seeing once. And Wanagiri Hidden Hill — where you can swing out over the lake — offers some incredible panoramic views.
Driving up north with a private driver is perfect because the roads twist through mountains and villages that don’t even appear on tourist maps. I’ve met drivers who’ve been doing this route for 20 years and still find new shortcuts. That’s the thing about hiring locals — they know the island better than Google Maps ever could.
West Bali: Quiet Villages, Rice Fields, and Menjangan Island Snorkeling
Not many travelers make it to West Bali, and that’s honestly a shame. It’s quieter, more rural, and feels like stepping back 30 years in time. This is where I go when I want to recharge away from Bali’s hustle.
Morning: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Forget Tegalalang — Jatiluwih is the real deal. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and once you see the scale of it, you’ll understand why. Endless layers of rice fields stretch across the valley, with Mount Batukaru in the distance. Early morning or late afternoon is best for light and fewer crowds.
Next Stop: West Bali National Park
If you’re into nature or snorkeling, this park’s a gem. It covers both forest and coastal areas and includes Menjangan Island — one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Bali. The water clarity’s insane, like 20–30 meters on a good day. You can take a local boat from Labuan Lalang to Menjangan; your driver can help arrange it and wait while you’re exploring.
Lunch: Local Spot Near Pemuteran
Pemuteran village is where I usually stop for lunch. There’s a café called Warung Tirta Sari with great seafood and a chill garden vibe. Not many tourists here — mostly divers and locals.
This trip takes a full day, maybe even longer, so if you can, spend one night up north or west before heading back. Private drivers in Bali often offer multi-day rates with discounts, so it’s worth asking.
Southern Bali: Temples, Beaches, and Sunsets That’ll Blow You Away
Of course, you can’t talk about Bali day trips without mentioning the south — home to the island’s most famous beaches and sunset temples.
Morning: Uluwatu Temple
This cliffside temple is stunning, especially early in the morning before the heat sets in. It’s home to a colony of monkeys (again, keep your sunglasses hidden), and the views over the Indian Ocean are unforgettable. I often suggest travelers come back here in the evening too for the traditional kecak fire dance — it’s touristy but mesmerizing.
Midday: Padang Padang, Melasti, or Pandawa Beach
Each of these beaches has its charm. Padang Padang’s a small cove perfect for swimming, Melasti’s got dramatic cliffs and new beach clubs popping up, and Pandawa’s great for families. Your driver can easily take you between them since they’re all within 30–45 minutes of each other.
Lunch: Beach Club or Local Warung
If you’re in the mood for something upscale, head to Savaya or Sundays Beach Club. But if you’d rather something more local, I swear by Warung Bejana near Uluwatu — the grilled prawns are unreal.
Afternoon: Tanah Lot for Sunset
I usually save Tanah Lot for last. Watching the temple glow gold as the tide rises never gets old. It’s busy, sure, but your driver can drop you near the side entrances to skip most of the walking crowds.
This whole route can be done in a day, though it’s a long one. What makes it so nice is that your driver can adjust things depending on how long you spend at each spot. Bali traffic in the south can be unpredictable, so flexibility’s key.
Why Hiring a Private Driver in Bali Just Makes Sense
Here’s the thing — driving yourself around Bali is technically possible, but it’s also stressful as heck. Roads can be narrow, scooters dart in and out like mosquitoes, and parking is a nightmare in touristy areas. Plus, you’ll miss out on just enjoying the scenery.
Most private drivers in Bali charge between 600,000–900,000 IDR (around $40–60 USD) per day, depending on the distance and duration. That usually includes fuel, parking, and their time for about 8–10 hours. Some will even act as informal guides, giving background on temples, customs, and the best places to eat.
When I travel with clients, I always tell them: treat your driver well. Offer to buy them a coffee, chat with them, learn their story. Many of these guys have been doing this for decades — they know shortcuts, local warungs, and small temples most tourists never see. A few of my closest friends in Bali are drivers I met years ago; they’ve become like family.
How to Choose the Right Private Driver in Bali
A few quick things to look for (and these come from years of doing this myself):
- Check reviews if you’re booking through an online platform like GetYourGuide, Viator, or Klook.
- Ask for WhatsApp contact — everyone in Bali uses it, and it makes coordination super easy.
- Discuss your itinerary upfront so there’s no confusion about what’s included or not.
- Confirm if entrance fees and meals are extra (they usually are).
- Pay in cash in local currency (Indonesian Rupiah), and always clarify the total for the day.
Some drivers also work as licensed guides, so if you want historical or cultural context, that’s worth paying extra for.
One thing I love about Bali drivers is that they’re incredibly patient. Even when traffic turns into a parking lot — which it often does around Ubud or Canggu — they’ll just smile and play Balinese pop music like nothing’s wrong. That’s part of the charm, honestly.
Extra Experiences to Add to Any Day Trip
Even if you’re just doing one or two day trips, there are small things that make a huge difference:
- Stop at a local market — even just 15 minutes. You’ll see daily life in full swing: fresh fruit, spices, and people chatting over morning coffee.
- Visit a Balinese family compound (some drivers can arrange this if you ask politely).
- Try warung food — don’t be scared. Balinese dishes like babi guling (roast pork) or nasi campur are cheap, flavorful, and usually safe if the place looks busy.
- Bring cash for tips and small purchases — many rural spots don’t take cards.
- And yes, don’t forget a change of clothes if you’re visiting waterfalls or beaches. I’ve learned that one the hard way more than once!
So, Are Private Drivers in Bali Really Worth It?
Short answer — yes, they’re the best investment you’ll make on your trip.
Long answer — hiring a private driver isn’t just about transportation; it’s about connection. You see the island through local eyes, hear stories that don’t show up in travel books, and move at your own pace.
I’ve done everything from cross-island road trips to short temple runs, and every single time, I’ve ended the day grateful that I wasn’t behind the wheel. When people come to me asking what the smartest way to explore Bali is, I tell them straight: skip the group tours, skip the scooters, and just hire a driver for the day. You’ll see more, stress less, and honestly, you’ll fall a little bit in love with Bali — the real Bali — not just the one from Instagram.
No comments:
Post a Comment