If there’s any complaint that tourists may have about Bali, it’s about the heavy traffic. Due to the high volume of travelers that arrive every year, the streets are always crowded, and it takes a lot of time to get used to the narrow streets that lead to many of the island’s tourist hotspots.

Despite these complications, however, many guests at Bali’s best private villas still enjoy their time on the island, and have even figured out ways to beat the traffic. We’ve compiled the tips and tricks that have guided these guests through Bali’s notorious streets, making their stay on the island more pleasurable. 

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5 Smart Strategies for Beating the Bali Traffic

The following tips are tried-and-true ways to beat traffic anywhere on Bali. These strategies are based on experiences from locals and seasoned visitors who have experience with Bali’s roads, especially in the most crowded areas for tourists. Still, it is recommended that guests should do their due diligence and research road conditions as well as transportation options before booking their trips.

1. Book Accommodations Close to Tourist Hotspots

 The modern Villa Noku in Seminyak puts guests within walking distance of the action. 

When looking for the ideal accommodation in Bali, find a place close to the attractions, beaches, clubs, and restaurants that you want to visit, preferably within walking distance or a short drive. While hotels are common in developed areas, a villa that’s not too far from most attractions will save you the trouble of driving long distances back and forth, plus it will give you an opportunity to experience the beauty of Balinese culture on your own. 

On top of the location, it is also vital to consider the facilities, the services, and the view. A full-service private villa in a popular neighborhood like Canggu, Seminyak, or Ubud can provide you with all the comforts of home, plus impeccable five-star service and a bespoke visitor’s experience that even includes recommendations for both nearby restaurants and day trips. 

2. Rent a Motorbike

Many visitors in Bali rent and use a motorbike to get around. For many, it is the ideal mode of travel around the island because it can get you into narrow streets and heavy traffic. Bikes are also more accessible than cars and can even give you much-needed exposure to the street culture of Bali. If you’re staying in an area with many tourists and cars, a motorbike is an ideal option to navigate the alleyways in most developed areas. 

Just make sure that you have a valid international driver’s license before considering this option, since many if not all bike rental companies will require a license before they allow you to drive and operate their vehicle. If you’re staying at a villa that’s far from your destination, you may also want to consider the road conditions to ensure your safety. 

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3. Utilize Ride-Sharing Apps

If you don’t have an international driver’s license, there are other ways to utilize motorbikes as your way around the island. Locals and tourists alike utilize ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab that are accessible to anyone with a phone and internet connection. Some of these ride-sharing apps may even offer you a helmet before getting on a bike.

All you need to do is to install the apps on your phone and you’re on your way to book a ride to any part of Bali. It may take time to wait for your rider to arrive at your destination, but once you find each other at the meeting point you’ll be sure to get to your destination of choice. 

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4. Take the Scenic Route

Most major roads that lead to famous tourist attractions, restaurants, and beach clubs will be filled with cars and motorcycles. Before you get there, though, you can still find alternative routes that would have fewer cars and a smoother, more immersive journey that goes all the way around the island. Taking the long way to your destination means you’ll be able to wander through rice terraces, cliffsides, and forests, which makes for a pleasant mini-day trip in between destinations. 

Some scenic drives can even take you to off-the-beaten-road attractions where you can take photos. You will still need the help of a navigation app to plan these scenic drives, however, and you will need to make allowances for time spent on the road, but at least you will experience Bali in a way that you’ve never imagined. 

5. Hire a Local Driver

On the other hand, local drivers know their way around Bali, and they can get you to your destination through the most efficient route. These local drivers are also wise and well-informed about the best places to go in Bali, and they are also likely to find new routes if the most accessible ones are too congested. Keep in mind, however, that as with any destination, it’s important to have respect for locals as a guest in their own homeland, and that courtesy extends to drivers as well. 

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Find The Best Ways to Go Around Bali

While traffic in Bali is inevitable, it is not impossible to find ways to get around the island. No matter which route you take to the attraction or destination of your choice, you will be sure to experience the unique beauty and culture of Bali everywhere you go. All it takes is a little due diligence and strategic thinking to maneuver your way through Bali’s roads.

For more expert guidance on how to choose the right transportation options to and from your private luxury villa, consult with the Guest Experience Services team of your villa before arrival. This will ensure that you will get the safest, most practical, and most luxurious options to go around Bali so you can explore your destination with ease.

Experience the Island of the Gods with our Bali Travel Guide.