If you have been reading travel forums, you may have seen advice to use Grab or Gojek because they can be convenient and cost-effective. That can be true for short trips. For a full day visiting several places around Bali, though, it is worth comparing the whole experience—not just the price of one ride.
1. Ride-hailing apps work well for many short journeys
Grab and Gojek are useful options for trips such as going out for dinner, moving between nearby areas, or travelling around busy parts of South Bali. Prices and driver availability can vary with demand, weather, traffic and the exact pickup point.
At some destinations, local transport arrangements or pickup restrictions may affect where an app driver can collect passengers. Rules and enforcement can change by location, so check the pickup instructions in the app and follow on-site guidance rather than assuming every tourist area has the same restrictions.
2. Several separate rides can add planning time
Imagine visiting Kanto Lampo Waterfall, Tirta Empul Temple and Tegalalang Rice Terrace in one day. With pay-as-you-go rides, you arrange each leg separately and depend on availability at every stop. This may work, but the next ride can require extra waiting or coordination, particularly outside busy areas.
A private car charter gives your group one driver for the agreed trip duration. You can plan the route in advance, keep your belongings in the car while visiting attractions, and discuss reasonable timing changes with your driver. The route and stops should be agreed clearly before departure.
3. Compare the full cost, not only one fare
| Consideration | Grab/Gojek | Private driver |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Short journeys and point-to-point travel | Multi-stop sightseeing and a planned day out |
| Booking | Usually arranged one ride at a time | Arranged ahead for an agreed route or duration |
| Flexibility | Depends on driver availability and each booking | Stops and timing can be discussed in advance |
| Cost planning | Each ride is priced separately; totals can vary | Confirm what is included, the duration, extra hours and attraction tickets before paying |
Neither option is always cheaper. For a fair comparison, estimate all planned rides and consider your group size, time, luggage and how much coordination you want to do during the day.
4. Ask about shopping stops and itinerary control
Before booking any tour, explain the places you want to visit and ask whether shopping or commercial stops are included or optional. A good arrangement should make the planned route and any proposed stops clear before the trip begins. If you prefer not to visit shops or coffee plantations, state that preference when you enquire and ask the provider to confirm it.
With On Bali Day Trip, you can ask about a private itinerary and discuss your preferred destinations before confirming. The final route, duration, inclusions and price should be agreed with the team in advance.
5. Which option should you choose?
- Choose Grab or Gojek for a short ride, dinner, or a simple trip between nearby places where app pickup is available.
- Consider a private driver if you plan several attractions in one day, travel with family or luggage, want a pre-arranged route, or prefer not to book a new ride at every stop.
Explore Bali with On Bali Day Trip
On Bali Day Trip offers private day-trip options for travellers who want to explore several Bali destinations in one outing. Current packages include Ubud trips with Kanto Lampo or Tegenungan Waterfall, North Bali, South Bali and East Bali. Tour details and pickup times vary by package.
Packages start from $55 per car for up to 5 people. Tours have a maximum duration of 10 hours; confirm the selected package, itinerary, inclusions and any separate entrance fees with us before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Is Grab or Gojek always available at Bali attractions?
No. Availability depends on the location, time and local pickup arrangements. Check the app and follow local instructions.
Is a private driver always cheaper than booking separate rides?
Not necessarily. Compare the total estimated cost of all rides with the private-car quote, and check what each option includes.
Can I choose the places I visit with a private driver?
Usually, you can discuss a preferred route when arranging the trip. Confirm the itinerary, duration and any additional charges with the provider before booking.