Bali by Bus from Java, Then Rent a Scooter: Budget Guide
By the SiapPergi Editorial Team · Published 13 October 2026 · 7 min read
For travellers coming from Java, taking the bus to Bali is a budget option that's often overlooked. No hunting for cheap flights, more generous luggage limits, and you get to enjoy the East Java scenery and the Bali Strait crossing. Once you're in Bali, a rental scooter is the most practical way to explore. This guide links the two: from choosing a bus to having a scooter ready outside your accommodation.
Bus routes to Bali and journey times
| From | Approx. journey time | Check schedules |
|---|---|---|
| Surabaya | ±10–12 hours | Surabaya to Denpasar |
| Yogyakarta | ±18–22 hours | Denpasar to Yogyakarta (opposite direction) |
| Jakarta | ±24–30 hours or more | Jakarta to Denpasar |
Journey times depend on traffic, the ferry queue at Ketapang and the number of stops. In holiday periods the ferry queue can get long. The bus crosses on the Ketapang–Gilimanuk ferry; passengers usually stay on board or go up to the ferry deck during the crossing.
Where do buses arrive in Bali?
Many interprovincial buses arrive at Mengwi Terminal in Badung Regency, while some bus companies drop passengers at their own depot or agent around Denpasar. Ask about the drop-off point when you buy your ticket. From Mengwi to Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu takes about 30–60 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
How to get a scooter after the bus
- Book the scooter the day before via WhatsApp: give the model, dates, number of helmets and the name of your accommodation.
- From the terminal, take a taxi or ride-hailing car to your accommodation with your luggage. Carrying a big suitcase on a scooter is dangerous.
- The scooter is delivered to your accommodation at the agreed time. Check the brakes, tyres, lights and STNK (vehicle registration), then photograph the scooter's condition — see checking a scooter at handover.
- Start riding the next morning after a rest. A long bus ride leaves you tired — don't head off on a long ride straight away.
If your bus arrives late at night, ask the rental to leave the scooter with your accommodation's reception and do the inspection the next morning.
Or bring your own motorbike?
Some travellers from Java bring their own motorbike over on the Ketapang–Gilimanuk ferry. It makes sense for long stays, but it's tiring and risky on the truck-heavy Gilimanuk–Denpasar road. The pros and cons are in bringing your own motorbike to Bali by ferry and buying vs renting a scooter for a long stay.
Estimated cost: bus + scooter rental
| Item | Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| One-way bus ticket | Varies by class & bus company | Check the latest prices on the bus ticket page |
| Taxi/ojek terminal → accommodation | ±Rp50–200k | Depends on distance and luggage |
| Automatic scooter rental | ±Rp60–120k/day | Weekly rates are cheaper per day |
| Petrol & parking | ±Rp20–45k/day | Normal use around town |
For a 5–7 day holiday, take a weekly scooter rental to save money. A full budget breakdown is in the cost of a Bali holiday by scooter.
Documents to bring
- Your original KTP (Indonesian ID card) and a valid SIM C (Indonesian motorcycle licence) — rentals almost always ask for them. See requirements to rent a scooter in Bali.
- Cash for the rental deposit if one is required.
- Proof of your bus ticket and your accommodation address.
Going home: return the scooter, then head to the terminal
Agree on a return time a few hours before your bus departs, then take a taxi to the terminal or depot. For the trip home, check schedules for Denpasar to Surabaya or Denpasar to Jakarta. An overview of all transport options is in the Bali travel guide.
Ready to rent a scooter?
See estimated prices by area & model, then book on WhatsApp — the final price is confirmed before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the bus from Surabaya to Bali?
About 10–12 hours including the Ketapang–Gilimanuk crossing, depending on traffic and the ferry queue.
Which terminal in Bali do buses from Java arrive at?
Many intercity buses arrive at Mengwi Terminal in Badung; some bus companies drop passengers at their depot or agent around Denpasar. Ask about the drop-off point when buying your ticket.
Can a rental scooter be delivered to the bus terminal?
It can be arranged, but it's more practical to have it delivered to your accommodation. From the terminal, take a taxi or ojek with your luggage.
What do I need to rent a scooter after arriving by bus?
Your KTP, a valid SIM C, your accommodation address and a deposit if the rental asks for one.
This article follows the SiapPergi editorial policy: facts are checked, prices are given as ranges, and mistakes are corrected. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.