Driving in Bali: Left Lane, Narrow Roads, Scooters & Ceremonies

Driving in Bali is different from many other places: narrow roads, scooters on both sides, ceremonies that close roads, and steep climbs in the mountains. With the right preparation, driving a rental car in Bali can be safe and enjoyable. Here are the tips travellers need most.

Basic rules

• Drive in the left lane; overtake on the right.
• Seat belts are compulsory for the driver and front passenger; have rear passengers wear them too.
• Using a phone while driving is prohibited; use a phone mount for navigation.
• Carry your licence, the car's STNK (registration) and ID. Learn the Bali traffic rules & police checkpoints.
• Bali uses electronic traffic-enforcement cameras on a number of roads; fines can be sent to the rental provider. See ETLE electronic traffic tickets.

Sharing the road with scooters

Scooters are Bali's main vehicle. They often overtake on the left, squeeze into narrow gaps and stop suddenly. Keep your distance, never turn without checking your left mirror, and leave room when parking. In traffic jams, scooters will fill the gaps between cars; stay calm and don't open doors suddenly.

Narrow roads, villa lanes and parking

• Before booking a villa, ask whether a car can get right to the door; many lanes in Canggu, Seminyak and Ubud are for scooters only.
• When two vehicles meet on a narrow road, the car closer to a wider spot usually reverses.
• A short toot of the horn on blind bends is common practice, not a sign of anger.
• Park only in official spots; the parking attendant will help you get out.

Climbs and descents

Routes to Kintamani, Bedugul and East Bali have long climbs and steep descents. Use a low gear going downhill so the brakes don't overheat, and avoid overtaking on bends. Mist often rolls in during the afternoon in the mountains; turn on your lights and slow down.

Ceremonies and holidays

• Ceremonial processions can close roads temporarily; follow the directions of the pecalang (traditional village security).
• Don't honk repeatedly near a procession.
• During Nyepi, all vehicles are banned from the roads for 24 hours; the airport closes too.
• Schedules and how to handle them are in ceremonies & road closures in Bali.

Not yet confident driving in Bali? Take a package with a driver for long-route days, and only drive yourself around your accommodation. Compare in self-drive vs car with driver.

Conclusion

Driving on the left, scooters all around, narrow roads and ceremonies are the main things to watch for when driving in Bali. Be patient, use your mirrors, and plan your parking. Also budget for fuel, parking & toll costs, then choose a car on Bali car rental.