Ngurah Rai International Airport is situated 13 kilometers from Denpasar and 37 kilometers from Ubud. It ranks as the third-largest airport in Indonesia, welcoming over 20 million travelers annually.
How to Get to the City Center
To reach the city center, you can opt for a taxi, shuttle, or rental car, with a travel time ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. Alternatively, there are bus options available to get to Ubud.
Public Transportation
Bali's public transportation system is still in its early stages. Sarbagita buses are relatively new and clean, offering luggage space.
There are no direct flights to Ubud from the airport. You'll need to travel to Denpasar or Kuta and then transfer there. The total travel time to Ubud is approximately 1.5 hours.
Where to Find It: The bus stop is located near the Domestic terminal exit. Look for a pedestal with a ladder, and you'll know you're on the right track. Local buses have doors positioned 1.5 meters off the ground, which makes the stops appear unusual.
To Ubud from Denpasar: From the airport to Denpasar bus station, it's best to take a taxi. Perama or Kura-Kura Bus depart from Batubulan bus station. Get off at the Raya Ubud or Puri Lukisan stop.
To Ubud from Kuta: From the airport, alight at the Aston Kuta stop (approximately 10 minutes travel time), then proceed to the Kuta Paradiso Hotel station. From there, walk 130 meters to the Kuta bus stop. Take a bus and ride for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Ubud.
- Times of Operation for Buses:
- - Airport: 05:00 to 21:00, running every 15 minutes.
- - From Denpasar or Kuta: from 06:00 to 16:00. It becomes challenging to board the bus after 16:00, and schedules may vary as there is no fixed timetable.
- Fare: Approximately 7,000 IDR. You can purchase the ticket directly from the driver.
Important Note: Buses do not have numbers, and at best, there are directional signs to identify them.
Transfer
One of the safest modes of transportation is booking a transfer. You will be met at the airport and comfortably transported to the city. You can book a transfer on the KiwiTaxi website.
Fare: Starting from IDR 281,690 (USD 20) for two passengers.
Taxis
It's advisable not to engage with local taxi drivers at the airport, as they often operate without meters, and prices can be surprising. For a safer option, head to the Prepaid Taxi counter at the airport exit (pay in advance), but there might be queues. Blue Bird taxis, which are metered, are also available at the airport, but keep in mind that traffic jams are common on the island.
- Where to Find: Taxi stands are located on the airport grounds, near the exit.
- Cost: Starting from IDR 200,000. Prices may vary depending on traffic conditions.
- Travel Time: 30-50 minutes.
Rental Car
Renting a car in Bali ensures peace of mind, comfort, and safe transportation, which is crucial as public transportation on the island is limited. Keep in mind that Bali follows right-hand traffic rules, and the local driving style can be bold.
- Cost: Starting from 352,112 IDR (25 USD) per day.
- Where to Find: Car rental desks are located at the airport or can be booked online through websites like balimotion.pro or rentalcars.
How to Get to the Bus Station
There is a bus station in Denpasar's Batubulan. The best way to reach it from the airport is by taking a taxi. There is no train station in this part of Indonesia.
