Bali Car Rental with Driver vs Self Drive: What’s Really Worth It for Your Trip

When planning a Bali adventure, one of the first questions most travelers wrestle with is whether to go for a Bali car rental with driver vs self drive. I’ve been in that same spot—scrolling through car rental sites, juggling my Google Maps tabs, trying to figure out if it’s better to have a local driver handle the chaos of Bali’s roads or just grab the keys and explore freely on my own.

After a few trips (and a few minor wrong turns), I’ve learned a lot about both sides of this debate. Let’s just say—Bali driving is not for the faint of heart, but it can also be one of the best adventures if done right. So, let’s dig deep into everything you need to know, from costs and comfort to safety, convenience, and those small local details that no rental site tells you about.

Why the Debate Around Bali Car Rental with Driver vs Self Drive Exists

Bali’s roads are… well, unpredictable. On one hand, they’re lined with lush rice terraces, temples, and beach views that make every drive feel like a postcard moment. On the other hand, traffic can feel like organized chaos—especially around Denpasar, Canggu, and Ubud.

I still remember my first drive in Bali. I rented a tiny Toyota Avanza thinking it’d be a chill island cruise. Five minutes later, I was in a full standoff with a truck on a one-lane road surrounded by scooters zipping past like bees. That’s when I realized—driving in Bali is an experience in itself.

So the debate isn’t just about convenience—it’s about the kind of trip you want. Do you want total freedom to explore hidden waterfalls at your own pace? Or do you prefer kicking back, letting a local handle the traffic, and just soaking in the view without the stress?

The Case for Bali Car Rental with Driver

Let’s start with the option most travelers end up choosing: renting a car with a driver. It’s incredibly popular among visitors, especially families or first-timers who don’t want to deal with navigation or local driving etiquette.

Stress-Free Travel Across the Island

Having a driver in Bali isn’t like hiring a private chauffeur in New York or London—it’s surprisingly affordable and incredibly convenient. Most car rental companies offer full-day service with a professional driver who doubles as a tour guide.

On my second trip, I decided to go this route. I booked through a local company in Seminyak and was paired with Made, a friendly driver who knew every shortcut and every warung worth stopping for. By midday, I realized I was seeing parts of Bali I’d never have found on my own—tiny roadside temples, local coffee farms, and a secret waterfall near Munduk that wasn’t even on Google Maps.

The best part? I didn’t have to worry about parking, directions, or the occasional police stop. My driver handled everything while I focused on the experience.

What You Actually Get When You Hire a Driver

Most rentals with drivers include a 10-hour service window (usually from 8 AM to 6 PM). You get:

• Air-conditioned car (usually a Toyota Avanza or Innova)
• A licensed, English-speaking driver
• Fuel included (some companies charge extra for long distances)
• Full insurance coverage

The cost typically ranges from IDR 600,000 to 900,000 per day, depending on the car type and area. That’s around $40–$60 USD, which honestly is a steal compared to what private transportation costs in other destinations.

Safety, Comfort, and Local Insight

One underrated advantage is safety. According to data from Badan Pusat Statistik Indonesia (BPS), Bali’s road accident rates have gradually increased over the last decade, particularly involving foreign drivers unfamiliar with local traffic patterns. Having a driver significantly reduces the risk of accidents or fines from unintentional violations.

But safety aside, local insight is where drivers truly shine. Balinese drivers often act as informal guides—they’ll tell you when the Tanah Lot sunset crowd hits, which waterfalls are least crowded, or where to find authentic babi guling that’s not on TripAdvisor.

During one ride from Ubud to Amed, my driver stopped at a random roadside stall where they roasted peanuts in coconut husks. Not a tourist in sight. That kind of spontaneous discovery doesn’t happen easily when you’re glued to Google Maps trying not to miss a turn.

Downsides of Hiring a Driver

Now, it’s not all perfect. There are a few small drawbacks worth mentioning.

First, you lose a bit of spontaneity. Sure, you can change plans mid-route, but it’s not the same as spotting a random road sign and deciding to “just go see what’s there.” Also, if you’re someone who values privacy, having someone in the car all day might feel intrusive.

And then there’s cost flexibility. While it’s affordable daily, if you’re staying long-term (say, a month or more), it can add up quickly. In those cases, self-drive might make more sense financially.

The Case for Bali Self-Drive Car Rental

Now let’s talk about the independent route—literally. Self-drive car rental in Bali is a favorite among adventure seekers or repeat travelers who’ve already gotten a feel for local roads.

Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

Driving yourself means you can go wherever, whenever. Want to catch the sunrise at Mount Batur and then head straight to the beaches in Sanur? No problem. Want to stop at every single roadside fruit stand to taste weirdly spiky fruits? Go for it.

When I decided to try self-drive on my third trip, I stayed in Canggu for two weeks. Having my own car meant I could drive to Uluwatu one day, Ubud the next, and explore random coffee spots in between. I didn’t have to coordinate pick-up times or routes with anyone. It felt incredibly freeing.

Cost Comparison – Is It Really Cheaper?

It depends. Daily rental rates for a small automatic car start around IDR 250,000 to 350,000 ($17–$25). But then you add fuel, parking, and sometimes an international driving permit fee if you’re stopped by police.

You’ll also need to leave a deposit—usually around IDR 500,000 to 1,000,000 (roughly $35–$70 USD).

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, this can be cheaper than hiring a driver. But for families or groups, a driver might actually be better value once you factor in time, navigation stress, and convenience.

Navigating Bali’s Roads Like a Local

Let’s be real—Bali driving is an art form. Locals weave in and out of traffic on scooters like it’s second nature, dogs wander into roads like they own the place, and GPS signals sometimes disappear in mountain areas.

But if you’re confident behind the wheel and have driven in countries with similar traffic vibes (say, Thailand or Vietnam), you’ll be fine after a day or two. My advice? Stick to daytime driving and avoid city centers during rush hours. Roads near Ubud or Seminyak between 4 PM and 7 PM can feel like parking lots.

Another tip: always, and I mean always, use Google Maps and Waze together. Waze updates faster for traffic jams and police stops, while Google gives better long-distance directions.

The Local Rules You Should Know

Technically, to drive legally in Bali, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country’s license. Some rental companies won’t ask for it, but police might. Traffic stops are common, especially near tourist areas like Ubud or Kuta.

Police fines for not having proper documentation usually range from IDR 250,000 to 500,000, depending on the situation. It’s not huge, but it’s better to avoid the hassle.

Also, note that parking can be tricky in some areas. You’ll often pay small parking fees (around IDR 2,000–5,000) collected by attendants in yellow vests. It’s all legit, and it helps keep parking orderly.

When a Driver Makes More Sense

If it’s your first trip to Bali, go for a driver. Seriously. The roads can be confusing, and local etiquette takes time to understand. Plus, you’ll learn a ton from chatting with your driver.

Families, couples, or anyone who values convenience will appreciate this option. You can spend more time enjoying the island and less time stressing about where to park or which road to take.

Also, if your itinerary involves long distances—like going from Uluwatu to Lovina in a day—a driver saves you from exhaustion. These routes can take 3–4 hours depending on traffic, and trust me, they’re not easy drives.

When Self-Drive Is Totally Worth It

If you’re a returning visitor or love spontaneous adventures, go for self-drive. It’s especially great if you’re based in one area (say, Ubud or Canggu) and just want to explore nearby attractions at your own pace.

Digital nomads love this option. You can work from a café in the morning and drive to a waterfall in the afternoon without checking anyone’s schedule. Just be smart about it—avoid driving at night, keep your car documents handy, and always have offline maps saved.

Check also: Why You Should Get a Rental Car in Seminyak 

My Honest Take After Doing Both

After experiencing both, I’d say the Bali car rental with driver vs self drive decision depends on what kind of traveler you are that day.

When I was traveling with friends and wanted to relax, the driver was a blessing. No stress, no parking, and endless stories about Balinese culture. But when I returned alone and wanted to explore more hidden spots, driving myself was pure freedom.

If you’re staying under a week—go with a driver. If you’re staying longer or have specific off-beat plans, self-drive is worth trying. Just be prepared for a few “oops” moments.

I still remember trying to reverse out of a narrow alley in Ubud while a rooster casually strolled behind my bumper. A group of locals started laughing and came to help guide me out. It’s those small moments that make self-driving memorable.

Real-World Tips to Make Either Option Work Smoothly

Whether you choose a driver or go solo, there are a few small details that make a big difference.

For Rentals with Driver

• Be clear about your route. Drivers are patient, but they appreciate knowing your plan. If you have last-minute changes, communicate early.
• Treat your driver with respect. A small gesture, like buying them coffee or lunch, goes a long way.
• Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. Around IDR 50,000–100,000/day is generous.

For Self-Drive

• Take photos of the car before you leave. Just in case there’s any damage dispute.
• Download offline maps. Some rural areas lose signal, especially up north.
• Avoid driving at night. Limited streetlights and unexpected animals make it tricky.
• Keep small cash handy. You’ll need it for parking or roadside stops.

Common Myths About Driving in Bali

There’s a lot of talk online about how “crazy” Bali traffic is. And yeah, it can be hectic—but not impossible. Once you understand the flow (and accept that scooters will appear from every direction), it’s manageable.

Another myth? That renting a car without a driver is illegal. Not true. As long as you have a valid license and proper documents, you’re good.

And here’s one more: “You’ll get scammed by every rental company.” Again, not true—if you rent from established local businesses with good reviews, you’ll be fine. I’ve rented from both local companies and big ones like TRAC and never had major issues.

Environmental and Cultural Etiquette on the Road

One thing most people don’t talk about is how your driving affects locals. Balinese roads often cut through small villages where ceremonies happen regularly. If you see an offering in the road or a group dressed in traditional clothing crossing, slow down and give them space.

According to Bali’s provincial government data, there are thousands of local ceremonies each year that briefly block roads. It’s part of the island’s rhythm. Drivers know how to navigate respectfully, but tourists sometimes don’t.

If you’re self-driving, remember—you’re in someone’s home, not just a tourist playground. Honk sparingly (it’s not rude in Bali, but use it as a friendly alert), avoid littering, and keep calm when traffic slows due to ceremonies or processions.

How to Choose the Right Car Type

If you’re renting, choose wisely. The roads are narrow, and large SUVs can be overkill unless you’re heading into mountains.

For city areas or short trips, a Toyota Agya or Daihatsu Ayla (small compact cars) are perfect. If you’re traveling with family, an Innova gives more space.

If you’re heading to northern Bali—like Lovina or Munduk—choose something with good suspension. Those mountain roads can get bumpy.

Also, make sure your rental includes automatic transmission, unless you’re very confident with manual. Bali’s stop-and-go traffic is rough on clutch driving.

What Travelers Often Overlook About Car Rentals in Bali

Insurance. This is a big one. Many visitors assume their travel insurance covers vehicle damage—it often doesn’t. Always double-check your rental contract and consider adding full coverage.

Also, fuel stations aren’t as frequent in remote areas. You’ll sometimes see locals selling bottled petrol (pertalite) by the roadside. It works fine in emergencies, but it’s better to fill up before long drives.

And don’t forget about tolls! Bali Mandara Toll Road connects Denpasar, Nusa Dua, and the airport area. It’s smooth, scenic, and saves time—but it’s cash-only, so have coins ready.

Final Word on Choosing Between Bali Car Rental with Driver vs Self Drive

If you’re looking for an easy, comfortable experience where you can just sit back and enjoy the ride—renting a car with a driver is hands down the smarter choice. You’ll gain insights, avoid stress, and probably end up seeing way more of Bali than you expected.

If you crave flexibility, adventure, and don’t mind a bit of chaos—self-drive offers an unmatched sense of freedom. It’s a little messy, a little unpredictable, but that’s what makes it memorable.

Either way, Bali rewards curiosity. Whether you’re in the backseat chatting with a local driver or gripping the steering wheel while navigating rice field roads, every trip here teaches you something new—not just about the island, but about yourself too.

Reasons Why You Should Get a Rental Car in Seminyak

Reasons Why You Should Get a Rental Car in Seminyak 

Are you trying to find the best Seminyak rental car during your stay in Bali? Seminyak is quite the spectacle in Bali, it has a beautiful sunset, a luxurious restaurant, and a welcoming atmosphere, and there is certainly more stuff there that will catch your attention! There is a reason why Seminyak is one of the most popular tourist locations in Bali, its just filled with so many wonders.  

Now, before you can do all of these wonderful activities in Seminyak, you need to go there in the first place, while you can simply use a bike or even walk if your place of stay is close there, considering you’re far away, it is best to use a vehicle for far travels, something like a motorcycle can only cover some distance, and it’s even more troubling if you are traveling with your family or your friends as motorcycles cannot carry that many people on it so a car would be the best option.  
But perhaps you couldn't bring your car to Bali or maybe even own one in the first place, well that's where rental cars come into play, rental cars are cars that people rent to others for a period that is much less expensive compared to having to buy a car.  

Well, in that case, then car rentals are the way to go! But if you’re asking, why should I get a rental car in Seminyak? What if the rental cars that I get aren’t the best quality? Well, don’t worry! We are going to answer your questions down below.

Why Should You Rent a Car in Seminyak? 

Renting a car is a great alternative when you do not have a car in that place, so of course, if You're a tourist in Bali who couldn’t bring a car there, then renting a car is one of the best options! First of all, renting a car is not that expensive, second, a car is one of the best vehicles to use during vacation stays because it can bring ride more than 2 people, which is great if you’re bringing your family and your friends, and it can travel very far compared to the likes of motorcycles or scooters.  
Renting a car can also be helpful if you are the type of person who doesn’t like driving because you can even find a Bali car rental with a driver, so you do not have to worry about your driving skills or navigating around the Island.  

Because Bali is a large island, using a rental car is great to get to your destinations, but what you want is a Seminyak rental car in Bali, one of the reasons why you should get a rental car near Seminyak is that while they may be more a bit more expensive, the cars there are more comfortable and safer compared to other rental cars, and to top it off you can also choose which type of car you feel most comfortable and used to there. 

Ups and Downs of Rental Cars in Seminyak   

While the rental cars near Seminyak are very safe and comfortable to use, there are of course some things that need to be reminded when you are considering them, first of all, compared to the other rental cars in Bali, rental cars in Seminyak are safer and more comfortable, but as a drawback, they are also more expensive compared to other places in Bali (Ex. Denpasar), and also while they may be safer than other cars in Bali, it is not that comparable to your car, but of course, it is still a great alternative, second of all most rental cars, in general, are clean and regularly maintained because it is supposed to be used by other people, yet because of that rental cars could have a bit of wound because of how other people use them so you may see some imperfections inside the car, and finally while you can choose which type of car you feel most comfortable to use, most of the time there is a very major difference of pricing depending on the type of car you use.  

Overall  
In conclusion, Seminyak rental car is a great choice of vehicle in Bali, not only is it helpful, but it is safe and more comfortable to use in comparison to other rental cars in Bali, while it may have some drawbacks, in the end, it is very much worth it to rent a car in Seminyak, Bali.

The Benefits of Car Rental in Sanur, Bali

The Benefits of Car Rental in Sanur, Bali 

If you are traveling to Sanur, Bali, you might want to look for a car rental in Sanur. Include this in your travel planning so that when you arrive at Bali, you already have a transportation mode set and ready for you. Car is a transportation mode that is commonly used in Indonesia. There are countless car rental companies that offer you the services that you need. Renting a car has benefits, especially when you are only traveling for a short period. Here are the benefits that you can consider before renting a car in Sanur, Bali.

1) Gives you freedom
With a rental car, you are allowed to choose the type of car you want. You are also given freedom especially when you are traveling in remote areas like a mountain, hilltops, and even waterfalls. There are many hidden gem tourist attractions around Sanur, Bali that you can visit. With a hire car, you are free to travel wherever you want whenever you want. As a tourist, you might not be able to stop at the desired place if you join a travel group. You are tied to a travel itinerary that could limit your movement. But with a car rental in Sanur, you are given the freedom to stop and look at the marvelous scenery of Sanur, Bali.

2) Countless options
A car rental company will offer you a broad choice of cars. You can communicate what you need to the employees, and they will help you recommend the right vehicle. You are still free to choose the car according to your needs. But the first thing you want to do is to make sure that you get the right type of car. Especially if you are thinking about traveling to a place with extreme terrains, like mountains, or waterfalls. The broad choices of the vehicle will satisfy your needs, but you need to plan so you’ll get the best quality vehicle. Therefore, you could trust your choice of car rental in Sanur.

3) Driver’s Package
If it’s your first trip to Bali, Indonesia, navigating the road while driving can be too much of a task. Therefore, some car rental in Sanur offers a driver’s package. The drivers are highly skilled, and they are usually fluent in English to make communication with tourists easier. The drivers are mostly locals so they knew the fastest route to take you to your destination. They are also certified drivers so you don’t need to worry about safety. Aside from a driver’s package, you can also hire a driver from the local drivers' community.

4) Low cost and affordability
When you are browsing for a car rental in Sanur, you will find a very diverse price range. You are once again given the freedom to choose the one that fit your budget. The rental price of a car in Sanur Bali starts from Rp500.000 or around $30 daily. This price depends on what kind of car you are looking for, the size of the car, and the additional features that you need. An automatic car often costs more than a manual car. And if you are renting the car for a longer time, you might also get a discount.

5) Car Insurance
When you rent a car, you don’t need to worry about insurance. Generally, all car rental companies in Sanur Bali already had the rental car’s insurance covered. This is important for ensuring your safety and determining how it will be handled when something happens. You might also pay attention to the terms and conditions given by car rental companies. You don’t want to pay a lot of money for the damage that you don’t cause. It is also important to take a picture before you use the car. This way, if there is already damage to the car, you can give proof to the companies so that they won’t charge you.

Car rental in Sanur will give you a lot of benefits. You can enjoy your trip to Bali with a comfortable transportation mode. You might also want to browse the car rental companies before your travel to Bali. This will help you to determine and set your minds clearly. You are also allowed to ask for a driver’s package if you are not comfortable driving by yourself.

Essential Packing Guide for Your Bali Scuba Diving Adventure

Bali's pristine waters, teeming with marine life and fascinating underwater wreckage, make it a popular destination for scuba divers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Bali has something to offer. However, packing for a diving trip requires a different approach than packing for a regular vacation. In this article, we will guide you through what to pack for your Bali scuba diving adventure.

Packing for First-time Divers

Bali is an excellent place for beginners to learn how to dive, thanks to its calm waters and reputable dive shops. If you're a first-time diver, make sure you pack the following:

A course manual, a pencil, and a notebook: These items will help you keep track of the theory and skills you learn during your course.
 

Personal Dive Gear: Although most dive shops provide equipment, we recommend bringing your own personal gear, such as a mask, snorkel, and fins for a comfortable and secure fit. Remember that wetsuits, BCD, and regulators are usually included in your dive package.

Packing for Marine Biologists 

If you're an experienced diver or a marine enthusiast, you'll appreciate Bali's diverse marine ecosystem, including its 952 species of reef fish and stunning pelagics. To make the most of your diving experience, consider packing the following:

Waterproof Fish Identification Chart: These charts can be purchased at most dive shops and are an excellent tool for identifying fish during your dive.
Writing Slate: A writing slate can be used to take notes and record observations during your dive. You can easily erase and rewrite the slate to keep track of the marine life you spot.
Extra Logbook: If you're serious about marine life observations, consider keeping an extra logbook on the surface to maintain a long-term record of the animals you see.

For the Archaeologist

Bali is home to the famous USAT Liberty wreck dive, making it a great destination for underwater archaeologists. To navigate the wreckage, bring a compass, underwater map, and dive light. A marker buoy is also useful to flag the starting point of a wreck dive. Additionally, bring an extra dive knife or scissors in case of emergencies. Remember, it is essential not to take anything from these sites as they are historical landmarks.

For the Photographer

Bali has excellent visibility, making it an ideal place to capture stunning underwater photos. Tulamben, Amed, and Pemuteran have renowned muck diving sites where sediment rich in nutrients creates a perfect habitat for a range of photographic stars, including seahorses, nudibranchs, and mantis shrimps. To capture these tiny creatures, it is essential to bring a macro lens. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries, a lens cleaning kit, and memory cards.

For the Beginner

Bali is an ideal place for beginners to learn how to dive, thanks to its calm waters, beginner-friendly conditions, and professional dive shops. Ensure you sign up for a course from a reputable PADI, NAUI, or SSI operator. Bring your textbook, a pencil, and a notebook to take notes and learn more effectively.

For the Marine Biologist

Bali is home to over 950 species of reef fish, including eels, triggerfish, and neon-bright damselfish. Divers can also swim with eye-popping pelagics like the sunfish and graceful manta rays. To identify these species, most dive shops sell waterproof fish identification charts that can be attached to your buoyancy control device. A writing slate is also useful for recording the animals you see. To keep a long-term record of the animals spotted, an extra logbook at the surface can help.

Essential Tips for Packing and Preparing for a Dive Trip in Bali

Diving in Bali is an exhilarating experience, but packing and preparing for your dive trip can be a daunting task. To ensure that you have a hassle-free and enjoyable dive trip, it is essential to pack and prepare properly. Here are some essential tips to help you pack and prepare for your dive trip in Bali.

Packing Your Dive Gear 

When packing your dive gear, it is important to ensure that it is well-protected and easy to transport. A soft-sided duffel bag is a common choice for carry-on luggage as it can easily fit underneath seats or in overhead compartments. It is important to pack your delicate equipment, such as your dive computer, regulator, and camera gear, in your carry-on to avoid damage or theft.

When packing your checked bag, start with your BCD as it usually takes up the most space. Fold the sides together and place it at the bottom of the bag to provide cushioning. Slide your fins into the side of the bag and keep your mask in its protective case. To prevent your wetsuit from becoming too bulky, fold it one or two times.

What to Bring on the Boat 

To ensure that your dive trip is successful, it is essential to bring a 'save a dive kit'. This kit should contain replacement items such as o-rings, mask straps, mouthpieces, multitool, mask defog liquid, and extra batteries. In addition, you should protect yourself from the strong Bali sun by using high-SPF sunscreen that is safe for coral reef systems. Don't forget to bring a pair of sunglasses that you don't mind parting with.

If you're planning a long boat ride to Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands, bring an extra change of clothes for the ride back, and keep some motion-sickness medication h andy in case you start to feel queasy.

Leave Tanks and Weights at Home 

It is important to note that tanks and weights are usually included in the price of a dive trip in Bali. Therefore, it is recommended to leave them at home and use your luggage space for other essential items.

By following these essential tips for packing and preparing for a dive trip in Bali, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Remember to pack smart and protect your delicate equipment and yourself from the sun. Don't forget to bring a 'save a dive kit' and motion-sickness medication h andy to ensure a successful trip.

Bali has a vast range of diving experiences for different types of divers. This packing list will ensure that you have all the necessary gear and equipment for a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

10 Essential Gear for Diving in Bali

If you’re planning a dive trip to Bali, you know how important it is to have the right gear for the ultimate diving experience. Although most dive shops offer complete rental equipment, nothing beats the comfort and familiarity of your own diving gear. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of dive essentials to pack for your Bali diving adventure:

Mask: The right mask is crucial for a comfortable and safe dive. Choose a mask that fits perfectly on your face and comfortably stays in place while inhaling through your nose.

Fins: The choice of fins depends on personal preference. From split fins to blade fins, or open heel to full foot, choose the ones that are comfortable and suit your diving style.

Snorkel: A snorkel is necessary for conserving precious air while at the surface, allowing you to stay longer underwater.

Regulator: The regulator attaches to the tank and reduces air pressure to a breathable rate. It is essential to ensure a safe and controlled breathing experience underwater.

Buoyancy control device (BCD): A BCD is an inflatable vest that aids in buoyancy and helps you control your ascent and descent.

Dive computer: A dive computer is essential for monitoring things like depth, bottom time, and maximum dive time. It helps you plan and execute safe and controlled dives.

Wetsuit: Water temperatures in Bali average around 25°C, so a 3mm 'shorty' wetsuit is ideal for most divers. It provides warmth and protection without compromising mobility.

Dive insurance: Diving insurance covers the cost of emergency evacuation or hyperbaric chamber treatments. Some policies offer additional benefits like gear protection and travel insurance, giving you peace of mind during your diving adventure.

Logbook: A logbook is an essential tool for recording your dives and planning your next ones.

Certification card: A reputable dive shop won’t let you dive without a certification card. Make sure to bring it with you and avoid any inconvenience.

Here are some of the top scuba diving spots in Bali:

Tulamben – Tulamben, a small fishing village on the northeast coast of Bali, is a scuba diving haven. The USAT Liberty shipwreck is the main attraction for divers, with its fascinating history and diverse marine life. The wreck, which was a US Army transport ship torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942, now rests on the sandy bottom at a depth of 9 to 30 meters.

To get to Tulamben from Denpasar, take the main road towards Ubud and then turn right at the junction with the signpost for Padang Bai. From there, follow the main road to Amlapura and then turn left towards Tulamben. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

Once you arrive in Tulamben, the dive site is easily accessible from the shore. Divers can explore the shipwreck and the surrounding reef, which is teeming with colorful fish, crustaceans, and coral formations. The Liberty wreck is also a popular spot for macro photography, with opportunities to see pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and other tiny creatures.

Whether you are a seasoned diver or a beginner, Tulamben is a must-visit destination in Bali. With its stunning underwater scenery and fascinating history, the USAT Liberty shipwreck is an unforgettable experience that you don't want to miss. Tulamben diving price range is from IDR 800.000,- to IDR 35.000.000,-

Nusa Penida - Located just a 45-minute speedboat ride from Sanur in Bali, Nusa Penida is an idyllic island paradise that offers world-class scuba diving experiences. The island's diverse underwater landscape is home to an abundance of marine life, including the majestic manta rays, which are the main attraction for most divers. To reach Nusa Penida from Denpasar, you'll need to take a taxi or private car to Sanur, where you can catch a speedboat to the island. Once you arrive at Nusa Penida, you can explore the island's stunning natural beauty and relax on its pristine beaches before embarking on your scuba diving adventure. The manta ray dive sites are located on the southern coast of the island, and there are several dive operators that offer guided tours to these areas. With crystal clear waters and the chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, a dive at Nusa Penida is an experience that you'll never forget.

Amed is a charming and peaceful coastal village located on Bali's northeast coast. It is a hidden gem that attracts divers and snorkelers for its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. The reefs in Amed are home to an impressive array of colorful corals, and divers can also spot many species of fish, including the rare pygmy seahorse, scorpionfish, and octopuses. Amed's black sand beaches add to its unique charm, and the picturesque backdrop of Mount Agung provides a stunning view.

The best way to reach Amed from Denpasar is by car. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. The route from Denpasar passes through the town of Sanur and then heads east along the coast. Once you arrive in Amed, you can find a range of diving centers that offer scuba diving and snorkeling tours to explore the area's underwater treasures. With its peaceful ambiance, clear waters, and diverse marine life, Amed is a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts in Bali.

Menjangan Island is a hidden gem off the coast of Bali that promises a unique and breathtaking dive experience. Situated in the West Bali National Park, it's a bit of a journey to get there, but the journey is worth the reward. From Denpasar, it's approximately a 4-hour drive to the small fishing village of Labuan Lalang, where you'll find several dive operators offering trips to Menjangan Island. Alternatively, you can take a local ferry from Banyuwangi, East Java, to reach the island.

Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Menjangan Island is well-known for its incredible wall dives, where you can see vibrant corals, colorful sponges, and an array of fish species. Schools of barracuda and jacks can often be spotted swimming by, and if you're lucky, you may even come across a majestic manta ray. Menjangan Island is also home to a number of interesting dive sites, including the Coral Garden, Eel Garden, and Secret Bay.

The dive sites are relatively shallow, making Menjangan Island an ideal spot for beginners and experienced divers alike. With its unspoiled underwater beauty and peaceful surroundings, it's no wonder why Menjangan Island is considered one of the top dive destinations in Bali.

Padang Bai is a charming coastal town located on the east coast of Bali, just a 1.5-hour drive from Denpasar. To get there, visitors can hire a private driver or take a taxi, as there are no public transportation options available. Once in Padang Bai, the Blue Lagoon and Shark Point dive sites are easily accessible by boat. The Blue Lagoon, with its clear blue waters and shallow reef, is perfect for beginner divers and snorkelers. Shark Point, on the other hand, is recommended for experienced divers due to its strong currents and deeper depths. The site offers a chance to see not only reef sharks, but also other big fish such as trevally and groupers. For those seeking a more adventurous dive, Padang Bai also offers the opportunity to explore the nearby sunken USAT Liberty shipwreck in Tulamben, which can be reached by a two-hour drive from Padang Bai.

No matter where you choose to dive in Bali, you can be sure of an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

In addition to the essential gear, don't forget to bring a sense of adventure and curiosity for the underwater world. Bali has some of the best diving spots in the world, so pack your bags with the right gear and get ready for an unforgettable diving experience.