Planning your transport to Ubud before you arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport, ensures a smooth landing. You face a longer drive through the heart of the island with a Bali Airport transfer to Ubud compared to coastal destinations.
The route winds through busy towns and climbs into Bali’s mountainous interior. Understanding your transport options, costs, and travel times to Ubud helps you avoid stress and overcharging at the airport.
How Much is a Taxi From Bali Airport to Ubud?
Transport costs from Bali Airport to Ubud vary depending on your chosen method. A metered taxi typically costs 350,000 to 500,000 IDR (approximately $22-32 USD). Prices increase during peak hours when traffic is heavy.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek offer competitive rates between 300,000 to 450,000 IDR ($19-29 USD). You see the exact fare upfront before you book, which eliminates negotiation.
You can pre-book private airport transfers online for 450,000 to 700,000 IDR ($29-45 USD). These services cost more but provide guaranteed pickup, meet-and-greet service, and experienced drivers who monitor your flight arrival.
Shared shuttle services represent the most budget-friendly option at around 150,000 to 200,000 IDR ($10-13 USD) per person. They make multiple stops at different hotels, which extends your travel time but saves money.
How Far is Ubud From Bali Airport?
Ubud sits approximately 35-40 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Your exact destination within Ubud determines the precise distance, as the area extends across several kilometers from central Ubud to outlying villages.
You can complete the journey in 60-90 minutes during off-peak hours with light traffic conditions. The route travels north through Denpasar and Gianyar before climbing into the hills.
During peak traffic hours between 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM, expect 2-3 hours or longer. Rush hour congestion significantly impacts travel time, especially through the Denpasar area.
You should allow extra time when booking airport transfers, particularly if you have connecting flights or important appointments. Traffic in Bali can be unpredictable, with unexpected delays common during holidays and weekends.
What Are the Best Transport Options From Airport to Ubud?
You have several reliable options for traveling from Bali Airport to Ubud. Each option suits different budgets, group sizes, and comfort preferences.
You can use official airport taxis from the designated taxi counter in the arrivals hall. Blue Bird and other authorized companies offer metered fares with professional drivers. The fixed-rate prepaid system eliminates haggling at the curb.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek work well at Bali Airport. They offer both car and motorcycle options with cashless payment. You track your journey via GPS and can share your trip details with friends or family for added security.
You can arrange pre-booked private transfers through your hotel, travel agency, or online platforms. These provide fixed pricing, flight monitoring, and personalized service with drivers waiting at arrivals with name signs. Many include complimentary bottled water and air conditioning.
Shared shuttle services operate on scheduled departure times from the airport. You book them through travel agencies, hotel concierges, or online booking platforms. They work well for solo travelers on a budget who don’t mind sharing with other passengers and making multiple stops.
You can rent a car and drive yourself from the airport to Ubud. Rental desks operate in the arrivals area. This option gives you flexibility but requires confidence driving in Bali’s mountain roads and an international driving permit. You also need to arrange parking at your Ubud accommodation.
Bali Airport to Ubud FAQs
How much is a taxi from Bali Airport to Ubud?
Official airport taxis charge approximately IDR 300,000 to 500,000 ($20-35 USD) for the journey from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Ubud. Private transfer services typically cost between IDR 450,000 and 600,000 ($28-38 USD) and include meet-and-greet service, luggage assistance, and bottled water. Airport taxi fares often start around IDR 500,000, though you may negotiate this down to approximately IDR 400,000.
How long does it take to get to Ubud from the airport?
The journey from Bali Airport to Ubud takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. Traffic congestion in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Denpasar can significantly extend travel time during peak hours. You should plan for at least 1.5 hours to reach your destination safely.
Can you take Grab from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
Yes, you can use Grab to travel from the airport to Ubud, with the service offering rides for approximately IDR 200,000-300,000. Grab charges between IDR 350,000 and 500,000 ($22-32 USD) to Ubud, with prices fluctuating due to surge pricing during peak hours. The pickup point for Grab is located in the short-term parking area, about a 3-minute walk from the arrivals terminal.
How much to tip a driver from the airport to Ubud?
For airport transfers, a tip of IDR 50,000 to 100,000 ($3.50-$5) represents standard appreciation for good service. Tipping is not mandatory in Bali but is appreciated, especially in the tourism sector where it can meaningfully supplement modest wages. For short taxi or Grab rides, you can simply round up the fare to the nearest IDR 10,000 as a nice gesture.
How much is a Grab from Ubud to the airport?
Grab fares from Ubud to the airport cost approximately the same as the reverse journey, ranging from IDR 350,000 to 500,000 ($22-32 USD). Prices vary based on demand and time of day, with surge pricing applying during peak travel periods. You should book your ride with extra time to account for potential driver availability and traffic conditions.
How far is Ubud from the airport by car?
Ubud sits approximately 37 to 40 kilometers north of Ngurah Rai International Airport by road. The route covers about 40 km through various towns and villages in southern Bali. Despite the relatively short distance, the journey takes over an hour due to local traffic patterns and road conditions.