Bali High-Traffic Areas to Exercise Extra Caution

• Canggu’s main roads, especially during morning and sunset hours. Jalan Raya Canggu is very bad most of the time, and the shortcuts between Canggu and Berawa (infamous Canggu Shortcut) and between Pererenan and Canggu are almost always congested, sometimes even turning into a real nightmare. Not even scooters can get through anymore
• Seminyak’s narrow streets with frequent bottlenecks
• Kuta’s congested tourist areas
• Ubud’s busy central streets

Common Traffic Challenges in Bali

Riders frequently encounter these situations in high-traffic areas:

• Multiple lanes of scooters moving at different speeds
• Constant overtaking from both sides
• Vehicles entering main roads without proper checks
• Limited adherence to right-of-way rules
• Sudden stops from ride-hailing vehicles
• General Lack of “Traffic Discipline”
• Reckless Drivers
• At night in the Tourist areas there are simply too many tourists driving intoxicated

Road Condition Hazards in Bali

Physical road conditions that require attention:

• Unexpected potholes and uneven surfaces
• Loose gravel and sand, particularly near construction sites
• Slippery surfaces during and after rain
• Narrow roads with no designated lanes
• Speed bumps that may be unmarked

Safety Recommendations for Bali when Driving a Scooter or Motorbike

To navigate these challenging conditions safely:

• Maintain safe following distances from other vehicles
• Avoid riding during peak traffic hours when possible
• Stay in a single lane rather than weaving between traffic
• Watch for vehicles entering from side streets
• Reduce speed in areas with poor road conditions
• Consider alternative routes during busy periods
• DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

During high season and peak hours, travel times can increase significantly. A journey that takes 15 minutes in light traffic might require 45 minutes or more during busy periods. Planning extra time for journeys and maintaining patience are essential for safe navigation through Bali’s busiest areas.

NO LOUD BIKES PLEASE

Avoiding Modified Scooters in Bali

Standard, unmodified scooters are strongly recommended over modified bikes for several important reasons:

• Local authorities enforce fines up to 1 million IDR for loud exhausts
• Modified bikes disturb local communities, other tourists and are an unnecessary addition to noise pollution in Bali
• Noise pollution affects Bali’s peaceful atmosphere which is at threat in the busy southern regions from Canggu down to Uluwatu
• Unmodified vehicles comply with local regulations