Bali Airport to Canggu: 4 Best Airport Transfers

Bali Airport to Canggu isn’t a complicated trip, but it can get chaotic if you don’t plan ahead. Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is located in the south near Kuta, and Canggu is roughly 45 minutes to 1.5 hours away, depending on Bali’s notorious traffic.

I’m gonna say it like it is, if you arrive at Bali Airport without doing any research, you’ll be absolutely hounded by taxi drivers trying to overcharge you. It’s not the warmest welcome, but it’s common.

That’s why knowing your options in advance makes a huge difference. Whether you want a cheap ride or a private pickup, having your Bali itinerary planned out ahead of time will make your arrival and visit less stressful!

Using Ride-Share Apps Like Grab or Gojek

Ride-sharing apps are by far the easiest and most affordable way to get from Bali Airport to Canggu if you haven’t already booked a private transfer.

Grab is the most commonly used app, and it has a designated pickup area at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Gojek also has its specific pickup point. When you exit the terminal, look for their logo signs; it’s straightforward, and airport staff can point you in the right direction if needed.

Both apps are affordable, reliable, and show you the price upfront (usually between IDR 150K–250K, depending on traffic and time of day). Cars typically arrive within 10–15 minutes, and you’ll be on your way without hassle.

A quick warning: If a random driver approaches you inside the terminal or just as you’re stepping outside, claiming to be your Grab or Gojek driver, please ignore them. These are often regular taxi drivers trying to scam you. Stick to the designated pickup zones.

Booking a Private Airport Transfer to Canggu

If you want a completely smooth experience, especially after a long flight, booking a private airport transfer is the most hassle-free option.

You’ll be greeted at arrivals with your name on a sign, helped with your bags, and driven directly to your hotel in Canggu without needing to navigate apps, lines, or chaos.

Prices usually range from IDR 250K to 400K, depending on your provider and the size of the vehicle.

It’s a bit more expensive than a ride-share, but the peace of mind can be worth it, especially if you’re arriving late at night or traveling with extra luggage.

You can book these in advance through Klook, and as soon as you arrive, you’ll be right on your way to your hotel.

Hotel Airport Pickup: The Easiest Option for First-Timers

Many hotels and villas in Canggu offer airport pickup services, and while it’s often pricier than other options, the convenience can’t be denied.

It’s especially useful if you’re staying somewhere a bit remote or challenging to find on a map.

Rates vary depending on your accommodation, expect to pay around IDR 300K to 500K, but the benefit is simplicity. Your driver will already know where you’re headed, and you’ll usually be able to spot them easily with your name sign just past the arrivals hall.

Pro tip: If your hotel offers this, it’s worth asking if it’s included in your booking. Some mid-range or boutique stays toss it in as a complimentary service.

Taking a Taxi from Bali Airport to Canggu

Yes, taxis are available outside Bali Airport, but this is the least recommended option for getting to Canggu.

The official taxi booth sets higher fixed prices than ride-shares. Once you leave that zone, you’ll find tons of independent drivers aggressively offering rides, many of whom overcharge or quote in vague currency terms (like “fifty,” without saying if it’s thousand or dollars).

If you must go this route, head to the official Ngurah Rai Airport Taxi Counter, confirm the price with the driver a few times, and make sure you’re not just hopping into a random vehicle with no ID or license displayed.

Honestly? Unless you’re in a rush and have no other choice, there are far better (and less stressful) options above.

What to Expect Upon Arrival at Bali Airport (DPS)

Once you land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), you’ll move through immigration and baggage claim fairly quickly. The arrivals area is busy, especially during peak hours, and it helps to know what to expect before you walk out the door.

There are ATMs and money exchange counters available—handy if you need quick cash—but rates aren’t ideal, so only withdraw what you need to get started.

If you’re not getting an eSIM, I recommend grabbing a local SIM card from Telkomsel. They offer the best coverage in Indonesia, and you’ll appreciate having a strong signal while moving around the island.

If you’re headed straight to your hotel in Canggu and need help deciding where to base yourself, I’ve broken down all the best areas in Bali in this where to stay in Bali guide.

Getting from Bali Airport to Canggu: Final Thoughts

Getting from Bali Airport to Canggu is one of those things that seems simple, until you land and realize you’re navigating a new country, unfamiliar traffic, and a swarm of drivers offering “special price.”

But once you know your options and what to expect, it becomes a total non-issue.

Whether you’re booking a Grab, arranging a private transfer, or going the hotel route, having your plan locked in before landing is the easiest way to avoid stress.

Once you’re in Canggu, whether you’re there to surf, work remotely, or just relax, I’ve got a full guide on what it’s really like to travel to Bali that covers everything beyond the airport ride.

Canggu isn’t far, but the ride can feel longer if you’re jet-lagged and confused. So plan smart, skip the chaos, and start your Bali trip the right way.

I’ll be honest, my first arrival in Bali was rough. I planned to book a Grab, but my linked card didn’t work, and I had no cash. While scrambling to fix it, I was relentlessly hounded by taxi drivers, easily the most aggressive I’ve ever experienced at any airport.

They quoted me three to five times the regular price, assuming I was some uneducated traveler. I then got cash from the ATM, and my card eventually worked, so I booked a Grab and got out of there.

But after that experience, I’ll definitely be booking an airport transfer in advance next time. Trust me, it’s worth the peace of mind!