We’ve all heard of ride-sharing apps like Uber and Grab, but do you know how they work in Indonesia? Well, luckily for you this guide will provide everything you need to know about the best ride sharing apps in Indonesia. In the year 2023, ride-hailing is revolutionizing urban transportation in places such as Bali with convenient and affordable options. With travel restrictions being lifted across the country too, it can be easier than ever to get around!

This blog post will give an overview of some of the popular ride-sharing apps available in Indonesia as well as some alternative ways to get around safely while in Bali. Plus we’ll also provide tips on how to save money while travelling throughout Indonesia.

So, stick around if getting around at a lower cost sounds appealing!

• Grab is a popular ride-sharing app in Indonesia that has a 62% market share and offers an easy way to pay via mobile wallets or cashless payment.
• Gojek, established in 2009 as a call center for courier delivery, provides on-demand transport and lifestyle services with its innovative range of services.
• Uber is not operating in Indonesia due to regulatory constraints while Lyft expanded service into Indonesia but remains exclusive within local borders only.
• Alternative ride-sharing companies such as OjongSP, Catimor Drivers, and ForBoden Ridesharing Bali offer travelers affordable prices from all major starting points around the island.

10 Best Ride Sharing Apps in Indonesia

Indonesia has four main ride-sharing apps available, including Grab, Gojek, Uber, Lyft and others. Let’s check out them below.

Grab

Grab, the most popular ride-sharing app in Indonesia is a comprehensive platform beloved by its users. It first entered the Indonesian market in 2016 and quickly became a major player with its expansion into various services like digital payments and delivery.

In 2018, Grab acquired Uber’s Southeast Asia business, drastically extending their user base and reach to become the biggest ride-hailing platform in Indonesia today with a 62% market share.

Particularly beneficial for those who are financially underserved in SEA, Grab offers an easy way to pay via mobile wallets or cashless payment options such as debit cards or Meyerbank Transfer making it simpler to access rides even without internet access or smartphone ownership.

Gojek

Gojek, established in 2009 as a call center for courier delivery and ride-hailing services, is known as a super app that now provides on-demand transport, and lifestyle services such as food delivery, payments, and more.

It has become one of the largest ride-sharing companies in Indonesia with its innovative range of services. The company stands out from its competitors such as Grab because it offers an array of other convenient everyday solutions besides ride-sharing.

Additionally, Gojek’s commitment to sustainability is remarkable; they announced plans for every car and motorcycle on their platform to be electrically powered by 2030 – setting the bar high for environmental responsibility within the industry.

Uber

Although Uber is one of the biggest ride-sharing apps in the world, it does not operate in Indonesia. Riders choose Uber for its affordability and convenience, fundamental factors that have allowed it to become so successful internationally.

However, regulatory constraints prevent Uber from reaching Indonesia. AlphaBeta research reveals how Indonesian riders have been able to get around with more familiar services such as Gojek and Grab instead of relying on traditional transportation methods.

These local apps provide Indonesians options for ridesharing which are tailored based on their specific needs and allow them access to customer service and support available in the Indonesian language.

Lyft

Lyft is an American company that offers mobility services, including shared rides, bikes, and scooters. In 2021 it expanded its services to Indonesia in a bid to better compete with Uber in the global ride-hailing market, forming alliances with local rivals such as Gojek.

Despite not being present on the list of ride-sharing apps available in Indonesia, Lyft has managed to make its presence felt thanks to its innovative technology and modern approach; even though there is no ownership connection between the two companies, many riders are interested in trying out Lyft’s offerings due to their unique features.

It also helps that Lyft offers affordable fares and friendly customer service which can be crucial for customers who want a fast yet enjoyable ride-sharing experience.

Blue Bird

BlueBird taxi entered Indonesia’s rideshare scene recently as a fresh new option. BlueBird has been around for a long time as one of the original taxi companies in Indonesia. Their goal is to make it simpler for people across Indonesia to get rides.

The BlueBird app lets you book taxis and limos in big Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and Bandung. You get to pick from regular taxis, nicer taxis with more features, or luxurious limos depending on what you need. One great thing is BlueBird has an easy-to-use online payment system built into the app. You can quickly pay for your ride right through the app without any hassle.

Overall, BlueBird Taxi brings its years of experience as a taxi leader in Indonesia to the rideshare marketplace. With their app, they aim to make rides more available everywhere from small towns to big cities. Their online payment setup makes booking and paying a smooth process.

Dego Ride

Dego Ride is becoming very popular in Indonesia for motorcycle taxi rides. More people are using Dego Ride because it provides an easy and affordable way to get around crowded cities. Dego Ride lets you book motorcycle taxis right from their app. This makes it quick and convenient to zip through heavy traffic on a motorbike.

Dego Ride is focused on safety too. They make sure their drivers are trained to provide secure rides. The prices for Dego Ride are low, especially compared to cars stuck in jams. This makes it very cost-effective for short rides around urban areas with bad traffic.

You can get to where you need to go rapidly without spending too much. Dego Ride started recently but is catching on very fast. People across Indonesia’s biggest cities are using it more as they realize how fast, safe, and cheap it is. Dego Ride’s motorcycle taxis are becoming a preferred transportation option for beating traffic in Indonesian cities.

Maxim

Maxim is becoming a go-to rideshare app in Indonesia for dependable service. They started by offering rides, but now also deliver food and packages. Maxim makes their app very easy to use. They have fair prices that are competitive with other rideshare companies. Maxim cares a lot about keeping customers happy. Their goal is to make getting around as smooth and pleasant as possible.

More people in Indonesia are using Maxim for rides because of their convenience and good prices. On top of rides, users can also order food or send packages quickly through the Maxim app. With a user-friendly app, reasonable rates, and a focus on great service, Maxim continues to grow.

They want riding with Maxim to be an enjoyable, stress-free experience for all customers. As they add more services beyond rides, Maxim aims to become an app people rely on for their daily needs.

Wahyoo Drive

Wahyoo Drive is different from other rideshare apps in Indonesia because it focuses a lot on drivers. Wahyoo Drive lets people earn extra money by giving rides. But they also help drivers make more money in other ways.

Wahyoo Drive partners with local businesses. This gives their drivers chances to make additional income beyond just ridesharing. Users like that Wahyoo Drive offers a personalized, friendly service. Wahyoo Drive wants to build a community that supports both riders and drivers.

More riders are choosing Wahyoo Drive because of their caring approach. Drivers appreciate that the company looks out for them. Wahyoo Drive creates opportunities for drivers to earn more money from rides and other sources. By supporting drivers and riders, Wahyoo Drive aims to provide a personalized rideshare service. Their partnerships and community focus make Wahyoo Drive stand out in Indonesia.

Jekate

Jekate is getting a lot of attention in Indonesia for being a sustainable rideshare option. Jekate only offers rides on electric scooters and bicycles, not regular cars that pollute the air. This makes Jekate a green way for people to commute and get around cities without harming the environment.

Many riders who care about the planet are now using Jekate because it lets them travel conveniently but also in a way that helps fight climate change. Since Jekate uses zero-emission electric vehicles, choosing their service reduces pollution and promotes clean transportation.

As Indonesia grows, environmentally conscious users see Jekate as the perfect app for rides that are both easy and good for the earth. By focusing only on electric scooters and bikes, Jekate is showing how ridesharing can provide an innovative, greener travel alternative in Indonesia’s cities.

MolaRide

MolaRide has quickly become a popular rideshare app in Indonesia because it provides so many transportation choices. In addition to regular ridesharing, MolaRide has options like carpooling that let users save money by sharing rides. People can choose the service that best fits their needs, whether it’s a quick motorbike taxi or split fare carpool.

MolaRide makes its app very simple to use with an intuitive design. They are also focused on keeping fares affordable for all users. With the flexibility of choosing different ride types and cheap prices, MolaRide is convenient for everyone from daily commuters to occasional riders.

More Indonesians are relying on MolaRide as their go-to transportation app because of the range of services, user-friendly app, and commitment to fair costs. By offering diverse ridesharing choices at reasonable rates, MolaRide aims to be accessible and helpful for all types of commuters across Indonesia. Additionally, you can also read Best Ride Sharing Apps in New Zealand.

Safety and Scams with Ride Sharing in Bali

[Video Credits @Linnea&TominBali]

Take caution to avoid any scams that might occur while using ride-sharing apps in Bali, and be aware of safety tips for travelers.

Tips for Using Ride-Sharing Apps in Bali

• To get the best fares, always check multiple ride-sharing apps. The most commonly used app in Bali is GoJek, but Grab and MAXIM are also options.
• Be aware that ridesharing apps in Bali may overcharge customers from time to time. If your fare estimate seems too high, double-check or call the customer service number indicated on the app for help.
• Prepay if you can – it is possible when using GoJek and this often results in cheaper prices.
• Consider an alternative like the Blue Bird taxi app to avoid the risks of scams or overcharging issues associated with ride-sharing apps in Bali.
• Always keep any messages or emails regarding your booking so you have a record of it if needed and take screenshots to make sure payments are taken correctly each time.
• To avoid language barriers, use English or Bahasa Indonesia for communication purposes when using ride-sharing apps in Bali and consider asking for additional details before departing with the driver, such as their name, vehicle model and color, etc..

Scams to Watch Out for in Bali

• Unauthorized entrance fees: Scammers in Bali often ask tourists to pay unauthorized entrance fees near temples and tourist attractions. Avoid paying these fees, as they are not legitimate.
• Ride-sharing drivers: Ride-sharing drivers in Bali may take longer routes or overcharge passengers. Always watch the fare meter and be aware of fares before booking a ride.
• Fake Blue Bird taxis: Fake Blue Bird taxis in Bali are a common scam, with scammers posing as legitimate drivers. Make sure to always book Blue Bird from an official booking office and verify the driver’s information before getting into the vehicle.
• Currency exchange scams: Currency exchange scams in Bali involve offering unfavorable rates or shortchanging visitors when exchanging currency. To protect yourself, research currency rates beforehand, compare them across multiple vendors, and count your cash carefully after exchanging it.
• Beach hustlers and touts: Beach hustlers and touts in Bali may try to sell overpriced products or services to tourists. Be careful when interacting with people on beaches as you may be taken advantage of without realizing it.

Read Also: Best Ride-Sharing Apps in Taiwan

Transportation Options in Bali

With multiple options available including taxis, private drivers, scooter rentals, and public transportation, travelers in Bali can explore the area with ease.

Taxis

Taxis in Bali have long been subject to the practice of overcharging tourists. Oftentimes, taxi drivers will attempt to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists by imposing surge prices during peak times or charging excessive hourly fees for sightseeing trips.

While these practices may be difficult to completely avoid, ride-hailing apps such as Gojek, Grab, and Uber offer customers a fixed price that is calculated ahead of time based on GPS coordinates.

These applications also provide motorbike taxis – often the most cost-effective mode of transportation available in Bali – and this highly convenient option may not always be available from traditional taxi services.

Private Drivers

Private drivers provide tourists in Bali with a convenient and personalized travel experience. Private drivers offer the flexibility to customize itineraries as well as direct routes and drop-off points according to each passenger’s requirements.

Additionally, they can also provide local insights into popular attractions and restaurants, allowing travelers to access information on geographic conditions or areas inaccessible by other transportation options such as taxis or ride-sharing apps.

With their knowledge of the best routes and drive times, it is an ideal option for visitors looking to maximize their time in Bali without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or recurrent traffic jams during rush hour hours.

Scooter Rentals

Scooter rentals are one of the most popular transportation options in Bali and offer an affordable way to get around. People can easily find rental places for scooters and rent them at prices ranging from 70-80,000 IDR ($6 approx).

Electric scooters have also become increasingly available across Bali, providing a more eco-friendly option for travelers. While there is some risk involved with renting scooters in Bali, it’s possible to do so legally and safely by following rules like learning local traffic laws, wearing appropriate safety gear (helmet, etc.), and not driving while under the influence of substances or at night unless necessary. It’s easy to see why rental scooters have become such a traveler favorite!

Public Transportation

In Bali, public transportation includes a range of options, from taxis and private drivers to buses and scooter rentals. Taxis are easy to find in most cities on the island, but they tend to be more expensive than ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek.

Private drivers can also offer an affordable way of getting around these are usually found through word-of-mouth referrals or online searches. Scooters for rent are common in popular tourist areas like Kuta Beach and Ubud. However, keep in mind that roads can be challenging in some parts of Bali due to difficult driving conditions such as potholes and lack of lane markings.

Public buses circulate throughout the main areas on the island as well these cost less than most other transportation options but don’t travel late into the evening. In general, travelers should consider various factors before choosing which type of transport is best suited for their needs – availability, cost, convenience – as well as paying attention to their safety during transit (e.g., wearing helmets).

Pros and Cons of Ride-Sharing Apps in Bali

Consider the convenience and accessibility of using ride-sharing apps in Bali, as well as potential language barriers, traffic congestion, and road conditions.

Convenience and Accessibility

Apps like Gojek, Grab, and Uber make getting around Bali easy for tourists and locals. You can download them right from the Google Play or Apple Store. The apps use GPS to show cars nearby and track your ride. You can pay through the app so you don’t need to carry much cash.

The prices are usually lower than regular taxis that might overcharge without competition. With these rideshare apps, getting around Bali is simple. You can call a car anytime and pay by app. You also get fair rates compared to taxis. The apps offer convenience and accessibility for exploring Bali without hassle.

This makes these apps a popular alternative to getting around while avoiding scams by taxi drivers. Furthermore, Gojek is specifically available in South Bali focusing on scooter transportation making it an even more convenient option for locals and visitors alike.

Potential Language Barriers

When taking ride-sharing apps, especially if you are in a place like Bali where the local language is not English, language barriers can become an immediate challenge. Not all taxi drivers in Bali speak English and may not be familiar with your destination.

It can be difficult to explain where exactly you want to go or express any queries without speaking the local language fluently. To avoid this problem, using translation apps on your device or learning some basic Indonesian phrases such as ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’ will make it easier and faster for everyone involved when using ride-sharing app taxis in Bali.

Knowing a few more essential words like ‘I need help’ would come in handy so that the driver understands what kind of assistance the traveler needs during their trip!

Traffic and Road Conditions

Bali is notorious for traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Traveling through the main tourism hubs of Ubud, Kuta, and Seminyak can be a nightmare at some times of the day due to high levels of motorbike traffic.

However, it’s probably safest to stick with ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek since most roads in Bali are narrow and lack sidewalks. This makes them less than ideal for walking or cycling.

Other areas on the island such as rural villages may not have access to traditional transportation options and therefore could make ride-sharing apps such as those offered by Gojek a very convenient way of getting around the island safely.

Tips for Traveling in Bali

With so much to explore, travelers should brush up on safety tips for solo female travelers, tipping etiquette, and recommendations for getting around Bali. Read our blog post to learn more about the best ride-sharing apps in Indonesia!

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

• Avoid dark areas at night
• Do not accept beverages from strangers
• Use ATMs with precaution
• Research a solo traveler guide for Bali for additional security tips
• Do not drink tap water in Bali to avoid possible stomach issues
• Consider Bluebird Taxis as a safe and reliable transportation option

Tipping Etiquette

In Bali, tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for quality service. Although there is no obligation to tip, it is seen as polite and appreciated by the locals. Generally speaking, it’s recommended to give anywhere from 5-10% of your total bill at restaurants or on other services like hair styling and massages.

It’s best practice not to tip in coins or low denomination notes as they could be deemed insulting. The most common method for leaving tips is just adding the amount onto your payment directly when settling up with cash.

If you’re paying by card, leave the extra money in cash alongside your regular payment and hand it off with a “thank you”. Tipping isn’t mandatory but a small gratuity may help ensure excellent service on subsequent visits throughout your stay in Bali!

Recommendations for Getting Around Bali

• Renting a moped is recommended for getting around Bali. This is typically the most cost-effective option and will allow you to make the most of your Bali experience by visiting remote areas otherwise inaccessible by public transport.
• Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek provide convenient transportation in Bali, with multiple options available. This allows tourists to book their rides from within the app and offers reliable and affordable rides for day trips and sightseeing excursions.
• Taxis can always be called when needed, providing flexibility when there are no ride-hailing apps or private drivers available.
• If desired, it is also possible to hire a private driver in Bali who can take care of all your transportation needs during your stay.
• For travelers who are arriving at the airport, public transportation such as buses and taxis offer the lowest cost alternative for transfers from one destination to another, making it an ideal way for budget travelers to get around Bali on a limited budget.

Other Transportation Options in Indonesia

Other areas in Indonesia besides Bali offer ride-sharing options such as Uber, Gojek, and Grab, as well as traditional taxis and shuttle services for those wishing to explore the country.

Availability of Ride-Sharing Apps in Java, Lombok, Flores, and Other Areas

Gojek and Grab are popular ride-sharing apps that are widely used in Indonesia, especially in Java, Lombok, Flores, and other areas. These services offer convenient transportation options for travelers who need to get around quickly and conveniently.

The use of ride-sharing apps has become increasingly popular over the past few years as a reliable alternative to traditional taxi services. This is especially beneficial during peak times when taxis may be scarce or not available at all.

For travelers visiting these areas of Indonesia, downloading these apps before arrival can be helpful. Not only do they provide transportation conveniently but also cost-effectively so users can get where they want without breaking the bank.

Traditional Taxis and Shuttle Services

There are popular modes of transport in Indonesia, especially Bali, where they can be hailed off the road or booked through a reputable taxi service. While convenient and accessible, some taxi drivers are known to overcharge tourists due to their unfamiliarity with appropriate rates.

Alternative ride-sharing apps such as Gojek, Grab, and Uber have revolutionized the industry by introducing fair and consistent fares that everyone pays. This competition has also driven innovation allowing users to compare prices and book rides via smartphone applications as well as providing better working conditions for drivers who now benefit from transparent pricing structures in place.

Indonesian regulations further restrict the fare amounts charged whilst limiting the number of vehicles these companies can operate at any one time.

Renting Cars or Scooters

can be a great way of getting around in Bali. Scooter rentals are widely available throughout the island, and they offer an accessible and affordable option for exploring all the sights that it has to offer.

It is important to note that scooters must be rented legally with proper registration, as this is critical for upholding safety standards. For those who have ever wanted to experience driving themselves around on roads where car-hire companies are scarce, renting a car can also be an exciting prospect when visiting Bali – there are several rental services available at reasonable prices.

However, it’s important to familiarize oneself with local driving regulations before renting one – this could save you from any unnecessary stress or legal matters during your stay!

Public Transportation Options

In Indonesia, various transportation options are available for getting around, such as taxis and private drivers along with buses and scooter rentals. Ride-hailing apps like Gojek, Grab, and Uber provide a convenient and affordable way for commuters in the country to avoid long queues at public bus stops or taxi stands.

For those wanting to explore Bali, there are several bike rental companies, that allow tourists to take the scenic route through back roads at their own pace.

Meanwhile, taxis offer door-to-door services which reduce commute times extremely quickly if they can evade traffic due to Jakarta’s notoriously clogged streets. To help combat vehicle pollution on its network Gojek has set an ambitious target of transitioning all vehicles on its platform over to electric ones by 2030; creating cleaner commutes ahead of time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the best ridesharing apps in Indonesia.

1. What are the best ride-sharing apps in Indonesia?

The popular ride-sharing apps available in Indonesia include Gojek, Grab and BluJeks.

2. What services do each of these ridesharing apps provide?

Gojek provides a wide range of on-demand services from food delivery to digital payments. Similarly, Grab offers about 100 different types of transport options including PABTA, bus rental, and motorbike taxis as well as food delivery services. Lastly, BluJeks allows customers to make local trips within their city with reliable transport services and payment solutions.

3. How do I use these ridesharing apps while traveling across cities?

Most ride-sharing applications allow you to book rides across multiple cities within Indonesia with just one app account using their intercity feature or a special promotional coupon code designed for travelers wanting cross-border service from the company’s official website or social media page.

4. Are there any additional safety measures taken by these companies during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes, most ride-share networks such as Gojek have implemented extra safety measures for passengers by introducing contactless authentication, mandatory face masks onboard, an air filter system for increased hygiene, and various policies that promote cashless transactions over cash payments.

Takeaway

Choosing the best ride-sharing app in Indonesia can be a daunting task. All of the apps have different features, prices, and availability across the country. Some are better for urban areas like Jakarta, while others may be better suited for more rural or touristy areas like Bali.

In making their choice, travelers must consider factors such as cost, safety, convenience, and access to transportation options that best suit their needs. Grab is likely the most popular ride-sharing company in Indonesia and has excellent coverage in major cities like Jakarta and offers cheaper rides compared to other companies.

Gojek provides an Indonesian option via its range of scooters that allow riders an alternative way of getting around crowded streets quickly and cheaply but do come with additional risk when it comes to safety measures such as helmets etc. Uber is unavailable at present but was available before so could become popular again if reintroduced into Indonesia’s ride-sharing market in the future.

Finally, Lyft is less well known outside North America but does offer serviceable rides throughout some parts of Indonesia including Bali though comparative pricing may not make it competitively attractive against local operators or even international ones operating elsewhere in Asia like Grab/GoJek.