Sanur’s New Electric Tourist Shuttle Service Receives High Praise from Visitors
Denpasar, Bali – A new electric shuttle bus service recently launched in Sanur, Bali’s iconic beach resort area, is garnering positive feedback from both international and domestic tourists. The Denpasar City Government began trialing the environmentally friendly shuttle on August 1, 2025, and early reports suggest it is proving to be a convenient and welcomed addition to the area’s transportation options.
Ease of Exploring Sanur with Eco-Friendly Transport
The shuttle, easily identifiable by its striking red, white, and black color scheme and open-sided design, operates throughout key parts of Sanur, making it easier for tourists to navigate the popular resort neighborhood. During the trial period, the route covers notable locations including Mertasari Beach, Pangembak Street, Mertasari Street, Jalan Danau Poso, Jalan Danau Tamblingan, Jalan Danau Toba, and finishes near the Sanur Special Economic Zone for Medical Tourism close to SMP Wisata.
Tourists have responded enthusiastically. Australian visitor Sue Mather shared her experience: “We often walk around the Sanur area, and when we see this shuttle passing by, we think about getting on it. This is something new in Sanur and very good.” Sue, who has been staying near Mertasari Beach, mentioned making use of the shuttle service multiple times during her vacation. Her husband, Bruce Mather, highlighted the importance of accessible payment options, pointing out that many tourists do not carry contactless payment cards. “So that later tourists will not have difficulty if they want to ride this electric bus… this bus can be one of the solutions to reduce traffic jams,” he noted.
Plans for Permanent and Free Service
City officials have expressed plans to develop the trial into a permanent service. The Denpasar City Government intends to invest in six electric shuttle buses, designed to accommodate between 10 and 14 passengers each. Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara confirmed the government is conducting a traffic study and evaluating parking availability in Sanur to support the initiative. The shuttle buses will chiefly serve busy streets such as Jalan Danau Tamblingan, providing a practical solution to traffic congestion and parking difficulties.
Once fully operational, the shuttle buses are expected to run every 10 minutes, with designated stops being established throughout the area. Importantly, the city aims for the shuttle service to be free of charge for both local residents and visitors, enhancing accessibility and promoting an environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Enthusiastic Reception from Locals and Visitors Alike
In addition to international tourists, domestic travelers and local beachgoers have also voiced their support for the open-air shuttle. Local resident Putu Ardiyasa Raditya Putra remarked on the shuttle’s enjoyable open design, noting that while rain might occasionally be a concern, the current dry season offers ideal conditions for travel.
Sanur, recognized as Bali’s original beach resort destination, has recently embarked on a new chapter by becoming the Sanur Special Economic Zone for Medical Tourism. This development includes the establishment of the modern Bali International Hospital, aiming to attract medical tourists from both Indonesia and abroad.
A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism in Bali
The introduction of the electric shuttle bus aligns with broader efforts to enhance sustainable tourism and reduce environmental impact in Denpasar. By providing a convenient, green transportation alternative, the shuttle encourages visitors and locals to choose eco-friendly travel options when exploring the vibrant Sanur area.
As the trial continues, the Denpasar City Government remains committed to refining the shuttle service based on public feedback and the results of ongoing studies. If successful, the introduction of the permanent free shuttle could set a new standard for tourist transportation in Bali, balancing convenience, environmental responsibility, and community needs.
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