Bali’s Bus Services Enhance Travel Options for Budget-Conscious Tourists
October 21, 2025 — Bali’s latest addition to public transportation, the electric shuttle bus service in Sanur, is significantly improving travel convenience for tourists on a budget. Initially launched as a trial, the service has now become a permanent fixture, catering to nearly 1,000 passengers daily. This innovative initiative is gaining popularity among international visitors, domestic tourists, and local residents alike.
Rising Popularity Amid Traffic Challenges
Despite the onset of the low tourist season in October, the shuttle bus service has experienced a surge in ridership. Many travelers prefer the service to bypass the frequent traffic jams that plague the main roads leading into Sanur. While recognized for its relaxed atmosphere, Sanur’s access routes are often congested, a long-standing issue that local authorities acknowledge requires significant infrastructural improvements to resolve.
Though large-scale road network changes remain a future project, current efforts aim to ease navigation within the area. Besides the shuttle service, construction is underway to create new pedestrian pathways along Jalan Danau Tamblingan. These improvements will enhance safety and accessibility for tourists exploring the beachfront and village, which has historically been difficult to traverse on foot.
Service Details and Expansion Plans
Operated by the Denpasar Transportation Agency, the Sanur shuttle fleet currently includes six electric buses, with plans to double the number by mid-November to accommodate growing demand. The buses operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with the last departure at 9 p.m. The route begins at Sanur Tourism Junior High School, stopping at key points such as Sanur Sindu Market, Icon Mall, and the Public Electric Vehicle Charging Station at Lake Poso, before reaching Mertasari Beach Parking. Although dedicated bus stops are still being developed, tourists can obtain information on the nearest boarding points from local tourism staff.
A spokesperson for the agency expressed enthusiasm about passenger feedback: “The average passenger response is quite positive. Every month, these electric vehicles carry 18,630 passengers. Tourists even prefer to wait rather than get stuck in traffic.”
Debate Surrounds Trans Metro Dewata Bus Service
While the Sanur shuttle service thrives, the Trans Metro Dewata (TMD) bus service has recently come under scrutiny. Local politicians have called for the discontinuation of TMD’s route connecting Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, citing underutilization and concerns that it detracts from the livelihoods of local taxi drivers.
Komang Wirawan, a local politician, stated, “The Trans Metro Dewata bus service to and from Ngurah Rai Airport should be stopped because it’s underutilized by the general public.” He advocated reallocating resources to enhance other routes, such as the Denpasar to Udayana Bukit Jimbaran Campus corridor, and suggested reinvesting savings into community services including waste management, fire stations, and emergency medical response.
Responding to these criticisms, TMD Manager Ida Bagus Eka Budi highlighted that the service aims to serve the general public without discriminating between tourists and residents. “We don’t record the number of users from the tourist side, but if the regional council understands the service concept, TMD Bus is not a competitor for tourism transportation businesses,” he said. Budi reported that the Ngurah Rai Airport route alone recorded approximately 31,112 passengers in September 2025, with a steady average of 1,000 daily riders over recent months. Other routes, such as the Ubud Monkey Forest corridor, see increased weekend usage.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of Bali’s sustainable and affordable public transportation options, particularly the Sanur electric shuttle bus service, reflects ongoing efforts to improve mobility for visitors and residents while addressing traffic congestion. Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding the balance between public transit services and local transportation stakeholders.
Tourists keen on exploring Sanur now have a reliable, eco-friendly option that supports budget-conscious travel, contributes to easing local traffic woes, and provides a convenient way to experience this charming beachside community.
For more updates on Bali’s transportation and travel news, stay tuned to local sources and community announcements.
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