Getting Around Nusa Penida. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Car Rentals

Self-drive car rental is an option on Nusa Penida, but it is generally discouraged for tourists. This is due to the island's extremely challenging road conditions, which include narrow, steep, and heavily potholed sections. Most rental cars are manual transmission.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal must in Indonesia for driving any vehicle. Major international car rental companies do not have branches on Nusa Penida; rentals occur via local operators or directly through accommodations.

Scooter Rentals

Scooters represent the most common and flexible mode of transport for tourists.
Widely available for rent at harbors, through accommodations, and small shops.
Rental prices typically range from IDR 70,000-90,000 per day.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) validated for motorcycles is legally needed.

Scooter Safety

Only rent a scooter if you are an experienced and confident rider. Roads are significantly more challenging than Bali.

Road Conditions

Roads feature uneven surfaces, steep inclines/declines, and gravel sections. Accidents are common due to challenging terrain.

Pre-Rental Check

Thoroughly inspect the scooter before renting. Check brakes, lights, tires, and mirrors. Take photos/videos of existing damage.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the left side of the road in Indonesia.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory for both scooters and cars.
Helmets are compulsory and for your safety.

Parking

Small local parking fees typically apply at most popular attractions.
Ranging from IDR 5,000-10,000 per scooter or car.
Keep your parking ticket visible.

Scooter Rental Providers

Local Shops

Convenient, readily available. Quality and maintenance can vary; negotiation needed. (70,000 - 90,000 IDR/day)

Accommodation Rentals

Often well-maintained; convenient delivery/pickup. Slightly higher prices. (80,000 - 100,000 IDR/day)

Online Booking

Pre-arranged; higher quality bikes possible. Less flexibility. (90,000 - 120,000 IDR/day)

Important Note

Always wear a helmet. Many popular attractions involve navigating difficult routes. Accidents are common.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling hold limited practical applications for extensive sightseeing on Nusa Penida due to the island's challenging geography and infrastructure.

Pedestrian Areas

Pedestrian-friendly areas are generally limited to small village centers (Toyapakeh, Sampalan).
You can comfortably walk around local shops and eateries.
Walking between major attractions is not feasible due to long distances, intense heat, and lack of sidewalks.
Short walks are a necessary part of visiting specific sites, like descents to Kelingking Beach.

Cycling Challenges

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is non-existent.
Cycling proves extremely challenging and generally unsafe for casual riders.
Due to poor road conditions, steep hills, and unpredictable traffic.
Suitable only for experienced mountain bikers seeking challenging off-road routes.

Areas to Avoid

Avoid walking or cycling on main roads, especially at night.
These roads often lack streetlights.
They are narrow and feature unpredictable traffic from scooters and cars, posing a safety risk.

Prioritize motorized transport for inter-destination travel.
Plan your routes carefully.
Stay aware of your surroundings.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Dedicated tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services are not available. Larger tour groups may use minibuses for pre-arranged tours.

Water Transport

Local boats, often traditional jukung outrigger canoes, can be hired for inter-island transfers or private snorkeling/diving trips. Negotiate prices directly.

Accessibility Limitations

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is very limited. The island's rugged terrain makes it a difficult destination for travelers with mobility impairments.

No Unique Systems

Nusa Penida does not feature any cable cars, funiculars, or other unique mechanical local transport systems.

Local Transport Info

No cable cars or funiculars.
Local Bemos (minivans) operate informally.
Tourists do not commonly use Bemos for sightseeing.
Private drivers and scooter rentals are the main tourist transport.

Accessibility Notes

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is very limited.
The island's rugged terrain and challenging roads make it a difficult destination for mobility impairments.
Most attractions and transportation options are not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
Consider private transport for tailored assistance.

Water Transport for Tourists

Local Boats

Often traditional jukung outrigger canoes.

Available for hire.

Inter-Island Transfers

For transfers to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan.

Negotiate prices directly.

Private Trips

For private snorkeling and diving trips.

Offers flexibility for exploring surrounding waters.

Walking Tours & Cycling Safety

Walking Routes

No formal walking tours cover the entire island.
Short walks are part of visiting specific sites.
These walks often involve uneven terrain.

Cycling Advice

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is non-existent.
Cycling is extremely challenging and generally unsafe for casual riders.
Only suitable for experienced mountain bikers.

Areas to Avoid for Pedestrians/Cyclists

Avoid walking or cycling on main roads, especially at night.
These roads often lack streetlights.
They are narrow and feature unpredictable traffic from scooters and cars, posing a safety risk.
Prioritize motorized transport for inter-destination travel.

Be mindful of traffic volume.
Pedestrian paths are generally limited.
Safety is paramount when choosing transport.
Some areas are not suitable for walking or cycling.

Getting Around Smart

Always factor in extra travel time on Nusa Penida, especially when heading to remote beaches or viewpoints, due to varying road conditions.

For safety, consider hiring a private driver if you are not accustomed to the rugged terrain or do not have experience riding a scooter on challenging roads.

Getting Around Nusa Penida