Enjoying the Best of Bali with a Private Driver: A Complete Review

Exploring Bali can be a delightful challenge — so many must-see sights, so little time, and sometimes, a little uncertainty about how to make the most of your day. That’s where hiring a private driver like Bali Savaya Tours can change the game. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this Bali private driver experience offers flexibility, comfort, and a personal touch that makes it stand out.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive coverage of Bali’s top spots, the ease of having a dedicated driver, and the chance to customize your journey. Plus, at just over $55 for up to two people, it’s a surprisingly good value considering the personalized service and the variety of experiences packed into a single day.

One potential consideration? The tour covers multiple different regions, which means long travel times between stops. Depending on your energy levels, you might want to tailor parts of the trip to focus on fewer areas.

This experience suits travelers who want to see a broad cross-section of Bali without the hassle of arranging transport or navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone craving a flexible, custom day out with local insights.

Key Points

Hired Bali Private Driver - Key Points

Flexible Itinerary: You can choose between Ubud, North or South Bali, or East Bali, tailoring your day to your interests.
Private and Comfortable: A dedicated driver and vehicle mean stress-free travel and the chance for personalized recommendations.
All-Inclusive Feel: Bottled water, private transport, and an itinerary designed for maximum sightseeing.
Cost-Effective: At just over $55, it offers a lot of value for a full day of sightseeing with a private guide.
Authentic Experiences: Visit iconic temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and beaches, with opportunities to learn about local culture and scenery.
Authentic Reviews: Guests praise the driver’s kindness, punctuality, and safety — making the day not just fun but also relaxing.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Hired Bali Private Driver - A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting in Ubud: Your day kicks off with a visit to the Barong Dance in Batubulan village, a lively introduction to Balinese culture. From here, your driver takes you to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where curious macaques roam freely — a hit for animal lovers and those looking for a fun, up-close encounter. Guests note that this is a key highlight, with one reviewer mentioning how their driver, Gede, was attentive and made sure they felt comfortable around the monkeys.

Next, you’ll explore Ubud Market and Palace, blending local craft shopping with a glimpse of traditional Balinese architecture. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers stunning views and perfect photo opportunities, while the Batur Kintamani Volcano provides an impressive backdrop for those who love landscapes. You might also visit Tirta Empul Temple and a coffee plantation, where you can sample Bali’s famous Luwak coffee. One reviewer raved about the experience, describing how their driver was knowledgeable and made recommendations for local snacks and tastings.

Optional Regional Choices: After Ubud, the tour can be tailored to your preference — whether exploring North Bali, with waterfalls and temples, or venturing to South Bali to see Uluwatu and beaches.

The Temples and Waterfalls

If you opt for the East Bali route, expect a journey to Lempuyang Temple Gate, often called the ‘Gateway to Heaven,’ and a visit to the tranquil Tirta Gangga royal water gardens. For those into more adventure, Batur Sunrise Trekking can be a bucket-list highlight, with an early start to catch the sunrise from the volcano’s slopes.

The Uluwatu and Beaches Experience

The Uluwatu segment includes visits to Nusa Dua Beach, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue, and Padang Padang Beach — prime spots for relaxing, surfing, or simply soaking up Bali’s coastal beauty. The day culminates with the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff top, offering panoramic views at sunset and setting a perfect scene for a seafood dinner at Jimbaran. Guests describe this part as a “highlight,” especially the sunset views and the relaxed seaside vibe.

Transport, Timing, and Value

Hired Bali Private Driver - Transport, Timing, and Value

The private tour lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you ample time to explore without feeling rushed. The vehicle comfortably accommodates two people, and the driver doubles as a local guide, offering tips and background along the way.
The cost of $55.25 per group makes this an attractive option — especially considering the personalized service and the fact that entrance fees are not included, allowing you flexibility in choosing whether to visit certain sites or skip them based on your interests and budget.

What’s Included?

  • Private driver and vehicle
  • Bottled water for the journey

What’s Not Included?

  • Entrance tickets to sites
  • Lunch or snacks
  • Personal expenses

This setup means you can customize your day, choosing which attractions to explore more deeply and which to pass by.

Reviews Insights

Guests consistently praise the driver’s kindness, punctuality, and safety. One reviewer says, “Gede knew how to accompany us during 15 days with his kindness, punctuality, benevolence, and listening,” highlighting the importance of having a driver who feels more like a friend than just a guide.

Another noted the ease of last-minute booking — “Booked a private driver last minute, and the tour operator pulled through,” demonstrating the reliability and flexibility of this service.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Hired Bali Private Driver - Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking a personalized, flexible way to see Bali’s main attractions, this private driver experience is ideal. It’s especially suitable for couples or small groups who want to maximize their time and enjoy insider tips. The option to choose different regions makes it adaptable to different interests, whether cultural, scenic, or beach-focused.

Travelers who value comfort, safety, and the chance to customize their day will find this tour highly satisfying. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Bali’s diversity without the stress of self-driving or navigating public transport.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

Hired Bali Private Driver - The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private driver experience offers excellent value for travelers wanting a stress-free, customizable day in Bali. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the flexibility of a tailored itinerary, the comfort of private transportation, and the insights of a local guide. The inclusion of key sights like Ubud Monkey Forest, rice terraces, temples, and Uluwatu’s sunset makes it a well-rounded way to experience Bali’s highlights in one day.

While it requires a full day and some patience with travel distances, the personalized service and the opportunity to adapt your route make it a worthwhile investment. The reviews attest that genuine kindness and safety are core strengths, providing peace of mind.

For travelers eager to see Bali’s diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and coastal beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour delivers a practical, rewarding experience that leaves lasting memories.

FAQ

Hired Bali Private Driver - FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 10 hours, providing ample time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation and a driver, along with bottled water. Entrance tickets and meals are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, you can select different regions such as Ubud, North Bali, South Bali, or East Bali, depending on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for couples or small groups?
Absolutely, it’s designed for up to 2 people, making it ideal for couples or small parties seeking a private experience.

How do I book last-minute?
You can book through the provider, Bali Savaya Tours, and they typically confirm via WhatsApp, even for last-minute requests.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included, giving you flexibility to choose which sites to visit and how much to spend.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and cash for entrance fees or optional purchases.

Is the driver also a guide?
While primarily your driver, many reviews mention drivers like Gede who are knowledgeable and can offer helpful tips about each site.

What is the main benefit of choosing this private driver tour?
It’s the personalized, flexible service that allows you to see Bali on your own terms, with the comfort of private transportation and local insights.