It’s difficult to find information on whether taxi services like grab and gojek actually work in Kuta, Lombok. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no.
These apps are popular ridesharing services all over South East Asia, especially in Indonesia. I have been using them for years and have become somewhat of a gojek expert, including the many features of the app.
Gojek and grab are extremely useful to get around in Bali, but they are unfortunately not as effective in Lombok’s popular beach town Kuta. It can be difficult to find transportation when you don’t know the area, but luckily there are still easy ways of getting around even without gojek or grab.
In this article, I’ll tell you all about my experience with different options available for transportation while visiting Kuta in Lombok with a focus on gojek and grab taxi as a means of transport. We’ll cover topics such as cost estimation, safety considerations, availability and convenience factors and much more, so you’ll be prepared for your trip.
Planning a trip to Lombok? Here are the best things to do in and around Kuta and our favourite organised tours if you want it all planned out for you.
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Can you use gojek or grab in Kuta, Lombok?
Are you planning a trip to Lombok? If you’re reading this post you’re most likely wondering if gojek and grab taxi services are available in Kuta, just like they so conveniently are in Bali.
The answer is unfortunately 99% of the time no. While gojek and grab are widely used for transportation all over Indonesia, they aren’t as common in Lombok, which means that it can be difficult to find gojek or grab drivers willing to operate in Kuta.
In most cases, gojek or grab drivers will pick up passengers in other parts of Lombok and take them to Kuta, although even this can be limited.
I’ve been using gojek and grab for years in Bali, so when I was first visiting Kuta Lombok I was disappointed to find out that gojek and grab aren’t available there.
Luckily though, it’s still easy to get around in Kuta without gojek or grab. It may seem scary to leave your apps behind, but you’ll get used to it before you know it.
Local taxis are available (although expensive), and you can also hire a private driver. Other transportation options include renting motorbikes which can be found all around Kuta, as well as renting cars.
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The Indonesian taxi mafia
The Indonesian taxi mafia in Kuta Lombok is a powerful organization that controls the local transportation industry. Taxi drivers are organized into an alliance that makes sure gojek and grab drivers cannot enter areas where they should be able to operate.
This means gojek and grab do not have a presence in Kuta, despite being the most convenient option for travellers.
Taxi drivers can be very aggressive towards gojek and grab drivers who try to pick up passengers. They will sometimes even threaten violence if they see gojek or grab cars parked or attempting to pick up passengers in their area of control.
Fortunately, there are no safety concerns for tourists (just inconvenience), and you might know this problem from popular tourist spots in Bali like Padang Bai, Sanur, Tanah Lot Temple, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Kintamani, Ubud, Uluwatu, Amed, Lovina or Canggu, where grab pickup zones are limited.
Read our complete guide on grab and gojek in Bali and this post on why Uber does not exist in Indonesia.
Even if gojek or grab apps appear to be working in certain areas of Kuta, finding a driver willing to take you anywhere will be next to impossible due to the threat from local taxis. Drop-offs are usually okay, although even they can become problematic, especially in more central locations where the Indonesian taxi mafia has more control over activity from gojek and grab drivers.
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The taxi mafia controls a lot of popular tourist areas in Lombok such as parts of Senggigi as well as the harbours in Lembar and Bangsal. It will be next to impossible to get a grab or gojek there.
Bali has the same problem, including at the airport, in Canggu, Padang Bai, Sanur, Tanah Lot Temple, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
Is Gojek food delivery available in Kuta Lombok?
Food delivery has become increasingly popular in Indonesia over the last few years, allowing people to order food from local restaurants without having to leave the comfort of their own homes.
Unfortunately, gojek food delivery is not currently available in Kuta Lombok due to the strong presence of the Indonesian taxi mafia, who actively prevent gojek and grab drivers from delivering orders.
Fortunately, though, Kuta is a small town, and it’s easy to walk around. You can always go directly to your favourite restaurant or street food stall and pick up the food yourself. Some restaurants also offer private delivery services so you may be able to order over the phone or via WhatsApp and have the food delivered to you at a small extra cost.
So while gojek delivery services aren’t available in Kuta, that doesn’t mean you can’t get delicious local cuisine without having to leave your hotel or guesthouse. It’s just not as easy, as you might be used to.
Are taxis safe and easy to access in Kuta, Lombok?
Taxis in Kuta, Lombok are generally an easy and safe way to get around town. You should be able to find one quickly on the main street if you keep an eye out for little transportation huts where the drivers wait.
A short taxi ride will cost around IDR 50,000 (~ €3) or less, however, it’s important to haggle and negotiate before getting into the taxi in order to avoid overpaying.
While scams are rare nowadays, it’s still important to do your research and know what the normal prices are before you go. The best choice in Indonesia is always bluebird taxis, which are metered and regulated although there aren’t too many in this small town, unfortunately.
Getting around by taxi in Kuta is not ideal and you’ll end up paying a lot for longer distances so consider renting a scooter if possible to be more flexible.
The same applies to motorbike taxis. Just make sure to always ask for a helmet of course.
Can you use Grab or Gojek ridesharing services to get to Kuta from other parts of Lombok?
Yes, you can usually find a gojek or grab driver in parts of Senggigi and Mataram who will be able to take you to Kuta. However, due to the taxi mafia, it may not be possible to drop you off at the centre of town.
The driver will let you know if there are any issues with getting you directly to your accommodation. If you’re unsure, it may be best to use a transport service or taxi instead, which is easy to find.
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Book a shared shuttle if you’re going from the Gili Islands to Kuta Lombok, which includes the boat ride and drive all in one ticket for around IDR 200,000 (~ €13) per person.
Should you get a private driver to get around Kuta?
No, you don’t need a private driver to get around Kuta as the town is so small you can easily just walk around. However, if you plan to go further outside of Kuta or want more comfort and convenience, then you need a mode of transportation.
Most visitors rent a scooter, but if you’re not confident to try this option or are looking for more comfort, a private driver will be the best choice.
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If you want to come prepared and pre-book a driver for your time in Kuta, Lombok, we highly recommend Can Tours. The service is reliable, and you can choose between customising your own itinerary or a route to the most popular places in Lombok.
Where to find private drivers in Kuta, Lombok?
Finding a private driver in Kuta, Lombok is relatively easy and there are several ways to go about it. One of the best ways to get a reliable recommendation is to ask at your accommodation, and they will usually give you a number for a driver and a fixed price per day.
Rates should lie between IDR 400,000 to IDR 700,000 (~ €25 to €43) per day including gas but excluding a tip. Alternatively, you can also find drivers by asking in local Facebook groups or finding a tourism office that will be able to refer you to someone.
Just make sure to haggle to get the best price and clarify how many hours the driver will be available and where he can take you. Generally, 8 to 12 hours is to be expected.
How to book transport from Kuta to other parts of Lombok?
A lot of tourists head to other parts of Lombok after staying in Kuta, so transportation is easy to come by. Shared shuttle buses and private taxis can be booked from the various tourism offices that you will find all around town. Prices for these services are typically displayed outside but may be negotiable depending on your destination and how many people you travel with.
Popular destinations to go from Kuta include Senggigi, Mataram Airport, Lembar and many more. Departure times are usually fixed, and shared shuttles are more affordable than private ones. Just be prepared to be cramped into a minibus for a few hours since space is limited
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I’ve used these shared shuttles countless times to get around Lombok, and they’re usually reliable although not very comfortable. In some cases, drivers go very fast on winding roads so be prepared if you’re prone to motion sickness.
They also stop to pick up passengers along the way sometimes, so be patient and try to relax.
What’s the best way to get around Kuta Lombok?
Here are the different options for getting around Kuta Lombok as an alternative to grab or gojek.
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Not sure what’s worth seeing around town? Find the best things to do in Kuta, Lombok here.
On foot
Exploring Kuta on foot is a great way to experience the town and all it has to offer. The streets are lined with shops selling local produce and souvenirs, cafes serving delicious meals and plenty of restaurants to choose from.
Walking is unfortunately not an option for exploring the area outside of Kuta because roads are steep and there aren’t any sidewalks. The Mandalika 100 Circuit is a good option if you enjoy long hikes though.
Renting a scooter
Renting a scooter is the most popular and inexpensive way to get around Kuta, Lombok. Prices typically go for around IDR 50,000 to 70,000 (~ €3 to €4.50) per day and are even cheaper if you rent for a longer period of time. Be sure to always wear a helmet, go slow, and stay alert because roads around Kuta can be sandy and full of gravel, making it easy to slip with a motorbike.
The roads around the Mandalika Circuit are much wider and easier to navigate, so this is a good area to explore to improve your confidence. Only rent a scooter if you’re experienced and always drive carefully to avoid injuries
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Read this before renting a scooter in Kuta
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My favourite part is that they offer adventure sports coverage ad-ons, so you can do all the exciting activities without having to worry about taking unnecessary risks.
No matter where you’re travelling, you cannot put a price on peace of mind.
Private driver
Hiring a private driver in Kuta Lombok is an excellent way to travel around the area with ease, convenience and comfort. Private drivers usually charge between IDR 400,000 to IDR 700,000 (~ €25 to €43) per day and can give you recommendations for places to go as well as provide you with information about the local culture.
They can also make an itinerary for you if desired and even help arrange activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and island hopping. Keep in mind that not all drivers speak English so it is a good idea to clarify in advance if they will be able to act as a guide.
OUR TIP
If you want to come prepared and pre-book a driver for your time in Kuta, Lombok, we highly recommend Can Tours. The service is reliable, and you can choose between customising your own itinerary or a route to the most popular places in Lombok.
Renting a car
Renting a car in Kuta Lombok is another great way to explore the area and travel longer distances. Although it’s not as common as renting a scooter, it’s still relatively affordable at around IDR 350,000 (~ €21) per day.
It is important to note that insurance may not be included in the rental and most of the local, smaller companies don’t have cars that are newer. Also, some roads around Kuta are too narrow for cars so you may be better off with a scooter if you’re able to drive one.
Considering renting a car in Bali? Our complete guide will help.
Taxis
You can find taxis, which include both cars and scooters, all around the centre of town. Local drivers will usually offer their services, and you can haggle and negotiate until you’re happy with the price.
Make sure to wear a helmet when riding on the back of a bike and inform yourself about what a normal price should be before you commit. Short rides are around IDR 15,000 to IDR 30,000, (~ €1 to €1.85) and longer ones are closer to IDR 60,000 to IDR 100,000 (~ €3.70 to €6.50).
The Best Way To Experience Bali
Group tours are an incredibly underrated way to travel and you’ll get to experience Bali with new friends without any of the stress of planning. Compare the best tours here or check out my all-time favourite below.
Guided tours
If you don’t want to worry about travel planning, you can also join a guided group tour to see the area around Kuta Lombok. Booking online in advance is usually the best option if you want to get everything set up in advance with a reputable tour operator, which you can research beforehand.
However, prices will be slightly more expensive compared to finding a tour on arrival. These are readily available at small tourism offices around town and will cost anywhere from IDR 300,000 to IDR 1 million (~ €18 to €65) per day, depending on the route and duration.
Some of our favourite tours include:
Lombok hidden waterfall tour South Lombok full – day tour Paragliding Kuta Lombok Rafting tour Lombok 2 days Mount Rinjani tour
Public transport in Kuta Lombok
There isn’t much public transport in Lombok, but the limited options include the following.
Damri airport buses
Damri airport buses are the most convenient and affordable option for getting to and from Lombok International Airport. The buses go to four destinations: Mataram, Ampenan, Sengigi and Selong. Buses are large, modern and comfortable with air-conditioning and cost between IDR 25,000 to IDR 35,000 (~ €1.50 to €1.85) per ride. Unfortunately, they do not go to Kuta.
Bemos buses
Bemos buses are a popular way for locals to get around Lombok. These minivans go to destinations such as Mataram, Lembar, and many others. Prices vary depending on the destination and may be more expensive for tourists so they may cost the same as shared transport booked at tourism offices.
It is also important to note that these buses can be unreliable and often go to multiple stops on the way. Seating is cramped, and there is usually no AC, so this is an option for adventurous travellers but not generally recommended.
Tips for using gojek and grab in Bali & Indonesia
One thing a lot of tourists miss when it comes to using grab and gojek in Bali is the hidden discounts. We’ll show you exactly how to use them and provide plenty more tips on how to use grab and gojek in Bali in our complete guide.
Find out what to do if a driver asks you to cancel a ride, how to avoid common scams and much more.
Gojek, Grab and taxis in Kuta Lombok FAQ
No, ridesharing services are generally not available in Kuta, Lombok. Use local taxis instead and read our complete guide for tips on how to avoid scams.
Bemos minibuses, local taxis, scooter rentals and private drivers are available.
Yes, although they might be charged higher prices.
Yes, the Damri bus system connects Senggigi, Mataram, Selong and Ampenan to the international airport. Bemos minibuses are also common.
No, there is no public bus that connects Kuta to the airport. You’ll have to take a collective shuttle or taxi instead.
Generally, you do not need anything to rent a motorbike in Kuta Lombok. Rules for cars may be more strict, and you may be asked for a deposit or a copy of your passport. Make sure to always have a valid driver’s licence (especially an international driving permit) even if it’s not checked by the rental company.
Yes, rental companies are widely available in and around town.
Tourism offices organise shared shuttles to the airport, or you can simply take a taxi.
No, ride-sharing apps are generally not permitted in town.
Yes, taxis are safe to use, although you should be careful not to overpay if the driver does not have a meter.
Yes, make sure to haggle to get the best price.
You can find taxis in the centre of town or ask at a tourism office.
Taxis will cost between IDR 30,000 (~ €1.85) and IDR 100,000 (~ €6.50) depending on the distance and destination.
Bemos are inexpensive minibuses or shared shuttles commonly used by locals to get around Lombok. They can be waved down or you can wait at a bus stop and get on there.
The price should be no more than IDR 100,000 (~ €6.50), for a car and IDR 50,000 (~ €3) for a motorbike, including parking.
Did I miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or contact me.
2 thoughts on “Can You Use Gojek Or Grab Taxi In Kuta, Lombok”
Never coming back to this little hell hole. That sounds harsh, but I’ve traveled in SE Asia for 200 days and as a female solo traveler have never has such a hard time getting around. They block grab & gojek, but half the time you can’t find a driver. No beach restaurants allowed bc they don’t want western tourists here. Fine, plenty of other places to go.
Sorry to hear you had just a bad experience. I can definitely relate when it comes to transport – it’s extremely hard to get around if you don’t drive a scooter. Hope it wasn’t all bad and you got to see some other beautiful places during your trip.