Alternatives to Bali Uber: Your Guide to Gojek and Grab in 2024
Since Uber left Bali in 2018, visitors and expats have turned to Gojek and Grab as essential transportation apps. This guide will help you set up these apps, highlight their key differences, and give you tips for a smooth experience.
Gojek vs Grab in Bali: A 2024 Update
Both Gojek and Grab offer reliable ride-hailing services, but there are important differences that might affect which one is best for you.
Benefits of Grab in Bali
- International Credit Cards: Unlike Gojek, Grab accepts international credit cards, making it easy for travelers to go cashless(Construct Digital)(Postnautical).
- More Drivers in Busy Areas: Grab tends to have more drivers in tourist-heavy spots, which means fewer cancellations and faster pick-up times(Tech in Asia).
- Cross-Southeast Asia Use: One of Grab’s major advantages is that it works across multiple Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand and Vietnam, so you don’t need to download a new app every time you cross borders(Postnautical).
Disadvantages of Grab
- Higher Prices: Grab typically charges higher fares compared to Gojek. This is especially true in tourist-heavy areas where they cater to a more affluent crowd(Balipedia).
- Cancellations in Remote Areas: In less touristy or more rural areas, Grab may experience issues with cancellations similar to Gojek(Balipedia).
Benefits of Gojek in Bali
- Local Prices: Gojek’s prices are generally lower, making it the better choice for budget-conscious travelers. You’ll pay local fares for transportation and services(Postnautical).
- Wide Range of Services: Gojek’s super app offers more than just rides. You can get GoFood, GoMart for grocery deliveries, and GoSend for package deliveries, which is perfect for those staying longer in Bali(Balipedia).
- Works with Wise Debit Card: For international travelers, using a Wise debit card to top up your GoPay account is now an option, making it easier to pay for services without cash(Tech in Asia).
Disadvantages of Gojek
- No International Credit Cards: Unlike Grab, Gojek still doesn’t accept international credit cards, which can be frustrating for travelers who want to avoid handling cash(Construct Digital)(Postnautical).
- Cancellations in Remote Areas: Similar to Grab, Gojek struggles with cancellations, particularly in areas where local taxis dominate the market(Balipedia).
Setting Up Gojek and Grab in Bali
Setting up either app is easy, and both accept international numbers during registration.
How to Set Up Gojek
- Download the App and select ‘I’m new, sign me up.’
- Enter Your Phone Number (international or local) and verify it via SMS.
- Start Booking: You can use GoRide (motorbike) or GoCar (car) and choose from payment options like GoPay, cash, or Wise debit card for topping up(Balipedia).
How to Set Up Grab
- Download Grab and choose ‘New to Grab? Sign up.’
- Enter Your Phone Number and verify through WhatsApp or SMS.
- Add a Payment Method: Unlike Gojek, Grab supports international credit cards, making it easier for non-Indonesian travelers(Balipedia).
Payment Options and Tips
- Gojek: While Gojek doesn’t accept international credit cards, you can top up using cash at local stores like Alfamart, or by linking a local bank account or Wise debit card(Balipedia).
- Grab: Grab is more foreigner-friendly when it comes to payments, accepting international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard directly through the app(Construct Digital).
Additional Services: GoFood, GrabFood, and Beyond
Both Gojek and Grab offer much more than just rides.
- Food Delivery: Both GoFood and GrabFood are excellent for food delivery in Bali. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or villa, you can have meals delivered straight to your door. Gojek tends to offer better promotions, especially if you use GoPay(Balipedia).
- Logistics and More: Gojek also offers GoSend for package delivery, which can be convenient if you need to ship things around Bali. Grab offers GrabExpress, which provides a similar service(Balipedia).
Communication and Language Tips
Both apps allow you to chat directly with your driver, but Grab has the edge with its auto-translate feature, which helps bridge any language barriers. For Gojek, you may need to use Google Translate to communicate effectively(
Final Thoughts: Gojek or Grab in 2024?
Choosing between Gojek and Grab in Bali depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for lower prices and a wider range of services, Gojek is the way to go. If you prefer convenience and cashless payments with international credit cards, Grab is your best bet.
For tourists or expats spending a lot of time in Bali, both apps are must-haves. They make getting around, ordering food, and running errands much simpler. Just be sure to compare promo codes regularly to get the best deal on your rides and deliveries!