The thinly populated West is the only non-cultivated area and includes Bali's National Park, a deeply forested area with many varieties of plants and birds. The eastern and northeastern slopes of Gunung Agung are arid, as is the extreme south of the island. The climate of most of the island is hot and humid, with an average temperature of 28 Celcius, but the higher altitudes can be quite cool. The rainy season lasts from October to March, and the humidity fluctuates between 75% and 80% depending on the season. Winds tend to blow from the West during the rainy season and from the East during the 'dry' season.

Boat & Ferry : The more than 13,600 islands of the Idonesian archipelago stretching over an area of 5,200 km into the Pacific ocean, present a plenty of choices to explore. Bali has three main ports:

• Benoa in the south.
• Padang Bai in the east.
• Gilimanuk in the north west.

Several major shipping lines make Padang Bai and Benoa ports of call on around the world cruises. If you would like to explore the islands near Bali you have a wide range of choices for boating expeditions with anything from a few hours in traditional jukung to day criuses or longer overnights trips on yachts or luxury cruisers.

Public Transport : The public transport system in Bali can virtually take you anywhere you want to go but slowly. By far the cheapest way to travel, although not the most comfortable.

Buses, except the inter-island buses, and bemo’s (mini-vans) are often overcrowded and hot. There are recommended for short trips only. They do have the redeeming factor of being very cheap. Wait by the side of the road and one will inevitably pass by for you to flag down to stop. Get down where you want by loudly saying: "STOOOOP!".

Bemo’s generally cater for local traffic routes not tourist routes. Bu you can also charter empty bemo’s for a higher price.

Bicycle : Cycling can be a cheap and enjoyable way to get around, although you do have to be quite fit to ride around the central, hilly regions, but you will be closer to the action.

Bicycles are available but bear in mind the heavy traffic in Kuta, Legian, and Denpasar. Cycling is ideal in villages, Ubud and the countryside.

You can find bike rental shops in all the main tourist spots.

Motorbike : As with hire cars, you can find motorbikes for rent almost anywhere. A special permit available at police stations for renting a motorbike. The rental company can help you to obtain this. Like renting a car, you should always check the bike before parting with your cash. In Indonesia you have to wear a helmet by law.

Car & Bus : There are many models of transport to help you " jalan-jalan" your way around Bali. A variety of excellent tour packages are available from your hotel desk or any of numerous travel agents and tour operators. Or you can find a car and driver who will also act as your guide.

You can also find a car rental agency in all the major tourist areas. You will need your licence from your home country and an international driving licence for renting a car.

Types of cars available are usually small jeeps or kijang ( a station car with capacity for 6-8 people). Although most of the cars for rent are in decent shape, you should check thoroughly before signing any forms. Fammilies or groups can charter a private bus with driver. Many buses are airconditoned. Stopovers and side-trips can be planned and this is an ideal way to experience
Bali at your own pace.

Some of advices if you drive :

• Driving in Bali always expect the unexpected. Always keep your eyes and your mind open on driving. It is not unusual for cars and bikes to swerve into your lane without indication. Because there are often obstacles such as parked cars of the ever present procession of ‘bakso’ trolleys on the side of the road, a system of "sharing lanes" has developed.
• Be aware that drivers from side streets often don’t look when joining a main road and the larger vehicle is king of the road.
• Remember to "hoot" your horn when going around curves on mountainous roads as it is very common to drive in the middle of the road here.

Taxi : Metered taxis are readily available at very reasonable prices. There is a minimum charge of Rp. 4000 flagfall and you can book by phone, with exception taxis from airport where the prices, depend on the destination, are fixed. If the driver is hesitant to put on the meter, insist or change taxi’s.

There are several taxicabs:

• Airport Taxi.
• Bali Taxi.
• Blue Bird Taxi.
• Pan Witrhi Taxi.
• Praja Taxi.