How To Get To Banyuwangi From Bali: Complete Travel Guide

If you’re planning an adventure in Indonesia, one of the most common questions travelers ask is how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi. Bali, with its beaches and nightlife, is world-famous, while Banyuwangi is the gateway to East Java’s natural treasures like Mount Ijen, Baluran National Park, and pristine beaches along the Java coast.

The good news? The two destinations are separated only by the narrow Bali Strait, making the journey straightforward and accessible.

In this article, we will break down every possible way to travel from Bali to Banyuwangi — by car, bus, shuttle, or private transfer — along with insider tips and itineraries. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi in the way that best suits your budget and travel style.

Understanding the Route

Before choosing the best transport option, it helps to understand the route and overall journey when planning how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali. Geographically, Banyuwangi is located at the eastern tip of Java, directly opposite Bali across the Bali Strait. 

The distance from Denpasar, Bali’s capital, to Banyuwangi city is approximately 127 kilometers, making it a relatively short overland journey compared to other destinations in East Java.

The route itself is straightforward and well-traveled. From southern or central Bali, travelers head west toward Gilimanuk Port, the main ferry terminal in Bali. This drive usually takes around 3–4 hours from Denpasar, depending on traffic and your starting point. 

Once at Gilimanuk, you will cross the Bali Strait by ferry to Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi. The ferry ride is short, typically lasting about 45 minutes to 1 hour, and operates 24 hours a day, making the crossing convenient at almost any time.

In total, the entire journey—from Denpasar to Banyuwangi—generally takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions, waiting time at the port, and your chosen mode of transportation. 

Thanks to this short distance and the frequent ferry connections, Banyuwangi is considered one of the easiest and most accessible East Java destinations to reach from Bali, whether you are traveling independently or as part of a longer Java–Bali overland trip.

Option 1: Car + Ferry (Fastest & Flexible)

One of the most popular and practical answers to how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi is by traveling by car, especially for families or groups who value comfort and flexibility. 

The journey starts with a drive from Denpasar or Ubud to Gilimanuk Port in western Bali, which typically takes around three hours, depending on traffic. From Gilimanuk, you board a ferry to Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi; the crossing itself takes about one hour and operates 24 hours a day. 

After arriving in Java, it is a short 15–30 minute drive to reach Banyuwangi city.

Overall, traveling by car is the fastest option, often taking 3–4 hours total, and offers the freedom to stop for food, rest, or sightseeing along the way. 

However, it does require confidence in driving long distances, and traffic congestion near Gilimanuk Port can be heavy during peak hours or holidays.

 If you value independence, this is the best way to get from Bali to Banyuwangi.

Option 2: Bus (Budget-Friendly & Reliable)

For solo travelers or budget-conscious visitors wondering how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi, traveling by bus is a simple and reliable option. Executive buses operate direct routes from Denpasar to Banyuwangi, combining road travel and the ferry crossing into one seamless journey. 

The total travel time is usually around 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and ferry conditions, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer not to drive themselves.

Bus schedules are fixed, so there is less flexibility, and while executive buses are generally comfortable, they may feel less private and spacious compared to traveling by car.

If you’re backpacking and wondering how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi cheaply, buses are your answer.

Option 3: Shuttle/Van + Ferry (Convenient for Backpackers)

For travelers looking for a hassle-free and budget-friendly way to answer how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi, the shuttle or shared van plus ferry option is especially popular among backpackers.

Shuttle services are widely available in major tourist areas such as Ubud, Canggu, and Denpasar, with convenient hotel pick-up included. The journey typically starts with a shared drive to Gilimanuk Port, followed by a ferry crossing to Ketapang Port, and ends with a drop-off at your accommodation or a central point in Banyuwangi.

While the total travel time is slightly longer at around 5 hours, and privacy is limited due to shared seating, shuttle services remain an excellent choice for backpackers who want a stress-free and economical journey.

For backpackers asking how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi without stress, shuttles are perfect. 

Option 4: Private Transfer/Taxi (Comfortable but Costly)

If comfort and convenience are your top priorities when considering how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi, a private transfer or taxi is the most comfortable option available. 

This service offers true door-to-door travel, with pick-up directly from your hotel in Bali and drop-off at your destination in Banyuwangi. Ferry tickets are usually included in the price, so you do not need to worry about any arrangements along the way. 

The total travel time is generally around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and ferry conditions.

Private transfers typically cost IDR 1,000,000 or more, making this the most expensive option. However, the higher price comes with clear advantages: maximum comfort, no waiting times, and no need to change vehicles. 

This option is especially suitable for families, groups, or travelers with lots of luggage. The main drawback is the cost, which is significantly higher compared to buses, shuttles, or self-driving options.

If you’re traveling with kids or luggage and wondering how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi stress-free, this is the way.

Option 5: Tour or Ijen Crater Package

Another convenient way to plan how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi is by joining an organized tour or Ijen Crater package. Many tour operators in Bali offer multi-day or overnight trips to Banyuwangi, often focused on visiting Ijen Crater and other nearby attractions. 

These tours usually depart from popular areas such as Denpasar, Ubud, or South Bali and are designed to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Most packages include round-trip transportation, ferry tickets, a local guide, and accommodation in Banyuwangi, with some also covering entrance fees and meals. This option is ideal for short trips, first-time visitors, or travelers who prefer not to handle logistics on their own. 

While tours are generally more expensive than independent travel, they offer excellent value by saving time and ensuring a well-organized and stress-free experience.

READ ALSO: Ijen Volcano Tour from Bali 1 Day 1 Night

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

Book tickets online for buses or shuttles to secure seats

When planning how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali, booking bus or shuttle tickets online helps secure seats in advance, especially during weekends and peak holiday seasons. Online booking allows you to compare routes, schedules, and prices for a smoother Bali to Banyuwangi journey.

Travel early in the morning to avoid traffic jams near Gilimanuk

One of the best tips for how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali is to travel early in the morning. Traffic near Gilimanuk Port is lighter at this time, resulting in faster ferry access and shorter waiting times.

Carry cash for ferry tickets (small denominations)

Understanding how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali includes preparing cash for the Gilimanuk ferry crossing. Ferry ticket counters often require cash, and small denominations help speed up transactions during busy periods.

Plan if visiting Mount Ijen — tours often start at midnight

If Mount Ijen is on your itinerary, plan when deciding how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali. Most tours start at midnight, so arriving in Banyuwangi earlier allows time to rest and prepare.

Check ferry schedules during holidays, as crossings can be crowded

Holiday periods can affect how to get to Banyuwangi from Bali, as ferry crossings become crowded. Checking ferry schedules in advance and allowing extra travel time helps avoid delays.

Closing 

Now you have a complete guide on how to get from Bali to Banyuwangi. Whether you choose the speed of a car, the affordability of a bus, the convenience of a shuttle, or the comfort of a private transfer, Banyuwangi’s natural wonders are just a short journey away.

Ready to plan your trip? Book your transport today and experience the seamless journey from Bali to Banyuwangi — your gateway to East Java’s breathtaking adventures!