Short answer: If you’re worried about fuel queues in Bali, choose a destination where your trip doesn’t depend on you finding petrol. Lombok is the closest swap for beaches and Mount Rinjani. East Java (Mount Bromo, Ijen, Tumpak Sewu) is the best fit for volcano landscapes and cultural routes. Komodo and Labuan Bajo is the best choice for island-hopping by boat. On all three, a private driver or a boat crew handles the logistics, so you never queue at a petrol station yourself.
Since around 11 October, many petrol stations in Bali have faced supply problems. Long queues have formed outside numerous stations since Sunday 11 October, and Pertamina announced an extra 26.2 million litres of fuel for delivery between 12 and 16 October 2026. Tourist-heavy areas such as Uluwatu and Ubud have been affected, and Badung motorists have faced waits of over an hour.
Pertamina’s president director publicly apologised and gave two reasons: a technical problem on the tanker during unloading, and higher consumption of subsidised fuel in Bali.
Here is what is not true: Bali has not run out of fuel. Reports did not indicate the island had completely run out, and substantial reserves remained at the main terminals; the challenge is moving fuel from storage to individual stations. Supply is recovering, but availability still varies by location, and similar disruptions happened in late August. That pattern of repeat disruptions is why many travelers are asking for a plan B.
Who is affected most? Anyone who rents a scooter or self-drive car and needs to refuel. Travelers with a private driver, tour transfer, or boat trip are far less exposed.
| Lombok | East Java | Komodo / Labuan Bajo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Beaches, Rinjani trek, waterfalls | Volcanoes, sunrise, blue fire, waterfalls | Boat trips, dragons, Padar, manta rays |
| Vibe | Relaxed Bali-like, less crowded | Adventure and cultural | Remote island adventure |
| Getting there | Short flight or boat from Bali | Flight to Surabaya/Malang/Banyuwangi, or overland from Bali | Direct flight from Bali (Denpasar) |
| Fuel exposure for you | Low with a driver | Low with a private car or open trip | Very low (boat crew handles fuel) |
| Ideal trip length | 4–5 days | 3–5 days | 3–4 days |
Lombok feels like Bali before the crowds: white-sand bays, surf, waterfalls, and the 3,726 m Mount Rinjani rising above it all. It also works as a direct replacement if your Bali plan was beaches plus a bit of adventure. Pink Beach, the southern coast, and the Gili Islands are the usual highlights.
Why it works right now: a driver-guided itinerary means you skip the rental-scooter refueling problem entirely. Mount Rinjani trekking is fully arranged by a licensed operator, including the mandatory permit system, so fuel never enters your planning.
Good to know: Rinjani requires a permit through the e-Rinjani system, and fees were reclassified under Permen LHK No. 17/2025 (effective 3 November 2025). Check the current figure before you book.
East Java is the strongest choice for travelers who want drama in the landscape. The classic trio is Mount Bromo (sunrise over the sea of sand), Ijen Crater (the turquoise lake and the blue fire phenomenon before dawn), and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, often called the most photogenic curtain waterfall in Java. You can travel overland from Bali via Banyuwangi, or fly into Surabaya or Malang.
Why it works right now: these destinations are best done as a guided private trip or a shared open trip with a driver, so there’s no self-drive refueling and no scooter. Bromo’s jeep tour is operated by local drivers on a fixed route.
An honest caveat: fuel supply issues have also been reported elsewhere in Indonesia. An energy-research institute (IESR) noted that earlier disruptions occurred in places including Malang, and that the problem keeps recurring. A guided trip lowers your exposure, but it’s smart to confirm the current situation with your operator a few days before departure.
Another honest caveat: Bromo was closed 12 to 19 September 2026 due to a savanna fire and has since reopened. Always check the latest status before booking.
If you want a completely different trip, go to Komodo. A multi-day boat trip covers Komodo dragons, Padar Island’s viewpoint, Pink Beach, and snorkeling with manta rays. It’s the lowest-fuel-stress option: you board once and the crew handles everything on the water.
Why it works right now: there are direct flights between Bali and Labuan Bajo, so Bali can still be your gateway. Add a day or two on land and the trip works even if you keep your Bali flights.
Good to know: Komodo National Park tickets and permits are handled through BTNK and the SiORA booking system. Rules and visitor caps change, so we recommend confirming the current fee with your operator rather than relying on an old price.
Is Bali still safe to visit during the fuel shortage?
Yes. The issue is queues and limited availability at some stations, not a shutdown of the island. Hotels, restaurants, and tours are operating. Visitors who use drivers or tours are least affected.
Has Bali run out of fuel?
No. Reserves remain at the main terminals, and the problem is delivery and distribution to stations. Pertamina and the provincial government have scheduled additional tanker arrivals.
When will the Bali fuel situation return to normal?
Officials have said supply is gradually recovering, but there is no confirmed end date, and availability varies by area. Check local news and ask your hotel before renting a vehicle.
Which is the best alternative to Bali?
Lombok for beaches, East Java for volcanoes and culture, Komodo for island and boat adventures.
Can I combine Bali with Lombok, East Java, or Komodo?
Yes. Bali connects to Lombok by short flight or boat, to East Java overland via Banyuwangi or by flight, and to Labuan Bajo by direct flight.
Will I need to buy fuel myself on these trips?
Not on guided private trips, open trips, or boat tours. Fuel is handled by your driver or crew.
Are other Indonesian regions affected by fuel shortages?
Some other regions have reported disruptions before, including parts of East Java. Confirm current conditions with your trip operator before departure.
Tell us your dates and travel style and we’ll suggest the best fit. WhatsApp: +62 858-8003-4113
Disclaimer: Fuel supply conditions change quickly. This article reflects news available as of 16 October 2026. Prices, permits, and park rules are set by the relevant authorities and may change; please confirm before you book.
