Bali’s Fuel Crunch Hits Tourist Transport as Pertamina Pushes Ahead

I was driving through Kintamani a few days ago, and I saw it: long lines of jeeps snaking down the road, all headed for the same destination, a Pertamina fuel station. It’s a scene that’s becoming all too familiar as Bali’s fuel shortage continues to ripple through the island’s tourism sector.

As I drove past, I noticed the queue stretching for nearly 200 meters. These are not just any vehicles, they’re jeeps, the lifeline for many of the tour guides operating in the Mount Batur area. Each one of these drivers is making multiple trips a day, taking tourists up the mountain for sunrise and black lava tours. They can’t afford to run out of fuel mid-ride, and the queue is a stark reminder of the challenges they face.

According to Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri, the recent disruptions were due to a technical issue with a fuel tanker, which delayed deliveries. The company has since ramped up deliveries and extended operating hours at key stations to try to keep things moving. However, the effects are already being felt. In Kintamani, one station ran out of Pertalite, the type of fuel most commonly used by these tour jeeps.

For expats and digital nomads living in Bali, this means a few things: keep an eye on fuel levels in your vehicles, and be prepared for longer waits at filling stations. For those planning to explore the northern highlands, consider leaving extra time for your trips. The good news is that the situation is improving, but it’s far from over.