How to Set Up Gojek and Grab in Bali with Your eSIM (2025 Complete Guide)

Quick Answer

Yes, you need an Indonesian phone number to set up Gojek and Grab in Bali—and a BaliSIM Telkomsel eSIM provides exactly that. 

Both apps require SMS verification during registration, which your Telkomsel eSIM number can receive instantly. 

Setup takes just 5-10 minutes: download the app, register with your Indonesian number, verify via SMS code, add payment method, and start booking rides. 

Your eSIM works perfectly for both registration and ongoing app usage.

Introduction: Essential Transportation Apps for Bali

If you’re visiting Bali in 2025, Gojek and Grab aren’t just convenient—they’re essential. These Southeast Asian ride-sharing apps (think Uber, but better adapted for Indonesia) are how locals and tourists alike navigate the island, order food delivery, send packages, and access dozens of other services.

But here’s the catch: both apps require an Indonesian phone number for registration and SMS verification. Your home country number won’t work, and trying to use international forwarding creates verification failures. This is where your BaliSIM eSIM becomes a game-changer—it provides an authentic Indonesian Telkomsel number that works seamlessly with both platforms.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything: why you need these apps in Bali, how to register with your eSIM number, step-by-step setup for both Gojek and Grab, payment options for foreign tourists, troubleshooting common verification issues, cost comparisons, safety tips, and insider tricks for getting the best experience.

Why You Need Gojek and Grab in Bali

The Transportation Reality in Bali

Bali’s public transportation system is limited compared to Western countries: 

- No subway or metro system 

- No comprehensive bus network (some tourist buses exist but infrequent) 

- Taxis can be unreliable (meter tampering, refusals for short trips, premium airport rates) 

- Renting scooters is risky for inexperienced riders (chaotic traffic, different driving culture)

Gojek and Grab solve all these problems with:

• Transparent upfront pricing

• GPS tracking for safety

• English-language interfaces

• Cashless payment options

• Driver ratings and accountability

• Multiple vehicle types (motorbikes, cars, food delivery)

Beyond Transportation: What These Apps Offer

Gojek Services: 

- GoRide — Motorbike taxi (ojek) rides (fastest in traffic) 

- GoCar — Private car rides (more comfortable, fits groups) 

- GoFood — Food delivery from thousands of restaurants 

- GoMart — Convenience store delivery (water, snacks, toiletries) 

- GoSend — Package delivery 

- GoPulsa — Mobile credit top-ups 

- GoMassage — In-room massage booking 

- GoClean — Laundry services

Grab Services: 

- GrabBike — Motorbike rides 

- GrabCar — Private car rides 

- GrabFood — Restaurant delivery 

- GrabExpress — Package and document delivery 

- GrabMart — Grocery and retail delivery

Bottom line: These apps transform your Bali experience from stressful navigation to effortless exploration.

Requirements for Registration

What You MUST Have

Indonesian phone number — This is non-negotiable for both apps 

- BaliSIM Telkomsel eSIM provides this perfectly 

- Must be able to receive SMS verification codes 

- Must remain active throughout registration

Active data connection — For app download and registration 

- Your Telkomsel eSIM data package works perfectly 

- Or use hotel WiFi (but you’ll still need eSIM for SMS verification)

Email address — For account creation 

- Any email works (Gmail, Outlook, etc.) 

- Used for receipts and account recovery

Payment method — For ride payments 

- Credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard accepted) 

- Cash option also available (select “Cash” in payment methods)

What Your Home Country Number CAN’T Do

Foreign numbers fail verification for several reasons: 

- Apps detect country code mismatch (Indonesian apps require +62) 

- International SMS routing causes verification code delays or failures 

- Some services are geo-restricted to Indonesian numbers only 

- Ongoing usage requires Indonesian number for driver contact

Real example: Tourist tries registering Gojek with US number (+1)—verification SMS never arrives, registration stuck indefinitely.

Solution: Your BaliSIM eSIM provides an authentic +62 Indonesian number that eliminates all these issues.

How to Set Up Gojek with Your Telkomsel eSIM

Step 1: Activate Your BaliSIM eSIM First

Before downloading Gojek, ensure: 

- Your Telkomsel eSIM is fully activated 

- You can make/receive calls and SMS 

- Mobile data is working 

- You know your Indonesian phone number

Find your Telkomsel number: 

- iPhone: Settings > Cellular > [Telkomsel eSIM] > Phone Number 

- Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards > Telkomsel > Phone number 

- Or dial: *808# (receive SMS with your number)

Write it down—you’ll need it in 60 seconds.

Step 2: Download Gojek App

For iPhone: 

1. Open App Store 

2. Search “Gojek” 

3. Download app (official publisher: PT Aplikasi Karya Anak Bangsa) 

4. App size: ~150-200 MB

For Android: 

1. Open Google Play Store 

2. Search “Gojek” 

3. Download app (official by Gojek) 

4. App size: ~120-180 MB

Important: Download the standard Gojek app (green logo), NOT “Gojek Driver” (orange logo, for drivers only)

Step 3: Open Gojek and Start Registration

Language selection: 

- App automatically detects device language 

- If in Indonesian, tap “English” in language selector - Interface switches to full English

Initial screen: 

- Tap “Register” or “Sign Up”

Step 4: Enter Your Indonesian Number

Registration form appears:

1. Phone number field:

• • Country code: Should auto-populate as +62 (Indonesia)

  • If not, tap the flag icon and select Indonesia (+62)

2. Enter your Telkomsel number:

• • Format 1: Enter without leading 0

  • Example: If your number is 0812-3456-7890, enter: 812-3456-7890 or 8123456790

  • Format 2: Some versions accept full number: 0812-3456-7890

3. Tap “Continue” or “Next”

What happens: Gojek sends a 4-6 digit verification code via SMS to your Telkomsel number.

Step 5: SMS Verification

Timing: Verification SMS typically arrives within 10-30 seconds.

What the SMS looks like:

Gojek: Your verification code is 123456.
Do not share this code with anyone.
Valid for 10 minutes.

Enter the code: 

- Type the 6-digit code in the verification field 

- Or tap “Auto-fill” if your phone detects the SMS (iPhone often does this automatically)

If code doesn’t arrive: 

- Wait 60 seconds (sometimes slight delay) 

- Check you entered correct number format 

- Ensure your eSIM is active (test by dialing *888#) 

- Tap “Resend Code” (available after 60 seconds)

Step 6: Create Your Profile

Complete your account information:

1. Full Name: Enter as it appears on ID/passport (for safety verification)

2. Email: Your personal email for receipts and notifications

3. Password: Create strong password (min. 8 characters)

4. Date of Birth: For age verification (must be 17+)

5. Profile Photo (Optional): Helps drivers identify you at pickup points

Tap “Complete” or “Finish Registration”

Step 7: Add Payment Method

Payment options for tourists:

Option 1: Credit/Debit Card (RECOMMENDED) 

1. Tap “Payment Methods” 

2. Select “Add Card” 

3. Enter card details: 

- Card number - Expiry date (MM/YY) 

- CVV (3-4 digits on back) 

- Cardholder name 

4. Billing address (can use hotel address) 

5. Save card

Accepted cards: 

- Visa (all countries) 

- Mastercard (all countries) 

- American Express (limited support)

Option 2: Cash Payment 

1. In payment methods, select “Cash” 

2. You’ll pay driver directly at trip end 3. Driver provides exact change (usually)

Option 3: 

GoPay (Digital Wallet) 

- Requires Indonesian bank account for top-up 

- Not practical for short-term tourists 

- Ignore unless you have Indonesian banking

Pro tip: Add credit card for convenience, but keep cash as backup—some areas have drivers who prefer cash.

Step 8: Set Permissions

App will request access to:

Location — REQUIRED for pickup/drop-off 

- Select “Allow While Using App” (iPhone) 

- Select “Allow” (Android)

Contacts — Optional (for easy address selection) 

- Can skip if privacy-conscious

Notifications — Recommended for driver updates 

- Select “Allow”

You’re done! Gojek is fully set up and ready to use.

How to Set Up Grab with Your Telkomsel eSIM

The process is nearly identical to Gojek:

Step 1: Download Grab App

iPhone: App Store → Search “Grab” → Download
Android: Google Play → Search “Grab” → Download

App size: ~120-200 MB

Step 2: Open and Start Registration

1. Tap “Sign Up”

2. Select country: Ensure Indonesia (+62) is selected

Step 3: Enter Indonesian Number

1. Phone number field: Enter your Telkomsel number

• • Example: 0812-3456-7890 or 8123456790

2. Tap “Next”

Step 4: SMS Verification

Wait for SMS: Usually arrives within 15-30 seconds

SMS format:

Grab: Your verification code is 456789

Enter code in app or use auto-fill

Step 5: Create Profile

1. Name: Full name as on passport

2. Email: Your email address

3. Password: Strong password (8+ characters)

Optional: - Profile photo - Date of birth

Step 6: Add Payment

Same options as Gojek: - Credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard) - Cash payment - GrabPay (requires Indonesian bank—skip for tourists)

Recommendation: Add card for cashless convenience.

Step 7: Enable Permissions

• Location: Allow (required)

• Notifications: Allow (recommended)

Setup complete! You can now book Grab rides.

Complete Feature Comparison: Gojek vs. Grab

 

Which Should You Choose?

Best answer: Install BOTH apps.

Why? 

- Price comparison: Check both for same route—save 10,000-20,000 IDR per ride 

- Availability: If one has no nearby drivers, the other might 

- Promotions: Apps frequently offer new user discounts or limited-time deals 

- Backup: If one app has technical issues, you have alternative

Typical scenario: You’re in Ubud needing ride to Seminyak. 

Open both: 

- Gojek: 180,000 IDR, 3 minutes away 

- Grab: 195,000 IDR, 5 minutes away 

- You choose: Gojek (cheaper and faster)

Storage cost: Both apps = ~350 MB total. Worth it for the flexibility and savings.

Payment Methods for Foreign Tourists: What Works Best

Option 1: International Credit/Debit Card (⭐ RECOMMENDED)

Advantages: 

• Completely cashless—no ATM visits needed

• Automatic payment at trip end

• Safe (no carrying large cash amounts)

• Trip receipts emailed automatically

• Easy expense tracking for business travel

What works: 

- Visa (all types) 

- Mastercard (all types) 

- American Express (limited—test before relying on it)

Important note: Some banks block international transactions by default.

How to prepare: 

1. Call your bank before Bali trip: - Tell them you’ll be in Indonesia - Ask them to authorize transactions to “Gojek” and “Grab” - Mention dates of travel 

2. Test card immediately: Book a short ride first day to verify card works 

3. Have backup card: Bring second card in case primary fails

Foreign transaction fees: 

- Most banks charge 1-3% on international transactions 

- Example: 100,000 IDR (~$6.40) ride = ~$0.13-$0.19 fee 

- Still cheaper than currency exchange fees + cash handling

Option 2: Cash Payment

Advantages: 

• No card setup needed

• Works if card is declined

• Preferred by some drivers (instant settlement)

• No foreign transaction fees

Disadvantages: 

• Need Indonesian rupiah on hand

• Driver may not have exact change

• Less secure (carrying cash)

• No automatic receipt (must request)

Best practices for cash: 

- Keep small denominations (20,000, 50,000, 100,000 IDR notes) 

- Avoid paying 200,000 IDR+ rides with 500,000 note (driver may lack change) 

- Tell driver “Cash” before trip starts if you selected card by mistake

When cash makes sense: 

- Your cards are failing verification 

- Very short rides (<20,000 IDR / $1.30) - Rural areas where drivers prefer cash 

- As backup payment option

Option 3: Digital Wallets (GoPay, GrabPay)

Reality for tourists: Not practical.

Why? 

- Requires Indonesian bank account or credit card for top-up 

- Complex verification process (ID requirements)

- Top-up amounts in IDR only 

- Leftover balance hard to use after leaving Indonesia

Who should use it: 

- Long-term expats 

- Digital nomads staying 6+ months 

- Frequent Indonesia visitors

For 1-4 week tourists: Skip it. Stick with international credit card or cash.

Typical Costs: What to Expect

GoRide / GrabBike (Motorbike)

Popular routes (2025 approximate prices):

 

Price factors: - Distance (primary) - Traffic conditions (surge pricing during peak hours) - Weather (rain = slight increase) - Time of day (late night slight premium)

GoCar / GrabCar (Private Car)

Same routes in car (prices ~2-3x motorbike):

 

 

When to choose car over motorbike: 

- Group of 2-3 people (split cost) 

- Carrying luggage 

- Rain or bad weather 

- Longer distances (comfort) 

- Prefer enclosed, air-conditioned ride

Price comparison with traditional taxi: 

- Airport blue taxi to Seminyak: ~200,000-250,000 IDR ($12.80-16) 

- GrabCar same route: ~100,000-130,000 IDR ($6.40-8.30) 

- Savings: ~50%

Safety Tips for Using Gojek and Grab in Bali

Before Booking

1. Verify pick-up location accuracy 

- GPS pins can be slightly off 

- Add landmark note: “Pickup at Bintang Supermarket entrance” 

- Call driver if needed (use eSIM)

2. Check driver ratings - Both apps show driver rating (1-5 stars) 

- Avoid drivers below 4.5 stars if possible 

- Higher ratings = better service reliability

3. Share trip details 

- Both apps have “Share Trip” feature 

- Send to friend/family for safety 

- Shows real-time GPS tracking

During Motorbike Rides

1. Helmet is mandatory 

- Driver must provide helmet 

- Refuse ride if no helmet offered 

- Check helmet is secure before departing

2. Secure your belongings 

- Wear backpack on front (prevents bag snatching) 

- Keep phone in zippered pocket 

- Hold onto bags firmly

3. Speak up about speed 

- If driver goes too fast: Say “Pelan-pelan” (slow down) 

- Or use app chat: “Please drive slowly, thank you”

4. Follow driver’s guidance 

- They know traffic patterns 

- Trust their route choices (usually optimal)

During Car Rides

1. Sit in back seat (standard practice in Indonesia)

2. Keep doors locked (driver usually does this automatically)

3. Verify license plate 

- App shows driver’s license plate number 

- Check it matches car before entering 

- Format: Usually “DK” or “B” followed by numbers (e.g., “DK 1234 ABC”)

General Safety

1. Never share verification codes 

- Scam: Fake “customer service” calls asking for codes 

- Legitimate Gojek/Grab will NEVER ask for verification codes

2. Use in-app chat when possible 

- Keeps communication record 

- Translator often built-in 

- Safer than verbal miscommunication

3. Rate drivers honestly 

- Helps maintain service quality 

- Report serious issues immediately (in-app safety button)

4. Check app version is official 

- Only download from App Store / Google Play 

- Beware of fake lookalike apps

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Problem 1: SMS Verification Code Not Arriving

Most common causes & solutions:

Wrong number format
Try both formats: 

- Without leading 0: 8123456790 

- With leading 0: 08123456790

eSIM not fully activated
Test SMS functionality: 

- Ask hotel reception to send test SMS to your number 

- Or dial *888# to verify eSIM is active

App bug or delay
- Wait 60 seconds, then tap “Resend Code”

- Close app completely and reopen

- Restart phone

Telkomsel SMS routing issue
- Connect to mobile data (not WiFi) during verification

- Sometimes SMS delivery requires active data connection

Problem 2: “Phone Number Already Registered”

Possible reasons:

Cause 1: You started registration before but didn’t finish 

Solution: Tap “Login” instead of “Register” and use “Forgot Password” to recover account

Cause 2: Previous eSIM user had same number (rare, but numbers get recycled) 

Solution: 

1. Contact app support via “Help” section 

2. Explain situation: “I’m a tourist with new eSIM, this number shows as registered” 

3. They’ll unlink previous account (usually resolved within 24 hours)

Cause 3: Accidentally registered number on wrong app (Gojek Driver instead of Gojek passenger app) 

Solution: Delete driver app, register on correct passenger app

Problem 3: Credit Card Declined During Setup

Solutions:

Call your bank 

- Authorize transactions to “Indonesia” 

- Specifically mention “Gojek” and “Grab” 

- Provide travel dates

Try different card 

- Visa tends to work better than Amex in Indonesia 

- Debit cards sometimes work where credit cards fail

Check card details entered correctly 

- Billing address can use your hotel address 

- CVV (3-digit code on back) must be exact 

- Expiry date in MM/YY format

Use PayPal (if available) 

- Some accounts offer PayPal as payment option 

- Links to your card but sometimes bypasses direct card blocks

Temporarily use cash 

- Can always add card later after first ride 

- Menu > Payment > Add Card

Problem 4: App Shows “Service Not Available in Your Area”

Cause: GPS thinks you’re not in Indonesia (VPN issue or location error)

Solutions:

Disable VPN if using one 

Enable location services: 

- iPhone: Settings > Privacy > Location Services > [Gojek/Grab] > While Using App 

- Android: Settings > Location > On, and give app permission 

Check you’re actually in Bali (sounds obvious, but sometimes tourists try setting up before landing—wait until you arrive)

Problem 5: Driver Contact Issues

Problem: Driver calls but you don’t receive

Cause: Your eSIM isn’t set as default for voice calls

Solution (iPhone with dual SIM): 

1. Settings > Cellular 

2. Under “Cellular Plans,” tap Telkomsel eSIM 

3. Set “Allow Cellular Data Switching” to ON 

4. Under “Default Voice Line,” select Telkomsel

Solution (Android with dual SIM): 1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards 2. Set Telkomsel as default for calls

Pro Tips for Best Experience

1. Book Motorbikes for Speed in Traffic

Bali traffic is notorious, especially: 

- Seminyak 5-7 PM 

- Kuta near beach areas noon-8 PM 

- Ubud center 11 AM-2 PM, 5-8 PM

Reality: A 15-minute motorbike ride becomes 45-minute car ride during peak traffic.

Strategy: 

- Solo travelers: Always choose GoRide/GrabBike (faster + cheaper) 

- Couples: If comfortable, both take motorbikes separately (still faster than shared car) 

- Groups of 3+: Car is necessary (more cost-effective split 3 ways)

2. Use GoFood/GrabFood for Easy Meals

Why tourists love food delivery: 

- Explore local restaurants without leaving villa 

- Avoid language barriers at ordering 

- See photos and English descriptions 

- Split delivery fee with travel companions 

- Try multiple restaurants in one stay

Popular orders: 

- Nasi Goreng (fried rice) — local classic 

- Warung meals (authentic Indonesian) 

- Western food (pizza, burgers) from expat-run restaurants 

- Fresh fruit smoothie bowls

Delivery cost: Usually 5,000-15,000 IDR (~$0.30-$1) depending on distance

3. Save Frequent Locations

Time-saving feature: 

- Add “Home” (your hotel/villa address) 

- Add “Work” (coworking space if digital nomad) 

- Add favorite spots (beach clubs, restaurants)

How to add: 

1. Menu > Saved Places 

2. Add location with nickname 

3. One-tap selection for future rides

4. Check Promotions Daily

Both apps offer regular discounts: 

- New user promotions (30-50% off first 3 rides) 

- Daily 20-30% off specific services 

- Weekend food delivery deals - Cashback to wallet

Where to find: 

- Home screen “Promos” section 

- Apply automatically at checkout if eligible

5. Learn Basic Indonesian Phrases for Drivers

Most communication happens via app, but helpful phrases:

 

Bonus: Drivers appreciate effort and may provide better service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my home country phone number for Gojek/Grab?

No. Both apps require an Indonesian (+62) phone number for registration and verification. Your BaliSIM Telkomsel eSIM provides this perfectly—it’s an authentic Indonesian number that works seamlessly with both platforms.

2. Will I get charged international roaming fees for driver calls?

No. Since you’re using your Indonesian Telkomsel eSIM number, all calls are considered domestic Indonesian calls. Drivers calling you use their Indonesian numbers too, so it’s all local communication—no international charges.

Note: If you need calling credit for outgoing calls to drivers, see our International Calls Guide.

3. Do I need separate accounts for Gojek and Grab?

Yes. They’re separate companies with separate apps and accounts. You’ll register your Telkomsel number with each app independently—this is normal and works fine. Your Indonesian number can be used for both simultaneously.

4. What happens to my accounts after my eSIM expires?

Your accounts remain active indefinitely even after your eSIM number stops working. However: - You won’t receive SMS notifications - Drivers can’t call you if there’s pickup issues - You can still log in via email/password if you return to Indonesia later with a new number

If keeping same number: See our SIM Validity Guide for how to maintain your number between trips.

5. Are Gojek and Grab safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, generally very safe, and often safer than traditional taxis due to: - GPS tracking (real-time location visible to you and company) - Driver identity verification (all drivers registered with ID) - Rating system (bad drivers get removed) - Trip sharing feature (share with friends/family) - In-app emergency button

Additional safety tips for solo travelers: - Share trip details via app - Sit in back seat for cars - Trust your instincts—cancel if uncomfortable - Travel during daylight when possible - Use reputable pickup points (hotels, malls)

Millions of solo travelers use these apps safely daily throughout Indonesia.

Conclusion: Your Key to Easy Bali Navigation

Setting up Gojek and Grab with your BaliSIM Telkomsel eSIM transforms your Bali experience from transportation stress to effortless mobility. With an Indonesian phone number from your eSIM, the entire registration process takes just 10 minutes—and suddenly you have access to thousands of drivers, reliable pricing, and services that extend far beyond just transportation.

Key Takeaways:

• You need an Indonesian number—BaliSIM eSIM provides this perfectly

• Setup takes 5-10 minutes per app (download, register, verify SMS, add payment)

• Install BOTH apps for price comparison and availability

• Credit card payment recommended for convenience

• Motorbikes faster than cars in Bali traffic

• Both apps are very safe with GPS tracking and driver ratings

• Service extends beyond rides—food delivery, groceries, more

Your Next Steps:

1. Activate your BaliSIM eSIM before or immediately after arriving

2. Find your Indonesian phone number (Settings or dial *808#)

3. Download both Gojek and Grab apps

4. Follow setup steps in this guide (5-10 minutes each)

5. Add payment method (international credit card or cash)

6. Book first test ride (short trip to verify everything works)

Internal Links: 

- Get Your Telkomsel eSIM — Provides Indonesian number for registration 

- How to Activate Your eSIM — Setup before using Gojek/Grab 

- International Calls Guide — If you need to call drivers

Never struggle with Bali transportation again—with Gojek, Grab, and your BaliSIM eSIM, the entire island is accessible at the tap of a button.