Bali Introduces New Guidelines to Curb Bad Tourist Behavior

By Weena Tan
Published: May 19, 2025

In a bid to manage the escalating issues stemming from increasing tourist numbers, Bali has unveiled a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at curbing disruptive behavior amongst foreign visitors. The island, a popular travel destination, saw an influx of 6.3 million international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and is targeting between 6.5 million to 7 million tourists for 2025. ## The Challenge of Tourism

While tourism is a significant economic driver for Bali—accounting for 60-70% of the region’s GDP—it has also presented numerous challenges. Local communities are increasingly frustrated by incidents of bad behavior among tourists, which include petty crimes, public disturbances, and disrespect towards sacred sites. In just the first quarter of 2025, nearly 130 foreigners were deported for various offenses, a stark rise compared to previous years.

Recent Incidents Overview

Amid mounting complaints, the Balinese authorities have taken a firm stance against ‘naughty’ tourists. Notable cases include:

• A German tourist who caused a scene at a sacred temple by gatecrashing a performance and stripping naked.
• An American man who faced deportation after causing property damage at a medical clinic while under the influence of substances.
• Viral footage of an Australian tourist being escorted out of a bar, bound and intoxicated.

Such incidents reflect a growing concern amongst local officials regarding the behavior of tourists and its potential to tarnish Bali’s reputation.

New Guidelines for Tourists

In response to these challenges, Bali’s provincial government has introduced a series of new guidelines designed to promote respectful and responsible tourism. Key aspects include:

Dress Codes and Behavior

Tourists are now required to adhere to modest dress codes when visiting temples and sacred sites. Guidelines stress the importance of maintaining respect for Balinese culture, including dressing appropriately and refraining from disrespectful actions.

Legal and Safety Regulations

Updated traffic regulations mandate that tourists:

• Hold a valid international or Indonesian driver’s license.
• Comply with traffic laws including wearing helmets while riding motorbikes.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs prior to driving.

Additionally, a tourism levy of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (approximately US$15) must be paid by all visitors before departing the island, with calls from locals to increase this fee to attract higher-quality tourists.

Responsible Tourism Practices

The new regulations encourage tourists to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as avoiding single-use plastics. Visitors are urged to use licensed tour guides when exploring the island’s natural and cultural sites and to only exchange currency at authorized locations. Tourists are also encouraged to report any misconduct via a new WhatsApp hotline.

Increased Enforcement and Support

To bolster compliance, authorities have deployed over 70 tourism police officers in popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta. These officers will monitor tourist behavior, ensuring adherence to the newly established guidelines. They will also assist in educating visitors about appropriate conduct during their stay.

Furthermore, a recent amendment to immigration laws has intensified penalties for overstaying visas, with potential sentences now reaching up to 20 years.

Conclusion

Bali’s new guidelines reflect a proactive approach to maintaining the island’s integrity and the well-being of its residents. As tourism continues to grow, Balinese authorities hope that these measures will foster a more respectful and harmonious relationship between visitors and the local community, ensuring that Bali remains a cherished destination for years to come.