Bali Introduces New Travel Regulations to Enhance Tourism Experience

Updated: March 28, 2025 / 11:00 AM CDT

In an effort to foster a more respectful and sustainable tourism environment, Bali Governor Wayan Koster has announced a series of new guidelines aimed at visitors to the Indonesian paradise. The new regulations, which build upon a set of dos and don’ts first outlined in 2023, come as part of the government’s Love Bali initiative, seeking to harmonize the tourism experience with local customs and values.

New Tourism Tax and Regulations

Among the significant changes introduced is the enactment of a mandatory tourism tax of approximately $9 USD, referred to as Bali’s tourist levy. This fee is designed to help fund local infrastructure and sustainability projects. Importantly, visitors who do not pay this fee may find themselves barred from accessing specific attractions throughout the province.

In addition to the tourism tax, Koster emphasized the specifications for how tourists should conduct themselves while visiting. "This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable and in harmony with our local values,” he said during a press conference earlier this week. Key points include adhering to modest dress codes, particularly at sacred sites, and behaving respectfully in public spaces.

Requirements for Travelers

New regulations stipulate that foreign visitors must utilize only licensed tour guides, obtain services from authorized money exchange facilities, rent vehicles through legal avenues, and stay in officially licensed accommodations. For those who choose to drive while in Bali, adherence to local traffic laws is paramount. Drivers are required to:

• Carry an international or national driver’s license
• Follow traffic signs
• Avoid driving under the influence
• Wear helmets when riding motorbikes or motorcycles

Respect for Local Traditions

To further ensure the preservation of Balinese culture, the guidelines outline prohibitions against certain behaviors. Tourists are forbidden from:

• Entering sacred areas inappropriately dressed or during menstruation
• Climbing sacred monuments and trees
• Using single-use plastics and littering
• Operating businesses without the necessary permits
• Engaging in the trade of drugs or endangered species
• Displaying rude or disrespectful behavior towards locals and other visitors

These regulations are codified in Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025, which warns that violators will face legal consequences in accordance with Indonesian law.

Encouraging Responsible Tourism

Governor Koster called for all stakeholders in the tourism sector to familiarize themselves with the new rules and to communicate them effectively to both their teams and foreign guests. "Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them," he stated.

The Balinese government is also promoting a hotline via WhatsApp for the public to report any infractions, aiming to empower the community in upholding these standards.

With these measures in place, Bali leaders hope to protect the integrity of their vibrant culture while providing a safe and enjoyable environment for tourists. The emphasis on respecting local customs and acknowledging the diversity visitors bring will likely position Bali as a leading example of sustainable tourism in Indonesia and beyond.