Bali Enacts New Travel Regulations to Enhance Tourist Experience and Respect Local Culture
Bali, Indonesia – In a move aimed at promoting respect for local culture and ensuring sustainable tourism, Bali Governor Wayan Koster has announced an expansion of tourism guidelines for visitors. This decision follows complaints regarding tourist behavior and aims at maintaining the island’s unique cultural integrity, as part of the Indonesian government’s "Love Bali" initiative.
During a press conference held on Monday, Koster outlined the new regulations, which build on guidelines first published in 2023. "We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt," Koster stated. "This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values."
Key Guidelines for Tourists
One of the most notable changes introduced is the implementation of a tourism tax, set at approximately $9 USD. Travelers who fail to pay this levy may find themselves barred from access to key attractions throughout the Indonesian province.
In addition to the tax, new rules emphasize the importance of modest attire when visiting sacred sites. Travelers are required to dress in a manner that reflects local customs and traditions. The guidelines further stipulate that tourists must engage responsibly with their surroundings; for example:
- Respect sacred sites and symbols
- Refrain from entering sacred areas without appropriate traditional attire or while menstruating
- Avoid climbing on sacred monuments and trees
- Do not engage in behaviors that are rude or disrespectful towards Balinese locals and fellow tourists
Foreign visitors are also expected to adhere to specific logistical requirements while in Bali, such as using only licensed tour guides, authorized money exchange services, legal car rentals, and permitted accommodations.
For those choosing to drive, compliance with local traffic laws is crucial. Drivers must possess an international or national driver’s license, obey traffic signs, avoid driving under the influence, and wear helmets when riding motorbikes or motorcycles.
Prohibitions and Legal Consequences
The new regulations, formally known as Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025, include various prohibitions aimed at preserving the island’s eco-system and cultural heritage. Tourists are forbidden from:
- Using single-use plastics
- Littering
- Operating businesses without the proper permits
- Trading in drugs and endangered animals
- Engaging in offensive language or behavior towards locals
Koster cautioned that violations of these rules will have legal consequences under Indonesian law. "All stakeholders must fully understand, implement, and communicate this circular to their teams and foreign visitors. Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them,” he remarked.
Reporting Infractions
To enhance compliance, the Balinese government has established a public reporting system via an official WhatsApp hotline, empowering citizens and tourists alike to report infractions promptly. Local law enforcement will respond to any reported violations in an earnest effort to uphold the new standards.
As Bali continues to welcome millions of visitors each year, these enhancements to travel regulations reflect a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, balancing the needs of travelers with the preservation of cultural and natural resources.
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