Bali Expands Travel Regulations Amid Growing Tourist Misconduct

Bali, Indonesia — In response to increasing concerns about tourist behavior and its impact on local culture and environment, Bali Governor Wayan Koster announced a significant expansion of travel regulations impacting visitors to the island. The new guidelines, outlined in the government’s “Love Bali” program, are designed to promote respectful and sustainable tourism practices.

New Guidelines and Tourism Tax

The expanded regulations come as an extension of a list of tourist dos and don’ts that was first introduced in 2023. “We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt,” Governor Koster remarked during a press conference on Monday. He emphasized the importance of aligning tourism with the local values and traditions of Bali.

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a tourism levy, which amounts to approximately $9 USD. Visitors who fail to pay this tax may face restrictions on accessing key attractions throughout the province. This levy is part of the government’s effort to generate funds that will be reinvested into tourism infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Modesty and Respect: A Cultural Requirement

The new guidelines emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity, mandating that tourists dress in “modest and respectful clothing” and behave appropriately in public spaces. Specifically, visitors are prohibited from entering sacred sites without appropriate traditional attire or while menstruating. Moreover, tourists are discouraged from climbing sacred monuments or trees.

Other key regulations include the requirement for all foreign travelers to utilize licensed tour guides, authorized money exchange services, legally permitted car rentals, and official accommodations during their stay. The government aims to ensure that tourists engage with the local economy safely and responsibly.

Road Safety and Behavioral Expectations

For those driving in Bali, the updated rules highlight the need for an international or national driver’s license, adherence to traffic signs, and a strict ban on driving under the influence. Motorcyclists are also required to wear helmets.

In addition to these safety measures, tourists must be aware of various behaviors that are prohibited, such as:

• Using single-use plastics
• Disposing of litter improperly
• Operating a business without the correct permits
• Engaging in the trade of illegal goods, such as drugs or endangered species
• Exhibiting rude behavior towards Balinese officials and fellow tourists

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in legal consequences under Indonesian law, as per the formal announcement known as Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025.

Encouraging Community Engagement

As part of the new initiative, the Balinese government encourages the public to report any infractions through an official WhatsApp hotline, which is intended to prompt immediate responses from local law enforcement. Governor Koster highlighted the collaborative role that all stakeholders, including businesses and tourists, must play to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

“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,” Koster stated, reinforcing the shared responsibility in maintaining the cultural integrity of the island.

With these expanded regulations in place, Bali aims to preserve its unique environment and cultural heritage, ensuring that the experiences of visitors align with the local customs and values of its residents.