Tourist Deported from Bali After Hiking Mount Agung Without a Guide
Bali, Indonesia – A 41-year-old Norwegian national, identified by his initials BG, has been deported from Bali after violating local regulations by hiking Mount Agung without the required accompaniment of a guide. The incident highlights ongoing enforcement of strict rules governing access to cultural and spiritual sites on the island.
Mount Agung, which towers at 3,031 meters and is recognized as a sacred site, is regarded by locals as a dwelling place for the gods. The authorities mandate that all hikers, regardless of their origin, must be accompanied by a local guide due to the potentially dangerous conditions of the trails.
BG entered Indonesia on February 2 and was permitted to stay in the country on a visitor visa until March 3. However, his hiking adventure was cut short when immigration officials stepped in on February 20. His visa was subsequently revoked following his breach of local laws.
Hendra Setiawan, an official from the Singaraja Immigration Office, noted, "The foreign citizen was secured by the Singaraja Immigration enforcement officers based on a report from the local authorities. After receiving the report, we immediately sent a team to the location and secured the foreigner concerned for further questioning at the office."
Reports suggest that BG had been warned by the Mount Agung Climbing Manager against hiking alone, yet he proceeded without a guide. This incident is not isolated; another tourist, identified as KES, faced similar consequences for attempting to hike the volcano without proper guidance. It was reported that KES tried to mislead officials by claiming he was only visiting the nearby Pasar Agung Temple.
Safety and Regulations at Mount Agung
Mount Agung is known for its challenging hiking conditions, which, while not as formidable as the peaks of the Himalayas or Andes, still pose significant dangers. The hiking routes can be treacherous, and as such, tourists are strongly advised to engage local guides to ensure their safety.
The call for increased adherence to these guidelines comes following a tragic incident last year, when a 29-year-old Dutch woman died after falling while hiking the sacred volcano. She and her partner had also neglected to hire a guide, leading to a fatal mistake when she slipped and fell into a ravine.
Every year, approximately half a dozen tourists sustain serious injuries or lose their lives while attempting to summit Mount Agung and Mount Batur, another popular peak on the island. The local authorities emphasize that tourists should consult their accommodations for information about legitimate guide services before embarking on any hiking excursions.
Conclusion
As tourism continues to be a major component of Bali’s economy, local officials are reminding visitors of the importance of respecting cultural practices and adhering to safety regulations. The recent deportation of BG serves as a poignant reminder of the need for awareness and caution among tourists exploring the natural beauty of Indonesia’s sacred sites.
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