Bali Implements Strict New Rules and Fines for Tourists in 2025
Bali, Indonesia — In a decisive move to protect its cultural heritage, natural environment, and public order, the Bali provincial government has unveiled comprehensive new regulations aimed at curbing unruly behavior among tourists, effective from 2025. These measures come as a response to the challenges posed by mass tourism on the island, under the leadership of Governor Wayan Koster.
New Guidelines to Ensure Respectful Tourism
The updated rules are codified in Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, which clearly outlines the responsibilities and restrictions for visitors. Bali continues to welcome tourists but emphasizes that respect for local traditions, laws, and natural spaces is non-negotiable.
Key aspects of the new regulations require that tourists:
- Adhere to modest attire and respectful behavior, particularly around sacred and cultural sites.
- Obtain permission and observe strict protocols when entering temple areas, which are reserved mainly for religious purposes.
- Avoid prohibited actions such as climbing sacred trees, taking inappropriate photographs at religious landmarks, littering, and polluting natural areas like beaches, forests, and rivers.
- Refrain from aggressive or offensive conduct including public swearing or disrespect toward local residents.
- Comply with traffic and transportation rules, including holding a valid driver’s license, wearing helmets on motorbikes, respecting speed limits, and avoiding driving under the influence.
- Use only registered rental vehicles.
- Conduct currency exchanges exclusively at licensed money changers and conduct Rupiah transactions using the official Bank Indonesia QR code system.
Introduction of Tourism Levy and Licensed Guides
Visitors will now be required to pay a mandatory tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 9.03) either prior to arrival or during their stay via the official Love Bali website. This fee aims to support sustainable tourism efforts and infrastructure maintenance.
In addition, hiring licensed tour guides has become compulsory for visitors exploring Bali’s heritage and natural sites. These guides are certified by local authorities and are trained to educate tourists about Bali’s customs, fostering more culturally sensitive tourism experiences.
Enforcement and Reporting
To ensure compliance, Bali’s Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) together with other law enforcement agencies will intensify monitoring of tourist activities. Tourists who violate the guidelines may face penalties, with little leniency for non-compliance.
Moreover, both residents and tourists are encouraged to report misconduct through a dedicated WhatsApp hotline: +62 81-287-590-999. This increased oversight aims to maintain Bali’s reputation as a safe, respectful, and attractive destination.
Additional Restrictions
Further prohibitions include:
- Using single-use plastics such as plastic bags and straws, aligning with Bali’s ongoing environmental conservation efforts.
- Engaging in unauthorized work or commercial activities.
- Participating in illegal activities such as drug trafficking or the sale of protected cultural artifacts.
Governor’s Vision for Sustainable Tourism
Governor Wayan Koster has emphasized that these regulations are vital to protecting Bali’s unique culture and environment from the adverse effects of over-tourism. The circular serves as a clear signal that while Bali remains open to the world, the island’s identity and well-being take precedence.
Tourists planning to visit Bali in the coming year are advised to familiarize themselves thoroughly with these new requirements to ensure a trouble-free and enriching experience on the island.
Summary: Bali’s 2025 travel regulations introduce a tourism levy, compulsory licensed guides, strict behavioral codes including dress and conduct, enforced traffic laws, and new environmental protections. The measures reflect the government’s strong stance on preserving Balinese culture and ensuring sustainable and respectful tourism.
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