Tourist Deported from Bali for Violating Hiking Regulations at Sacred Mount Agung
A recent incident involving a tourist in Bali has brought attention to the strict regulations governing access to the island’s sacred sites. The 41-year-old Norwegian man, identified by his initials BG, was deported after hiking Mount Agung—a revered volcano located in Karangasem Regency, Bali—without an authorized guide.
Violation of Local Laws
Mount Agung, standing at 3,031 meters, is considered a dwelling place of the gods and carries significant cultural and spiritual importance for the local Balinese people. In compliance with cultural norms and safety protocols, both locals and international visitors are required to hike the volcano’s trails with a certified guide.
Authorities apprehended BG following a report from local officials, prompting action from the Singaraja Immigration Office. Hendra Setiawan, an official from the office, confirmed the incident: "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."
BG had entered Indonesia on February 2 and was allowed to stay until March 3 on his visitor visa. However, his visa was revoked due to his non-compliance with hiking regulations, leading to his deportation on February 20. Immigration officers reported that he took a flight to Kuala Lumpur following the incident.
Importance of Hiring Local Guides
The incident has sparked renewed calls for tourists to adhere to local regulations when visiting Mount Agung. Setiawan emphasized the importance of enlisting the services of local guides for all hikes, noting that the hiking trails can be challenging and treacherous. "Hikers wanting to trek Mount Agung must enlist a local guide, whether directly with a freelance guide or through a travel and tour provider," he advised.
This is not the first instance of a tourist facing deportation for similar violations. Another individual, known by the initials KES, reportedly attempted to mislead authorities by claiming he was only visiting the nearby Pasar Agung Temple without a guide.
Safety Concerns for Hikers
The safety of hikers on Mount Agung and other peaks in the region has been a growing concern. Each year, approximately half a dozen tourists suffer serious injuries or even succumb to fatal incidents while hiking without proper guidance. A notable case occurred in May last year when a 29-year-old Dutch woman fell and later died after attempting to hike the volcano without the necessary guidance.
Recommended Practices for Tourists
Authorities have reiterated the importance of hiring local guides when trekking the island’s challenging routes. Tourists are encouraged to consult their hotels for information on securing qualified guides to ensure their journey is both safe and respectful of the cultural significance of the sites they are visiting.
As Bali continues to attract adventurous travelers from around the world, adherence to local customs and regulations remains crucial for the safety and preservation of the island’s cultural heritage.
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