【Bali Travel Guidelines】Bali Implements New Regulations for Foreign Tourists: Emphasizing Etiquette, Order, and Mandatory Tourism Tax!

As a globally popular tourist destination, Bali has recently introduced stricter regulations for foreign visitors. The Bali Provincial Government officially issued Announcement No. 7 of 2025, clearly outlining behavioral guidelines for tourists, including mandatory obligations, prohibited actions, and penalties for violations, to preserve local culture and the environment.

Key Points of the New Regulations: Civilized Tourism, Heavy Penalties for Violators

Bali Governor Wayan Koster emphasized that the new regulations aim to ensure foreign tourists respect local culture and reduce inappropriate behavior. Although similar regulations were issued in 2023, this update is more detailed to address various issues that have arisen over the past year and a half.

What Tourists Must Comply With

1. Respect Religious Culture
2. • When entering temples or visiting religious relics, maintain solemnity and avoid desecration.
   • If encountering local ceremonial rituals, observe proper etiquette and avoid disruptions.
3. Hire Licensed Tour Guides
4. • When sightseeing in Bali, tourists must be accompanied by a licensed guide (or professional private driver) to ensure understanding of local customs and environmental norms.
5. Transaction and Payment Regulations
6. • Exchange foreign currency only at officially authorized institutions (see here for details).
   • Use Indonesian Rupiah for transactions.

Transportation and Behavioral Guidelines

• Driving Regulations:
• • Motorcyclists must wear helmets and possess a valid international or domestic driver’s license.
  • Drunk driving, overloading, or dangerous driving is prohibited.
  • When renting a car, ensure it is provided by a legitimate rental company.
• Accommodation Restrictions:
• • Stay only in government-approved accommodations and adhere to specific regulations at various attractions.

Prohibited Actions, Violators Will Be Penalized

• Religious Sites:
• • Non-religious purposes are prohibited from entering the core areas of temples.
  • Climbing sacred trees or engaging in disrespectful behavior is strictly forbidden.
• Environmental Protection:
• • Littering is prohibited, especially polluting water sources.
  • Restrictions on the use of single-use plastic products. Visitors are advised to avoid using plastic bags, straws, disposable utensils, etc., and are encouraged to bring their own eco-friendly bags or reusable containers.
• Behavior and Conduct:
• • Offensive language or misconduct is not allowed.
  • Unauthorized commercial activities or illegal work are prohibited.

The governor warned that violators will face legal consequences, including fines, deportation, or even criminal charges. If the public notices any violations, they can report them by calling the hotline: 081-287-590-999.

This new regulation takes effect immediately, aiming to enhance the quality of tourism while protecting Bali’s cultural and natural environment. Travelers planning to visit must adhere to these rules to avoid legal issues that could disrupt their trip.