The Island of Gods has long been a bucket-list destination for so many. But with millions flocking to its shores every year, Bali's had to deal with some growing pains: overtourism environmental strains, and some tourists behaving less than respectfully. You've probably seen the headlines- nude photos at sacred sites, tourists killed or injured in moped accidents - and it's now clear Bali's ready to set things right.
Tourism's a double-edged sword for Bali. It's a lifeline - accounting for around 60% of the island's GDP - but it's also stretched Bali thin. Back in 2017, a "garbage emergency" choked the beaches with plastic waste, while incidents like influencers posing naked on sacred trees have infuriated local leaders. Governor I Wayan Koster announced these changes on the 24th of March 2025, right before Nyepi Bali's Day of Silence-saying
"This ensures Bali's tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values," according to Bali Expat. It's about keeping Bali's soul intact. The details come from the Governor's Circular Letter No. 7 of 2025, building on 2023 guidelines
So, they're rolling out new tourist rules in 2025, so, here is what you need to know to navigate them like a pro.
To enter Bali, you'll need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a return or onward ticket, and a visa on arrival (VOA) for most nationalities, or potentially an e-visa depending on your citizenship. You also need to complete a SATUSEHAT Health Pass online before your flight.
What You Should Do
Respect Sacred Spaces:
Temples and traditions like Nyepi--when the island goes silent-are sacred. Participate respectfully, not as a photo op.
Dress Modestly:
What You Should Do
Respect Sacred Spaces:
Temples and traditions like Nyepi--when the island goes silent-are sacred. Participate respectfully, not as a photo op.
Dress Modestly:
Bikinis stay at the beach. In public, cover shoulders and knees-pack a sarong for temples.
Pay the Tourist Levy:
Pay the Tourist Levy:
Before you arrive, pay 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (about $10 USD) via the official Love Bali site. It funds cultural and eco-projects-skip it, and you're barred from key attractions
Stick to Licensed Operators
Use registered guides and accommodations for legit, local-supporting experiences.
Mind the Roads:
Stick to Licensed Operators
Use registered guides and accommodations for legit, local-supporting experiences.
Mind the Roads:
Renting a scooter? You'll need a valid international driver's license, and a helmet - roads are chaotic enough without rule breakers. If caught without a helmet, you can expect a fine, which can be significant.
Pay in Rupiah:
Pay in Rupiah:
Use Indonesian currency; QR code payments are a bonus.
What You Shouldn't Do:
No Sneaking into Sacred Zones:
What You Shouldn't Do:
No Sneaking into Sacred Zones:
Temple sanctuaries are for prayer in Balinese attire only - menstruating women are respectfully asked to abstain.
Don't Climb or Disrespect:
Don't Climb or Disrespect:
No scaling sacred trees or risqué pics at holy sites - keep it classy
Ditch the Plastic:
Ditch the Plastic:
Single use plastics like straws and bags are out as Bali pushes sustainability.
Keep It Civil:
Keep It Civil:
No public swearing, fights, or online hate speech - your posts could get you in trouble.
Avoid Illegal Stuff:
Avoid Illegal Stuff:
Drugs or smuggling artifacts? That's a hard no under Indonesian law.
Enforcement:
Enforcement:
They Mean Business
A task force, including the Bali civil Service Police Unit, is on patrol.
A task force, including the Bali civil Service Police Unit, is on patrol.
Consequences include:
Hefty Fines:
Hefty Fines:
Skipping the levy or dressing immodestly might hit your wallet.
Jail Time:
Jail Time:
Serious offenses like temple disrespect would mean lockup.
Access Denied:
Access Denied:
No levy, no entry to top spots.
Deportation:
Deportation:
Push it too far, and you're out, you will be deported and band from returning to Indonesia.
These rules tie into bigger goals, Bali's been green focused topping Indonesia's environmental index at 99.65 in 2010 - and now bans single - use plastics. Pack a reusable bottle to help them out.
Bali's new rules might feel stricter, but they're about preserving what draws us here. Overtourism's hit places like Venice hard - Bali's fighting back. For us, it's a chance to travel thoughtfully, respecting the culture and land that make this island magical.
Need help?
Contact the tourist hotline at +62 81-287-590-999 via WhatsApp