Bali Defends Need For Tourism Tax Charges To Holidaymakers 

Bali’s tourism fees are drawing scrutiny as the island destination faces questions about affordability and value for money. While Bali remains a relatively affordable destination in Asia, a growing number of fees, levies, and taxes are causing frustration among tourists and raising concerns among local leaders.

Tourism Fees Under Debate

The discussion was sparked by a tourist questioning the legitimacy of levies charged in the Kintamani Special Tourism Area (KSPK), which are, in fact, legitimate. International tourists visiting Kintamani pay IDR 50,000, while domestic tourists are charged IDR 25,000. Similar fees are also in place for Bangli Regency’s other destinations, including Penglipuran Village and Trunyan Village.

These fees are in addition to the existing IDR 500,000 tourism visa fee for 30-day stays and the IDR 150,000 Bali Tourism Tax Levy. This has led to questions about whether the overall cost of visiting Bali is fair and provides adequate value.

Value for Money and Infrastructure

The Head of the Center for Tourism Excellence (PUPAR) of the Udayana University Institute of Tourism (LPPM), Prof. Ir. AAP Agung Suryawan Wiranatha, MSc., PhD., believes the fees will not significantly deter international tourists. He noted that many tourists research prices online before traveling and are prepared for these costs.

Wiranatha emphasized that destination managers and local governments have a responsibility to provide adequate facilities if fees are charged. These facilities should include clean public toilets, well-maintained roads, shade, rain shelters, tourist information centers, and readily available assistance for tourists.

He suggested that destinations like Nusa Penida and Kintamani should aim for facilities comparable to three-star hotels. He also advocated for the inclusion of insurance coverage, such as up to IDR 100 million, to provide tourists with a sense of security.

Distinction Between Fees and Levy

Wiranatha clarified that destination entry fees are distinct from the Bali Tourism Tax Levy. Destination fees cover the management of tourist areas and their facilities, while the tourism levy is intended for the preservation of Balinese culture.

He concluded that tourists are generally willing to pay fees as long as they receive clear benefits and services in return, and that poorly maintained or non-existent facilities are unacceptable.

Tourists traveling to Nusa Penida are advised to pay the entry fee at their departure port, such as Sanur Port, to save time upon arrival. For Kintamani, paying at the drive-by kiosks is currently the easiest option while a new digitalized system is being implemented.