Indonesian authorities have introduced a strict ban on elephant rides for tourists on the island of Bali. This decision was made to protect animals and develop ethical, environmentally responsible tourism. As reported by The Bali Sun, the relevant circular was issued by the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation of the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry.
Illustrative image. Photo: vecteezy.com
The document effectively puts an end to a practice that has long drawn criticism from animal rights advocates. The ban applies to all tourist facilities and protected areas in the country.
Authorities emphasize that the tourism sector must reorient itself towards more humane forms of interaction with wildlife — for example, observing animals in their natural habitat. This means that previously popular elephant rides will no longer be offered, and their place will be taken by new formats of ecological tourism.
For those planning a trip to Bali, this means a change in familiar entertainment: instead of elephant rides, tourists will be offered other ways to get acquainted with the island's wildlife. The circular explicitly states that all tourist and conservation facilities must abandon this practice and switch to ethical activities.
A number of establishments have already complied with the new requirements. For instance, the Mason Elephant Park sanctuary in Taro district stopped elephant rides on January 26, 2026, after an official warning from the authorities. Bali Zoo ceased this service even earlier — from January 1, 2026.
Control over the enforcement of the ban is entrusted to the Bali Agency for Natural Resources Conservation. In case of violations, it has the right to revoke licenses and business permits, which serves as an additional incentive to adhere to the new rules.
Animal rights advocates have positively assessed this decision. The World Animal Protection organization notes that scientists and experts have long spoken about the harm that riding inflicts on elephants: harsh training methods, constant stress, restriction of natural behaviors, and the risk of long-term physical and psychological trauma.
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