Indonesia Bans Elephant Rides At All Tourist Spots

If you have ever scrolled through your social media feed, you have likely seen photos of people sitting on elephants during a holiday in Bali. It looks like a quiet, tropical moment, but the reality behind the camera is often much harsher. For many Filipino travellers who save up for months to afford a trip to Indonesia, these rides are a common item on the bucket list. However, the Indonesian government has now put a permanent stop to this practice.

New rules for wildlife tourism in Indonesia

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The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry recently issued an official order to end elephant rides across the country. This decision came through a circular from the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation. The goal is to move away from using animals for entertainment and instead focus on "educational and ethical" wildlife tourism.

Because of this shift, conservation centres must now stop offering rides and performances. Instead, they are being told to provide activities that are more compassionate for visitors.

Also read: 2 Weeks in Bali: Our Lazy Itinerary Through Canggu, Uluwatu & Ubud

Why the elephant riding ban happened now

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This change follows investigations by animal rights groups like PETA Asia. Investigators visited several attractions in Bali that called themselves "sanctuaries" but functioned more like prisons. They found elephants that were kept in chains, suffered from visible wounds, and lived in isolation.

Based on these findings, the government decided that these exploitative practices could no longer be legal. The ban is designed to stop the violence and abuse that often happen behind the scenes in the elephant-exploiting industry.

If you are planning a trip to Bali or other parts of Indonesia soon, you will notice a change in the local tour packages. Elephant riding is now officially prohibited under national guidelines, meaning you will no longer see these as an option at any legitimate tourist site. Shows and circus-style tricks using elephants are also no longer allowed, effectively ending the era of animals performing for crowds. Instead, tourist sites must focus on teaching visitors about wildlife, giving you a chance to learn about these animals in a way that prioritises their care and wellbeing.

Also read: Indonesia Makes “All Indonesia” App Mandatory For Travellers From October

Indonesia travel requirements for Filipinos 2026

Since many Filipinos head to Indonesia to enjoy the culture, it is important to stay updated on the latest entry rules. Indonesia remains a convenient destination for Philippine passport holders, but there are a few digital steps you need to take before you fly.

• Visa-free entry. Filipinos can still enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism.

• All Indonesia App. In case you missed it, travellers must now complete their arrival declaration via the "All Indonesia" mobile app before landing. This combines immigration, customs, and health forms into one digital step.

• Bali Tourism Fee. If you are visiting Bali, there is a mandatory fee of IDR 150,000 (about 550 PHP). It is best to pay this online via the Love Bali portal before you arrive to avoid long queues at the airport.

• Passport Validity. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of arrival to avoid being turned away at the boarding gate.

While you can no longer ride an elephant, you can still support animal welfare by visiting legitimate conservation areas. Look for places that allow you to observe animals from a distance without forced interaction. This ensures your hard-earned holiday money goes towards protecting these creatures rather than hurting them.

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