Bali’s famous monkey forests are taking a major step toward safer and more responsible tourism. New warning signs have been installed across leading attractions — including the Alas Pala Sangeh Monkey Forest and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud — reminding visitors not to touch, feed, or interact with wild monkeys.
This move comes after a rise in incidents involving tourists who attempted to pet or feed the animals, leading to injuries, scratches, and even bites. The initiative aims to protect both visitors and the island’s native Balinese long-tailed macaques, ensuring a more sustainable balance between tourism and wildlife.
A Step Toward Safer Wildlife Tourism
Located in the lush heart of central Bali, the Alas Pala Sangeh Monkey Forest is home to over 200 free-roaming long-tailed macaques. The dense forest, dotted with ancient temples and towering nutmeg trees, offers a deeply immersive experience — but as officials emphasise, it’s still a wild habitat, not a petting zoo.
To address growing safety concerns, authorities have installed new green warning boards at key entry points with clear messages such as “Please Don’t Touch the Monkeys.” The signage, placed near sidewalks and highways surrounding the 14-hectare forest, is meant to deter tourists from stopping outside the official gates or interacting unsafely with the animals.
Why These Warnings Matter
Despite their playful appearance, monkeys in Bali’s forests are wild animals that can become aggressive, especially in the presence of food. Officials have recorded multiple instances of tourists being bitten or scratched after trying to offer snacks or take selfies. Such behaviour not only endangers humans but also disrupts the monkeys’ natural diet and increases their dependence on tourists.
To prevent disease transmission — including rabies and bacterial infections — Bali’s tourism department and forest authorities have urged visitors to maintain a respectful distance and let the animals behave naturally.
Updated Visitor Guidelines
In an official statement shared on Instagram, the Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest management encouraged tourists to follow these simple but essential rules:
1. Do not feed or provoke the monkeys.
2. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
3. Stay on designated paths to protect both yourself and the environment.
4. Carry your trash — do not litter in the forest.
5. Dress modestly when visiting temple areas within the sanctuary.
These rules ensure that visitors can enjoy a memorable wildlife experience while respecting Bali’s delicate ecosystem and spiritual heritage.
Tips for Visiting Bali’s Monkey Forests
If you plan to visit Sangeh, Ubud, or Alas Kedaton, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid direct contact or touching monkeys.
- Keep personal belongings close — monkeys may grab bags or cameras.
- Do not bring visible food or drinks.
- Always follow instructions from local guides or forest staff.
Remember, observing the monkeys in their natural setting — rather than interacting with them — is what makes the experience authentic and rewarding.
Responsible Tourism for the Future
Bali’s renewed emphasis on wildlife safety highlights the island’s growing commitment to sustainable and ethical tourism. By installing new signage, spreading awareness, and setting clear visitor guidelines, local authorities aim to create harmony between people and wildlife.
As tourism continues to flourish, these efforts ensure that Bali’s forests remain a sanctuary — not just for monkeys, but for generations of travellers who come seeking peace, beauty, and connection with nature.
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