Bali to Adopt African Conservation Tourism Models

The 2024 Africa-Indonesia Forum concluded in Bali, where officials and experts shared innovative ideas across sectors like tourism, agriculture, industry, and trade. Bali’s tourism industry focused on adopting conservation tourism models from African countries.

Sandiaga Uno, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, highlighted the significance of these practices. He explained how African nations have transformed cultural heritage into tourist attractions while promoting conservation. He cited examples like Algeria, which has more Roman ruins than Italy, and Tanzania, where 30% of the economy is fueled by wildlife tourism.

During the forum, Zanzibar, a Tanzanian island, was often compared to Bali. Although some mistakenly referred to Zanzibar as a country, it shares many similarities with Bali. Both destinations face the challenge of managing tourism growth while preserving their cultural and natural environments.

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Indonesia’s Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, praised Tanzania’s advancements in maritime tourism and the blue economy. He urged Bali to follow similar initiatives and suggested creating sister islands or maritime tourism hubs to strengthen ties between Bali and Tanzania.

As a result of the forum, Bali and Zanzibar will collaborate on several tourism initiatives. These include projects focused on conservation, maritime tourism, and sustainable economic models. Zanzibar’s new mandatory travel insurance policy, effective in October 2024, could also offer valuable lessons for Bali in managing uninsured tourists’ emergency costs.

The forum emphasized the importance of sustainable and culturally respectful tourism, with Bali positioned to lead this shift. However, the island faces the ongoing challenge of balancing environmental preservation with premium tourism experiences.

In response to these objectives, Indonesian lawmakers are preparing new regulations. These laws will regulate the conversion of agricultural and community lands for tourism. The aim is to protect Bali’s natural landscapes as it continues its development as a major tourist destination.

Impact on Bali’s Tourism and Real Estate

Bali’s exploration of African conservation tourism models is likely to impact both tourism and real estate. A shift toward eco-conscious tourism could reshape accommodation preferences. Tourists may increasingly seek villas that prioritize nature and sustainability.

Eco-friendly features in Bali villas may soon become a standard requirement, especially in areas near conservation zones or natural attractions. Properties offering proximity to preserved landscapes will likely appeal to eco-minded travelers.

For potential property buyers, Bali’s focus on conservation may bring some uncertainty to the real estate sector. Stricter land-use regulations could affect regions previously earmarked for commercial development. However, this shift may also lead to real estate projects that promote environmental sustainability and harmonize with Bali’s natural environment.

As eco-awareness grows, tourists and investors may be drawn to properties that combine luxury with a commitment to sustainability. This trend is expected to increase the appeal and value of real estate in Bali, particularly in regions recognized for their dedication to environmental preservation.

Aligning Bali’s tourism and real estate industries with conservation goals will help maintain the island’s reputation as a leading global destination. It will also ensure the preservation of its natural beauty and support local communities for generations to come.