Bali, Helene, Venice, Thailand, Iapana, Santorini, Mykonos, Koh Samui, Indonesia, Italia, New Zealand a me Mount Fuji: Nā uku huakaʻi hou a me nā ʻauhau i hoʻonohonoho ʻia e hopena i ka huakaʻi ma 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

With travel surging post-COVID, several popular destinations are introducing or raising tourism taxes and fees as a means to manage crowds, protect natural resources, and bolster local economies. The concept is straightforward: charge visitors a fee to ensure a more sustainable and pleasant experience while helping to fund necessary restoration and maintenance of these often-overcrowded attractions. While the introduction of tourist taxes isn’t new, as seen in destinations like Bhutan and Tanzania, more and more locations are following suit to deal with the influx of post-pandemic tourism.

These fees not only seek to limit the number of visitors but also to ensure that the experience remains enjoyable for those who choose to visit, with the added bonus of generating funds that can be invested back into maintaining and preserving the very sites that attract millions of visitors each year. Let’s explore some of the major developments and see how they could impact the travel experience.

Mount Fuji, Japan: Doubling the Climb Fee and Restricting Access

On May 9, 2025, ahead of the summer climbing season, the fee to climb Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji will double to 4,000 yen (US$27). This hike in the fee is part of a broader effort to curb the growing crowds that have flocked to the sacred mountain in recent years. A new restriction will also be introduced to limit access between 2 pm and 3 am. The goal is to prevent “bullet climbing,” a dangerous practice where hikers rush to the summit without resting in the designated overnight huts, potentially putting themselves at risk.

While climbing Mount Fuji offers unparalleled views, there is a drawback: the mountain itself doesn’t feature prominently in those views. For those who prefer a less crowded and more affordable alternative, Mount Mitsutoge, located nearby, offers scenic views of both Tokyo and Mount Fuji for free, though there are still small charges for basic amenities like toilets and vending machines.

Bali, Indonesia: Introducing the Bali Tourist Levy

Bali, a destination renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, introduced the Bali Tourist Levy on February 14, 2024. The levy, requiring all international tourists to pay a fee of 150,000 rupiah (US$9) upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or via the Love Bali app, is designed to help manage the rising number of visitors and fund local infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts.

However, not all travelers have been paying the fee, as reported by The Bali Sun. Less than 40% of international arrivals have complied, prompting Bali’s Governor I Wayan Koster to propose adding more payment points across the island. In addition, airlines are being asked to add the levy to airfares or at least notify passengers when they check in. Even tourists who transit through Bali on their way to quieter destinations like Lombok or the Gili Islands are required to pay the fee, albeit just once.

Thailand’s Proposed Travel Tax: Aiming to Improve Safety and Facilities

Thailand, another popular Southeast Asian destination, is looking to implement a 300-baht (US$9) travel tax before the end of 2025. This tax would be paid by tourists upon arrival by air, with travelers entering by land or sea receiving a multiple-entry allowance over a period of weeks. The proposal suggests that a portion of the revenue from the travel tax will go towards accident and life insurance for tourists, enhancing the safety of visitors exploring Thailand’s bustling cities, picturesque islands, and ancient temples.

While the proposed US$9 tax is unlikely to deter many tourists, the introduction of a “White Lotus effect” is expected to attract even more visitors to the Thai islands. As season three of the hit series “White Lotus” was filmed in Thailand, many fans are likely to flock to Phuket, Koh Samui, or other filming locations. However, those looking for a quieter and less commercialized experience will have alternatives, with islands such as Koh Lipe and Koh Phayam offering peaceful retreats away from the crowds.

Greece: Introducing New Fees for Accommodation and Cruise Passengers

Greece, a beloved Mediterranean destination, has raised its tourist tax significantly for 2025. What was previously a €0.50 nightly charge has now increased to €8 (US$9) per night for visitors staying between April and October. During the winter months, the tax drops to €2. Accommodation levies have also been increased, with one- and two-star hotels charging €2 per night (up from €1.50), and four- and five-star hotels now demanding €10 and €15 per night, respectively.

Cruise visitors to popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos will also be hit with a €20 entry fee, further contributing to the rising costs of tourism in Greece. While the increased charges may deter some tourists from visiting during peak season, Greece’s smaller islands, such as Hydra and Zakynthos, offer a more relaxed and less crowded experience, making them ideal alternatives for those seeking a quieter, more intimate vacation.

Venice and the Full Roll-Out of Its Entry Tax

The iconic city of Venice has long been struggling with overcrowding, and the introduction of an entry tax was trialed in 2024 as part of efforts to reduce the impact of mass tourism. Starting in 2025, visitors will have to pay a €5 entry fee during peak times, between 8:30 am and 4 pm, during the months of April, May, June, and July. The tax aims to regulate the influx of tourists and ensure that the city’s infrastructure can handle the demands of tourism while maintaining its historic charm.

With Venice facing an increasing number of visitors each year, the new tax is expected to significantly affect the experience for those wishing to see the city’s famous canals and landmarks. Visitors may also notice a significant increase in prices across the city, particularly in popular tourist areas. For those looking to avoid the crowds, it’s recommended to explore Venice during the off-peak months or consider visiting less popular Italian destinations, which still offer plenty of historical and cultural attractions.

New Zealand’s Tripling of Its Tourist Tax

On the other side of the world, New Zealand has also raised its tourist tax significantly. As of October 1, 2024, the country’s tourist fee tripled to NZ$100 (US$59), up from NZ$35. This fee is intended to support the country’s tourism infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts, addressing the pressure on New Zealand’s natural attractions from the growing number of international visitors. The higher tax could have a notable impact on visitors to destinations like Queenstown and Rotorua, though it is unlikely to deter those who see New Zealand as a must-visit location for adventure tourism and natural beauty.

ʻO nā hopena ākea no ka ʻoihana huakaʻi

The introduction or increase in tourist taxes across major global destinations is likely to have wide-ranging effects on the travel industry. These changes are aimed at better managing tourism, ensuring that visitor numbers are sustainable, and generating revenue that can be reinvested in preserving and maintaining the attractions that draw so many people.

For travelers, these taxes and fees may lead to higher overall costs, particularly in popular destinations during peak seasons. However, many of these fees are justified by the improvements they promise, such as enhanced facilities, better safety measures, and the protection of natural and cultural resources.

• ʻOi aku ke kumukūʻai no ka poʻe huakaʻi: Tourist taxes are increasingly becoming a significant part of the cost of travel. Travelers should be prepared for added charges when visiting some of the world’s most popular destinations.
• Ka hooponopono ana i ka Overtourism: These taxes and fees aim to regulate visitor numbers, helping to reduce overcrowding and preserving the quality of the experience for everyone.
• Mākaʻikaʻi hoʻomau hoʻomau: The funds raised from these taxes can be used to maintain infrastructure, protect the environment, and ensure that future generations can enjoy these attractions.

As more destinations implement or raise tourism taxes, the travel industry will need to adjust to these new realities. For travelers, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes and plan accordingly, ensuring that the cost of their trip is reflective of the increasing importance of sustainable tourism and responsible travel.