Visitor Numbers at Bali's GWK Cultural Park Drop 20% as Domestic Airfares Soar

According to a report by BeritaBali, daily visitor numbers at Bali's Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park averaged around 3,000 through the first half of July 2026, marking a decline of approximately 20 percent compared to the same period in 2025. GWK Operations Director Ch. Rossie Andriani said the decline was primarily driven by fewer domestic tourists, with rising domestic airfares believed to be a key contributing factor.

Speaking on Friday, 31 July 2026, Andriani noted that daily visitor numbers briefly rose to between 3,500 and 4,000 in late June and July, though overall the year-on-year decline stands at around 20 percent. She emphasized that while airfares have skyrocketed and clearly impacted tourist flow to Bali, the drop has not been drastic.

Domestic tourists remain the largest visitor segment at GWK, while international visitors are primarily drawn from Australia, India, Korea, and China. In response to the softening domestic market, GWK has launched an initiative inviting public schools across Bali—from kindergartens to high schools—to visit the park, particularly targeting students who have not previously had the opportunity. Special rates are being offered to Bali schools, with elementary schools eligible for free visits, though group slots are limited; bookings are already full through October.

Looking ahead, GWK projects daily visitor numbers for August 2026 to remain in the range of 3,000 to 3,500.