Tanjung Puting National Park is a major national park located in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, spanning the south-eastern part of the island of Borneo. This park is world famous for its rich biodiversity and especially the conservation of orangutans. Spread over approximately 4,150 square kilometres, the park is home to diverse ecosystems such as dense tropical rainforests, peat swamps, heath forests, mangroves and coastal beaches. For nature lovers and adventure travelers, Tanjung Puting offers a unique opportunity where they can observe wildlife in their natural habitat and immerse themselves in the tranquility of Borneo’s jungles.
Why visit Tanjung Puting National Park?
The park is particularly famous for its orangutan population, one of the largest orangutan populations in the world. Here visitors can visit various rehabilitation centers to get a closer look at these amazing creatures and observe their behavior and interactions. In addition to orangutans, Tanjung Puting is home to proboscis monkeys, gibbons, macaques, clouded leopards, sun bears, and over 200 bird species. The diverse flora and fauna of the park make it an important destination for conservation and ecotourism.
How to reach there
1.By air:
The main gateway to Tanjung Puting is Iskandar Airport (PKN), located in Pangkalan Bun town.
2. Flights:
Direct flights to Pangkalan Bun are available from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya and Semarang. Airlines such as Batik Air and City Link operate regular flights on these routes.
3. Transfer to Kumai:
After reaching Pangkalan Bun, it takes about a 20-minute drive (about 12 kilometers) to reach the port town of Kumai. Transportation options include taxis or pre-arranged transfers through tour operators.
4. River Trip:
From Kumai, visitors sail along the Sekonyère River into the heart of the park via traditional wooden boat called a “klotok”. This boat trip gives you a unique opportunity to see the wildlife on the river banks and soak in the lush surroundings.
Best time to visit:
The dry season from June to September is best time to visit Tanjung Puting. The weather is relatively dry during these months, which is favorable for river cruises and jungle trekking. During this time, it is also more common to see wildlife as they congregate around water sources. Although the park is accessible year-round, the rainy season from October to May has more rainfall and humidity, which may affect travel plans.
Read More: Bali is the island of gods on earth where you can enjoy your trip and relax your mind
Major attractions in the park
Camp Leakey:
Established in 1971, Camp Leakey is a research and rehabilitation center where visitors can observe semi-wild orangutans during scheduled feeding times and learn about ongoing conservation efforts
Pondok Tanguy:
This rehabilitation center focuses on young orangutans. During the morning feeding sessions, you can see these youth interacting and developing essential life skills.
Tanjung Harapan:
This is the first stop at a rehabilitation center and park, where lunch sessions are held and there is also a traditional Dayak village nearby, which provides a cultural glimpse of Borneo’s indigenous communities.
Many unique experiences can be enjoyed in Tanjung Puting National Park
Klotok River Cruise:
A multi-day trip on a traditional wooden boat called a klotok gives you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the park’s atmosphere. These boats have basic facilities, such as sleeping areas, dining areas and toilets. The gentle rhythm of the river and the sounds of the forest combine to create a peaceful and memorable experience.
Jungle Trekking:
Hiking through the dense rainforest with a guide gives you the chance to see a variety of wildlife and appreciate the diverse flora of the park. During night trekking, you can experience the glow of nocturnal creatures and bioluminescent fungi
Bird Observation:
Over 200 bird species are found in the park, including hornbills, kingfishers and eagles. Early morning and late evening are best suited for bird watching.
Various accommodation options are available in Tanjung Puting National Park
On the Klotok boat:
Many visitors prefer to sleep on the upper deck of the Klotok boat, where mattresses and mosquito nets are provided. This option takes you closer to nature, where the sounds of the forest help you sleep.
Eco-Lodge:
For those who prefer to stay on land, there are options like Rimba Eco Lodge, which offers comfortable accommodation around the park. These lodges have amenities like private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and electricity, while maintaining an eco-friendly approach.
Conclusion:
A visit to Tanjung Puting National Park offers a unique adventure experience in the heart of Borneo’s jungles. Here you can get up close with orangutans, enjoy tranquil river cruises, and trek through dense forests. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature, see rare wildlife, and contribute to the conservation of this unique environment so that it can remain safe for future generations.