Discovering Tanjung Puting National Park: A Wildlife Haven in Borneo
Tanjung Puting National Park, located in the heart of Indonesian Borneo, is a renowned natural sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and incredible wildlife. Spanning over 4,000 square kilometers, this protected area is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The park is most famous for its population of orangutans, but it also hosts a diverse array of other wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and over 230 species of birds. Dense rainforests, winding rivers, and serene swamp landscapes make Tanjung Puting a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the untouched beauty of Borneo's wilderness. Whether you are exploring the park by boat along the Sekonyer River or trekking through its lush jungles, Tanjung Puting offers an unforgettable encounter with nature.
By Air
-
Fly to Jakarta or Surabaya: The first step is to fly to one of Indonesia’s major international airports, such as Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta or Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya. These airports have numerous connections from major cities around the world.
-
Fly to Pangkalan Bun: From Jakarta or Surabaya, take a domestic flight to Iskandar Airport (PKN) in Pangkalan Bun. Airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Nam Air operate regular flights to Pangkalan Bun. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.
By River
-
Travel from Pangkalan Bun to Kumai: Once you arrive in Pangkalan Bun, take a taxi or local transport to the port town of Kumai, which is about 20 kilometers away. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes.
-
Boat Transfer to Tanjung Puting National Park: From Kumai, you will need to take a boat to enter Tanjung Puting National Park. Traditional wooden boats known as "klotoks" are commonly used for this purpose. These boats are equipped with basic amenities and provide a unique way to explore the park's rivers and forests. The boat ride from Kumai to the park can take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your final destination within the park.
Getting to Tanjung Puting National Park: Your Travel Guide
One of the most unique and enjoyable ways to explore Tanjung Puting National Park is by embarking on a river cruise. Traditional wooden boats, known as "klotoks," offer a comfortable and immersive way to navigate the park's waterways. These boats are typically equipped with basic amenities, including a sleeping area, a dining space, and a small bathroom, making them suitable for multi-day excursions. As you cruise along the Sekonyer River, you can observe wildlife along the riverbanks, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and various bird species. The slow pace of the boat allows for a peaceful and intimate experience with nature, and the knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights into the park's ecosystem and its inhabitants. Nighttime on the river is particularly magical, with the sounds of the jungle creating a serene and unforgettable atmosphere.
Tanjung Puting National Park is not only a destination for tourists but also a crucial site for conservation and research. The park plays a vital role in the preservation of endangered species, particularly orangutans. Camp Leakey, one of the park’s most famous research and rehabilitation centers, was established by renowned primatologist Dr. Biruté Galdikas. It serves as a sanctuary for rescued orangutans and a center for scientific research. Visitors to Camp Leakey can learn about the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate and reintroduce orangutans into the wild, as well as the broader conservation initiatives aimed at protecting Borneo's unique biodiversity. The park's conservation programs work closely with local communities to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this precious ecosystem.
Tanjung Puting National Park is globally renowned for its orangutan population, offering visitors one of the best opportunities to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Orangutans, which means "person of the forest" in the Malay language, are critically endangered, making the conservation efforts in the park even more crucial. The park's dense rainforests provide an ideal environment for these intelligent and gentle creatures. Visitors can witness orangutans swinging through the treetops, foraging for fruits, and caring for their young. The park is home to several feeding stations, such as those at Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, and Tanjung Harapan, where visitors can see semi-wild orangutans up close as they come to feed. These feeding stations play a vital role in supporting orangutans that are transitioning back into the wild after being rescued and rehabilitated. Observing these incredible animals in their natural environment is a profound experience, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect and preserve Borneo's orangutans for future generations.
I rented a boat for 4 days through this provider. It included airport transfer, a biologist, and delicious food. Although the cabin was very small, it had air conditioning (which is almost non-existent on the boats). The boat was very good, but at $1500 per person, it is quite expensive. There are much cheaper options available, though they offer less comfort.