Why Visit Java's National Parks?

UJUNG KULON

An ideal part of Indonesia for those looking for an immersive experience in close contact with nature. Not much has changed since Captain James Cook anchored here in 1771. Venture through this large UNESCO site and its unparalleled biodiversity, hiking unspoiled trails, discovering beaches and lively coral reefs. The few remaining one-horned Javan rhinoceros in the world live in this national park, and you may be lucky enough to spot one. If not, there is plenty of other wildlife that you may encounter more easily, such as the banteng, crocodiles, rusa deers and maybe even panthers and Sumatran rhinos!

Bird watchers will enjoy discovering the diverse and abundant birdlife in the area. In addition, the plant and tree diversity of each landscape is fascinating. You’ll find casuarinas in the forest, pandan trees along the shoreline and mangroves near the swamps. The two islands located in the park also offer long sandy beaches, a popular nesting ground for green turtles.

BALURAN

Known as Indonesia’s African corner, Baluran National Park offers a very distinct environment from the rest of the country. Although some invasive acacia species have disturbed this environment rich in natural biodiversity, the savannah ecosystem remains home to a variety of fauna and flora such as the rusa and sambar deers, wild buffaloes, banteng, muntjacs and even leopards. The landscape in Baluran is very diverse and features a range of ecosystems; you can enjoy walking in the rainforest or on a mangrove trail. Climb up the Bekol view tower for a full panorama over the reserve, spot some peacocks and appreciate the changing colours of the grassy savannah, which is particularly lovely at sunset.