Visiting Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan, Indonesia, offers an incredible experience, especially for those interested in wildlife and adventure. The park, located on the southern tip of Borneo, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its population of Bornean orangutans, which is the largest in the world.
How to Get There
The nearest town to Tanjung Puting is Pangkalan Bun, accessible by direct flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Semarang. Once in Pangkalan Bun, it’s a short drive to the harbor in Kumai, where the adventure begins as you board a traditional ‘Klotok’ houseboat. These boats serve as your transport and accommodation as you travel along the Sekonyer River to explore the park.
The Klotok Experience
A stay on a Klotok boat is like glamping on water. The boats are equipped with basic amenities, including a bed, bathroom, and meals prepared by the onboard cook. While not luxurious, the experience is comfortable, and the scenery along the river is captivating. The slow pace of the river ensures a smooth journey, and the sights and sounds of the jungle at night are mesmerizing.
Wildlife and Trekking
The park is accessed by boat, and most tours involve short treks to feeding stations where you can see orangutans up close. The treks are easy and suitable for most people. In addition to orangutans, the park is home to proboscis monkeys, macaques, kingfishers, and more. Night treks offer a chance to see nocturnal wildlife, including tarantulas and pit vipers.
Key Highlights
- Day 1: Visit Tanjung Harapan, the first feeding station, followed by an optional night trek.
- Day 2: Explore Pondok Tanggui and Camp Leakey, with ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
- Day 3: Return to Pangkalan Bun, possibly visiting a traditional Dayak longhouse along the way.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from May to August, offers the best weather but also attracts more tourists. If you prefer fewer crowds, the rainy season from November to April is an alternative, though it comes with hotter, more humid conditions.
Practical Tips
- Camera Gear: Bring a zoom lens to capture wildlife from a distance.
- Mosquitoes: Use repellant and wear long sleeves to avoid bites.
- Cell Service: Expect limited connectivity, especially deeper in the park.
- Tipping: While not required, tips are appreciated by the boat crew.
Overall, Tanjung Puting offers a unique and unforgettable experience, especially if you enjoy nature and wildlife. While it’s more expensive than other Indonesian destinations, the combination of riverboat living and jungle trekking makes it a worthwhile adventure.
