If you're a nature and adventure lover, Baluran National Park in East Java should be on your bucket list. Dubbed as "Little Africa in Java", this area presents a vast savanna panorama that is rarely found in Indonesia.
With the majestic Baluran Mountain in the background and wild animals such as bulls, deer, and peacocks roaming freely, you will feel like you are in Africa. The uniqueness of the ecosystem and its natural beauty make Baluran It is not only an interesting place to visit, but also a favorite spot for photographers, researchers, and local and foreign tourists.
Overview of Baluran National Park
Located on the eastern tip of Java Island, Baluran National Park is a conservation area. Established in 1980, the park covers around 25,000 hectares and is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna.
The name "Baluran" by the local community is taken from the name of the mountain in the area, Mount Baluran.
The main attraction lies in the beauty of Bekol Savannah, which resembles grasslands in Africa.
In addition, the park also has mangrove forests, monsoon forests and beautiful coastlines such as at Bama Beach. Its rich biodiversity and exotic landscape make Baluran one of the best national parks in Indonesia.
Location, Address, and Route to Baluran Situbondo National Park
Baluran National Park is located in Situbondo Regency, East Java, and is directly adjacent to Banyuwangi.
Located in Wonorejo Village, Banyuputih District, Situbondo Regency, access to this place is very easy from the direction of Banyuwangi and Situbondo.
If you depart from Banyuwangi City, the road trip to the Baluran main gate takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. While from Situbondo City, you only need about 45 minutes.
The route is also quite easy because it is located on the main route of the East Java pantura. Transportation used can be private vehicles, motorcycles, or travel. You can also banyuwangi car rental at Ayobanyuwangi.id with low price.
It is recommended to use an SUV or dirt bike because the road to the savanna is rocky and uneven.
Admission Price
Adventuring in Baluran National Park will not drain your wallet. Here are the details of the latest entrance ticket prices (prices are subject to change at any time depending on the manager's policy):
- Domestic Tourists (Weekday): IDR 21,000/person
- Domestic Tourists (Weekend & Holiday): IDR 31,000/person
- Foreign Tourists (Weekday): IDR 150,000/person
- Foreign Tourists (Weekend & Holiday): IDR 225,000/person
- Vehicle Cost:
- Motorcycle: IDR 5,000
- Car: IDR 10,000
- Bus: IDR 50,000
The price includes access to spots such as Bekol Savannah and Bama Beach. If you want to rent lodging or take a special tour, there are additional fees that apply.
Keep in mind that the prices we listed above are still subject to change at any time depending on the Baluran National Park as the manager.
For more accurate information, you can see it directly on the official website or social media pages.
Tips before visiting can check the latest information on the official website.
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Attractiveness
Baluran National Park has a myriad of charms that can mesmerize anyone. Here are some highlights that you must enjoy:
1. Bekol Savannah
This is the icon of Baluran. The vast expanse of grassland with the backdrop of Mount Baluran and typical savanna trees, makes this place look like it's in Africa. In Baluran, you can directly observe herds of deer, bulls and peacocks roaming freely in their natural habitat.
2. Bama Beach
Located about 3 km from Bekol Savannah, Bama Beach offers a calm and clear view of the sea. In the morning, you can watch the stunning sunrise, while in the afternoon it's perfect for relaxing while playing on the beach.
3. Mangrove Forest & Seasonal Forest
You can explore the beauty of mangrove and mangrove forests through wooden bridges. In addition, the seasonal forest is a habitat for various species of animals that can be observed directly.
4. Wildlife Watching
Baluran is the best place for wildlife watching in Indonesia. If you come early in the morning or late in the afternoon, you'll most likely be able to see wild animals at close range-just keep a safe distance and follow the rules.
Baluran National Park is home to a variety of wildlife that live freely in their natural habitat.
In the vast savanna area, you can find bulls (Bos javanicus), the park's icon, as well as the timor deer, antelope and wild boar that can often be seen grazing in the morning.
Baluran is also an important habitat for predators such as ajag (Asian coyote), the rare Javan leopard and jungle cat.
Apart from mammals, the park is also known as a birdwatcher's paradise as there are more than 150 species of birds, such as the graceful green peacock, green partridge, eagle, and kingfisher.
The mangrove forest area and Bama Beach are home to various types of reptiles such as monitor lizards, pythons, and marine animals such as mangrove crabs and reef fish.
This diversity of animals makes Baluran an ideal place for wildlife watching and nature photography, as long as it is done while maintaining a respectful distance from the wild.
5. Sunset & Sunrise Spot
As an open area with expansive views, Baluran is ideal for enjoying the beauty of sunrises and sunsets. These moments are especially favored by photographers and nature lovers.
Opening Hours & Facilities
Baluran National Park is open every day to the public. For operating hours, please see below:
- Hours of Operation: Every Day: 07.00 - 17.00 WIB
However, some areas such as lodging in Bekol and Bama Beach are available 24 hours for tourists who want to stay overnight. The manager has prepared various supporting facilities that are quite adequate, including:
- Tourist Information Center at the main post
- Large parking area for motorcycles, cars, and buses
- Public toilet and prayer room
- Simple lodging at Savana Bekol (with booking system)
- Tour guide rental
- Food stalls (limited and only open until evening)
- Trekking and animal observation trails
- Animal lookout tower
But keep in mind, due to its status as a conservation area, facilities in Baluran are not as luxurious as artificial tourist attractions.
Therefore, visitors are advised to bring their own supplies, especially drinking water and snacks, and maintain hygiene while at the site.
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Cover
Baluran National Park is not just a tourist destination, but also an unforgettable experience that takes you on a wild adventure. The combination of savannah, forest, beach and animal diversity makes it one of the most interesting places in Indonesia to explore.
With easy access, affordable costs and incredible scenery, Baluran is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Are you ready to explore the "Africa van Java"?
