Banua Botanical Garden

Unique Ecosystems and Biodiversity Collections

Banua Botanical Garden possesses unique characteristics as it was built on land previously used for diamond mining and open areas. The transformation of this land into a conservation forest is an extraordinary ecological achievement. Unlike other botanical gardens that might focus on floral aesthetics, Banua Botanical Garden specializes in medicinal plants and rare Kalimantan endemic species.

Here, visitors can find the "Woody Plant Collection," dominated by Dipterocarpaceae species such as Meranti and Keruing, which form the backbone of Kalimantan's forests. Additionally, there is a special "Medicinal Plant" zone that collects hundreds of plant species traditionally used by the Dayak and Banjar tribes for healing. The presence of Eusideroxylon zwageri, or Ulin Wood—Kalimantan's iconic ironwood tree with very slow growth—is a major attraction and a symbol of conservation in this place.

Natural Features and Landscape Architecture

Topographically, Banua Botanical Garden features undulating terrain, providing visual dynamism during exploration. One of the most prominent natural features is the presence of artificial lakes that function as water catchment areas and micro-climate regulators for the region. The calm lake waters reflect the vast Kalimantan sky, creating a peaceful atmosphere far from the city's noise.

The most striking icon in the middle of this green expanse is the Green Maze. Made from meticulously shaped hedges, this maze offers a unique spatial experience in the open air. From the nearby observation tower, visitors can see the geometric pattern of the maze contrasting with the wild growth of the surrounding trees.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Banua Botanical Garden is designed to facilitate sustainable human interaction with nature. Several main activities include:

1. Botanical Exploration: Visitors can stroll along well-maintained pedestrian paths to learn the names of trees through identification labels available for each collection.

2. Nature Photography: With a backdrop of young forests, aesthetically pleasing alang-alang fields in certain areas, and a modern greenhouse, this place is a photographer's paradise.

3. Educational Tourism: There is a nursery area where visitors can witness the early stages of life for Kalimantan's giant trees.

4. Family Recreation: Large, open grassy areas are often used for family picnics, while the smooth asphalt paths within the area are ideal for morning exercise like jogging or cycling.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

South Kalimantan has a humid tropical climate. The best time to visit Banua Botanical Garden is in the morning between 07:00 and 10:00 WITA, or in the afternoon after 16:00 WITA. During these times, the air temperature is cooler, and the sunlight casts a golden hue that beautifies the silhouettes of the trees.

During the rainy season, the area appears lush and verdant, but visitors should be aware of sudden downpours that often occur in the afternoon. Conversely, during the dry season, some grassland areas may appear yellow, but this creates a unique savanna ambiance for photo backdrops.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

As part of the botanical garden network under the guidance of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Banua Botanical Garden plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species. This area serves as a gene bank for Kalimantan's flora whose natural habitats are increasingly threatened by land conversion.

Environmental protection efforts here are strictly enforced, including prohibitions against littering and policies against damaging plant collections. The garden's irrigation system also implements water conservation principles by utilizing reservoirs as water reserves during the dry season, ensuring this artificial ecosystem remains ecologically self-sufficient.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Banua Botanical Garden is very easily accessible due to its strategic location in Banjarbaru, the new administrative center of South Kalimantan. From Syamsudin Noor International Airport, the journey takes only about 20-30 minutes by motorized vehicle. The access road to the location is smooth asphalt and can be traversed by tourist buses or private vehicles.

The available facilities are quite complete to ensure visitor comfort, including:

• Ample Parking Area: Capable of accommodating dozens of cars and motorcycles.
• Information Center: Where visitors can get maps of the area and brief explanations about the collections.
• Observation Tower: Provides a bird's eye view of the entire botanical garden area.
• Gazebos and Shelters: Scattered at several points as resting places during exploration.
• Toilets and Prayer Rooms: Clean and well-maintained.
• Canteen: Offers snacks and drinks to quench thirst after a long walk.

Banua Botanical Garden is not just a tourist destination but a statement about the importance of preserving Kalimantan's green heritage. By visiting this place, tourists indirectly support conservation efforts for Borneo's endemic flora. The tranquility it offers, combined with rich botanical education, makes Banua Botanical Garden a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to feel the pulse of South Kalimantan's nature amidst the progress of Banjarbaru city.