Jatim Park 2 (Batu Secret Zoo & Museum Satwa)

Exploring the Wonders of Jatim Park 2: Harmony of Education and Recreation at Batu Secret Zoo & Museum Satwa

Batu City of Tourism in East Java has long been a national tourism favorite, and one of its most prominent icons is Jatim Park 2. Unlike conventional amusement parks, Jatim Park 2 embraces a modern conservation concept that blends natural beauty, animal education, and the grandeur of an international-standard museum. Consisting of two main units—Batu Secret Zoo and Museum Satwa—this destination offers an immersive recreational experience for families, students, and photography enthusiasts alike.

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History and Evolution: From Vision to National Tourism Icon

Jatim Park 2 is part of the continuous development by Jatim Park Group. Following the success of Jatim Park 1, which focused on science and games, Jatim Park 2 was designed to meet the need for a tourist spot more inclined towards nature and animal preservation. Officially opened in 2010, it quickly garnered attention for its high standards of animal care and the neoclassical palace-like architecture of the Museum Satwa, complete with giant pillars. Its evolution continues with the addition of new zones each year, establishing Jatim Park 2 as the best zoo in Indonesia and even ranking among the best zoos in Asia according to TripAdvisor.

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Museum Satwa: A Time Tunnel of Prehistoric Life and the Wild World

The journey at Jatim Park 2 typically begins at the Museum Satwa. This magnificent building is more than just a display of preserved animals; it's an educational institution showcasing giant replica skeletons from prehistoric eras, including the iconic Tyrannosaurus Rex and Apatosaurus fossils. Visitors are taken through various world habitats via highly detailed dioramas—from the eternal snows of the North Pole, the arid African savannas, to the dense tropical rainforests.

One of the unique attractions here is the presence of thousands of insect collections (insectarium) from all corners of the globe. With dramatic lighting and comprehensive educational information, the Museum Satwa successfully transforms the image of a boring museum into a place full of visual wonder. Visitors can learn about taxonomy, food chains, and conservation efforts for endangered species.

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Batu Secret Zoo: An Interactive Modern Zoo Experience

Exiting the museum, visitors enter Batu Secret Zoo. Unlike traditional zoos that restrict interaction with thick iron bars, Batu Secret Zoo uses thick glass barriers and natural moats, providing a closer and clearer view without compromising safety.

The area is divided into several interesting thematic zones:

1. Tiger Land: Home to various big cat species, including the majestic Bengal Tiger and the rare Sumatran Tiger. The enclosure designs are such that visitors can observe them from above or through an underground glass tunnel.

2. Savannah: Utilizing a walkthrough concept, visitors can see African animals like giraffes, zebras, and various types of antelopes living together in a vast open area.

3. Safari Farm: Visitors can ride an open-air train to tour and directly feed herbivorous animals, creating unforgettable interactive moments for children.

4. River Adventure: A unique experience of riding a boat on an artificial river that encircles small islands inhabited by rare primates like Orangutans and Siamangs.

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Family-Friendly Facilities and Supporting Amenities

Jatim Park 2 is designed as an all-in-one destination. For family convenience, the management provides e-bike rentals, which are very helpful for mobility given the area's size of over a dozen hectares. There is also a children's play area (Fantasy Land) equipped with various free rides such as a carousel, mini coaster, and a children's swimming pool.

For visitors who wish to experience staying amidst a forest atmosphere, there is the Pohon Inn Hotel. This hotel features a unique design resembling a giant tree trunk. Breakfast at the hotel's restaurant offers an extraordinary experience as it directly borders a leopard enclosure and an artificial forest filled with exotic birds.

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Cultural Role and Impact on the Community

Culturally, Jatim Park 2 has transformed the face of East Java tourism from traditional nature tourism to modern educational tourism. Its existence has had a significant economic impact on the community of Batu City, creating thousands of jobs and fostering the growth of SMEs in its vicinity. Moreover, Jatim Park 2 plays a crucial role as an "ex-situ" conservation institution that aids in the breeding of rare animals, ensuring that visitors not only come for fun but also leave with a higher awareness of the importance of environmental preservation.

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Visitor Information and Travel Tips

Jatim Park 2 is located on Jalan Oro-Oro Ombo, Batu City. Considering Batu City's cool but potentially changeable weather, visitors are advised to bring a jacket or umbrella.

• Best Time to Visit: Arrive right at opening time (10:00 AM WIB) to have enough time to explore the entire area before closing in the afternoon. Weekdays are the best time to avoid large crowds.
• Accessibility: The venue is very disabled-friendly with sloped paths available in almost all exhibition areas.
• Tickets: It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online to avoid long queues at the physical ticket counters, especially during holiday seasons or weekends.

Jatim Park 2 is more than just a recreational spot; it is a celebration of Earth's rich biodiversity. By combining the architectural grandeur of the Museum Satwa and the conservation innovations at Batu Secret Zoo, this destination offers a complete package of experiences that stimulate the senses while enriching knowledge. For anyone visiting East Java, a stop at Jatim Park 2 is a must to experience the harmony between humans, animals, and the universe.