Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest

Tracing the Green Trail on Dumai's Coast: The Charm of Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest

Dumai City in Riau Province might be more known as a busy port and oil industry city. However, behind the roar of factory engines and the activity of oil tankers, lies a green gem that serves as the city's lungs and a coastal defense: Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest. Strategically located in the Nelayan area, Dumai Barat District, this destination offers a calming contrast to the urban hustle, presenting a symphony of nature that bridges land and the Rupat Strait.

#

A Conservation Gateway on the Strait's Edge

Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest is more than just an ordinary city park. This area is a self-managed mangrove ecosystem, born from the local community's concern for coastal land degradation. Geographically, Bandar Bakau occupies a crucial position as a natural abrasion barrier for Dumai's coastline. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a dense green canopy that seems to block the scorching coastal sun, creating a cool and humid microclimate.

The forest's structure is dominated by complex and artistic root systems. The aerial roots emerging from the mud create a surreal landscape, especially during low tide. The distinct smell of marine sediment and the fresh aroma of mangrove leaves are sensory identities that will be immediately felt by anyone who visits.

#

Biodiversity: Home to 24 Mangrove Species

One of the main advantages that distinguishes Bandar Bakau from other mangrove tourism sites in Riau is its rich variety of species. Approximately 24 mangrove species are recorded growing abundantly here, including Rhizophora apiculata (Red Mangrove), Avicennia marina (Grey Mangrove), and Sonneratia alba (Estuarine Mangrove). This floral diversity makes Bandar Bakau a valuable natural laboratory for researchers and forestry students.

This biodiversity also attracts coastal fauna to settle. If lucky, visitors can catch a glimpse of the agile movements of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) leaping between branches. In the muddy areas, fiddler crabs with their large, brightly colored single claw are often seen "dancing" in front of their burrows. Furthermore, this area is a paradise for birdwatchers, where migratory and local birds often stop to forage among the mangrove roots.

#

Tourism Experience and Outdoor Activities

Exploring Bandar Bakau is an experience that engages all senses. The management has built walking paths in the form of wooden bridges (boardwalks) that cut through the forest. These bridges allow visitors to venture deep into the heart of the forest without getting their feet muddy up to their knees.

1. Education and Seedling Planting:

For visitors who wish to contribute directly to nature, mangrove seedling planting programs are available. This activity is very popular among students and environmental communities. Visitors will be taught how to select healthy seedlings and plant them in the rehabilitation area, leaving a positive carbon footprint on Dumai's earth.

2. Nature Photography:

With the exotic mangrove roots as a backdrop and sunlight filtering through the leaves, Bandar Bakau is a favorite location for photographers. The wooden pier area extending towards the sea offers a wide vantage point of the Rupat Strait, ideal for capturing the purplish-orange sunset.

3. Coastal Culinary Tourism:

Around the entrance area, there are several stalls serving local snacks. One of the most unique is processed dishes made from certain mangrove fruits that have undergone special processing, offering a unique flavor rarely found elsewhere.

#

Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum experience, the timing of your visit is crucial. The morning between 08:00 and 10:00 is the best time to enjoy the fresh air and hear the chirping of birds. However, if you are chasing dramatic scenery, come in the late afternoon before dusk.

It is also important to consider the sea tide cycle. During high tide, the forest will appear like an exotic "submerged" forest with water filling the gaps between the roots. Conversely, during low tide, you can observe the marine life left behind in the mud, such as mudskippers that can "walk" on land.

#

Conservation and Environmental Protection Commitment

Bandar Bakau stands on the spirit of conservation. This area is managed by an nature lover group known as Pencinta Alam Bahari (PAB). Its status as a self-managed conservation area makes protection for every tree very strict. Visitors are strictly prohibited from littering, especially plastic waste that can entangle the mangrove aerial roots and kill the ecosystem.

Education about the importance of mangroves in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen is the main message conveyed through information boards along the tourist path. This makes a visit to Bandar Bakau not just recreation, but a journey of reflection on the relationship between humans and nature.

#

Accessibility and Facilities

Reaching Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest is quite easy due to its relatively close location to Dumai City center. From Pinang Kampai Airport or the Inter-City Bus Terminal, you can use ride-sharing services or local taxis with a travel time of about 15-20 minutes.

Currently available facilities include:

• A spacious parking area for two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.
• Well-maintained wooden bridge paths.
• Gazebos or wooden huts for resting in the middle of the forest.
• Public toilets and a prayer room.
• An observation tower to view the forest expanse from above.

#

Conclusion: Why Visit Bandar Bakau?

Bandar Bakau Ecotourism Forest is proof that industry and nature can coexist if there is a willingness to care for it. For tourists tired of mall views or city hustle, this place offers authentic tranquility. Inhaling oxygen-rich air while listening to the gentle waves hitting the mangrove roots will provide a soul-refreshing meditative effect.

Your visit here not only supports Dumai's local tourism but also supports the sustainability of one of the world's most productive ecosystems. Bandar Bakau is not just a destination; it is a green heritage that keeps Dumai breathing amidst the progress of the times.