Tanjung Puting National Park

Diverse and Unique Ecosystems

The main specialty of Tanjung Puting National Park lies in its extraordinary mosaic of ecosystems. Unlike homogeneous forests, TNTP consists of a unique blend of lowland tropical rainforest, freshwater swamp forest, heath forest, mangrove forest, and peat swamp forest.

The Sekonyer River, the main artery of transportation in this park, cuts through the area with its dark water, colored by the tannin content from the roots of peat swamp trees. Along the riverbanks, visitors can witness rows of nipah palms and water pandanus, which are home to various wildlife. The change in vegetation from the brackish estuary to the lush upstream with a canopy of swamp trees creates a stunning gradation of scenery.

The Last Bastion of Biodiversity

Tanjung Puting is home to Indonesia's most iconic primate, the Bornean Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus). However, the biodiversity here extends far beyond that. The area is a habitat for nine other primate species, including the Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus), endemic to Borneo with its distinctive long nose, and the Agile Gibbon (Hylobates albibarbis), whose calls often break the morning silence.

In addition to primates, this national park provides shelter for over 200 bird species, including the Hornbill, which is a sacred symbol for the Dayak community. If lucky, visitors may spot estuarine crocodiles basking on the riverbanks or mouse deer crossing among the tree roots. The presence of nocturnal animals like Tarsiers and wild cats further enriches the biodiversity in this protected area.

Experiencing the River Journey by Klotok Boat

The most iconic and must-do activity in Tanjung Puting is cruising the Sekonyer River using a Klotok boat. A Klotok is a traditional two-story wooden boat that has been modified into a comfortable floating accommodation. This experience is often referred to as the "Amazon of Indonesia."

For several days, visitors will stay on the boat, enjoy local cuisine prepared by the crew, and sleep under mosquito nets while listening to the nocturnal symphony of the Kalimantan forest. From the deck of the boat, you can watch long-tailed macaques leaping between branches or see fireflies adorning the mangrove trees at night, creating a scene like a natural Christmas tree in the darkness of the forest.

Rehabilitation Centers and Feeding Stations

There are three main locations that are the focus of visits to see orangutans up close in their rehabilitation efforts:

1. Tanjung Harapan: The first information center usually visited, where visitors can witness feeding in the afternoon.

2. Pondok Tanggui: A rehabilitation area for young orangutans who are in the process of learning to survive in the wild.

3. Camp Leakey: The most legendary site, founded by Dr. Birute Galdikas in 1971. This area is the oldest orangutan research center and the best place to see adult and semi-wild orangutans in their natural ecosystem.

Walking along the forest trails (trekking) to the feeding stations provides visitors with an opportunity to feel the texture of the forest floor and breathe the oxygen-rich air.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

Tanjung Puting National Park was designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1977 and became a National Park in 1982. This status emphasizes the importance of protecting this area from threats of deforestation, poaching, and illegal mining.

Conservation efforts here involve close collaboration between the National Park Authority, international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities. Tourists are required to adhere to strict codes of conduct, such as maintaining a minimum distance from wildlife, not feeding them independently, and bringing back plastic waste to preserve the ecosystem's purity.

Best Time to Visit

Tanjung Puting can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry season between June and September. During this period, trekking trails are drier, and the chances of seeing orangutans at feeding stations are higher due to the reduced availability of natural fruits in the forest.

If you visit during the rainy season (October - March), the forest will appear very green and fresh, but you should be prepared for high rainfall and muddier trails. The advantage is that the number of tourists during the rainy season tends to be lower, offering a more private atmosphere.

Accessibility and Facilities

The main gateway to Tanjung Puting is through Pangkalan Bun City. Tourists can fly to Iskandar Airport (PKN) from major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, or Semarang. From the airport, the journey continues by land for about 20 minutes to Kumai Port, where the Klotok boats dock.

Facilities in Tanjung Puting are centered around the Klotok boats themselves, which include beds, toilets with showers, and dining areas. For those seeking permanent accommodation, there are several ecolodges along the river offering an eco-friendly concept with direct views of the forest.

Tanjung Puting National Park is not just a tourist trip, but a nature pilgrimage that reminds us of the importance of maintaining the balance between humans and the environment. Visiting this place is a tangible form of support for the preservation of orangutans and Indonesia's rainforest for future generations.