Essential Information
- Location: Situbondo Regency, East Java, Indonesia
- Size: 250 km², featuring savannahs, mangroves, forests, and beaches
- Climate: Tropical, with dry (May–October) and wet (November–April) seasons
- Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season for optimal wildlife viewing)
- Famous For: The “African Savannah” of Indonesia, home to rich biodiversity
- Entry Fee: IDR 5,000 – 150,000 per person (varies by nationality and day of the week)
Interesting Facts
- Nicknamed “Little Africa” – Baluran National Park resembles the African savannah, with vast grasslands and scattered acacia trees.
- Home to Over 155 Bird Species – A paradise for birdwatchers, featuring peacocks, kingfishers, and hornbills.
- Wildlife Haven – Houses banteng (wild cattle), Javanese deer, wild boars, macaques, and leopards.
- Volcanic Backdrop – The park is dominated by Mount Baluran, an extinct volcano.
- Diverse Ecosystems – Contains savannahs, rainforests, mangroves, coral reefs, and beaches.
How to Get There
- Fly to Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya
- Direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
- Travel Overland to Baluran National Park
- From Surabaya (6 hours by car/bus) via Situbondo or Banyuwangi.
- From Banyuwangi (1.5 hours by car/bus) – Closest city to the park.
- From Probolinggo (3 hours by car/bus) – Stopover for Mount Bromo travelers.
- Park Entrance & Local Transport
- The main entrance is at Bekol, 12 km from the main road.
- Rent a motorbike or car for easier exploration inside the park.
Best Things to Do in Baluran National Park
- Safari Through the Bekol Savannah
- Witness grazing banteng, deer, and wild boars.
- Best time for wildlife spotting: Early morning or late afternoon.
- Hike Mount Baluran
- A moderate trek leading to panoramic views of the park and coastline.
- Visit Bama Beach
- A secluded white sand beach with mangroves, coral reefs, and clear waters.
- Ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Mangrove Trekking at Bama Beach
- Walk through wooden pathways over lush mangrove forests.
- Birdwatching & Photography
- Spot rare and endemic bird species in the park.
- Night Safari for Nocturnal Wildlife
- Discover leopards, owls, and civets on a guided tour.
Best Accommodation Options
- Aston Banyuwangi Hotel & Conference Center (Luxury, Banyuwangi)
- Modern hotel with pool, near Baluran & Ijen Crater.
- Grand Harvest Resort & Villas (Mid-Range, Banyuwangi)
- Nature retreat with beautiful garden views.
- Ijen Resort & Villas (Mid-Range, Bondowoso)
- Great for travelers exploring both Baluran and Ijen.
- Baluran Ecolodge (Budget, Near the Park)
- Rustic and eco-friendly stay close to nature.
- Camping & Homestays Inside the Park (Budget, Bekol & Bama Beach)
- Experience staying amidst wildlife in the national park.
Top Attractions in Baluran National Park
- Bekol Savannah – Indonesia’s “African Savannah”
- Bama Beach – Remote Beach with Snorkeling & Mangroves
- Mount Baluran – Scenic Hikes & Volcano Views
- Evergreen Forest – Tropical Rainforest with Diverse Flora & Fauna
- Mantingan & Labuhan Merak Beaches – Hidden & Undisturbed Coastlines
Getting Around
- By Car or Motorbike: Best way to explore, rentals available in Banyuwangi & Situbondo.
- By Bicycle: Some areas inside the park are cycle-friendly.
- By Foot: Ideal for short treks and beach visits.
Day Trips & Nearby Adventures
- Ijen Crater (2 Hours from Baluran)
- Famous for its blue fire phenomenon and sulfur miners.
- Alas Purwo National Park (2.5 Hours from Baluran)
- Home to endangered Javan leopards and pristine beaches.
- Menjangan Island (3 Hours + Ferry from Banyuwangi)
- One of Bali’s best dive sites, perfect for snorkeling & scuba diving.
- Mount Bromo (5 Hours from Baluran)
- Combine your Baluran visit with a Bromo sunrise trek.
Practical Tips
Wear Neutral-Colored Clothing: Helps blend into the environment for wildlife viewing.
Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: Limited food options inside the park.
Use Mosquito Repellent: Protection from insects, especially in the wet season.
Rent a Guide for the Best Experience: Helps with wildlife spotting & navigating trails.
Be Respectful of Nature: No littering, feeding animals, or disturbing wildlife.
Plan an Early Start: Wildlife is most active at sunrise and sunset.
Conclusion
Baluran National Park offers a unique blend of wildlife, savannah landscapes, pristine beaches, and volcanic scenery, making it one of Indonesia’s most diverse and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you’re exploring the Bekol Savannah, snorkeling at Bama Beach, or trekking Mount Baluran, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
