Get to know Baluran National Park: "Africa van Java" at the Eastern Tip of Java Island
Baluran National Park is a 25,000 hectare nature conservation area located in the Banyuputih area, Situbondo Regency, and directly borders Banyuwangi Regency, East Java. This area is popularly known as"Africa van Java"thanks to its unique natural landscape in the form of the largest natural savanna grassland on the island of Java with the majestic Mount Baluran as a backdrop.
This conservation area presents a complete ecosystem ranging from monsoon forests, savanna, mangrove forests, to tropical coastlines which are inhabited by a variety of protected wildlife and endemic plants.
Main Attraction of Baluran National Park
1. Savana Bekol
Savana Bekol is the most iconic attraction in Baluran covering an area of approximately 300 hectares. This savanna landscape has two unique characteristics throughout the year:
Dry Season (June – October):The savanna dries up and turns golden yellow, creating a wild, African safari-style atmosphere.
Rainy Season (November – May):The savanna transforms into a lush green grassland that is soothing to the eyes.
Bekol Viewing Tower:Viewing post facilities for viewing 360 degree panoramic views of the savanna landscape and monitoring the movement of wildlife.
2. Natural Wildlife Habitat
Visitors can encounter a variety of fauna living freely in their natural habitat, including:
Timor Deer (Timorensis deer) who often roam the grasslands
Javanese Bull (Javanicus boss) as Baluran's animal mascot
Green Peacock (Pavo muticus) with attractive tail feathers
Wild buffalo, ajag, langur budeng, and hundreds of rare bird species
3. Bama Beach & Mangrove Forest
Located about 3 km from Savana Bekol, Bama Beach offers clean white sand beaches, clear sea water for snorkeling, and panoramic views of the sunrise (sunrise). There is also a wooden footbridge (mangrove trail) which cuts through the dense mangrove forest towards the observation pier.
4. Monsoon Forest (Evergreen Forest)
The main entrance path from the gate to the savanna is covered by a dense canopy of trees that remain green all year round, giving the sensation of passing through a shady natural tunnel.
Location & Access Information
Address:Jl. Raya Banyuwangi - Situbondo KM 35, Wonorejo Village, Banyuputih District, Situbondo Regency, East Java.
Accessibility:Located right on the North Surabaya–Banyuwangi north coast artery. It is about a 45 minute journey from Ketapang Harbor and the center of Banyuwangi City.
Operational Hours:Every day 07.30 – 16.00 WIB.
Facility:Information posts, parking areas, toilets, prayer rooms, food stalls, guesthouses and monitoring towers.
Visiting Guide & Tips
Riding Speed:Limit vehicle speed to a maximum of 20-30 km/hour so as not to endanger passing animals.
Animal Interaction:Forbidden to feed (feeding) wild wild animals in order to maintain their natural instincts.
Adhere to Official Routes:Always stay on the roads and observation routes that have been determined by the manager.
Best Time to Visit:Come in the morning (07.30 - 09.30 WIB) or in the afternoon (15.00 - 16.30 WIB) when the wild animals come out to look for food and drink.
Cleanliness:Always take back your rubbish and preserve the nature of the national park.
