Tanjung Puting National Park-Orangutans, Central Kalimantan

Overview: Tanjung Puting National Park is a biodiverse and ecologically important national park located in Central Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. It is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse flora and fauna, and most notably, its efforts in orangutan conservation. The park features a unique ecosystem of peat swamp forests, rivers, and wildlife, making it a significant destination for ecotourism and wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitor Fee: As of my last update in September 2021, there is an entrance fee for visitors to Tanjung Puting National Park. The fee contributes to the park's conservation efforts and maintenance. The fee might vary depending on whether you are an Indonesian citizen or a foreigner. It's advisable to verify the current fees before planning your visit.

Transportation: To reach Tanjung Puting National Park, you can fly to the city of Pangkalan Bun in Central Kalimantan. From there, you can take a boat ride along the Sekonyer River to access the park. This river journey is a significant part of the experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

Things to Do:

1. Orangutan Rehabilitation Centers: Tanjung Puting is famous for its orangutan rehabilitation centers, such as Camp Leakey, where visitors can witness orangutans being rehabilitated and reintroduced to the wild.
2. River Cruises: The Sekonyer River is the main access point to the park. Visitors can take river cruises to explore the diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife, and enjoy the lush scenery.
3. Wildlife Watching: Apart from orangutans, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, macaques, crocodiles, and various bird species.
4. Trekking: Guided trekking through the park's rainforests offers a chance to observe the rich biodiversity up close and learn about the ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

1. Orangutan Conservation: Tanjung Puting is a hub for orangutan rehabilitation and conservation, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in a semi-wild setting.
2. Immersive Nature Experience: The park's remote location and river cruises offer an immersive experience in the heart of Borneo's rainforests, allowing visitors to connect with nature.
3. Ecotourism and Education: Visitors have the chance to learn about rainforest ecology, wildlife conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems.

Age of the Place: The Tanjung Puting rainforest ecosystem has existed for thousands of years. The establishment of the national park in its current form occurred more recently for the purpose of conservation.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

1. Pangkalan Bun: The gateway city to Tanjung Puting National Park, Pangkalan Bun offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

List of Activities:

1. Visit orangutan rehabilitation centers, such as Camp Leakey.
2. Take river cruises along the Sekonyer River for wildlife and nature observation.
3. Watch wildlife, including proboscis monkeys and various bird species.
4. Participate in guided rainforest treks to learn about the ecosystem.
5. Explore the nearby city of Pangkalan Bun for cultural experiences.