Tanjung Puting
A River of Red Apes and Emerald Canopy
Drift down tea-colored rivers through remote rainforest, spotting orangutans, macaques, and kingfishers from your private klotok boat.
In the heart of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, Tanjung Puting National Park unfolds as a living tapestry of dense rainforests, winding rivers, and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 4,000 square kilometers, this protected area is a sanctuary for the endangered Bornean orangutan and a myriad of other wildlife species. The park’s diverse habitats, including peat swamp forests and mangroves, support an incredible array of flora and fauna, making it a vital conservation area and a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.
A journey into Tanjung Puting often begins aboard a traditional klotok boat, gliding along the Sekonyer River. These river cruises offer intimate encounters with the park’s wildlife—proboscis monkeys with their distinctive noses, agile gibbons, and a plethora of bird species flitting through the canopy. The rhythmic sounds of the jungle accompany travelers as they navigate the waterways, providing a serene backdrop to the vibrant life that thrives along the riverbanks.
Central to the park’s conservation efforts is Camp Leakey, a renowned research and rehabilitation center for orangutans. Established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas, the camp has been instrumental in studying and reintroducing orangutans into the wild. Visitors to Camp Leakey can observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, witnessing behaviors that highlight their close kinship to humans.
Beyond orangutans, Tanjung Puting is home to a rich tapestry of wildlife. From elusive clouded leopards and sun bears to over 230 species of birds, the park’s biodiversity is astounding. The unique ecosystems within the park, such as the peat swamp forests, play a crucial role in carbon storage and climate regulation, underscoring the global importance of preserving this natural treasure.
For those seeking an immersive experience in one of Borneo’s most pristine environments, Tanjung Puting National Park offers a blend of adventure, education, and tranquility. It’s a place where the wonders of the natural world are on full display, inviting travelers to connect deeply with the rhythms of the rainforest and the creatures that call it home.
