Dreaming of seeing orangutans in the wild? Or gliding through a tropical rainforest by boat? Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan offers all of that and the journey to get there is part of the adventure.
Fly to Pangkalan Bun
The first step is flying to Pangkalan Bun, a small city served by Iskandar Airport. From Jakarta, the flight takes just over an hour. There are also direct flights from cities like Surabaya and Semarang.
Once you land, you’ll notice the slower pace of life and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that signals you’re close to nature.
Head to Kumai Harbor
From the airport, it’s a short 15–20 minute drive to Kumai Harbor, the main gateway to Tanjung Puting. This is where your real adventure begins. Instead of buses or cars, you’ll board a traditional wooden river boat called a klotok - your home and transportation for the journey into the national park
Cruise Along the River
Traveling by klotok along the Kumai and Sekonyer Rivers is the most iconic part of the trip. The boat moves slowly through dark, calm water, with dense rainforest lining both sides. The sounds of birds, insects, and rustling leaves replace the noise of the city.
The boat ride into the park usually takes about 2–3 hours. Along the way, you might spot proboscis monkeys, colorful birds, or even crocodiles resting on the riverbank.
Stop at Iconic Sites
Inside the park, your klotok will stop at several famous locations:
- Tanjung Harapan an information center and orangutan viewing area
- Pondok Tanggui – lokasi rehabilitasi orangutan
- Camp Leakey the world-famous orangutan rehabilitation center
These stops offer unforgettable moments as you observe orangutans and other wildlife in their natural environment.
Sleep on the River
A Journey That Changes You
Getting to Tanjung Puting is not just about reaching a destination—it is about slowing down and reconnecting with nature. From flying into a quiet town to drifting through rainforest waterways, every step of the journey invites you to see the world differently.
Tanjung Puting may not be the easiest place to reach, but that is exactly what makes it special. For travelers seeking adventure, meaning, and a deeper connection with the natural world, the journey to Tanjung Puting National Park is the perfect beginning.
