Betung Kerihun National Park, Indonesia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Betung Kerihun National Park protects over 8,000 square kilometers of pristine rainforest, making it the second-largest national park in Kalimantan? This vast protected area along the Malaysia-Indonesia border represents one of the last untouched wilderness regions in Borneo, where visitors can experience authentic jungle adventures far from the beaten path. As you venture into this remote paradise, you’ll discover a world where orangutans still swing through ancient trees, Dayak tribes maintain traditional ways of life, and crystal-clear rivers carve through some of the oldest rainforests on Earth.

Betung Kerihun National Park Overview

Located in West Kalimantan province, Betung Kerihun National Park stretches along Indonesia’s border with Malaysian Sarawak. The park forms a critical part of the “Heart of Borneo” conservation initiative, protecting one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Its terrain ranges from lowland dipterocarp forests to mountainous regions, with elevations reaching over 2,000 meters at Mount Betung and Mount Kerihun.

The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including endangered species like the Bornean orangutan, clouded leopard, and sun bear. Over 300 bird species inhabit the forest canopy, while its rivers teem with unique fish species. For adventure seekers, the park offers genuine wilderness experiences, from multi-day trekking expeditions to river journeys through pristine landscapes.

What makes Betung Kerihun truly special is its remoteness. Unlike more accessible national parks, visitors here experience Borneo in its most authentic form. The challenging journey to reach the park ensures that those who make the effort are rewarded with unspoiled nature and genuine cultural encounters with local Dayak communities.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching Betung Kerihun National Park requires determination and planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. The most common route begins in Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan province.

Important: There are no ATMs or banking facilities in the park or nearby villages. Bring sufficient cash for your entire stay, including boat rental, guide fees, food supplies, and park entrance fees.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The best time to visit Betung Kerihun National Park is during the dry season from May to September. During these months, river levels are lower, making boat navigation safer and trekking conditions more favorable. The reduced rainfall also increases your chances of wildlife sightings, as animals frequently visit rivers and streams.

Getting Around Locally

Transportation within Betung Kerihun National Park primarily relies on traditional longboats and trekking. There are no roads within the protected area, making river travel the main mode of transportation.

Longboat Transportation

Longboats are the primary means of exploring the park, navigated by skilled local Dayak boatmen who know the rivers intimately. Each boat typically requires two crew members – a motorist and a juru batu (rock guide) who stands at the front with a long pole to navigate around rocks and through rapids.

Trekking Options

Several trekking trails lead from the river camps into the surrounding forest. These range from short walks to multi-day expeditions. Always trek with a local guide, as trails are often unmarked and it’s easy to become disoriented in the dense jungle.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options in and around Betung Kerihun National Park are basic but authentic, offering a genuine experience of Borneo’s wilderness and culture.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Food experiences in Betung Kerihun National Park are part of the adventure. There are no restaurants within the park, so meals are typically prepared by your guides or at local longhouses.

Food Supplies

Before entering the park, purchase supplies in Putussibau or Sadap village. Basic provisions available in Sadap include:

• Rice (staple for every meal)
• Instant noodles
• Coffee, tea, and sugar
• Basic spices and seasonings
• Cooking oil and salt

Local Cuisine

Experienced local guides supplement basic provisions with food gathered from the forest:

• Freshly caught river fish (a staple protein source)
• Wild vegetables harvested from the forest
• Seasonal fruits when available
• Occasionally, wild game (though hunting is restricted in the park)

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Betung Kerihun National Park offers authentic wilderness experiences focused on nature exploration and cultural immersion. Here are the top activities to enjoy during your visit:

River Expeditions

The park’s rivers are its highways and offer the primary way to explore the region. Longboat journeys up the Embaloh River and its tributaries provide access to remote areas while offering chances to spot wildlife along the banks.

Jungle Trekking

Several trails lead from river camps into the surrounding forest. Popular trekking destinations include:

• The trail behind Camp Tekelan, which ascends a small hill through primary forest
• Paths from Camp Derian to nearby caves
• Trails to Bukit Betung for more challenging hikes

Wildlife Observation

While wildlife can be elusive, patient observers may spot:

• Orangutans (most common during fruiting season from December to February)
• Hornbills and eagles soaring above the canopy
• Maroon leaf monkeys and common macaques
• Otters along riverbanks
• Various reptiles and amphibians

Cultural Experiences

Interactions with local Dayak Iban communities offer insight into traditional forest knowledge:

• Stay in a traditional longhouse in Sadap village
• Learn about sustainable forest use from local guides
• Observe traditional fishing and food gathering techniques

Practical Travel Tips

Visiting Betung Kerihun National Park requires thorough preparation. Here are essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Essential Packing List

• Quick-dry clothing (multiple sets as everything gets wet)
• Good hiking boots and river sandals
• Sleeping pad and lightweight sleeping bag
• Mosquito net and insect repellent
• Waterproof bags for electronics and documents
• Basic first aid kit with antimalarials
• Water purification tablets or filter
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho

Permits & Fees

Foreign visitors must pay a national park entry fee of 150,000 IDR per day. Tickets can be purchased at the park office in Matalo or Sadap village. Bring sufficient cash as there are no ATMs in the area.

Health & Safety

The remote location means medical facilities are far away. Take these precautions:

• Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before traveling
• Bring any prescription medications you need
• Consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccinations
• Drink only purified or boiled water
• Always trek with a local guide

Communication

There is no cell phone coverage within the park. Consider these options:

• Inform someone of your itinerary before entering the park
• Consider renting a satellite phone for emergencies
• Learn basic Indonesian phrases to communicate with guides

Experience the Heart of Borneo

Betung Kerihun National Park offers a rare glimpse into one of Earth’s most pristine ecosystems. Unlike more developed tourist destinations, this park provides authentic wilderness experiences that connect visitors with nature in its purest form. The challenging journey to reach and explore this remote paradise ensures that those who make the effort are rewarded with unspoiled landscapes, genuine cultural encounters, and the profound satisfaction of experiencing Borneo as it has existed for millennia.

Whether you’re navigating rapids in a traditional longboat, trekking through ancient forests, or sharing stories with Dayak communities, Betung Kerihun creates memories that last a lifetime. As development continues to transform much of Southeast Asia, this protected wilderness remains a testament to the natural beauty and cultural heritage that make Borneo truly special.