Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Home to over 6,000 wild orangutans, Tanjung Puting National Park is one of the last places on Earth where you can see these “people of the forest” swinging freely through ancient rainforests. Located in Central Kalimantan on the Indonesian side of Borneo, this 416,000-hectare protected area offers a rare glimpse into a world where humans are visitors and orangutans rule the canopy.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching this remote paradise requires some planning, but the reward is well worth the effort. The journey to Tanjung Puting is part of what makes the experience so special and memorable.

By Air

The gateway to Tanjung Puting is the small town of Pangkalan Bun in Central Kalimantan. You’ll need to fly into Iskandar Airport (PKN), which has daily connections from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Semarang. If you’re coming from Bali or other parts of Indonesia, you’ll likely need to transit through one of these cities.

From Pangkalan Bun to Kumai

Once you arrive at Iskandar Airport, you’ll need to travel to the port town of Kumai, about 10 km (6.2 miles) away. Most tour operators include this transfer in their packages, but if you’re traveling independently, you can easily find a taxi for around 100,000-150,000 IDR ($6-10 USD).

River Journey to the Park

From Kumai, you’ll board a traditional wooden boat called a “klotok” (named for the “klok-tok-tok” sound of its engine) to travel along the Sekonyer River into the heart of the national park. This river journey takes 2-3 hours to reach the first feeding station and is an experience in itself as you glide past nipa palms and mangrove forests.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Timing your visit to Tanjung Puting can significantly impact your experience in this tropical paradise.

Dry Season (May to September)

The dry season from May to September is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months, you’ll experience:

• Less rainfall, making trekking more comfortable
• Temperatures ranging from 28-32°C (82-90°F)
• Better visibility for wildlife spotting
• More predictable river conditions

July and August are peak tourist months, so expect more boats on the river and potentially crowded feeding stations.

Wet Season (October to April)

The wet season has its own unique charm and advantages:

• Fewer tourists and more solitary wildlife experiences
• Lush, vibrant vegetation
• Temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F) with high humidity
• Occasional heavy downpours, usually in the afternoons

Even during the rainy season, it rarely rains all day, and many visitors report that rain often falls at night, leaving daytime activities largely unaffected.

What to Pack

Regardless of when you visit, be sure to bring:

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing with long sleeves and pants (for sun and mosquito protection)
• Strong insect repellent (preferably containing DEET)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
• Rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
• Binoculars and camera with zoom lens

Where to Stay: Unique Accommodation Options

Accommodation in Tanjung Puting offers a range of experiences from rustic to comfortable, but all provide an immersive connection with the surrounding nature.

Klotok Houseboats

The most authentic way to experience Tanjung Puting is staying on a klotok houseboat. These traditional wooden vessels become your floating hotel as you journey through the park:

• Sleep under mosquito nets on the upper deck beneath the stars
• Enjoy meals freshly prepared by your boat crew
• Fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle and wake to orangutans calling in the distance
• Basic facilities including simple bathrooms with bucket showers

Most tour packages include accommodation on these boats, with trips typically lasting 2-3 days.

Rimba Ecolodge

For those preferring to sleep on land, Rimba Ecolodge offers the only permanent accommodation within the park:

• Simple but comfortable rooms with private bathrooms
• Electricity available during set hours
• Restaurant serving Indonesian and Western meals
• Located near the Sekonyer River with easy access to feeding stations

Pangkalan Bun/Kumai Accommodation

Before or after your park adventure, you might need to stay in Pangkalan Bun or Kumai:

• Swiss-Belinn Pangkalan Bun – Modern hotel with air conditioning and WiFi
• Grand Kecubung Hotel – Comfortable option with restaurant and pool
• Various guesthouses and homestays for budget travelers

Orangutan Encounters: The Main Attraction

The star attraction of Tanjung Puting is undoubtedly its population of wild and semi-wild Bornean orangutans. These intelligent great apes share 97% of their DNA with humans, and looking into their expressive eyes is an unforgettable experience.

Feeding Stations

The park has established several feeding stations where rangers provide supplementary food (mainly bananas and milk) to orangutans that were previously rehabilitated. These stations offer excellent opportunities for visitors to observe orangutans up close:

Camp Leakey

Named after the renowned primatologist Dr. Louis Leakey, this is the oldest and most famous research station in the park. Established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas, it continues to be a center for orangutan research and conservation. Feeding time is at 14:00 daily.

Pondok Tanggui

This rehabilitation center is known for its success in reintroducing orangutans to the wild. Feeding time is at 09:00, making it an excellent morning stop on your river journey.

Tanjung Harapan

The closest feeding station to Kumai, Tanjung Harapan offers feeding sessions at 15:00 and is often the first stop on a klotok tour.

While the feeding stations provide near-guaranteed orangutan sightings, you’ll also likely spot wild orangutans along the riverbanks and in the trees during your boat journey. Watching them build nests, forage for food, and care for their young in their natural habitat is truly special.

Beyond Orangutans: Other Wildlife Encounters

While orangutans may be the stars, Tanjung Puting is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife that makes every moment on the river an opportunity for discovery.

Proboscis Monkeys

Endemic to Borneo, these distinctive monkeys with large pendulous noses are commonly spotted along the riverbanks, especially in the late afternoon. They live in harems led by a dominant male, and their acrobatic leaps between trees are impressive to witness.

Other Primates

The park is a primate paradise with several other species to spot:

• Long-tailed macaques – often seen in large troops near the water
• Gibbons – listen for their melodious morning calls in the canopy
• Red leaf monkeys – distinctive with their maroon-colored fur

Birds

Birdwatchers will be delighted by over 200 species including:

• Hornbills – several species with their distinctive casqued bills
• Kingfishers – darting along the river in flashes of electric blue
• Storm’s storks – critically endangered and rarely seen elsewhere
• Brahminy kites – elegant raptors soaring above the canopy

Reptiles and Other Creatures

Keep your eyes peeled for:

• Estuarine crocodiles – particularly near the river mouth
• Monitor lizards – sunning themselves on logs or swimming across the river
• Flying lizards – gliding between trees on extended skin flaps
• Fireflies – creating magical light displays along the riverbanks at night

Top Activities and Experiences in Tanjung Puting

Beyond wildlife watching, Tanjung Puting offers several unique experiences that connect you with the rainforest environment and local culture.

River Cruising

The journey itself is a major highlight of visiting Tanjung Puting. Cruising along the Sekonyer River on a klotok offers constant opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. The river changes character as you travel upstream – from the wider, muddy waters near Kumai to the narrow, tea-colored “black water” deeper in the park where tannins from decomposing vegetation stain the water.

Jungle Trekking

Short guided treks through the rainforest to reach the feeding stations offer opportunities to learn about the incredible plant diversity and ecosystem. Longer treks can be arranged for those wanting a more immersive jungle experience:

• Day treks to explore deeper into the forest
• Night walks to spot nocturnal creatures
• Specialized photography treks for wildlife enthusiasts

Camp Leakey Research Center Visit

Beyond the feeding station, visitors can tour the research facilities at Camp Leakey to learn about the groundbreaking orangutan research and conservation efforts that have been ongoing since the 1970s. The information center houses fascinating exhibits about orangutan behavior and biology.

Local Village Visits

Some tours include visits to Dayak villages near the park, where you can learn about the indigenous culture and traditional way of life in Borneo. These communities have deep connections to the forest and its wildlife.

Reforestation Projects

Several conservation organizations offer opportunities for visitors to participate in tree planting and reforestation efforts to help restore orangutan habitat that has been lost to logging and palm oil plantations.

Choosing the Right Tour Package

Most visitors explore Tanjung Puting as part of an organized tour, which typically includes transportation, accommodation on a klotok, meals, guide services, and park fees. Here’s what to consider when selecting a tour:

Tour Duration

Tours generally range from 2-4 days, with the most popular being the 3-day, 2-night option that allows you to visit all three feeding stations. Consider these options:

• 2D/1N: A rushed experience that usually only includes Tanjung Harapan and possibly Pondok Tanggui
• 3D/2N: The ideal duration for most visitors, covering all major sites
• 4D/3N or longer: For wildlife enthusiasts wanting more time for observation and photography

Group Size

Klotok boats vary in size but typically accommodate 2-8 passengers. Consider whether you prefer:

• Private tour – More expensive but offers flexibility and personalization
• Shared tour – More affordable and provides opportunities to meet fellow travelers

Tour Operator Selection

When choosing a tour operator, look for:

• Commitment to ethical wildlife viewing practices
• Experienced local guides with good English skills and wildlife knowledge
• Transparent pricing that clearly states what’s included
• Positive reviews mentioning boat cleanliness and food quality
• Support for local conservation initiatives

Typical Tour Costs

Tour prices vary widely based on group size, duration, and comfort level:

• Budget shared tours: $150-250 USD per person for 3D/2N
• Mid-range private tours: $300-500 USD per person for 3D/2N
• Luxury options with enhanced comfort: $500+ USD per person

Prices typically include all meals, accommodation on the boat, guide services, and park entrance fees (currently around 150,000 IDR per day for foreign visitors).

Practical Travel Tips for Tanjung Puting

These insider tips will help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience in Tanjung Puting National Park.

Health and Safety

• Mosquito protection: This is essential. Bring strong repellent and consider pre-treating clothes with permethrin.
• Malaria prevention: Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip.
• Drinking water: Only drink bottled or purified water provided by your tour operator.
• First aid: Bring basic supplies including antihistamines, anti-diarrheal medication, and any personal prescriptions.
• Travel insurance: Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation from remote areas.

Connectivity

Cell service is limited or non-existent once you’re in the park. Some areas near Kumai may have spotty coverage, but prepare to be offline during most of your journey. Consider this a chance to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in nature.

Money Matters

There are no ATMs in the park, so bring enough Indonesian Rupiah for tips, souvenirs, and any additional expenses. Most tour costs are paid in advance, but having cash on hand is essential for unexpected needs.

Photography Tips

• Bring a zoom lens (at least 200mm) for wildlife photography
• Pack extra batteries and memory cards as charging opportunities are limited
• A dry bag or waterproof case is essential to protect equipment
• Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting and wildlife activity
• Consider bringing binoculars for spotting wildlife high in the canopy

Responsible Tourism

Tanjung Puting faces threats from logging, mining, and palm oil plantations. As a visitor, you can help protect this precious ecosystem by:

• Choosing tour operators that support conservation efforts
• Following all park rules and wildlife viewing guidelines
• Taking all trash back with you (including toilet paper)
• Using biodegradable soaps and toiletries
• Supporting local communities through your spending
• Spreading awareness about the importance of protecting orangutan habitat

Final Thoughts: The Magic of Tanjung Puting

Tanjung Puting offers something increasingly rare in our modern world – a genuine wilderness experience where humans are visitors in the realm of wild creatures. The sight of an orangutan mother tenderly caring for her baby, the haunting calls of gibbons echoing through morning mist, or the simple pleasure of drifting along a jungle river as fireflies twinkle in the darkness – these are moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Beyond the incredible wildlife encounters, a journey to Tanjung Puting is also an opportunity to witness conservation in action. The dedicated rangers, researchers, and local guides working to protect this ecosystem offer hope that with proper support and sustainable tourism, places like this can be preserved for future generations.

As development pressures continue to threaten Borneo’s forests, your visit represents a vote for conservation over exploitation. By choosing to spend your tourism dollars here, you’re helping demonstrate that orangutans and intact rainforests have economic value beyond timber and palm oil.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, adventure traveler, or simply someone seeking connection with the natural world, Tanjung Puting offers an experience that touches something deep within us – a reminder of our own place in the great web of life and our responsibility to protect the wild places and creatures that remain.