7 Amazing National Parks in Java and Bali for Thrill-Seekers

Anyone who has visited a national park can tell you that it’s an extraordinary experience full of thrilling moments. How could it not be? A national park not only protects animals and conserves plants but also allows tourists to experience nature like never before! To inspire your post-pandemic travel plans, here are 7 must-visit national parks in Java and Bali:

1 | Ujung Kulon National Park

Covering an area of 122,955 hectares, Ujung Kulon National Park offers endless experiences for you to explore. This national park is located in the Banten province, within the Sumur and Cimanggu districts. There is a trekking tour available for those wanting to go deep into the rainforest. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the Javan Rhino, a rare rhino species that can only be spotted in this conservation area. Many locals believe this wild animal is an ancient sacred creature!

Tourists can charter a boat from Carita Beach to Peucang Island. This takes around 2-3 hours. They can also drive from Serang via Labuan to Panimbang, Sumur, and Tamanjaya, which is a 4-hour route. However, the drivers should drive cautiously on the narrow roads.
 

2 | Mount Halimun - Salak National Park

Enjoy the fresh, cool air of Mount Halimun Salak National Park, a nature reserve situated in West Java. You will love the scenic landscape around Mount Halimun. Though, there is a restriction on climbing this mountain, tourists can enjoy numerous other activities offered at Mount Halimun Salak National Park, such as canopy touring, jungle trekking, and seeing the Cimacan Waterfalls. Experience the serenity as you walk through the rainforest rich in exotic flora. Observe the endangered West Javan gibbons and the Javanese lutung, protected only in this habitat.

Those interested in a nature exploration trip can drive their cars or use private transportation. The route from Ciawi to Sukabumi to Parung Kuda takes about 3 to 5 hours. From there, you need to proceed to the main office in Kabandungan.
 

3 | Seribu Archipelago National Park

Appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature as you set your eyes on the palm-covered islands and crystal blue waters of Seribu Archipelago National Park. Not far from the metropolitan area of Jakarta, this marine national park will instantly take your breath away. Tourists can observe the colorful underwater life swimming in the clear blue water while or explore the rich rainforest.

You can easily reach this park from Jakarta's Marina Ancol via a speed boat or passenger ferry. You can also take a boat ride from Muara Angke Post. The duration of the ride ranges from 20 minutes to 3 hours, depending on which mode of transportation you use.
 

4 | Merapi National Park

Situated on the slopes of its two neighboring mountains, the Mount Merapi and the Mount Merabu, Merapi National Park is spread over an area of 17,509 hectares. Known for being one of the best national parks for thrill-seekers, it allows the visitors to rent a jeep to venture into the mountains. Tourists can also visit the Merapi Museum to gain some knowledge or they can take in the panoramic views of the conservation area from the Kaliurang Observation Tower.
 

5 | Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Home to Mount Semeru that stands 3,676 meters above sea level, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park offers another spectacular mountain experience.  It is the only conservation area in Indonesia that has a 10-km sea of sand called Tengger. Visitors can begin their journey by viewing the idyllic sunrise over Ranu Kumbolo and then visit the nearby pristine waterfalls. They can also climb Mount Bromo or the Mount Semeru to get their adrenaline pumping.
 

6 | Baluran National Park

Situated in Banyuwangi, Baluran National Park gives the visitors a unique opportunity to explore the golden tropical savanna-grassland. This national park is home to countless species of flora and fauna, including the fire kite, banteng, and mouse deer. Animal lovers can witness the wildlife first-hand with a tour guide or look out from the watchtower. Visitors can also explore the Bama Beach, hidden deep in the savanna.
 

7 | West Bali National Park

Unlike the natural parks mentioned above, West Bali National Park offers a varied habitat with its mangroves, lowland rainforest, acacia scrubs, savanna, and seasonal forests. The warm coastal beach of Prapat Agung lies in the north of this park. Another attraction for the tourists is Menjangan, a popular dive spot in this park.

Nature lovers can witness a vast variety of Indonesian wildlife that includes 17 mammals, 160 birds, and 176 flora species. Those who love to bird-watch can see the majestic Bali Starling, an endangered bird only found in this part of the world. 

Away from the hectic city life, a trip to these 7 national parks in Java and Bali will help you unwind and relax. However, until the time is right, stay at home, plan a trip, and add these locations to your list of post-pandemic adventures. The fresh air and wondrous sights of Indonesia await you.