Exploring Baluran National Park: The Africa van Java

Have you ever imagined standing in the middle of a vast, golden savanna surrounded by exotic trees and wild deer, with a majestic mountain standing tall in the background? You don’t have to fly all the way to Africa to experience this. Welcome to Baluran National Park, a wildlife conservation haven affectionately called “The Africa van Java.”

Located at the border of Banyuwangi and Situbondo, Baluran offers an unforgettable, magical safari adventure. Here are the top highlights you must explore:

1. Bekol Savanna & Observation Tower

Bekol Savanna is the beating heart of Baluran National Park. This 300-hectare natural grassland changes dramatically with the seasons. In the dry season, it turns into a stunning golden-brown plain resembling Kenya’s savannas. In the wet season, it transforms into a lush, vibrant green carpet.

To get the best view, climb up the 3-story Observation Tower on the small hill behind the Bekol resort office. From the top, you get a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the savanna, the blue Bali Strait in the distance, and Mount Baluran standing guard over the area.

2. Amazing Wildlife

Baluran is home to hundreds of protected wildlife species. The most iconic is the Javanese Bull (Banteng), the symbol of the park. You will also easily spot:

• Timor Deer: Roaming the grass or drinking from waterholes.
• Green Peacocks: Displaying their beautiful feathers under the trees.
• Long-tailed Macaques: Very active, especially near the beach.
• Wild Water Buffaloes & Feral Cats: Occasionally stepping out from the bushes.

Tip: Visit in the early morning (06:00 - 08:00 AM) or late afternoon (03:30 - 05:00 PM) when the animals are most active and gather in the open savanna to drink.

3. Peaceful Bama Beach

A 3-kilometer drive from Bekol through a rocky forest trail brings you to Bama Beach. It features clean white sand and very calm, shallow waters. A wooden path on the west side takes you into the serene Bama Mangrove Forest, offering a peaceful walk under the shade of giant mangroves. Be careful with your bags, as the monkeys here are very curious!

Book a safari day trip with Travel Osing! We provide comfortable SUVs, experienced drivers, and official admission tickets so you can explore this spectacular safari park in complete comfort and safety.