There’s no doubt that Indonesia’s natural parks and marine reserves are some of the most stunning on the planet, bursting with rich biodiversity, astonishing landscapes and extraordinary ecosystems. These protected areas, both on land and below the surface, provide a unique glimpse into the incredible diversity of this wonderous archipelago, from dense rainforests and volcanic mountains, to colourful coral reefs and rich marine life. It’s a true paradise for those craving raw beauty and wild encounters!
Get ready to explore 15 of Indonesia’s top national and marine parks and start planning for your next wild escape!
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1. Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Indonesia’s crowning jewels. Located in the Lesser Sunda Islands between the provinces of East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara, it’s home to the legendary Komodo Dragon – the world’s largest lizard! The park was originally established in 1980 to protect these mighty prehistoric beasts, but has since expanded its conservation efforts to also include the region’s marine biodiversity. Explore the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Padar and the western tip of Flores, where around 5,700 Komodo Dragons roam. Getting there is easy – simply fly into Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores and hop on a boat into this wild wonderland. If you are holidaying in Bali, Jakarta or other major cities in Indonesia, you’ll easily find connecting flights to this untamed Jurassic Park of the archipelago.
Location: FFCM+W8 Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
2. Ujung Kulon National Park
Experience Ujung Kulon National Park, a treasure trove of biodiversity located at the southwestern tip of Java Island. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1991, this park is home to a dazzling array of ecosystems, from lush tropical rainforests to stunning coastal mangroves. Not just a feast for the eyes, this national park is also a critical sanctuary for endangered wildlife, in particular the Javan Rhinoceros – one of the rarest mammals on Earth, with fewer than 80 left in the wild! Covering around 1,206 square kilometres, Ujung Kulon is a spectacular kaleidoscope of land and marine ecosystems that are just waiting to be explored!
Location: 698G+42H, Ujungjaya, Banten
3. Lorentz National Park
Step into the enchanting world of Lorentz National Park, one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most biodiverse national parks, found in the stunning Papua province of Indonesia. Covering around 2.4 million hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been captivating visitors with its incredible diversity. What makes Lorentz truly special is the fact that it’s the only protected area on the planet that features every type of ecosystem, from rainforests and wetlands, to mangroves and coral reefs. Home to a staggering amount of wildlife, here you can find over 630 species of birds including Cassowaries and Birds Of Paradise, and perhaps spot one of the 123 mammal species that call this park home, such as the adorable Tree Kangaroo, Spotted Cuscus and Papuan Echidna. It’s a nature-lover’s dream come true!
Location: 9XCF+33V, Yakapis, Papua
4. Tanjung Puting National Park
Welcome to the wonders of Tanjung Puting National Park, one of Indonesia’s most celebrated national parks nestled in Central Kalimantan on the beautiful island of Borneo. Covering a whopping 416,000 hectares, this sprawling park is famous for its lush rainforests and its crucial role in orangutan conservation. Proudly named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977, it provides a safe haven for the critically endangered Bornean Orangutan. With around 6,000 wild and semi-wild orangutans swinging through the treetops, you’re bound to encounter these spellbinding creatures, especially at the world-renowned Camp Leakey where you can watch their feeding and rehabilitation up-close. Pack your bags (and your mosquito spray) for an eco-adventure you won’t forget!
Location: Teluk Pulai, Kumai, West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan 74181
5. Bunaken National Marine Park
Bunaken National Park is one of Indonesia’s most celebrated marine parks, which can be found just off the coast of Manado in South Sulawesi. Since 1991, this gorgeous marine park has been captivating snorkellers and divers alike, with a staggering 97% of the park being dedicated to underwater marine habitats. The Bunaken National Park is part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world. With over 390 coral species and over 2,000 varieties of fish, including parrotfish, clownfish, barracudas, sharks and sea turtles, you’ll be swimming amongst a rich tapestry of ocean life. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins and whales which can often be seen frolicking in the waves.
Location: Kawasan Youth centre, Pelabuhan Marina plaza, Mega mas kawasan, Manado City, North Sulawesi
6. Bali Barat National Park
Get ready to explore Bali Barat National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat), nestled in the western side of Bali. Since 1941, this incredible park has been preserving the island’s rich wildlife and habitats, showcasing Bali’s delicate ecosystem of lush rainforests, mangroves, sandy beaches and coral reefs. It’s home to a diverse array of wildlife including the elusive Bali Starling, an endangered bird that can only be found on the island, as well as Javan Rusa Deer, wild boars and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. With an underwater world full of coral reefs teeming with fish, it’s a great excuse to grab your snorkel and uncover some of Bali’s magical marine life!
Location: VFCG+X44, Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali
7. Way Kambas National Park
Way Kambas National Park is one of the oldest and most renowned national parks in Indonesia, located in the Lampung Province of Sumatra. Founded in 1985, this vast park covers around 1,300 square kilometres of lush lowland rainforests, swamps, grassy plains and winding rivers. One of its highlights is the Way Kambas Elephant Conservation Centre (also known as Elephant Training Center), where you can meet the adorable and critically endangered Sumatran Elephants and learn how they are being protected. Whilst you’re there, be sure to check-out the Sumatran Rhinoceros Sanctuary (SRS), where dedicated efforts are underway to protect and breed these mighty creatures which are sadly on the brink of extinction. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Indonesia’s wildlife conservation!
Location: Hutan, East Lampung Regency, Lampung
8. Kepulauan Seribu Marine National Park
Find your ticket to a tropical getaway at Kepulauan Seribu Marine National Park (Taman Nasional Laut Kepulauan Seribu). This enchanting archipelago of over 110 small islands is tucked-off the north of Jakarta, but couldn’t be more different to the bustling metropolis of the capital city. Escape from the hustle-and-bustle as you discover breathtaking beaches, thriving coral reefs and a wealth of marine life in this conservation hotspot. Dive into an underwater paradise teeming with over 300 species of reef fish, crustaceans and coral reefs that provide shelter for species such as Clownfish, Parrotfish, Reef Sharks, and even the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle.
9. Gunung Leuser National Park
Immerse yourself in nature at Gunung Leuser National Park, one of Indonesia’s largest and most biologically diverse conservation areas. Located on the northern tip of Sumatra, the park covers an area of approximately 7,927 square kilometres, stretching across the provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra. Part of the UNESCO Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra and a World Heritage Site, Gunung Leuser plays a crucial role in the preservation of some of the world’s most endangered species, such as the Sumatran Orangutan, Sumatran Tiger, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Sumatran Elephant. In fact, the park’s forests are one of the last refuges for the Sumatran Orangutan, making it a must-visit for those interested in seeing these great apes in the wild. Whilst Sumatran Tigers and Sumatran Rhinoceroses also roam the dense forests, sightings of these elusive animals are rare.
Location: GF97+P97 Barisan mountain range, Aceh 24653
10. Raja Ampat Marine Park
Prepare to be dazzled by the bucket-list-worthy paradise of Raja Ampat Marine Park, located in West Papua. This breathtaking park features a jaw-dropping 1,500 islands and spans around 46,000 square kilometres, making it one of the most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in the world and a dream destination for nature-lovers. As part of the Coral Triangle and renowned for its astonishing biodiversity, Raja Ampat beckons divers to explore its crystal-clear waters and pristine marine wildlife. Home to an extraordinary variety of aquatic creatures, including over 1,300 species of reef fish, 600 varieties of coral, molluscs and crustaceans, this is a picture-perfect destination like no other!
Location: Waisilip, Waigeo Barat, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua
11. Wakatobi National Park
Wakatobi National Park is a stunning marine conservation area located in Southeast Sulawesi which covers a staggering 1.4 million hectares. Part of the Coral Triangle, Wakatobi is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its coral reefs, making it a top destination for divers and marine enthusiasts. The park is a haven for marine life, with over 750 species of coral and more than 1,400 species of fish, including various reef fish, sharks and rays, as well as unique species that are found nowhere else on the planet! A big hit with divers, Wakatobi has plenty of amazing dive sites to explore, including Tomia Island, Kendari and Hoga Island, where you can experience thrilling wall and reef dives, and even muck dives – highlighting why Wakatobi is a true underwater treasure.
Location: CWPJ+J57, Lentea, South East Sulawesi
12. Karimunjawa National Park
The enchanting sanctuary of Karimunjawa National Park can be found around 80 kilometres north of Jepara, Central Java. It features 22 idyllic islands known for their stunning coral reefs, white sandy beaches and rich marine biodiversity. Part of the Karimunjawa archipelago, this eco paradise boasts over 500 species of fish and 200 varieties of coral, making it a feast for the eyes both above and below the water’s surface. Snorkel, dive and swim amongst coral reefs, mangroves and lush seagrass beds, creating the perfect playground for spotting turtles, rays and even sharks in their natural habitat.
Location: 5C2Q+CRQ, Karimunjawa, Jepara Regency, Central Java
13. Kelimutu National Park
If you’re looking for natural wonder, then Kelimutu National Park is guaranteed to deliver! Found on the island of Flores, this trio of mystical colour-shifting lakes are perched at the summit of Mount Kelimutu. Bursting with natural beauty and gorgeous flora and fauna, it’s the lakes that steals the show with their ever-changing colours, influenced by the volcanic activity, weather and mineral content of the water. The cultural significance of these lakes is also very important to the local tribes who believe that each lake holds its own significance:
- Tiwu Ata Mbupu: The lake of the elderly, often blue in colour.
- Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai: The lake of the young men and maidens, which shines with a green tinge.
- Tiwu Ata Polo: The lake of the bewitched, usually red or brown.
Kelimutu National Park is a magical spot, with its tropical rainforests and rich surroundings playing home to various local wildlife, including birds and monkeys.
Location: 7Q5V+9CQ, West Detusoko, Detusoko, Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
14. Baluran National Park
Nicknamed the “Little Africa of Java,” Baluran National Park in East Java offers an Indonesian safari experience you won’t forget! Covering 25,000 hectares of savanna, mangrove forests and coast line, this park is teeming with wildlife and one of Indonesia’s most diverse conservation areas. Here you may be lucky enough to spot the rare Javanese Bull, wild Banteng cattle, Black-winged Kites and Yellow-vented Bulbul, as well as deer, monkeys and a whole host of reptile species. After your wild wonderland adventures, be sure to stop-off at the nearby Bama Beach and take a refreshing dip in the clear turquoise waters, or just soak-up the sun along the pristine shores.
Location: Area Hutan/Kebun, Sumberwaru, Banyuputih, Situbondo Regency, East Java
15. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
Last, but not least on our must-visit list is the breathtaking Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java. With its dramatic volcanic landscapes, including Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru and the Tengger Caldera, adventure-seekers will have their pick of thrilling hikes, sunrise views and endless photo-ops in one of Indonesia’s most epic natural playgrounds. From misty savannahs to rolling forests and alpine peaks, the park’s rich landscape is home to all kinds of Javanese endemic wildlife, including deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species. Whether you’re hiking the rugged terrain or admiring the volcanic vistas, the wild beauty of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is sure to satisfy your wanderlust!
Location: XXH2+7X4, Ranupani, East Java
