Bali conjures up images of long surf beaches, ancient temples and mountains swathed in verdant jungle and rice terraces. It really is a gorgeous island to explore and is one of our most popular destinations for those seeking a little more than just a beach. A typical holiday would combine the island’s rich culture and scenery around Ubud, with one of its vibrant beach locations or remote islands.
However what about wildlife? I think people regularly associate jungle with animals and we are often asked what trips we can arrange. Bali does have wildlife and guests will no doubt come face to face with monkeys in Ubud’s Monkey Forest, spot Sterling birds and deer in West Bali National park or dive with Manta Rays of Menjangan Island. However beyond Zoos and Wildlife Parks there aren’t really any endemic animals. Indonesia on a broader scale does have some unique nature experiences which are well worth tagging on to your Bali holiday and can easily be arranged by Turquoise Holidays.
Kalimantan – Orangutans
En route from Singapore to Bali, fly into Java for a few days, where you can visit Borobudur Temple, before hopping over to Kalimantan in Southern Borneo. This is a wonderfully remote part of the world and a special place for close up encounters with orangutans. Vast rivers cut through pristine jungle in Tanjung Putting National park, providing exceptional opportunities to observe wildlife on board. Established as a national park in 1982 and comprised of more than 400,000 hectares of mangrove swamp, rainforest and dense jungle, the park is home to a huge number of primates and more than 600 species of bird.
With local guides, visitors search for orangutans and proboscis monkeys, as well as other animal and birds that call the rainforest their home. Fly in to Pangkalan Bun where you’ll be met and transferred to your Klotok (a simple house boat) on which you’ll live for the next few days whilst cruising along the river. You’ll stop off at Camp Leaky, a renowned orangutan research and rehabilitation centre. This experience is absolutely unique and off the beaten track, but it’s VERY simple. Don’t expect luxury but expect to be wowed!
Click here for an example of how this fits into a bespoke holiday to Indonesia
Komodo Islands
For lovers of the underwater world, an extension to the Komodo national park is a must. Not only can you spend time on the islands viewing the Komodo Dragons, the whole national park is home to pristine reefs and unspoilt remote beaches. Access is via a direct flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. On arrival you will be met and transferred either to a coastal resort, from which you can take a day cruise to the islands, or our preferred experience is a two or three night live aboard yacht.
Turquoise can create many different itineraries, but here is an example of how the Komodo Islands might fit into a tailor made holiday to Bali and beyond.
