Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park Travel Guide

Discover the natural, cultural, and culinary wonders of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park by following this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best activities, attractions, food, and lodging options, as well as tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit.


Introduction to Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the southwestern coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Spanning 3,568 square kilometers, it is one of the largest and most biodiverse national parks in Southeast Asia.

The park is named after the Bukit Barisan mountain range, which runs from the north to the south of Sumatra. The mountain range is home to many endangered species, including the Sumatran rhinoceros, Sumatran tiger, and Asian elephant. Therefore, Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is a crucial habitat for these animals’ survival.

The park’s varied topography features mountains, rivers, and beaches, providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, camping, and even surfing on the national park’s southern coast.

This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit to Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Lampung Museum
  • The Krakatau Volcano Observatory Museum

Natural Attractions of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Way Kambas National Park
  • Mount Anak Krakatau
  • Merak Beach
  • Gunung Payung Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

  • Gunung Pulung Trail
  • Mount Rajabasa Trail
  • Mount Pesagi Trail

Best Things to Do in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Elephant safari in Way Kambas National Park
  • Explore the island of Mount Anak Krakatau
  • Surfing at the national park’s southern coast
  • Snorkeling and diving at Krakatau Dive Resort

Week-Long Itinerary for Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Day Activities
1 Explore the Lampung Museum and other cultural attractions
2 Take an elephant safari in Way Kambas National Park
3 Hike the Gunung Pulung Trail
4 Go surfing at the national park’s southern coast or relax on Merak Beach
5 Snorkel or dive at Krakatau Dive Resort
6 Trek Mount Rajabasa
7 Explore the Krakatau Volcano Observatory Museum and Gunung Payung Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pempek (deep-fried fish cakes)
  • Lakso (rice noodles in fish broth)
  • Sate Padang (grilled marinated meat skewers)

Local Beverages

  • Teh Talua (egg tea)
  • Kawa Daun Singkong (cassava leaf tea)
  • Kopi Luwak (civet coffee)

Where to Stay in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Krakatau Nirwana Resort
  • Rajabasa Hotel and Resort
  • Way Kambas Elephant Lodge
  • Aer Hotel Malin Kundang

What to Buy in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Lampung textiles and crafts
  • Sumatran coffee beans
  • Pempek flour mix

Local Culture and Customs of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Indonesian is the official language of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. English is relatively widely spoken in tourist areas. Locals are friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to ask for directions or assistance.

Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, which is reflected in the national park’s culture and customs. Visitors should dress modestly in public places and show respect for local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

The best time to visit Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is during the dry season, from May to September. During this period, the weather is favorable for outdoor activities, and wildlife sightings are more likely.

The rainy season, from October to April, can make hiking trails slippery and not ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the best time for bird watching, as many migratory species are present during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Do:

  • Follow the park’s rules and regulations
  • Stay on designated hiking trails
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the park’s natural resources
  • Approach wildlife or feed them
  • Swim in prohibited areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Although crime is relatively low in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, visitors should take general precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Visitors to Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park will encounter potential hazards such as uneven terrain, dangerous wildlife, and natural hazards such as landslides. Therefore, visitors should be mindful and cautious when participating in outdoor activities such as trekking or surfing to avoid accidents.

Health in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Malaria is present in Sumatra, and visitors should take appropriate precautions, such as wearing long sleeves, using mosquito repellent and bed nets, and taking antimalarial medication.

It’s essential to bring along basic medical supplies, such as sunscreen, first-aid kits, and medication for any pre-existing conditions.

Getting to Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

  • Radin Inten II International Airport in Lampung
  • Minangkabau International Airport in Padang

Bus Stations Near Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

  • There are several bus stations available in Bandar Lampung, such as Rajabasa Bus Station, Tanjung Karang Bus Station, and Way Jepara Bus Station.

Other Options

We recommend hiring a private car or joining one of the many scheduled tours available in the area.

How to Get Around in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Visitors can use private cars, motorcycles, and bicycles to explore the park’s attractions. Many organized tours and shuttle services are available for visitors who prefer door-to-door transportation.

Where to Go Next from Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Palau Tanjung Putus Island in Lampung
  • Pandeglang Regency in Banten
  • Merak Beach in Anyer

Conclusion

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park offers an impressive range of natural and cultural attractions that will delight outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. By following this comprehensive travel guide, you will be ready to embark on an exciting adventure and explore Sumatra’s stunning beauty and rich culture.