Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park area

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Tanjung Puting National Park (Central Kalimantan, Central Borneo, Indonesia)
Jorge Franganillo, Wikimedia Commons

Pangkalan Bun serves as the primary entry point to Tanjung Puting National Park, a globally recognized sanctuary for Bornean orangutans and diverse wildlife. Visitors embark on multi-day river cruises aboard traditional 'Klotok' houseboats along the Sekonyer River, offering a unique opportunity to observe orangutans in their natural habitat at rehabilitation centers like Camp Leakey. The area provides an immersive experience into the rainforest ecosystem, home to proboscis monkeys, macaques, and various bird species.

Opportunities for socializing primarily occur on the 'Klotok' houseboats, where small groups of travelers share meals and experiences with the boat's crew and fellow passengers. Pangkalan Bun offers local cafes and markets, but these are generally not designated social hubs for a large gathering of international tourists or backpackers.

Top 4 Things to do in Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park area

Activities in the Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park area primarily revolve around multi-day river cruises aboard traditional Klotok houseboats, offering opportunities for close wildlife observation and immersion in the rainforest ecosystem.

1. Multi-Day Klotok River Cruise into Tanjung Puting National Park

Embark on a traditional wooden houseboat, known as a 'Klotok,' for a multi-day journey along the Sekonyer River, deep into Tanjung Puting National Park. This experience is the essence of visiting the area, allowing for continuous wildlife spotting from the boat's open decks and offering overnight accommodation directly on the river. The boat comes equipped with basic amenities, including sleeping mattresses with mosquito nets, a Western-style toilet, a shower, and a kitchen where a crew prepares all meals. You will glide past dense jungle, observing diverse flora and fauna, and experience the tranquility of sleeping under the stars amidst the sounds of the rainforest. It is essential to choose a reputable tour operator, as the quality of the experience heavily relies on the guide and crew.

Cost: Costs vary significantly based on the duration (typically 2-3 nights) and whether it's a private or shared tour. A 3-day/2-night private tour can range from approximately $450 to $1500 USD per person or group, depending on group size and inclusions. Shared tours can be around $500 USD per adult for a 3-day trip. Prices generally include full board meals, a guide, boat crew, national park permits, and transfers from Pangkalan Bun airport/hotel to Kumai port. Booking directly with local agencies is often more affordable than through international operators.

Transport: Pangkalan Bun's Iskandar Airport (PKN) is the primary entry point. From the airport, tour operators typically arrange a 20-30 minute land transfer to Kumai port, where the Klotok houseboat journey begins. There is no public transport directly to the Klotok boats; access to the park is exclusively by river via these boats.

2. Orangutan Feeding Stations (Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, Tanjung Harapan)

Visit the renowned orangutan rehabilitation and research centers within Tanjung Puting National Park, which include Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, and Tanjung Harapan. These stations host daily feeding sessions where semi-wild orangutans, accustomed to human presence, come to platforms for supplementary food like bananas. This offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe orangutans up close in a near-natural environment. Camp Leakey, established by Dr. Biruté Galdikas, is particularly significant for its long-standing research and conservation efforts. Each camp has specific feeding times (e.g., Pondok Tanggui at 9 AM, Camp Leakey at 2 PM, Tanjung Harapan at 3 PM). It is crucial to maintain a respectful distance, avoid making loud noises, and never attempt to feed or touch the orangutans, to support their rehabilitation process.

Cost: Access to these feeding stations is typically included as part of the multi-day Klotok tour package, covering park entrance fees and ranger fees.

Transport: All feeding stations are accessed via the Klotok houseboat along the Sekonyer River, often requiring a short walk through the jungle from the boat's docking point.

3. Jungle Trekking and Night Spotting

Engage in short treks through the rainforest from various points within the national park, often near the feeding stations. These guided walks offer a chance to explore the diverse jungle ecosystem on foot, learn about native flora and fauna, and potentially spot other wildlife beyond orangutans, such as proboscis monkeys, macaques, and various bird species. Some tours also offer optional night trekking, providing a unique perspective on the jungle's nocturnal inhabitants, where you might encounter tarantulas, pit vipers, and various insects.

Cost: Jungle trekking is generally included in Klotok tour packages, as it is part of the guided itinerary. Night trekking might be an optional add-on depending on the tour operator, but typically covered in comprehensive packages.

Transport: Accessible directly from Klotok docking points within Tanjung Puting National Park. Guests disembark the boat to begin the treks.

4. Explore Pangkalan Bun's Local Culture (Optional)

While Pangkalan Bun primarily serves as a transit town, a brief exploration can offer insights into local life and culture. Visitors can stroll through the local market to observe daily commerce and sample regional snacks. The town also features historical sites like the Istana Kuning (Yellow Palace) and Istana Pangeran Mangkubumi, offering a glimpse into local architectural heritage. The Arut River boardwalk provides a pleasant setting for observing riverside activities. Trying local delicacies like Soto Manggala, a regional specialty made from cassava, is also recommended. These activities are suitable if there is extra time before or after the main Klotok tour.

Cost: Most activities in Pangkalan Bun, such as visiting markets or palaces, have minimal or no entrance fees. Food and drink costs are generally low, with Coto Manggala costing around Rp 7,000 (less than $1 USD).

Transport: Pangkalan Bun is somewhat spread out. While some areas are walkable, online motorcycle taxi services are available for getting around the city. Taxis might be available but less common than motorcycle taxis for short distances. There is no specific public transport system for tourists within Pangkalan Bun.

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