In the far northeast of East Java, where dry winds blow from the sea and grasslands stretch toward a sleeping volcano, lies one of Indonesia’s most unique landscapes — Baluran National Park. Covering more than 25,000 hectares, this area is often called “Africa van Java” or “Africa on Java” for its vast savanna and open wilderness unlike anywhere else on the island.
According to Bambang Wisnu Setianto, the Head of Baluran National Park, nearly 40 percent of the park’s total area consists of savanna. The rest is a mix of mangrove forests, coastal ecosystems, and lowland forests. “Baluran represents Java’s natural diversity — from dry savanna to lush mangrove and coral beach,” Bambang told Radar Nganjuk in an interview. “Our main challenge is maintaining this balance while promoting eco-tourism that doesn’t harm the environment.”
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The Beauty of Savana Bekol
At the heart of the park lies Savana Bekol, its most iconic spot. This vast grassland is the main attraction for visitors and photographers. Here, the view opens wide to reveal golden fields with Mount Baluran rising in the background. During the dry season, from May to October, the grass turns amber, giving the area a distinctly African look. When the rains return, the landscape becomes bright green again, teeming with wildlife.
As reported by Suara Jatim Post, Savana Bekol is home to various species of wild animals that can often be spotted from the road or from observation towers. Among them are banteng (wild Javanese cattle), deer, wild buffalo, and long-tailed macaques. For birdwatchers, Baluran is a paradise — with more than 150 species recorded, including peacocks, hornbills, and the rare green junglefowl.
Visitors who arrive early in the morning are often greeted by a breathtaking sunrise that paints the savanna with shades of gold and pink. The moment the first rays touch the grassland, the park seems to come alive — monkeys swing through the trees, herds of deer cross the open plains, and peacocks spread their feathers near the watering holes.
From Savanna to Sea
While most people come for the savanna, Baluran also hides another gem just a few kilometers east of Bekol: Bama Beach. This coastal area offers calm turquoise waters and mangrove forests rich in marine life. According to Suara Jatim Post, Bama Beach is ideal for snorkeling, where visitors can see coral reefs and colorful fish. It’s also a good place to spot migrating birds and watch fishermen return from the sea.
Visitors can also climb the Bekol observation tower, which offers panoramic views across the savanna and towards the mountains. During the dry season, the sight of herds of banteng walking across the dusty plains below is something many describe as unforgettable.
Baluran National Park is managed by the Balai Taman Nasional Baluran, an agency under Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry. According to Bambang Wisnu Setianto, maintaining the delicate balance between conservation and tourism is not easy. “We want people to enjoy Baluran, but at the same time, we need to protect the ecosystem,” he said.
One of the main threats to the park is invasive species, particularly Acacia nilotica, which spreads quickly and replaces native grass species. This invasive tree reduces the grazing area for herbivores such as banteng and deer. Park rangers and volunteers regularly work to remove the plant and restore native grasslands.
There are also efforts to increase community involvement. Local villagers are encouraged to participate in eco-tourism programs, guiding visitors or providing homestays around the park. “Conservation only works when local people see benefits from protecting the park,” Bambang added.
A True “Africa on Java”
The park is accessible from both Banyuwangi and Situbondo, with the main entrance located about two hours from Banyuwangi city center. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the landscape takes on its iconic golden hue. However, those who visit during the rainy season will find a greener, more tropical view, with more active wildlife.
Visitors must register at the entrance gate, and vehicles are required to stay on marked roads. The park recommends bringing enough water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife spotting.
Standing on the edge of Savana Bekol as the sun sets, with Mount Baluran casting its long shadow across the plains, it’s easy to see why people call this place the “Africa of Java.” The sight of wild banteng grazing under an orange sky evokes a sense of freedom and raw beauty that’s rare in the densely populated island of Java.
For many visitors, Baluran is more than just a tourist destination — it’s a reminder of Indonesia’s incredible ecological richness and the importance of preserving it. As Bambang Wisnu Setianto said, “If we protect Baluran today, we’re not just saving a landscape. We’re saving a living classroom for future generations.” (Wage Erlangga)
