Meru Betiri National Park: Exploring the Untouched Natural Beauty of East Java
Meru Betiri National Park – Discover the unspoiled natural wonders of East Java through an adventurous journey to Meru Betiri National Park, located in the Pesanggaran District, between the borders of Banyuwangi and Jember Regencies.
A Sanctuary of Rare Flora and Fauna
Meru Betiri National Park covers an impressive 580 square kilometers, with geographic coordinates of 8°21’–8°34′ South Latitude and 113°37’–113°58′ East Longitude. This park has been under protection since 1931, initially preserved by the Dutch East Indies Government. The park is famously known as the last habitat of the Javan Striped Tiger. Besides the tiger, it is home to other rare and endangered species, such as the Javan Flying Squirrel and the magnificent Rafflesia Zollingeriana flower.
Coastal Wonders and Turtle Conservation
In addition to its lush forests, Meru Betiri National Park features a stunning 8.54 square kilometer coastal area with pristine beaches. Sukamade Beach is one of its most famous sites, serving as a nesting ground for several endangered turtle species, including the Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Hawksbill, and Green turtles. Visitors can witness the magical sight of turtles laying their eggs and even participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean.
Another beautiful beach in the park is Rajegwesi Beach, where you can swim or engage in local fishing activities. For those who love marine tourism, Green Bay offers crystal-clear waters with striking green-blue hues.
Mountain Peaks and Scenic Trails
Since its public opening in 1982, Meru Betiri National Park has attracted nature lovers and adventurers alike. The park features various highland areas with elevations reaching up to 1,200 meters. Some notable peaks include Mount Meru (343 meters) and Mount Betiri (1,233 meters), along with Mount Sumbudadung, Mount Sukamade, Mount Rajegwesi, and several others, all offering stunning views of the landscape.
How to Get to Meru Betiri National Park
To reach Meru Betiri National Park, you have several options. From Jember, it’s a three-hour journey via the Ambulu-Curahnongko-Bandealit route. If you’re coming from Banyuwangi, the Jajag-Sarongan-Sukamade route will take you around five hours. For those starting from Surabaya, the journey to Jember takes approximately six hours.
Travelers can also reach Jember or Banyuwangi by train or other public transportation, including buses, motorcycle taxis, and minibuses. For a more comfortable trip, consider renting a tour car from a reliable travel agency.
Activities and Accommodation in Meru Betiri National Park
Visitors to Meru Betiri National Park often enjoy hiking along the forest trails or exploring the river systems. Some travel agencies offer vehicle rentals to enhance your experience in navigating the park’s terrain.
For accommodations, there are several options both within the park and in nearby towns. One popular option is the Rafflesia Homestay near Sukamade Beach, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and participate in daily beach activities. The majority of hotels are located in Jember or Banyuwangi, providing comfortable stays for visitors.
Contact Information
For inquiries about visiting the park, you can reach out to the park office:
- Jl. Sriwijaya 53, Jember, East Java, 68121
- Phone: +62 331 321530
- Email: meru@telkom.net
Experience the unspoiled beauty of Meru Betiri National Park and discover the natural treasures that East Java has to offer!
