Parks

PLG Way Kambas

4.4 · 1,382 reviews
Wild, humid, and focused on conservation.
VPHR+8HP PLG Way Kambas, Way Kambas, Timur, Indonesia, Hutan, Kabupaten Lampung Timur, Lampung 34194, Indonesia
Interesting facts
1

The park contains the only captive breeding facility for Sumatran rhinos in the world.

2

It is home to the International Rhino Foundation’s flagship sanctuary.

3

The park was originally established as a Wildlife Reserve by the Dutch East Indies government in 1937.

4

It serves as a critical buffer zone for the Way Kambas River ecosystem, preventing further illegal encroachment into the forest.

5

The Elephant Training Center was specifically created to address human-wildlife conflict by using trained elephants to herd wild elephants away from agricultural land.

Overview

Way Kambas National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Indonesia and a premier center for Sumatran elephant conservation. Located in Lampung, the park protects lowland rainforest and swamp habitats spanning over 1,300 square kilometers. It serves as a sanctuary for the critically endangered Sumatran rhinoceros, hosting the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. Visitors primarily engage with the Elephant Training Center, which facilitates education and human-elephant conflict mitigation. The ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including sun bears, tapirs, and several species of primates. Conservation efforts here focus on anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration. The park is characterized by dense riverine forest and open grasslands. It remains a critical research site for tropical biodiversity in Southeast Asia.

Photo spot

The riverbank areas at sunrise where mist lingers over the forest canopy.

Insider tips

Wear long sleeves and trousers to protect against dense vegetation and insects.

Bring high-quality insect repellent containing DEET for tick and mosquito protection.

Hire a local guide to increase the likelihood of spotting elusive fauna within the dense forest.

Keep a respectful distance from all animals, especially captive elephants, to avoid stress to the animals.

What to avoid

Feeding or attempting to touch the elephants without the explicit permission and supervision of their handlers.

Etiquette

Dress modestly and maintain low noise levels; avoid wearing bright colors that might disturb wildlife.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Dry season (April to September) for better trail access and higher animal visibility at watering holes.
Address
VPHR+8HP PLG Way Kambas, Way Kambas, Timur, Indonesia, Hutan, Kabupaten Lampung Timur, Lampung 34194, Indonesia
-5.122, 105.741
Get directions
Details
Wildlife FocusSumatran Rhinos and Asian Elephants
Habitat TypeLowland rainforest and swamp forest

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Dry season (April to September) for better trail access and higher animal visibility at watering holes..

The riverbank areas at sunrise where mist lingers over the forest canopy.

Close by you'll find Lapangan PU Way Jepara, Lapangan BRAJAASRI, Nusantara Tropical Farm.

Indonesia

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