Balikpapan in East Kalimantan on the east coast of Indonesian Borneo is not exactly your everyday tourist destination.
It is mainly frequented by international workers involved in the currently booming coal and oil mining projects.
Others include a few tourists who visit the Samboja Lestari Orangutan and Sun Bear Sanctuary. This is one of the more easily accessible places to see rescued animals in a natural tertiary forest environment in Indonesia.
Bangkirai Hill Rainforest – a nature lover’s delight
One hour from the Samboja Lestari Ecolodge, or 90 minutes north west of Balikpapan, is a primary rainforest, Bukit Bangkirai or Bangkirai Hill.
The 15km road to the entrance is not sealed and can be rough. You need your own mode of transportation as there is no public transport to access it.
There is a small entrance fee so have some loose cash with you. Note also that the only toilets in the area are at the entrance.
The Canopy Bridge near Balikpapan
There are many treks through the rainforest for visitors. But a short walk from the entrance is the highlight. The Canopy Bridge is high up in the forest canopy.
It is a system of linked rope bridges at a height of 35 to 40 metres.
Interspersed impressive solid platforms give a great vantage point to see local wildlife.
If you are lucky you may spot hornbills, gibbons, leaf monkeys, macaques and maroon langur monkeys.
Binoculars are a definite asset. And don’t forget to insect repellent as the mosquitoes are fierce.
The Bridge
The bridge was built in 1998 from imported materials from the USA. The only local material used was the timber.
The sign at the entrance describing the construction was written in funny Indonesian English.
Priceless!
Views to die for
The early morning started out with bright sunshine that changed to a tropical downpour as we approached the Canopy Bridge entrance.
Although we persisted with the walk, the rain sent all the wildlife scurrying for cover so our visit was fairly wildlife free.
It was still worthwhile as the thrill of negotiating the swinging canopy walk in the rain and wind was a challenge, especially when trying to take photos.
The forest impacts on the local climate by increasing rainfall and reducing the ambient temperature by several degrees.
From the canopy we could see huge clouds rising from the forest prior to it coming back at us as rain.
A few macaques and hornbills were running for cover, as well as two beautiful peacocks.
The sounds in the canopy were also very different from those on the rain forest floor.
The walk is easy, if you are not afraid of heights, but the steps could be challenging to some.
Best advice for travel to Balikpapan
If you are in the vicinity of Balikpapan, you should not miss an opportunity to visit this rainforest.
The best times to visit would be the early morning or late afternoon when the forest comes alive.
Do not try it in the rainy season. If the weather is too treacherous the bridge is likely to be closed, so it is always best to check beforehand.
Remember this is a rainforest. Weather patterns can change rather quickly. So a poncho or rain jacket, lots of water to drink and some very good insect repellent are a must.
Irene Isaacson travelled at her own expenses.
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