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Baluran National Park – The Little Africa of Java Baluran National Park is unique in many ways. Located in Situbondo Regency, this park has a relatively dry climate and a quintessential savanna, making it the only place in Indonesia that allows travellers to enjoy close encounter with exotic animals like the Javanese wild ox (banteng), barking deer, feral water buffalo and various other species in an African-like setting. Expect to savour an undeniably stunning view of the Mount Baluran (an inactive volcano) located in the centre of the park. Baluran National Park has an observation tower on a hill at Bekol that provides the opportunity to see animals from a distance. When travellers journey another 15 kilometres from the park entrance, they are bound to stumble upon a beautiful white beach called Bama Beach, the habitat for coral reef, fish and mangroves. Getting there: Best way to visit Baluran National Park is by hiring a local driver from Situbondo or Banyuwangi (Around one hour and 30 minutes’ drive from both regencies). Tip: The panorama in Baluran undergoes a dramatic change depending on seasons – the best time to visit is during the later half of the dry season, which is from June to October. GPS: -7.831093, 114.387969
West Java Kawah Putih Located near the charming little market town of Ciwidey, approximately 50 kilometres south of Bandung, Kawah Putih (White Crater) is one of West Java’s charms due to its surreal turquoise coloured lake inside with a stunning backdrop of tree-clad cliffs surrounding it. Since it is located 2,500 metres above sea level, the local climate is normally chilly with the temperature around 10 to 15 degrees Celcius. Travellers should spend a few hours and stroll around the crater to admire the area’s natural splendour. Getting there: From Bandung, the trip takes a little over two hours depending on traffic. Once arrived at the Kawah Putih entrance, travellers need to take angkot (a mini-van) that will transfer them to the crater. GPS: -7.165885, 107.402129
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Enchanting Baluran National Park - one of the greatest gems in East Java Kawah Putih promises a unique experience to witness the beautiful and surreal turqoise coloured lake
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