Ujung Kulon National Park occupies the remote southwestern tip of Java, covering about 760 square kilometers of dense tropical forest, coastline, and offshore islands. The Dutch established it in 1921 to protect the Javan rhinoceros, and it remains the last place on earth where the species survives in the wild. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wildlife here is abundant. Wild pigs, deer, river otters, hornbills, and several primate species are all regularly spotted. The Javan rhino itself is rarely seen — only around 80 remain — but the knowledge that they are somewhere in the forest gives the place a charged atmosphere. The surrounding seas around Peucang and Panaitan islands have excellent coral reefs.
The best time to visit is April through October. Access starts at Labuan or Tamanjaya on the mainland, where the park authority (PHPA) issues permits and arranges boat transport. Peucang Island on the park's western edge has a guesthouse and a small restaurant, making it the most comfortable base. Handeuleum Island to the north is another option. If you want to hike the full peninsula trail, plan on three days for the 45-kilometer route and bring your own food and sleeping gear. Hiring a guide through the PHPA at Tamanjaya is mandatory for trekking.