Bukit Bangkirai Rainforest

A patch of old-growth lowland rainforest about 45 minutes from central Balikpapan by car, featuring a canopy walkway suspended between several enormous bangkirai trees at heights up to 30 metres. The walkway gives access to the forest canopy — the most biodiverse zone in a tropical rainforest — and makes an otherwise invisible world accessible.

The surrounding trails are well-maintained and pass through forest that, while bounded by logging concessions, gives a genuine impression of Borneo's original tree cover. Hornbills, gibbons, and various raptors are regularly spotted from the canopy walkway. Go early — before 09:00 — for the best wildlife activity and before the tour groups arrive.

things to do nature sight hiking
A story
Bangkirai takes its name from the bangkirai tree (Shorea laevis), one of the dominant hardwood species of Bornean lowland dipterocarp forest. The species can live for 1,000 years and reach 40 metres in height. The canopy walkway at Bukit Bangkirai — suspended between these giants — was one of the first eco-tourism infrastructure projects in Kalimantan and remains one of the best.