Sometimes, the best destinations are the ones we stumble upon by accident. That was exactly the case when my two friends and I decided to spend an afternoon in Situbondo. We were looking for a place off the beaten path—somewhere new, quiet, and refreshing. "Try searching for a hidden gem," my friend said while scrolling through social media. That’s when we came across a curious name: Kampung Kerbau—literally Buffalo Village. At first, we thought it was just another livestock farm. But once we arrived, we were stunned by vast green meadows, open skies, and herds of buffalo freely roaming the land. It felt like walking straight into a living postcard.
Getting to Kampung Kerbau
Kampung Kerbau is located in the Tanjung Pecinan area, Mangaran District, Situbondo, East Java. From Situbondo city center, the trip takes about 30–40 minutes by car or motorcycle. The roads are in decent condition and accessible for most vehicles. We left around 3 PM, followed the main road heading toward Mangaran, and let Google Maps guide us the rest of the way. As we neared the area, the scenery shifted into flat grasslands, swamps, and mangroves. If you’re unsure about the way, don’t hesitate to ask locals—they’re friendly and happy to help.
Free Entry, Priceless Experience
One thing that truly surprised (and delighted) us: the entrance was completely FREE. That’s right—no ticket fees. You’re welcome to explore as long as you respect the space and keep it clean. There’s a small parking area, and locals help direct you. They don’t demand any fees, but we gave a small parking tip out of courtesy.
Meadows, Marshes, and Friendly Buffaloes
Once you step onto the open savanna of Kampung Kerbau, it feels like entering a nature documentary. Hundreds of buffaloes roam freely across the wide grasslands, bordered by shallow swamps and mangrove edges. Some buffaloes wade in muddy puddles, others graze peacefully, and many just relax under the warm sun. They’re surprisingly tame and calm—even when approached by visitors.
The local farmers have a unique way of raising them. Instead of keeping them in pens, the buffaloes are allowed to roam free during the day to minimize stress and promote healthy growth. The farmers observe them from a distance, often sitting under trees or chatting while keeping an eye on the herds. This natural method also helps them save on feeding costs. Smart and sustainable.
A Scene That Stays With You
What makes Kampung Kerbau truly special is its atmosphere. The gentle breeze, the distant sound of waves from the nearby shore, and the golden sunlight reflecting off the water create a peaceful, almost magical mood. We laid out a mat on the grass and just sat in silence for a while—watching the animals, snapping photos, and enjoying the slow rhythm of the day.
Sunset was the highlight. As the sky turned orange and the buffaloes slowly began heading back toward their shelters, everything felt serene. That kind of moment doesn’t need filters or captions—it just stays with you.
Tips Before You Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Kampung Kerbau, here are some tips to make the most of it:
- Visit in the Late Afternoon: The best time to go is between 3:30–5:30 PM when it’s cooler and you get to enjoy the sunset.
- Bring a Mat or Blanket: If you want to sit and relax, a small picnic mat will come in handy.
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: You’ll be walking through grass and potentially damp ground, so wear sandals or outdoor shoes and light clothing.
- Charge Your Camera/Phone: You’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy spots—don’t miss out because of low battery!
- Leave No Trace: Bring a trash bag and take your litter with you. Help keep the place pristine.
- Respect the Animals and Locals: Don’t disturb the buffaloes or take close-up shots without caution. If you want to photograph local farmers, kindly ask first.
Final Thoughts
Kampung Kerbau is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and a traditional way of life. Perfect for anyone seeking peace and a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a nature lover, or just someone needing a break from the hustle of city life, this place offers a quiet kind of beauty that’s rare to find.
So if you’re ever in Situbondo and want something truly unique (and free!), make time to visit Kampung Kerbau. You might just leave with a lighter heart and a camera roll full of magic.
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