Sometimes, we only need one simple thing to break a boring routine: walking.
Anyway, as long as it doesn't go to the same place anymore. And that was the beginning of why my three friends and I decided to go to Meru Betiri National Park.
Without a complicated itinerary, only determination, capital, full gasoline, and the spirit of having a cup of coffee in the middle of the forest. Yes, we go there just to enjoy a cup of coffee and then turn around. Go home. That's how it is when men are gathered. There were strange ideas that came up, and it was crazy again; we made it happen. That's how we made our trip to Meru Betiri National Park come true.
Our goal is clear: to pursue serenity and wonder in one of the most "wild" national parks in East Java.
Meru Betiri National Park is famous for its diverse landscapes and the remains of the legendary Javan tiger trails. Meru Betiri is not just a destination but a surprise experience complemented by the beauty of natural panoramas and exciting stories during the trip.
An Exciting Journey to Meru Betiri
Before we tell you about the trip to Meru Betiri from Situbondo, we want to give a disclaimer first: Don't rely on Google Maps completely!
Geographically, Meru Betiri National Park stretches across two districts, Jember and Banyuwangi. This conservation area has an area of more than 52 thousand hectares.
Because the area is very large, you can enter from two main routes: from the direction of Jember (via Ambulu) or from Banyuwangi (via Pesanggaran). We chose the Jember route—closer to our starting point in Situbondo.
From the center of Jember, our journey to the main post in Andongrejo Village (Ambulu) took about 2.5 hours. The road at the beginning was smooth, but once it entered the protected forest area, the asphalt turned into a macadam road, rocky and sometimes muddy in the rainy season.
Fortunately, we took an SUV-type car. If you bring a sedan? Wow, better think twice.
To enter the national park area, we are charged an entrance ticket of IDR 10,000 per person for local tourists, plus a vehicle fee of IDR 10,000.
Oh yes, if you go to Meru Betiri via the Banyuwangi route and enter via the Rajagwesi Entrance, you will be charged a different entrance ticket at a price of IDR 20,000 per person for local tourists, plus a vehicle fee of IDR 10,000.
P.S.: You can check the complete ticket cost and other costs in the picture above.
Walking Wild and Peaceful Meru Betiri
Once you enter the Meru Betiri area, the journey full of struggle through the makadam, rocky, and sometimes muddy road will feel broken down thanks to the beautiful scenery in this lingung forest area.
The air feels cooler, the sound of the engine is replaced by the chirping of birds, and the distinctive smell of tropical forests begins to waft through the air.
Meru Betiri is not a place for those who are looking for a 5G signal or contemporary coffee. This is a place for those of you who want to hear the sounds of nature and feel the tranquility without distractions.
We had a stop at several interesting points, such as Rajegwesi Beach, which was the initial stop spot before continuing to Teluk Hijau and Sukamade.
In Rajegwesi, we met the friendly locals, served young coconuts, and told us about how the area has changed since it was used as a wildlife sanctuary.
Oh yes, Teluk Hijau, aka Green Bay, is a nature photographer's paradise. The seawater is really turquoise green, the sand is pure white, and it is surrounded by dense forests.
To get here, we had to walk about 1 km from the parking lot, but it felt like walking into a painting. Worth every drop of sweat!
Before forgetting, for those of you who go to Meru Betiri for research and/or photography needs for commercial needs, there are usage rates that need to be taken care of and paid to the manager, yes. We also attach the list and the full costs below.
Secret Mission: Peek into the Life of Turtles in Sukamade
The highlight of our trip was an overnight stay in Sukamade. This is not only the beach but also home to the turtles that come to lay eggs every night. We stayed in a simple homestay owned by residents at a cost of around IDR 150,000 per night, including dinner and breakfast.
But not all homestays or residents offer the same facilities. Please ask and chat first with the residents who own the house or homestay that you want to stay in.
The facilities are indeed mediocre, but compared to the experience offered? Really worth every penny.
Around 8 pm, we participated in a beach patrol with officers from the Meru Betiri National Park Center. A small flashlight in hand, a slow step in the sand, and eyes staring darkly.
We were lucky that night to meet a green turtle that was digging a hole to lay eggs. It's amazing to see how nature works in its own way. No sound, no camera glare, but so magical.
Meru Betiri is Not Just a Forest, But Home to Hundreds of Flora and Fauna
Meru Betiri is not just about the beach and turtles. This conservation area is home to more than 500 species of plants and 325 species of animals, including Javan langurs, lorises, peacocks, and bulls. In fact, in the past, this national park had been the last habitat of the Javan tiger before it was declared extinct.
Although there is no new evidence of the existence of the legendary stripe, residents and officers still guard this forest as if the king of the forest is still behind the trees.
At some points, you can see endemic plant types, such as rare padmosari flowers, or traces of tiger activity through educational information boards. This is a place that not only amazes me but also makes me realize how precious nature is that is still preserved. Want to have a family vacation in Meru Betiri? Make sure to prepare as well as possible. Some tips from family travel bloggers like Rumikasjourney can really help you!
Tips & Tricks for Adventure in Meru Betiri
Enjoying the beauty and natural richness in Meru Betiri National Park is exciting and extraordinary. So, for those of you who are interested and want to take a vacation to this national park, here are some tips that can be considered and prepared in advance:
- Use a tough vehicle—the trails are challenging, especially in the rainy season. At least ride a dirt bike or a car with high ground clearance.
- Bring food and water—don't expect too many stalls. At some points, like Sukamade, there are only local stalls with limited choices.
- Use outdoor clothing and weatherproof shoes—trekking here requires stamina and comfortable outfits.
- Respect nature and animals—Don't litter and follow the officer's directions, especially when participating in turtle patrols.
- Come in the dry season—access is easier, and more active animals are seen. In addition, in the dry season you don't have to worry about your vehicle getting stuck on muddy roads.
Conclusion: Finding Yourself in the Jungle
Meru Betiri National Park may not be as popular a choice as Bromo or Ijen Crater. But that's where the attraction lies.
The dense forests, quiet beaches, and still-throbbing wildlife in Meru Betiri are a reminder that nature always has room for anyone who is willing to appreciate and care for it.
If you need a place to "pull over," heal from the hustle and bustle of the city, or just want to experience what it's like to be a guest in a real natural house, Meru Betiri may be your best answer.
Because sometimes, the most memorable adventure is not the easiest to reach but the one that is most deeply imprinted in the heart.
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