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Bantimurung-Bulusaraung Overview

Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park, known locally as Taman Nasional Bantimurung Bulusaraung, is a breathtaking expanse of nature located in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Encompassing approximately 168 square miles (433 square kilometers), this park is a sanctuary of biodiversity and dramatic landscapes, offering a fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s natural heritage.

It lies near the city of Makassar, making it easily accessible to visitors who seek a retreat into pristine wilderness and geological wonders.  The park is renowned for its karst limestone formations, which are among the largest in the world. These formations create an otherworldly terrain of towering cliffs, hidden caves, and underground rivers. The most famous of these caves include Leang-Leang and Pangkajene, which are rich in prehistoric art and archaeological significance.

The park’s central attraction is the Bantimurung Waterfall, an impressive cascade that flows into a serene pool surrounded by lush tropical greenery. This picturesque site has earned the park the nickname “The Kingdom of Butterflies” due to the vast array of butterfly species that thrive in the area. The vegetation here varies from dense tropical forests to karst-adapted flora, offering a visually diverse and ecologically complex environment.

Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its dense forests and unique ecosystems support a variety of species, including several that are endemic to the region. Among the key mammals found here are the Sulawesi macaque, the Sulawesi civet, and the anoa, a dwarf buffalo native to Sulawesi.

Birdwatchers will find delight in spotting vibrant species such as the Sulawesi hornbill, the black naped monarch, and the rare Maleo bird, which lays its eggs in volcanic sand or soil warmed by geothermal heat. The park’s rivers and caves are also home to an array of amphibians, reptiles, and insects, including the park’s famous butterflies, with over 250 species recorded.

Visitors to the park often engage in activities such as trekking through jungle trails, exploring caves, swimming in natural pools, and observing butterflies in their natural habitat. The park is also a cultural treasure, as the nearby villages offer insights into traditional Bugis and Makassar cultures.

The park provides opportunities for guided tours, which delve into the region’s unique biodiversity and geological history.  Despite its natural beauty, the park faces significant conservation challenges. Habitat loss due to illegal logging and human encroachment has threatened many species.

Additionally, the trade in butterflies, though regulated, poses a challenge to maintaining their populations. On the positive side, efforts by local communities and park authorities have focused on sustainable tourism and reforestation projects. Education programs and scientific research initiatives aim to balance ecological conservation with human activities, ensuring the park remains a thriving ecosystem.

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Park Map
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Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park Highlights

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Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park, located in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, is celebrated for its striking limestone karst landscapes, caves, waterfalls, and incredible biodiversity. It is particularly famous for its rich variety of butterfly species, earning it the nickname “Kingdom of Butterflies.” Alongside these delicate insects, the park is home to a variety of fascinating animals that draw nature enthusiasts from all over the world.

Celebes Crested Macaque
The Celebes crested macaque, also known as the Sulawesi crested macaque, is a distinctive primate with black fur, a striking crest of hair, and bright pink skin around its rear. It is highly social and known for its playful behavior, often seen foraging in groups.

Sulawesi Bear Cuscus
This tree-dwelling marsupial is unique to Sulawesi and is recognized for its thick, woolly fur and slow movements. The Sulawesi bear cuscus feeds mainly on leaves, flowers, and fruits, and it spends most of its time in the forest canopy.

Anoa
Also known as the dwarf buffalo, the anoa is a small bovid endemic to Sulawesi. It is known for its shy nature and inhabits dense forests, feeding on grass, leaves, and shrubs.

Sulawesi Warty Pig
This wild pig is endemic to Sulawesi and is characterized by its distinctive facial warts, which are more pronounced in males. It is a key part of the ecosystem, playing a role in seed dispersal.

Tarsier
One of the smallest primates in the world, the tarsier is famous for its enormous eyes and nocturnal lifestyle. These agile jumpers are insectivores, hunting for prey during the night in the park’s dense forests.

Sulawesi Civet
A shy and elusive mammal, the Sulawesi civet is a carnivorous species native to the region. It inhabits forests and feeds on a mix of fruits, small animals, and insects.

Malayan Flying Lemur
Despite its name, this gliding mammal doesn’t actually fly but uses flaps of skin to glide between trees. It is an expert climber and feeds on soft plant materials like leaves and fruits.

Monitor Lizard
Large and adaptable, monitor lizards can be spotted in the park’s forests and along waterways. They are opportunistic feeders, preying on small animals, eggs, and carrion.

King Cobra
The king cobra, the world’s longest venomous snake, can sometimes be found in the park’s forests. It is highly revered and feared due to its potent venom and imposing size.

Wallace’s Flying Frog
This arboreal frog glides from tree to tree using its webbed feet. Its bright green body with a yellow underside is a striking sight against the forest canopy.

Birds

The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich diversity of avian species. From vibrant tropical birds to elusive forest dwellers, the park’s birdlife is a testament to its ecological richness.

Sulawesi Hornbill
With its large casque and striking plumage, the Sulawesi hornbill is a prominent bird in the park. It feeds on fruits and plays an essential role in seed dispersal.

Purple-winged Roller
This brightly colored bird is known for its vibrant plumage and agile flight. It is often seen perching on branches, scanning for insects.

Yellow-billed Malkoha
A shy and secretive bird, the yellow-billed malkoha has striking green plumage and a long tail. It is often spotted in dense forest canopies.

Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher
This tiny kingfisher with vibrant blue and orange colors is an endemic species. It thrives near streams and rivers, feeding on small aquatic prey.

Knobbed Hornbill
Recognizable by its large orange casque, the knobbed hornbill is a charismatic species and an important seed disperser in the forest ecosystem.

Great Eared Nightjar
A nocturnal bird, the great eared nightjar is known for its camouflaged plumage and haunting calls at night. It hunts for insects in the dark.

Sulawesi Scops Owl
This small, cryptic owl is known for its soft hoots and excellent camouflage. It inhabits forested areas and preys on insects and small mammals.

Black-naped Oriole
With its striking yellow and black plumage, the black-naped oriole is a common sight. It is known for its melodious calls and fruit-based diet.

White-bellied Sea Eagle
This majestic bird of prey can occasionally be seen soaring over the park. Its powerful wings and piercing gaze make it a magnificent sight.

Green-backed Kingfisher
Endemic to Sulawesi, this striking kingfisher is characterized by its green plumage and reddish-orange bill. It inhabits lowland forests and feeds on small invertebrates.

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