Sumatera Birding

Overview

Way Kambas Birding Tour & Way Kanan Birding Tour

Way Kambas National Park, located in Lampung province of southern Sumatra, Indonesia, spans an area of approximately 1,300 km². The park features a mix of swamp forests and lowland rainforests, primarily composed of secondary growth due to extensive logging activities that occurred in the 1960s and 1970s. 

Despite the significant environmental challenges it faces, including decreasing populations of wildlife, Way Kambas is home to critically endangered species such as the Sumatran tiger, Sumatran elephant, and Sumatran rhinoceros. Additionally, the park hosts over 400 bird species, making it a favored destination for avid birdwatchers in the region.

In recognition of its biodiversity and ecological importance, Way Kambas and Way Kanan were officially designated as ASEAN Heritage Parks in 2016. However, the park continues to confront threats from poaching and habitat loss attributed to illegal logging operations. 

Conservation initiatives in the area include regular patrols to protect wildlife, alongside the establishment of important facilities such as the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary and the Elephant Conservation Centre. Notably, in response to the declining population of Sumatran rhinoceroses, the International Rhino Foundation undertook efforts in 2019 and 2021 to capture and relocate three individuals within the park.
Some Bird list of Sumatra Way Kambas National Park  : White-winged Duck “Rare”, Sunda Frogmouth, Brown Wood Owl Large Frogmouth,
Reddish Scops Owl, Bonaparte’s Nightjar, Chestnut-breasted and Chestnut-bellied Malkohas, Scarlet-rumped Trogon, Red-naped Trogon and Diard’s Trogons, Sooty Barbet, Rufous-winged Philentoma, Buff-necked and Banded Woodpeckers, Greychested Jungle Flycatcher, and Plain Flowerpecker, Sooty capped Babbler, Dusky, Black-and-Red Broadbill, Black-and-Yellow Broadbills, Malaysian Blue Flycatcher, Redcrowned Barbet, Raffles’s Malkoha, Rufous-collared Kingfisher, White throated Kingfisher, Yellow-eared Spectacled Spiderhunters, Yellow-bellied and Puff-backed Bulbuls, Banded Broadbill, Green Broadbills, Buff rumped, Rufous, and Grey-and-Buff Woodpeckers, Rufous-collared Kingfisher, Red billed Malkoha. Sumatran Babbler, Buffy Fish Owl, Ruby-cheeked Sunbird, Malaysian Eared-Nightjars, Oriental Bay Owl, Malayan Banded Pitta and  Short-tailed Babbler.
Mammals found in the region include a variety of intriguing species. Notably, the Sunda leopard cat is known for its striking appearance and adaptability. The Sambar deer and lesser mouse deer contribute to the diverse herbivore population, while the Sunda slow loris adds a charming presence with its unique traits. Additionally, the pig-tailed macaque is recognized for its social behavior, and the Sumatran elephant plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as a keystone species. Lastly, the Sumatran siamang, with its distinctive vocalizations, contributes to the rich biodiversity of the area.

Itinerary

Sumatra Way Kambas – Way Kanan Birding Tour* 
Duration:4 Days, 3 Nights  
Accommodation: Sumatra Ecolodge  

Itinerary Overview

Day 1
Upon arrival at Lampung Airport, guests will be picked up and transported to the Sumatran Elephant Ecolodge, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. Depending on arrival time, there may be an opportunity for afternoon birding.

Day 2
Enjoy a full day of birding in Way Kanan and Way Kambas National Park, renowned for its diverse avian species.

Day 3
Continue birding with another full day in Way Kanan and Way Kambas National Park, further exploring the rich birdlife of the region.

Day 4
On the final day, partake in early morning birding before departing for Lampung Airport, with the schedule dependent on flight timings.

Inclusions:
- Transportation via private car
- Accommodation at Sumatra Ecolodge
- Entry permits for national parks
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Mineral water and snacks
- Shared twin accommodation
- Local tours and services of a local guide
- Logistics for the trip

This birding tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of Sumatra while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided experiences.