Birdwatching in Indonesia: our guide to the best birding locations

Sprinkled throughout the tropical waters between peninsular Malaysia and Australia, the 17,000-plus islands of Indonesia create a patchwork of exciting habitats, each with its own unique flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. The geography fosters extreme biodiversity, as the tropical climate and fragmented landmass have kept many areas relatively untouched, resulting in a high number of endemic species. To top it off, the landscapes are incredibly exotic, with volcanic peaks rising above lush rainforests, shimmering rice paddies, and crystal-clear seas bordered by stunning paradise beaches. Birdwatching in Indonesia is a thrilling adventure that should not be missed. Here are our must-visit locations for birdwatching in Indonesia.

Why go birdwatching in Indonesia?

Indonesia has long served as a fragmented bridge between Australasia and the Far East, making it an especially fascinating destination for naturalists, as it is the meeting point of two major groups of flora and fauna. Many of these species can be found in the Wallacea transition zone, where wildlife from both Australasian and East Asian regions coexist, alongside numerous species that are unique to this area. For birdwatchers, this diversity is a major draw, and in the Wallacea zone alone, there are 240 endemic species.

Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best birding locations within the archipelago for birdlife. While this list is by no means exhaustive (as birding opportunities in Indonesia are virtually limitless), it provides a broad overview of what you can expect in some of the key wildlife areas.

1. West Papua

It might be a bit more challenging to reach and travel around, but West Papua is the crown jewel of Indonesia’s many birding hotspots. Home to incredible species, including the famous birds of paradise, this tropical wilderness is a birder’s dream destination. Exploring ecosystems as diverse as snow-capped mountain ranges and tropical lowlands uncovers a wide variety of ornithological wonders that few people have ever seen. The pristine nature of West Papua calls for an adventurous trip, without the comforts of home, but the abundance of species and the excitement of its diverse habitats make the effort well worth it.

2. Way Kambas National Park, Sumatra

It’s the variety of ecosystems that makes this park such a rewarding destination for birders. Located in the lowlands in the south of Sumatra, it includes swamps, grasslands, rivers, and coastlines, and is home to nearly 300 species of birds. Some of the most sought-after species that attract birdwatchers from around the world are the white-winged duck and the Storm’s stork, both of which are extremely rare. This park is also a prime spot for nocturnal birdwatching in Indonesia, where sightings of oriental bay-owls, reddish scops-owls, large and Gould’s frogmouths, and Bonaparte’s nightjars are common.

3. Lore Lindu National Park, Sulawesi

Sulawesi has the highest percentage of endemic birds of any island in the world. In the center of the island, the 2,500-square-kilometer Lore Lindu National Park protects the forested plateau, which is home to 70 endemic bird species, including many montane species. While it’s a vast area, the best birding sites are concentrated in relatively accessible locations around the Wuasa and Sedoa villages, as well as the Anaso Track and Lake Tambing. Keep an eye out for species like the bare-faced rail, several hawk-owls and kingfishers, geomalia, great shortwing, purple-bearded bee-eater, and the maroon-backed whistler, among many others.

4. The Lesser Sundas

This chain of islands stretching east from Bali offers fascinating destinations for birders, with each island home to its own unique bird population, many of which are endemic. This area lies within the Australasian zone, meaning you’ll find many species here that are completely different from those in western Indonesia. You can combine an exciting trip to Komodo, the land of the Komodo “dragon” (actually a giant lizard), with the opportunity to see the endangered yellow-crested cockatoo, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon. Flores also offers great birding with a variety of endemics, and many prime birding spots are easily accessible from Labuan Bajo, the main point of arrival. Sumba is another excellent birding destination with plenty of species to discover at a small number of accessible sites.

5. Bali

Bali offers a surprisingly good selection of birding sites, some of which are home to a variety of interesting species, with the rare Bali starling being the most iconic. In the western part of Bali, one of the prime birding areas spans 750 square kilometers, covering rainforests, mangroves, and coastal plains, some of which can be explored on foot or by boat. The wild Bali starling’s last remaining habitat is within the park, and human presence is generally discouraged. However, there is a breeding center where you can see these beautiful birds up close. The Tegal Bunder Trail is a well-known highlight for birders, as are the boat trips into the mangroves around Gilimanuk Bay.

6. Java

Java may be one of the most densely populated islands in the world, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of birding opportunities here. The island offers a variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, temperate forests at higher altitudes, coastal lagoons, grasslands, and wetlands. Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park is the best place to search for Javan montane endemics, but to tick off a good number of species, it’s advisable to stay a few days and explore different altitudes. The Cibodas Botanic Gardens on the edge of the park provide a pleasant spot to stop and survey the canopy and open areas for birds. There are trails in the national park offering excellent viewing opportunities, both during the day and after dark. Species to look out for include endemics such as the Javan hawk-eagle, Javan fulvetta, Javan heleia, and the chestnut-bellied partridge, among many others.

Make it happen

If you have specific species on your wish list, our local experts are ready and waiting to create a customized itinerary to meet your needs. Similarly, if you’re looking for a broad introduction to birdwatching in Indonesia, our local experts can assist you. Simply send them a few details about your plans and priorities, and they’ll begin crafting a tailor-made trip that you can adjust until it’s the perfect vacation for you.