World Elephant Day: Five Places to See Elephants in Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – World Elephant Day is observed on August 12 to raise awareness of the growing threats facing elephant populations around the world, particularly from poaching. The annual observance also highlights the importance of protecting and conserving these magnificent animals.

As the world’s largest land animals, elephants are known for their remarkable intelligence, strong social bonds, and unique behavior. Their fascinating characteristics have made them a popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.

In Indonesia, several destinations offer opportunities to observe elephants and learn more about these remarkable animals. Here are five places where you can see elephants in their natural or managed environments, according to Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism.

1. Way Kambas National Park, Lampung

Located in East Lampung Regency, Lampung Province, Way Kambas National Park was established in 1937 and is widely known for its elephant conservation and training programs. The park serves as a training ground where elephants are taught to adapt to different situations and take part in activities that support their survival and management. Visitors can explore the park and, under the supervision of trained handlers, experience activities involving elephants.

2. Tangkahan, North Sumatra

Tangkahan is an ecotourism destination in Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, known for its lush forests and pristine natural surroundings. The area is also home to Sumatran elephants. Visitors can get closer to these animals through supervised activities, including interacting with and bathing elephants in the river alongside their handlers.

3. Nunukan, North Kalimantan

Moving to Kalimantan, Nunukan in North Kalimantan is home to the Bornean elephant, or Elephas maximus borneensis. Often known as pygmy elephants because they are smaller than other Asian elephants, these animals are known to move across areas along the Indonesia-Malaysia border. Herds can reportedly be spotted along the Sebuku, Apan, and Tampilon rivers.

4. Tesso Nilo National Park, Riau

Tesso Nilo National Park in Riau is home to an estimated 60 to 80 Sumatran elephants. Unlike the elephants found at some managed conservation and training facilities, the elephants here live in the wild. Visitors can observe them along their regular routes with the assistance and guidance of field officers.

5. Minas Elephant Training Centre, Riau

The Minas Elephant Training Centre, or PLG, is located in Minas Jaya Village, Siak Regency, Riau, and is managed under the authority of the Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA). The centre trains elephants to adapt to their surroundings and helps prevent them from entering residential areas. Visitors can observe and interact with trained elephants under the supervision of handlers, including activities such as feeding and bathing them.

As World Elephant Day reminds us of the importance of protecting these magnificent animals, visiting elephant destinations can also be an opportunity to learn more about their lives and conservation. By supporting responsible wildlife tourism and respecting elephants and their habitats, we can contribute to efforts to protect Indonesia’s elephant populations for generations to come.