Hidden under the majestic Barito Bridge, there is a small paradise called Bakut Island. This island is a nature conservation area located in the middle of the Barito River, about 15 kilometers from the center of Banjarmasin City, South Kalimantan. Although not too large, Bakut Island offers a soothing natural atmosphere typical of a swamp tropical forest, combined with an amazing panorama of the stretch of bridge that is an icon of South Kalimantan.
To reach Bakut Island, visitors can take a road trip to the Barito Bridge, which connects Banjarmasin City with Barito Kuala Regency. From the bridge parking area (right under the Barito Bridge), there is a small pier where tourists can rent a kelotok (traditional boat) to cross to the island, only about a 5–10 minute water ride.
Bakut Island is a natural habitat for Bekantan or Proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus), an endemic animal of Kalimantan that is the mascot of South Kalimantan Province. From the pier or observation bridge, visitors can often see a flock of proboscis monkeys hanging from the branches of Rambai or Nipah trees on the riverbank.
In addition to wildlife, Bakut Island also offers:
- A wooden trekking trail that crosses swamp forests and tropical vegetation.
- A lookout tower that allows visitors to enjoy the panoramic view of the Barito Bridge from the stunning lower corner.
- A natural photo spot against the backdrop of a large river, green forest, and a magnificent steel structure of the bridge.
- An environmental education area, visitors can learn about river ecosystems, mangroves, and proboscis monkey conservation.
Unfortunately, on this occasion, I was unable to encounter a group of proboscis monkeys along the trail. I could only hear their calls in the distance, and the camera zoom couldn’t capture their activities.
Location :
That concludes my contribution this time. I hope it is useful. If there are any inaccuracies in my writing, please confirm so I can correct them. Thank you.