A Sanctuary for Borneo's Wild Heart
Katingan River
Sebangau is home to the largest remaining population of wild orangutans in lowland Borneo, with over 6,000 individuals calling this vast peat swamp forest home. But it’s not just about the orangutans. This is an entire ecosystem thriving in its natural state—proboscis monkeys leaping through riverside trees, Storm’s storks gliding above the canopy, and gibbons calling through the morning mist.
Katingan River & Sebangau National Park
Flowing through Central Kalimantan’s largest unfragmented lowland peat swamp forest, the Katingan River forms the southern boundary of Sebangau National Park—one of Borneo’s most critical conservation areas.
Top Experiences along the Katingan River
Katingan River is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to witness Kalimantan’s wildlife in its natural habitat. Here are some of the top experiences you can enjoy in this extraordinary park
Orangutan Trekking
Trek deep into Sebangau National Park’s peat swamp forest with experienced local guides in search of wild orangutans. This isn’t a guaranteed sighting—it’s a genuine wilderness experience where patience and luck reward you with unforgettable encounters with the world’s largest arboreal ape in their natural habitat.
Peat Swamp Forest Walk
Experience one of Borneo’s most unique ecosystems on boardwalks that lead you deep into the flooded forest. Learn how this ancient peat—up to 15 metres deep in places—stores more carbon than most tropical rainforests and why its conservation matters for our planet.
Blackwater Lake Exploration
Paddle traditional canoes through the stunning Klaru River system, where the tannin-rich water creates perfect mirror reflections of the forest canopy. Watch for proboscis monkeys, rare Storm’s storks, and an incredible diversity of birdlife as you glide silently through this pristine landscape.
Conservation & Wildlife Focus
The Katingan River region sits at the heart of critical conservation efforts in Central Kalimantan. Sebangau National Park protects one of the last intact peat swamp forests in Borneo—a unique ecosystem that’s both incredibly biodiverse and globally significant for carbon storage.
Adopt an Orangutan
Make your visit to Katingan River even more meaningful by supporting orangutan conservation efforts. Through our partnership with leading conservation organisations working in Sebangau National Park, you can adopt an orangutan and contribute directly to protecting their habitat and ensuring their survival in the wild.
The Unique Ecosystem of Sebangau's Peat Swamp Forest
Sebangau’s peat swamp forest is unlike any other rainforest you’ve experienced. This is a waterlogged world where the forest floor is covered by a thick layer of peat—partially decomposed organic matter that’s accumulated over thousands of years, creating one of the world’s largest terrestrial carbon stores.
Peat swamp forest
The peat swamp forests along the Katingan River are among the most important ecosystems in Southeast Asia. With peat deposits reaching up to 15 metres deep, these forests store enormous quantities of carbon—making their protection critical in the fight against climate change.
Biodiversity
Sebangau National Park protects:
- 6,000+ wild orangutans (the largest lowland population in Borneo)
- 215 tree species adapted to peat swamp conditions
- 65 mammal species including gibbons, proboscis monkeys, and clouded leopards
- 172 bird species including eight hornbill species
- 55 fish species, many found nowhere else on Earth
- Countless invertebrates, reptiles, and amphibians
This is one of Borneo’s most biodiverse regions, and every visit reveals something new.
Culture
The Dayak communities living along the Katingan River have inhabited these forests for generations, developing a deep understanding of and respect for this unique ecosystem. During your cruise, you’ll visit riverside villages where traditional livelihoods continue—from fishing in the river’s abundant waters to sustainable collection of forest products.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Sebangau National Park
Best Times
The Katingan River can be visited year-round, though each season offers different experiences. The dry season (April-October) makes forest trekking easier, while the wet season (November-March) sees higher water levels, making canoe exploration even more spectacular as the forest floor floods.
What to Bring
Pack light, breathable clothing, sturdy waterproof shoes for forest walks, and plenty of insect repellent. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife watching and a good camera—though remember, the best moments often happen when you simply immerse yourself in the experience.
Physical Requirements
Trekking in peat swamp forest requires a moderate level of fitness. The boardwalks are generally accessible, but forest walks can be challenging with uneven terrain and high humidity. Your guides will adjust activities to your group’s abilities.
Explore Our Cruise Collection
Ready to experience the wild heart of Borneo? Our Katingan River cruises offer an authentic wilderness adventure with comfortable accommodation, expert guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. From searching for wild orangutans in Sebangau National Park to learning about Dayak culture in riverside villages, every day brings new discoveries.
