Sukamade Wildlife

Sukamade Wildlife

A 4WD off-road journey through the jungle and a basic eco-lodge.

Duration2 days · 1 night
RouteBanyuwangi round trip
Private Group1–4 people
Difficulty
Moderate

Itinerary

Day 1

Banyuwangi City – Off-Road Journey to Sukamade

A Journey Through Plantations, Tropical Forests & Untouched Wilderness

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel, train station, or another agreed meeting point within Banyuwangi City. Meet your local team, receive a short introduction to the journey, and get ready to explore the remote landscapes of southern Banyuwangi aboard a rugged 4WD vehicle.

As we leave the city behind, the scenery gradually changes from local settlements and countryside roads to expansive plantations of cocoa, rubber, and other tropical crops. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of rural life before entering the greener and more secluded surroundings of Meru Betiri National Park.

The journey becomes increasingly adventurous as the vehicle navigates winding forest tracks, uneven terrain, muddy paths, and river crossings, depending on the weather and road conditions. Every turn reveals a different view of the rainforest, making the journey itself an essential part of the experience.

Upon reaching Sukamade, a quiet coastal area surrounded by tropical vegetation, we will check in at a simple eco-lodge. Take some time to settle in, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and recharge before the evening's main activity.

Evening Experience | Sea Turtle Nesting Tour

After dinner, prepare for a guided night excursion to Sukamade Beach, a well-known nesting area for sea turtles. Accompanied by local guides and following the conservation team's instructions, you will have the opportunity to learn about the nesting process and, if nature allows, observe a female sea turtle coming ashore to lay her eggs.

Experience the remarkable atmosphere of the beach at night, where the sound of the waves and the darkness of the coastline create a truly special wildlife encounter. The activity is conducted with respect for the turtles and their natural habitat, so visitors must follow the guide's instructions regarding distance, lighting, photography, and movement.

Sea turtle sightings are never guaranteed, as the activity depends on natural conditions and the animals' behavior. However, the opportunity to explore this protected coastal environment makes the experience memorable in its own right.

After the excursion, return to the lodge and enjoy a well-deserved rest surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Overnight: Sukamade Eco-Lodge (basic accommodation)

Main Experiences: 4WD off-road adventure, cocoa and rubber plantations, rainforest exploration, river crossings, and a guided sea turtle nesting excursion.

Day 2

Sukamade Beach – Turtle Conservation Experience – Pulau Merah – Banyuwangi City

From Wildlife Encounters to the Beautiful Southern Coast

Wake up early and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Sukamade before beginning the morning's conservation-related activity.

Morning Experience | Baby Turtle Release

If a release session is scheduled and baby turtles are available, join a guided activity to release young sea turtles, known locally as tukik, into the ocean. Watch as these tiny creatures make their first journey toward the sea, an inspiring moment that highlights the importance of protecting marine wildlife and preserving coastal ecosystems.

The activity depends on hatchling availability, conservation schedules, weather, and local regulations. The release is supervised by local conservation personnel, and participants must follow all instructions to minimize disturbance to the animals.

After the activity, return to the lodge for breakfast. Enjoy your final moments in Sukamade, pack your belongings, and complete the check-out process before continuing the journey.

Late Morning | Off-Road Journey Out of Sukamade

Board the 4WD vehicle once again and travel back through the forest tracks of Meru Betiri National Park. The return journey offers another opportunity to appreciate the surrounding rainforest, plantation landscapes, and remote countryside.

Road conditions can affect the travel time, so the schedule may be adjusted to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Midday to Afternoon | Visit Pulau Merah (Red Island)

Continue toward Pulau Merah, one of Banyuwangi's best-known coastal destinations, recognized for its broad sandy beach, scenic coastline, and distinctive reddish hill near the shore.

Upon arrival, enjoy time to relax by the beach, admire the ocean views, or take photographs of the surrounding landscape. For guests interested in surfing, a surfboard rental is included in the package, subject to local availability and suitable sea conditions.

Whether you prefer enjoying the coastal scenery or trying a few waves, Pulau Merah provides a refreshing contrast to the dense forests and remote wilderness of Sukamade.

Guests are encouraged to follow local safety advice before entering the water, especially when waves or currents are strong.

Afternoon | Return to Banyuwangi City

After enjoying the beach, we will begin the return journey to Banyuwangi City. Sit back and relax as the scenery transitions from the southern coastline and countryside to the more developed areas of the city.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your preferred location within Banyuwangi City, which can include:

Your hotel or accommodation in Banyuwangi City
Banyuwangi Kota Train Station
Ketapang Train Station
Banyuwangi Bus Terminal
Ketapang Ferry Port
Another agreed drop-off point within the Banyuwangi area

Please provide your preferred drop-off location in advance so the team can coordinate the schedule accordingly. For train or ferry departures, we recommend allowing sufficient time for the journey and check-in procedures.

What's Included

  • Private 4WD jeep for jungle & trip
  • 1 night stay at Sukamade eco-lodge (basic accommodation)
  • Meals 4x: lunch & dinner (Day 1), breakfast & lunch (Day 2)
  • Night tour to see sea turtles laying eggs
  • Baby turtle release activity
  • Surfboard rental at Red Island
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Mineral water during the trip
  • Entrance fees & permits (Meru Betiri NP & Sukamade beach)

Not Included

  • Flight / train tickets to & from Banyuwangi
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tipping (driver/guide)

Things to know

  • Epic adventure / off-road vibes – crossing rivers & deep jungle
  • Forget the signal, it’s pure offline paradise
  • Accommodation at Sukamade is basic & simple (eco-lodge style, no luxury, limited electricity). It’s part of the adventure vibes
  • Turtle sighting is natural, so it depends on nature’s luck (but chances are high!).
  • Bring comfortable shoes, light jacket, and some snacks.