Sobat Pesona, you must be familiar with Senggigi. Its long coastline and stunning panorama have made Senggigi one of the icons of West Lombok tourism. But, it turns out that Senggigi Tourism Village has attractions beyond the beach. This time, let’s go on a little adventure to Kerandangan Nature Park (TWA) and try a unique tourism agenda: bird watching! Experience Indonesia in 360
"Hunting" Birds with a Lens in TWA Kerandangan
This conservation forest, covering more than 300 hectares, is home to about 56 species of wild birds, including the endemic Celepuk Rinjani, as well as other beautiful birds like the blue-feathered River Kingfisher, the Elegant Pitta, and the Flores Hawk-Eagle. You can spot these birds using binoculars provided by the park or even with the naked eye if you’re lucky.
Bird watching tourism is still a niche category, not as popular as, say, marine tourism. Its enthusiasts are mostly international tourists and wildlife photography fans. But there’s a unique thrill when you manage to spot these birds flying and interacting freely in their natural habitat. No wonder international tourists are willing to pay up to USD 300-400 for this nature experience.
A guide will take Sobat Pesona along a trekking path lined with lush trees, showing you spots where certain birds like to perch or taking you to camouflaged areas to peek at these birds’ hangouts. The guide will also explain each bird's unique characteristics, so you can learn a lot while you’re here. And remember, it’s recommended to wear non-bright clothes and keep quiet, so the birds feel comfortable and are more likely to appear.
Bird Photos from Wahyudi Amin’s Collection
In the camouflage zone, with a distinct whistle, the guide calls specific birds, like the Elegant Pitta, who respond with a similar sound. Soon, the bird appears right in front of you, separated only by camouflage netting. It’s guaranteed you’ll be enchanted by these beautiful birds.
While exploring, Sobat Pesona might be guided by Wahyudi Amin, one of the bird-watching tourism initiators who originally worked as a guard and cleaner at the nature park. He was inspired to develop bird-watching tourism after noticing that many tourists came with binoculars or cameras, as it turns out this area is a favored spot for wild birds.
Armed with international field guides and years of personal observation, along with collaboration with academic colleagues, Wahyu developed TWA’s initial data. Because of this, he can provide detailed information on each bird species, specific spots, and ideal times for sightings. Wahyu also educates the community on the importance of nature conservation and the economic value of ecotourism.
Now, in addition to helping manage the park, some locals are also forest police partners who regularly patrol the TWA area. This forest even serves as a release site for animals that were rescued from illegal capture. Amazing, isn’t it?
According to Wahyu, the best time to visit is from June to August. More domestic tourists are now coming because of the growing wildlife tourism trend. In a year, Wahyu and his team guide up to 50 trips. Thanks to the development of this niche tourism, locals are not only more environmentally conscious but also benefit economically from new job opportunities in TWA.
“Birds are more valuable in the wild than in cages,” Wahyu emphasizes. Completely agree!
Sunset and Culinary Delights at Senggigi Tourism Village
After admiring the wildlife and TWA Kerandangan, Sobat Pesona shouldn’t miss the chance to enjoy a beach sunset. This time, try visiting Kerandangan Beach, which is relatively quieter than Senggigi Beach. For a more local feel, try the local cuisine at beachside stalls, such as grilled fish or sate bulayak. Bulayak is a small rice cake wrapped in palm leaves, usually paired with chicken or beef skewers, a Lombok specialty.
If you’re still hungry on the way back, you can choose from the stalls and restaurants along Senggigi Road. Among them is Yessy Café, managed by Nanda, a young man who, while studying international relations, also serves guests in his father’s restaurant. Nanda’s hospitality, chatting with guests including international tourists, makes the dining experience more enjoyable. Word has it that there’s a staff member at the restaurant who’s been working for decades and speaks over a dozen languages! How cool!
So, when are you planning to visit Senggigi Tourism Village? Travel #OnlyInIndonesia, and may Sobat Pesona have a fantastic journey!
