Mumbai: As Indian tourist arrivals in Indonesia continue to grow, Taman Safari Indonesia (TSI) is positioning wildlife tourism as an alternative to the country's traditional beach and urban itineraries.
The conservation and wildlife management group operates a network of safari parks and nature resorts across Java and Bali, offering visitors the opportunity to observe animals such as Komodo dragons, Sumatran elephants, orangutans, and tigers in expansive, naturalistic settings.
The focus on wildlife experiences comes amid a steady increase in Indian arrivals to Indonesia. Data from Statistics Indonesia show that Indian visitor numbers rose from 606,439 in 2023 to 710,207 in 2024, while Indonesian tourism authorities have set higher targets for the Indian market in the coming years. Improved air connectivity between major Indian cities and Indonesia, coupled with visa-on-arrival facilities, has further strengthened travel demand.
Against this backdrop, Taman Safari Indonesia is encouraging travellers to explore destinations beyond conventional sightseeing circuits. The group operates six wildlife and recreation destinations and manages more than 22,000 animals representing 673 species, combining conservation, education, and tourism experiences.
For Indian families, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography travellers, the parks offer safari-style journeys through open habitats, alongside resort stays set amid Indonesia's tropical landscapes. The experiences are designed to showcase the country's biodiversity while introducing visitors to some of Southeast Asia's most iconic and endangered species.
In an exclusive interview with Universal Newsline, Alexander Zulkarnain, Chief Marketing Officer of Taman Safari Indonesia Group, shares insights into how Taman Safari Parks in Indonesia cater to the evolving needs of Indian travellers.
Most of the Indian tourists are particular about their food. What dining options do you offer for Indian visitors?
We understand the importance of food for our Indian guests. We already have Indian chefs on our team and offer multiple food corners and restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine.
As per our park regulations, visitors are not permitted to bring outside food into our parks. However, we ensure that the quality and authenticity of our Indian meals meet the expectations of Indian travelers and align with the service standards we promise our guests.
What about families travelling with infants or children who may require homemade or special meals?
We provide pre-booked meal options for guests with special requirements. Whether it is food for infants, children or guests with specific dietary needs, arrangements can be made in advance. Visitors can inform their tour agent or our representatives about their requirements. We work closely with destination management companies (DMCs), travel partners in India, and our teams in Bali and Jakarta. Once the request is communicated, our Indian chefs can prepare customized meals accordingly.
Are there specific animal shows or presentations that visitors should plan their visit around?
At Taman Safari, we prefer to call them Animal Presentations and Educational Programs rather than animal shows because we are fundamentally a conservation organization. We conduct a variety of animal presentations throughout the day, led by our animal educators and caregivers. These programs are designed not only to entertain but also to educate visitors about wildlife conservation, the relationship between humans and nature, and the importance of protecting animals from threats such as poaching.
Our goal is to tell compelling stories that help audiences understand how humans, wildlife, and nature can coexist in harmony.
Indian tourists come from different budget segments, from backpackers to affluent luxury travelers. What kind of packages do you offer?
We recognize that travelers have different expectations and budgets. We offer affordable ticket options suitable for value-conscious visitors and the growing Indian middle class, which has significant purchasing power. At the same time, we also cater to high-net-worth and ultra-luxury travelers who seek personalized services and exclusive experiences.
Our goal is to ensure that every visitor, regardless of budget, enjoys a memorable safari experience.
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| Muchamad Raynald Ghazali, Ms. Endrati Fatriani, Alexander Zulkarnain and Ms. Naomyscha Attalie Maza |
Do you offer multi-day packages?
Each of our parks is designed to provide a full-day experience. However, guests staying in our resorts can extend their visit into a two-day or longer experience. Resort stays allow visitors to enjoy additional activities and immerse themselves more deeply in the wildlife and nature experiences that Taman Safari offers.
For a backpacker or budget traveler, what would be the approximate daily cost?
For an individual traveler, the approximate cost could range between US$50 and US$100 per day. However, the final cost depends on factors such as the season, accommodation choice, and specific travel arrangements. During high season prices may be higher, while low-season travel can be more economical.
Many Indians travel to destinations such as the Middle East and Singapore. Why should they choose Indonesia and Taman Safari?
The answer is simple: nature, culture and culinary experiences. Indonesia offers a unique combination of breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine that cannot be replicated elsewhere. These are experiences visitors can only find in Indonesia.
Taman Safari allows guests to enjoy these elements in a truly immersive way while connecting with wildlife and conservation efforts.
During your presentation, you mentioned resorts where guests can see animals directly from their rooms. Which properties offer this experience?
We offer this unique experience at selected properties in Bali and East Java. Guests can enjoy wildlife views directly from their accommodation, creating an unforgettable and immersive stay.
Do travelers need to book special cottages or rooms for this experience?
Yes. For our Bali properties, I strongly recommend booking two to three months in advance. Early booking not only provides better room choices but is often more reasonably priced.
Our Baobab Resort in East Java offers more than 140 rooms, making availability easier. However, guests who want premium room selections should still book ahead to secure their preferred accommodation.
The Exciting Marine Safari Bali is an underwater wonderland spanning rainforest, river, estuary and open ocean ecosystems, home to 10,000+ fish across 300 species, marine mammals, Humboldt penguins and 12 land animal and bird habitats. Varuna, located within Marine Safari Bali, is Indonesia’s first underwater theater restaurant, opened on December 20, 2023, combining fine dining, theatrical performances and underwater views.
More about Taman Safari properties across Indonesia
The Amazing Taman Safari Bali houses 4,424 animals across 275 species from Indonesia, India and Africa, with Safari Journey, night safari, lion feeding, the Bali Agung show and the five star, 45 room Mara River Safari Lodge. Enchanting Valley by Taman Safari in Cisarua, Puncak Bogor spans 22 hectares and combines nature, adventure, music and culinary experiences, including the LILA Show, Angklung Show, interactive petting zoo and family attractions. The Great Taman Safari Bogor, established in 1981 across 55 hectares, is home to 8,700+ animals across 400 species, including Giant Pandas Cai Tao and Hu Chun, with Safari Journey, night safari, lion feeding, 25 rides and 20+ shows.
The Grand Taman Safari Prigen houses 2,400+ animals across 225 species across three themed zones, with ATV Adventure, giraffe feeding, Safari Water World and the four star, 148 room Baobab Safari Resort. Jakarta Aquarium & Safari, Indonesia’s largest indoor aquarium, features 3,500+ aquatic and non aquatic animals across 13 zones, including capybaras, seals and penguins, plus animal feeding, Aqua Trekking and penguin dining at Pingoo Restaurant. Solo Safari spans 14 hectares and houses 400+ animals across 90 species, combining wildlife education with family attractions and Javanese heritage. The Funtastic Beach Safari Batang, Indonesia’s only safari park on the beachfront, spans 5 hectares and houses 280 animals, combining wildlife encounters, dolphin conservation and beach experiences.
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To ensure a seamless and comfortable journey for Indian guests, Taman Safari Indonesia parks offer vegetarian and Indian dining options, with Indian chefs at selected properties, alongside private vehicle tours, multilingual guides and customizable family and multigenerational travel packages. Special dietary requirements, including Jain meals, can be discussed with the property in advance.
Taman Safari Indonesia is a world class themed recreation park and conservation institution located across six locations and four resorts throughout Indonesia. The network is home to more than 673 species and 22,000 animals, and welcomes more than 5,000,000 visitors every year. Since 1980, Taman Safari Indonesia has played a critical role in saving, rehabilitating, and releasing thousands of animals back into the wild, establishing itself as a leading global conservation organization for Indonesia's endemic wildlife and endangered species. TSI is a member of WAZA (The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), SEAZA (The Southeast Asian Zoo Association), CPSG (The Conservation Planning Specialist Group), and PKBSI (The Indonesian Zoological Parks Association), and has earned more than 20 national awards for its conservation and recreation work.
For further information about Taman Safari Indonesia destinations across Bali and Jakarta, accommodation options, various attractions and services, visitors can explore their website at www.tamansafari.com or follow them on Instagram at @tamansafari.id.
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