For nature enthusiasts, the ultimate travel agenda often involves experiencing wildlife by exploring national parks. Southeast Asia, with its breathtaking landscapes, biodiversity, and diverse ecosystems spread across millions of islands, offers some of the most awe-inspiring experiences for wildlife tourism.
Ranging from lush rainforests to peaceful oceans, majestic mountains, and verdant valleys, Southeast Asia is a treasure that ignites every adventurous soul. Comprising eleven countries and covering 4.5 million square kilometers of land and sea, this region is home to countless national parks worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
To save you time researching, here are three of the best national parks in Southeast Asia recommended by Seasia, perfect for wildlife exploration—especially if you're a beginner.
Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia
| Location | West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia |
| Key Features | Orangutans, swampy terrain, and river cruises. |
Located in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, Tanjung Puting is home to one of humanity’s closest relatives: the Bornean orangutan. Within the protected area, visitors have the chance to observe their intelligence and remarkable behaviors in their natural habitat.
The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, consisting of tropical rainforests, lowlands, dryland forests, freshwater swamp forests, mangrove forests, coastal forests, and secondary forests. It is best to travel around in this first orangutan rehabilitation center in Indonesia with a traditional klotok boat, sailing the winding waters.
Beyond orangutans, the park is home to other fascinating wildlife, such as proboscis monkeys, red langurs, the endangered clouded leopard, wild cats, deer, and a variety of colorful bird species.
To fully experience Tanjung Puting, consider staying overnight in one of the eco-camps. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the rainforest and wake up to the symphony of wildlife. The best time to visit is between June and September when conditions are ideal for exploring.
Read also: This island hosts the world's largest number of unique wildlife species
Mondulkiri Protected Forest, Cambodia
| Location | Sen Monorom, Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia. |
| Key Features | Asian elephants, semi-evergreen forest, jungle trekking. |
Mondulkiri Protected Forest (MPF) is a heaven for wildlife lovers, offering a sanctuary blanketed in semi-evergreen and deciduous forests. You can swim with endangered Asian elephants or explore the park's winding trails and rolling hills. Soothe your mind and sharpen your senses with a myriad of sounds and movements from forest dwellers.
The park is also a sanctuary for Cambodia’s largest population of leopards. Bird lovers will witness the unimaginable vibrancy of the red-breasted parakeet and the graceful great hornbill, as well as the diversity of endangered species like the green peafowl, the giant ibis, and the striking crested argus pheasant.
To fully enjoy Mondulkiri, consider visiting the Mondulkiri Project or Elephant Valley Project. While Asian elephants can be encountered year-round, December and January are ideal for exploring the park due to dry, pleasant weather.
Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
| Location | Phanom District, Surat Thani Province, Thailand. |
| Key Features | Monkeys and plenty of bird species, limestone cliffs, and boat tours. |
Framed with its breathtaking landscape of limestone cliffs, emerald-green lakes, and ancient rainforests, Khao Sok National Park is a must-visit destination to experience wildlife. The park is filled with a variety of species, including monkeys, gibbons, leopards, and plenty of bird species. If lucky enough, you may get to watch the elephants.
Khao Sok is perfect for nature enthusiasts who enjoy activities on the water, like kayaking, boat tours, and hiking in the rainforest that surrounds it. Staying overnight is the best decision to experience the thrills and a relaxing atmosphere with the melodic chirpings of beautiful birds.
Perfectly located on the mainland between Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, and Koh Samui, it is one of the most famous destinations in Southern Thailand. The dry season, or between December and June, is the best time to visit Khao Sok’s best features.
Read Also: The First Southeast Asia's Wildlife Attraction
Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or a beginner seeking inspiration, these national parks provide opportunities to connect with wildlife and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Southeast Asia. So, are you ready to explore the wonders of wildlife in these remarkable national parks?
