Taman Safari

Taman Safari Indonesia

Taman Safari Indonesia is a prominent organization that operates a network of animal theme parks across Indonesia, with its most well-known locations being Taman Safari I in Cisarua, Bogor; Taman Safari II (The Grand Taman Safari Prigen) in Pasuruan, East Java; and Taman Safari III in Bali. These parks are recognized for their extensive wildlife collections, offering visitors immersive experiences and engaging educational programs.

Taman Safari I (Bogor)

Taman Safari I, also referred to as Taman Safari Bogor, is situated in Cisarua, West Java, along the historic road between Jakarta and Bandung. Established in 1980 on 170 hectares (420 acres) of former unproductive plantation land, it has become a popular tourist destination. The park houses a diverse collection of over 3,000 animals, representing a majority of African species, alongside Indonesian fauna. Notable residents include Bengal tigers, Malayan sun bears, giraffes, orangutans, hippos, zebras, and Sumatran elephants. Taman Safari I is also actively involved in conservation projects, such as those for the Bali myna.

A significant attraction is the "Safari Journey," which allows visitors to drive through enclosures and observe animals in a semi-natural habitat. The park offers numerous shows, including Elephant, Sea Lion, Dolphin, and Bird of Prey shows, as well as a "Cowboy Show" and a "Globe of Death." Visitors can also explore the "Wild Wild West" area, which features Jaksa Waterfall, a 45-meter cascade originating from Mount Gede Pangrango, surrounded by local legends. The "Night Safari" provides a unique opportunity to see nocturnal animals, including the Javan warty pig, accompanied by guides and culminating in a "Spectacular Light Dance" performance.

In 2017, Taman Safari I welcomed two giant pandas, Cai Tao and Hu Chun, from China, who reside in the specially constructed "Panda Palace." This marked a significant event, and in 2025, Hu Chun gave birth to Satrio "Rio" Wiratama, the first giant panda cub born in Indonesia.

The Grand Taman Safari Prigen (Taman Safari II)

Located in Prigen, East Java, The Grand Taman Safari Prigen is one of Asia's largest safari parks, covering approximately 350 hectares (860 acres) on the slopes of Mount Arjuno. It is situated at a high altitude, between 800 to 1,500 meters above sea level.

Other Branches and Facilities

Taman Safari also operates Bali Safari and Marine Park in Bali, Safari Beach Jateng in Batang Regency, Central Java (formerly Batang Dolphin Center), and Solo Safari in Surakarta, Central Java. Solo Safari, revitalized in 2023, features walk-in exhibits showcasing Asian and African fauna. Jakarta Aquarium, located within Neo Soho Mall in Jakarta, is another facility focusing on aquatic and terrestrial animals from around the world.

History and Controversies

Taman Safari I was designated a National Tourism Object in 1990. While the parks focus on wildlife and conservation, they have faced criticism. Allegations of drugging animals for tourist photographs surfaced in 2016. In 2019, endangered species were seized from Taman Safari Bogor, linked to a wildlife smuggler. Investigations in 2012 also raised concerns about dolphin smuggling at the Batang Dolphin Center. Furthermore, accusations of human trafficking and child exploitation emerged in relation to the Oriental Circus Indonesia, an affiliated circus producer, with former performers detailing alleged abuses. The organization has denied these accusations.