A 6-day, 5-night birding itinerary in Sebangau National Park, Borneo, will allow you to deeply explore this biodiversity hotspot. Here's a detailed plan to optimize your birdwatching experience:
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Sebangau
Morning: Arrival in Palangkaraya
Fly into Palangkaraya, the gateway to Sebangau National Park.
Transfer to your lodge or camp near Punggualas (travel may include road and river transport).
Afternoon: Orientation & Light Birding
Check in and attend an orientation session about the park's wildlife and conservation efforts.
Embark on an introductory birdwatching walk near your lodge to spot species like the White-fronted Falconet and Black Hornbill.
Evening: Night Birdwatching
After dinner, take a guided night walk to look for nocturnal birds like owls and nightjars.
Day 2: Forest Trails and River Birding
Early Morning: Dawn Birdwatching Walk
Begin early to catch the dawn chorus. Focus on spotting species such as the Bornean Bristlehead, Storm’s Stork, and Rufous-collared Kingfisher.
Late Morning: River Birding by Boat
Take a boat ride along the Sebangau River. Look for species like the Oriental Darter, Silver-backed Needletail, and kingfishers.
Afternoon: Forest Exploration
Hike forest trails with your guide, seeking birds like the Bornean Ground Cuckoo, various bulbuls, and woodpeckers.
Evening: Relaxation and Review
Enjoy dinner and review your sightings, perhaps with photos and notes.
Day 3: Deep Forest Birding and Canopy Observation
Early Morning: Canopy Walk or Tower
Visit a canopy tower (if available) to observe upper-canopy species like the Black-crowned Pitta and different hornbills.
Late Morning: Trail Exploration
Explore less-traveled trails for shy species like the Chestnut-necklaced Partridge and flycatchers.
Afternoon: Rest and Optional Birding
Rest during the hottest part of the day or opt for light birding near the lodge.
Evening: Spotlighting Session
After dinner, participate in a spotlighting walk to spot nocturnal species.
Day 4: Mangrove and Swamp Birding
Early Morning: Swamp Forest Birding
Head to swampy areas for species like the Banded Kingfisher and Grey-headed Fish Eagle.
Late Morning: Mangrove Edge Birding
Explore mangrove fringes for shorebirds and kingfishers.
Afternoon: Community Visit and Cultural Exchange
Visit a local community to learn about conservation efforts and local culture.
Evening: Night Birdwatching or Rest
Enjoy a quiet evening or opt for another night birding session.
Day 5: Full-Day Birding Adventure
Early Morning: Targeted Birding for Rare Species
Focus on hard-to-see species like the Black-crowned Pitta and other endemics.
Late Morning: Mixed-Species Flock Exploration
Follow mixed-species flocks, an excellent way to observe diverse species.
Afternoon: Boat Birding and River Wildlife
Take a longer boat trip, looking for riverine species and possibly mammals like proboscis monkeys.
Evening: Final Night Walk
Enjoy a farewell night walk to spot any missed nocturnal species.
Day 6: Final Birding and Departure
Early Morning: Last Birdwatching Session
A final early-morning walk to catch any last sightings.
Late Morning: Pack and Check Out
Return to the lodge, pack up, and prepare for departure.
Afternoon: Transfer Back to Palangkaraya
Travel back to Palangkaraya for your onward journey.
Key Bird Species to Watch For:
Black Hornbill
Bornean Bristlehead (Sebangau’s iconic bird)
White-fronted Falconet
Banded Kingfisher
Chestnut-necklaced Partridge
Grey-headed Fish Eagle
Storm’s Stork
Bornean Ground Cuckoo
Essential Tips for Your Trip:
Local Guide: Hiring a local guide is essential for navigating trails and identifying species.
Gear: Bring binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, field guides, waterproof clothing, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes.
Weather: Prepare for rain and humidity with appropriate gear.
Health Precautions: Carry anti-malarial medication, use insect repellent, and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Conservation: Follow park guidelines to minimize impact on wildlife and habitats.