Sukamade Wildlife

Sukamade Wildlife

A 4WD off-road journey through the jungle and a basic eco-lodge.

Duration3 days · 2 nights
RouteSurabaya to Banyuwangi
Private Group1–4 people
Difficulty
Moderate

Itinerary

Day 1

Surabaya to Banyuwangi City | the Journey East

Your journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel or the airport in Surabaya at the agreed time. From here, we will travel east toward Banyuwangi, passing through a variety of landscapes, from bustling towns and traditional villages to green rice fields and scenic countryside.

The drive takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Along the way, we can make stops for meals, refreshments, and short breaks to ensure a more comfortable journey.

By late afternoon or early evening, we will arrive in Banyuwangi City and proceed to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, enjoy the hotel facilities, and recharge your energy before heading into the wilderness the following morning.

Enjoy a peaceful night in Banyuwangi as you prepare for an exciting adventure to one of East Java's remote coastal destinations.

Overnight: Hotel in Banyuwangi City

Day 2

Banyuwangi to Sukamade | Off-Road Jungle Expedition

After preparing for the day, we will begin our journey from Banyuwangi City toward Sukamade, a secluded coastal destination located within the natural surroundings of Meru Betiri National Park.

Travel aboard a 4WD vehicle as we leave the urban landscape behind and make our way through local settlements, cocoa plantations, and rubber estates. As the journey continues, the scenery gradually transforms into dense tropical forest, offering a glimpse of the area's rich natural environment.

The route itself is part of the adventure. Navigate winding dirt roads, uneven forest tracks, and river crossings where conditions permit. The journey offers a thrilling off-road experience while showcasing the wilder side of Banyuwangi.

Upon reaching Sukamade, we will check in at a simple eco-lodge and take some time to settle in. Enjoy dinner featuring local food before preparing for the evening's main attraction.

Night Activity – Sea Turtle Observation

After dark, join a guided excursion to Sukamade Beach, a recognized sea turtle nesting area. Accompanied by a local guide, you will have the opportunity to learn about the nesting habits of sea turtles and, if conditions are favorable, observe a female turtle coming ashore to lay her eggs.

Experience the quiet atmosphere of the beach at night and discover the importance of protecting these remarkable marine animals. To avoid disturbing the turtles, visitors must follow the guide's instructions regarding lighting, noise, movement, and photography.

Please note that turtle sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

After the excursion, return to the lodge and rest for the next day's activities.

Overnight: Sukamade Eco-Lodge

Day 3

Baby Turtle Release, Pulau Merah & Return to Banyuwangi City

Start the morning surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of Sukamade's coastal wilderness. Today brings another memorable opportunity to experience the area's natural beauty and conservation efforts.

Morning Activity – Baby Turtle Release

If hatchlings are available and a release session is scheduled, take part in a supervised activity to release baby sea turtles, locally known as tukik, toward the ocean. Watching these tiny creatures make their way to the sea is a special experience that highlights the importance of preserving marine life and its natural habitat.

The activity is subject to hatchling availability, conservation schedules, weather, and local regulations.

Afterward, return to the lodge for breakfast, prepare your belongings, and check out before continuing the journey.

Continue the Adventure – Visit Pulau Merah (Red Island)

We will then travel toward Pulau Merah, one of Banyuwangi's most recognizable beach destinations. Famous for its wide sandy shoreline, coastal scenery, and distinctive reddish hill near the beach, this destination provides a refreshing contrast to the rainforest landscapes of Sukamade.

Spend some free time enjoying the sea views, taking photographs, relaxing on the beach, or experiencing the local surf scene. Surfboard rental is included in the package, subject to availability and suitable sea conditions. Guests who wish to enter the water should follow local safety advice and respect the prevailing wave and current conditions.

Take this opportunity to enjoy the laid-back coastal atmosphere before beginning the final leg of your journey.

Afternoon – Transfer Back to Banyuwangi City

After exploring Pulau Merah, we will continue the drive back to Banyuwangi City. The journey concludes with a drop-off at your selected location within the Banyuwangi City area, which can include:

Your hotel or accommodation in Banyuwangi City
Banyuwangi Kota Train Station
Ketapang Train Station
Banyuwangi Bus Terminal
Ketapang Ferry Port
Another agreed drop-off point within Banyuwangi City and its surrounding service area

Please inform our team of your preferred drop-off location in advance so we can coordinate the transfer accordingly.

What's Included

  • Pickup service from Surabaya & drop-off at the designated location
  • Private 4WD jeep for Sukamade trip
  • 1 night stay at Banyuwangi city hotel / homestay + breakfast
  • 1 night stay at Sukamade eco-lodge (basic accommodation) + breakfast
  • Night tour to see sea turtles laying eggs
  • Baby turtle release activity
  • Surfboard rental at Red Island
  • English-speaking guide as photographer
  • Mineral water during the trip
  • Entrance fees & permits (Meru Betiri NP, Sukamade beach, & Red Island)
  • Ferry tickets

Not Included

  • Flight / train tickets to & from Banyuwangi
  • Lunch & dinner during the trip
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tipping (driver / guide )

Things to know

  • Long drives, so be ready with snacks & music.
  • Epic adventure / off-road vibes – crossing rivers & deep jungle
  • Forget the signal, it’s pure offline paradise
  • Accommodation at Sukamade is basic & simple (eco-lodge style, no luxury, limited electricity). It’s part of the adventure vibes
  • Turtle sighting is natural, so it depends on nature’s luck (but chances are high!).
  • Bring comfortable shoes, light jacket, and some snacks.