Baobab Safari Resort in Surabaya, Indonesia
It’s safe to say that most Singaporeans are animal lovers. We see wildlife roaming around our nature reserves and parks, and our day is made. For those who want to truly immerse themselves in a wildlife experience, look south-east, because there’s an African safari-inspired resort in Surabaya, Indonesia called Baobab Safari Resort.
That’s right, frolic and dine with giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos without having to fly all the way to South Africa. The resort is just a 2.5-hour flight away, and it’s sure to be a hit with the kids.
Where is Baobab Safari Resort?
At a glance, you may think you’re in an African safari, but Baobab Safari Resort is located in Surabaya, Indonesia. The resort sits within a conserved area in East Java called Taman Safari Prigen (or Prigen Safari Park). This area is also home to plenty of kid-friendly attractions including a zoo and a waterpark.
What is the closest airport to Baobab Safari Resort?
The closest airport to Baobab Safari Resort is Juanda International Airport (SUB). The airport is a 2.5-hour direct flight from Singapore. From here, it is a 1 hour and 15 minute drive away by car. GrabCar and taxis are both easily available to take or you can rent a car from several car rental companies at the international airport.
Things to do at Baobab Safari Resort
Stay in a Safari-themed room overlooking free-roaming animals
Image credit: @putripe.p via Instagram
Imagine waking up to the view of giraffes from the comfort of your room, or watching zebras graze as you sip your morning coffee. That’s not a Netflix documentary; it’s your reality at Baobab Safari Resort when you get their Deluxe Twin Safari View room for IDR1,550,000/night (~S$133) including breakfast for 2.
You’ll have a private balcony overlooking a savanna with animals walking about – straight out of your wildest dreams.
You can choose between the safari view and the hill view.
Image credit: Baobab Safari Resort
If you’re travelling as a family of 4, the Premium Double Safari View room is your jam at IDR1,950,000/night (~S$167). Same epic balcony views, same delish breakfast, but more space to accommodate the little one jumping about in excitement.
Image adapted from: @rerasyaa & @nafiyathemoon via Instagram
There’s no such thing as catching a break from the wildlife at Baobap Safari Resort. They have a swimming pool right next to the grazing animals’ enclosure area for guests to soak up an immersive safari vibe and a sheltered pond to kick back into full relaxation mode.
Enjoy a unique breakfast experience with wildlife
No need to stress – you won’t be sharing your meals with the giraffes. The crew will hook you up with some leaves for them.
Image credit: @tengkuazizahh via Instagram
Fancy breakfast with the tallest animals as your pleasant third-wheelers instead? Start your day on the right “hoof” at Baobab Safari Resort as you enjoy an unforgettable breakfast with giraffes, where these graceful creatures amble right up to your table as you savour a delicious morning meal.
Get that perfect Insta-worthy moment with Animal Encounter Meals package starting from IDR100,000 (~S$8.56) for 2 guests from 7am-9am.
Get up close with the wildlife at Prigen Safari Park
Right next to the resort is Prigen Safari Park – an interactive zoo with tours and shows. Starting at IDR150,000/person (~S$12.84), the entrance to the park gives you access to around 2,500 animals.
Embark on the thrilling Carnivore Feeding Adventure while you’re in a caged truck for IDR175,000/person (~S$15) that will bring you face-to-face with the kings of the savanna. But you won’t be greeting just lions; expect the safari truck to make 2 more stops to feed bears and tigers too.
Take your heart-pounding adventure to another level by snagging the Night Carnivore Feeding Adventure tickets for IDR200,000 (~S$17.12) for a single package. Those rolling in a family of 4, can get the family package for IDR700,000 (~S$59.92).
Booking these feeding sessions is pretty simple; just give them a call to secure the deal. Your entry fee directly contributes to the resort’s conservation programmes, ensuring these magnificent creatures thrive for generations to come. Take note that night feeding is only available on Fridays and Saturdays.
Image credit: @suryoak via Instagram
One of the highlights has got to be “drive-thru” safari at Prigen Safari Park, in which visitors can roll past animals – like orangutans and deer – at their own pace. You can get a private hire package with a starting price of S$62.65 from third-party providers.
Image adapted from: @baobab.safariprigen & @jajamakesart via Instagram
Animal lovers can also look forward to a Morning Walk for IDR25,000/person (~S$2.14) as you feed tamer animals like zebras, rhinos, kangaroos, and meerkats. Just remember to keep a respectful distance when necessary and let them enjoy their greeny snacks.
Book a Taman Safari Prigen private tour.
Have a splash of fun at their Safari Water World
The waterpark operates daily from 9am-7pm.
Image credit: Safari Water World Facebook
Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits and sunscreen because, apart from the safari wildlife, you can also take your mini adventurers to Safari Water World. The waterpark is inside Prigen Safari Park, so, you’ll need to grab tickets to that first and then add on the waterpark entrance fee of IDR25,000/person (~S$2.14).
The waterpark is packed with slides, giant tipping buckets, and friendly animal figures lurking around every corner.
Take a trip to Baobab Safari Resort in Surabaya
Image credit: Baobab Safari Resort Facebook
It’s time to bring your family and all your adventurous friends along to Indonesia for a holiday. And this time, we’re skipping the beaches in Bali. Give Baobab Safari Resort a shot for an experience where the only thing wilder than the animals is the adventure you’ll have.
Image credit: @baobab.safariprigen via Instagram
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Article originally published on 10th January 2024. Last updated on 21st February 2024.
Cover image adapted from: @nurulsetianing, @rerasyaa & @baobab.safariprigen via Instagram