Taman Safari Lodge

Tucked away on the northern edge of the 415-acre Taman Safari Indonesia conservation park, the Taman Safari Lodge is a rather unique property, not only for its location, but also for its accommodation options and ambience. The hotel caters mostly to local families seeking a fun getaway in nature, and there are few frills here: services are limited and rooms have basic amenities; however, rates include discounted passes to the safari park, and guests can choose to sleep in tree houses or caravans. The atmosphere is casual and serene, and the only sounds that can be heard are those coming from the animal enclosures, located not far from the lodge. This is a decent mid-range option for families wanting to explore the park, but couples seeking something with a few additional amenities may want to consider the Pesona Amal Resort & Spa, which is located just a short drive away and offers comfortable, contemporary rooms, a pool, gym, and spa. Royal Safari Garden Resort & Convention is a slightly more upscale alternative for those seeking a similar jungle-and-wildlife experience, complete with a wide range of activities such as paintball games, river tubing, educational tours with animals, a water park, and adventure areas with rope bridges and ziplines. Travelers seeking to combine history and nature may want to compare rates at the Puncak Pass Resort, the area’s most famous hotel, offering gorgeous views and extensive kids’ and sports facilities. 

The hotel is located within the Taman Safari Indonesia, an educational and conservancy park home to hundreds of animals from five different continents. There is nothing within walking distance of the resort except for the gates to the park, but a short drive puts guests in the heart of the Puncak region, known for its tea plantations and beautiful landscapes that include the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, located under an hour away. The city of Bogor is about an hour and 15 minutes away, while Bandung is just under three hours by car. The drive to Jakarta and its airport can take about two hours. 

The hotel offers a number of rooms spread over a large area tucked away amid lush greenery. Room options range from standard hotel rooms housed in the main building to caravans, tree houses, and wooden bungalows. Decor is simple and basic in all, with just a few pieces of wooden furniture that are functional rather than stylish, and an earth-tone palette throughout. Large photos of wildlife are the only ornaments on walls. Rooms are overall in decent shape, but expect to find minor wear and tear in some areas, particularly bathrooms. The most fun choices for families are the caravans and tree houses, all of which feature a double bed and a set of bunk beds for kids, plus outdoor space with some basic furniture. Bungalows are also great for groups, featuring two or three bedrooms, plus small kitchen areas with microwaves. Room amenities are the same across the board and include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges stocked with free water and iced tea, and electric kettles. Bathrooms are basic and a tad old, with plain off-white tiles, wet room-style showers with plastic curtains, and small sinks with just a narrow glass shelf for storing personal items. Toiletries are provided in all rooms. Be aware that there is limited hot water.Rooms lack temperature control systems, and though air-conditioning is rarely needed, some guests have complained that it can get cold at night, especially in caravans and tree houses. 

The hotel has one restaurant only, serving up tasty, varied Indonesian cuisine for lunch and dinner in an open pavilion that’s a little bit away from the main building. Breakfast is included in all room rates, and offers exclusively Indonesian options such as rice, egg, and vegetable dishes. Room service is provided until after dinner. The pool is cute and pleasant, with lots of greenery around it and a few loungers and chairs on a small stone deck. The atmosphere is generally relaxing here, as most guests spend the day out exploring the conservancy park. The ballroom features a stage and audiovisual equipment, and it can be rented out for private and corporate events. On-site outdoor parking is available free of charge.All guests get discounted passes to the Taman Safari Indonesia park.