Located at the Southernmost tip of Asia, Pulau Kukup is one the largest uninhabited mangroves in the world and is the only one situated in Johor waters. It is as well consider as Malaysia’s largest mangrove island covering an area of about 800 acres, with up to 647 hectares of mangroves.
After the implementation of series of mangrove conservation programs, Pulau Kukup has been transformed into one of Johor’s national parks and serves as world’s wetland reserve.
Paradise of few unique animals
This mangrove park is home to a few rare animals like fish, shrimp, crabs, shellfish, insects, and more. As well as wild animals like lizard, river otter, wild boar, leaf monkey and numerous species of birds.
Since Pulau Kukup is surrounded by the coastline, it helps in homeopathic protection of coastal aquaculture as well as protection of people’s lives and property. In addition, mangrove also helps purify sea water and air due to its special respiratory system.
If you’re planning to marvel around this national park, here are some things that shouldn’t miss to do.
1. Climb up the suspension bridge and enjoy an overlooking view of the mangrove ecology
One of the things that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Pulau Kukup National Park is climbing to the top of the 5-storey suspension bridge, where you can have an absolutely panoramic view of the park.
2. Walk through the Arboretum and explore the mangrove forest
Have an in-depth exploration of the mangroves by walking through the 600 meters long bridge—Arboretum. Aside from having a breathtaking view, you can also breathe fresh air as you enjoy seeing the swamp crab, fish and more.
3. Visit the the mangrove with a hundred years of history: Rhizophora mangle
Take you wanderlust to the next level by visiting this old mangrove with a hundred years of history! This mangrove, which has a trunk diameter of 60cm is considered to be the largest mangrove in the entire West Peninsula.
4. Row a boat and wander around the mangrove park
Pulau Kukup has a total of six rivers that you can wander, wherein the snake river with a length of 1.7km is the largest amongst the six. For those who love water tour activities can choose to ride a boat and be lost with the beauty of the national park.
Just so you know, riding a boat is recommended during high tide period.
5. Take a boat and watch the migratory birds (led by eco-tour guides)
If you want to experience bird watching, you can opt to have a boat service. This will allow you to observe the migratory birds as you go to the best location. In addition, travelers can also increased their knowledge about migratory birds as the authorities arrange a natural guide to the bird tour and explain the life of migratory birds.
6. Participate in planting mangrove
If you happen to visit this world’s wetland reserve, don’t forget to exert effort and participate to mangrove conservation! Join in groups and have the chance to involve yourself in maintaining the mangrove ecology.
Pulau Kukup National Park
Location: Lot 1319, Mukim Air Masin, 82030 Kukup, Pontian, Johor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pulau-Kukup-Johor-National-Park-291826154254817/?fref=ts
Official Website: http://www.johorparks.gov.my/ms/parks/pulau-kukup
Ask Hotline: +607-696 9355
Also read: Bucket-list of Things To Do While You Are in Kukup
Also read: 10 Astounding Homestays in Kukup for Your Next Holiday Vacation
