Lampung Barat – Highland Coffee Plantations and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park
Lampung Barat Regency lies in the western part of Lampung province, on the spine and slopes of the Bukit Barisan mountain range. Its capital is Liwa. The region is among Indonesia’s most significant robusta coffee-producing areas and is home to Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.
Attractions and Activities
Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (part of UNESCO World Heritage) preserves Sumatra’s last rainforest remnants: habitat of the Sumatran tiger, rhinoceros and elephant. Coffee plantations (robusta) near Liwa can be visited – the coffee processing method can be learned. The Sekala Brak region features volcanic landscapes, waterfalls and cool highland air – the Suoh geothermal area has geysers and hot mud pools. Danau Ranau (Lake Ranau) on the regency border is Sumatra’s second-largest lake.
Culture and Cuisine
Lampung Barat’s population is the Sekala Brak (Skala Brak) Lampung tribe: with their own adat and traditions. Cuisine is Lampung-Sumatran: seruit (grilled fish topped with tempeh and sambal), gulai taboh (banana curry), and the local robusta coffee is of outstanding quality.
Public Safety
Lampung Barat is safe but a mountainous region – roads are winding. Travel with a guide in the national park. Medical care: basic hospital in Liwa; Bandar Lampung (approx. 5 hours) is the nearest major city facility.
Practical Information
From Bandar Lampung Radin Inten II Airport, approximately 5 hours west by car. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: simple hotels and guesthouses in Liwa.
