Mangroves & Terrestrial Ecosystems

Bali's mangrove forests — especially in the south (Benoa Bay, 1,373 ha) and around Nusa Lembongan — are vital ecosystems: They protect the coast from erosion and storm surges, are nurseries for fish and shrimp, store CO₂, and provide habitat for birds and reptiles.

The Bali Mangrove Forest Park at Benoa Bay (south of Denpasar) is a protected area accessible via a boardwalk — a worthwhile detour for nature lovers. Admission: 30,000 IDR.

On land, the Taman Nasional Bali Barat (West Bali National Park, 190 km²) hosts the last remnants of tropical dry forest, savannas, and monsoon forests on the island — and the last refuge of the Bali Starling (Leucopsar rothschildi), one of the rarest birds in the world (fewer than 50 individuals in the wild). The national park is also the gateway to Menjangan Island, one of Bali's best diving spots.