Muller Schwaner serves as a crucial habitat for numerous endangered species, including orangutans, clouded leopards, and sun bears. The park is home to over 350 bird species, including eight species of hornbills and various endemic birds like the Bornean Peacock-pheasant. Notable mammals include gibbons, proboscis monkeys, and various species of leaf monkeys. The park also harbors an impressive diversity of insects, including over 300 butterfly species, and numerous amphibians and reptiles, many of which are endemic to Borneo.
The park hosts an extraordinarily diverse range of plant species, with over 3,000 documented varieties including 1,000 tree species. Notable flora includes numerous species of Dipterocarpaceae (tropical hardwoods), over 50 species of orchids, and various endemic plants like the Nepenthes pitcher plants. The forest structure is multi-layered, featuring emergent trees reaching heights of 60-70 meters, a dense canopy layer, and rich understory vegetation. Rare species such as the Rafflesia (the world's largest flower) can be found in specific areas of the park.
The park encompasses the Schwaner Mountains, a significant mountain range that forms the natural border between Central and West Kalimantan. The landscape is characterized by ancient granite and metamorphic rock formations, dating back to the Cretaceous period. Elevations range from 150 meters in the lowlands to over 2,000 meters at the highest peaks. The terrain features deep valleys, numerous waterfalls, and extensive cave systems formed through centuries of erosion. Rich mineral deposits, including gold and iron ore, are present throughout the region, though protected from extraction within park boundaries.
The park was established in 1995 to protect one of Borneo's largest continuous rainforest ecosystems. Named after German botanist Salomon Müller and Swedish naturalist Carl A.L.M. Schwaner, who conducted extensive explorations in the area during the 19th century. The region has historically been home to various Dayak indigenous communities, who have maintained traditional sustainable practices in the forest for generations. The park's establishment marked a significant milestone in Indonesia's conservation efforts, protecting both the unique biodiversity and the cultural heritage of the local communities.
Key attractions include the Schwaner Mountain Range's highest peaks, offering challenging hiking opportunities and spectacular views. The park contains numerous waterfalls, including the impressive Batu Laki falls, and extensive cave systems with ancient rock art. Several salt licks (natural mineral deposits) attract wildlife and provide excellent viewing opportunities. Traditional Dayak longhouses on the park's periphery offer cultural experiences, while research stations throughout the park facilitate scientific studies. The park's extensive trail network allows access to various ecosystems, from lowland dipterocarp forests to montane forests at higher elevations.
Muller Schwaner National Park experiences a typical tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 23°C to 32°C (73-90°F), with the wettest period occurring between October and March during the northwest monsoon. The park receives annual rainfall between 3,000-4,000mm, with brief daily showers being common even during the drier months (April-September). Humidity levels consistently remain between 75-90%, creating the characteristic misty conditions often seen in the early mornings across the park's mountainous terrain.
Indonesia
0.6670°, 113.8330°
1995
12800
Muller Schwaner National Park encompasses one of the largest remaining rainforest areas in Borneo. The park is home to numerous endangered species including orangutans and clouded leopards. It features rugged mountain terrain and serves as an important watershed for multiple river systems.