Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Authorities at Mount Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP) in West Java, Indonesia, have removed 2,658 illegal hikers from Mount Gede-Pangrang during the long holiday weekend from May 29 to June 1, 2025.
Agus Deni, head of data, evaluation, reporting, and public relations at Mount Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP), said that during the extended holiday period from May 29 to June 1, 2025, rangers were deployed around the clock at suspected illegal entry points.
“This was done to prevent unauthorized hikers from entering and to conduct regular patrols along the trails during the holiday weekend,” Agus stated, as reported by Antara on Monday, June 2.
He confirmed that over than two thousand hikers found permits. “On May 30, we intercepted 687 individuals, and on May 31, another 1,971.”
Those caught without valid hiking permits were immediately identified and registered by park personnel, who also issued formal warnings and guidance.
The unauthorized climbers reportedly obtained access through base camps operating without official approval. Agus stressed that these unauthorized base camps are not legally recognized and have no authority to manage access to the park.
Only a handful of licensed hiking organizers (HOs) are authorized to coordinate climbs, including Basecamp GEPANGKU, KOBEL ADVENTURE, USSR (Usaha Sajalur Salam Rimba), dolan.gedepangrango, and mt_gedepangrango.
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Mount Gede-Pangrango
Mount Gede-Pangrango is one of Indonesia’s most popular mountain destinations, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. Its rich ecosystem of tropical mountain rainforest draws thousands of hikers each year.
To manage growing interest, the national park has imposed a daily cap of 600 hikers, introduced online registration and payments, and involves local communities and volunteers in visitor services.
As part of tighter controls, the park no longer issues printed hiking permits. Instead, hikers must register online through the official websites and receive a QR code that links to their personal data.
Several documents were required during the online registration including medical certificate and a consent form for climbers under 16 or over 60, who must also be accompanied to ensure their safety.
TNGGP and local authorities have pledged to take legal action against rogue operators, officials, and visitors who violate park rules. Violations by staff, organizers, or visitors, will be responded based on existing laws and regulations.
The incident underscores Indonesia’s commitment to preserving its national parks and ensuring the safety of visitors, as officials tighten enforcement and crack down on unauthorized access to one of the country’s most popular hiking destinations.
(Raidi/Agung)
