Yogyakarta is a place where nature and tradition come together. One unique experience here is canoeing at Kano Mangroves Baros, where you paddle through mangrove-lined waterways near Baros in Bantul. This activity is enjoyable and helps visitors connect with the area’s environment and local community.
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Canoeing at Kano Mangroves Baros
The mangrove plantation at Baros started as a local project to stop coastal erosion and protect the lower part of the Opak River. Over the years, it became a lush mangrove forest covering about 4 hectares, with trees like Avicennia, Rhizophora, and Nypha.
The mangroves help reduce wave damage and protect nearby farmland, and locals have come to recognize their importance and potential. Moving forward in 2022, the area became a tourist destination, offering canoe rides and guided eco-tours.
When you go canoeing here, you usually follow the Winongo River to its estuary at Baros Beach. Along the way, you pass through mangrove forests, rice fields, and sometimes see old irrigation systems from the Dutch era.
If you want to try canoeing, you can pick from two main choices. The short route takes about 30 minutes and covers 500 meters, costing around IDR 25,000 per person. The long route lasts about an hour, covers 2 kilometers, and costs about IDR 50,000 per person. If you choose the long route, you’ll also get free mineral water and instant noodles after your trip.
You will get safety equipment, such as life jackets and helmets. A local guide will join you to help with paddling and share interesting facts about the mangroves, birds, and plants you see during the trip.
How to Get to Kano Mangroves Baros
Kano Mangroves Baros is in Baros, Tirtohargo, Kretek, Bantul. It is open daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, except on Fridays when it is closed. For updates or questions, check their Instagram at @kano.mangrove. To get there, start from Yogyakarta city center, head to Bantul, then continue to Kretek and Tirtohargo.
As you get closer to Baros, you will pass rice fields and smaller local roads. The last part of the journey is a pleasant 5-10-minute walk into the scenic mangrove area. It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends or holidays, and if you want to take the longer route.
Trip Package to Kano Mangroves Baros
When preparing for your canoe adventure, here’s what to expect in a typical package and some useful tips. Most packages include a canoe, paddles, a local guide, and safety equipment such as life jackets and helmets. On longer routes, participants often receive bottled water and occasionally instant noodles for refreshment. Guides may also provide basic photo or video documentation.
Facilities such as rest areas, toilets, parking spaces, and local food stalls are available nearby. It’s best to arrive by 8 AM to avoid the heat and crowds, and choose a short or long route based on your stamina. Take occasional breaks to enjoy the mangroves, birds, and aquatic scenery, then return around 3 PM.
Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing, use sunscreen and insect repellent, and protect your devices with waterproof pouches. Visit during the dry season for safety, and book early via Instagram or phone since Fridays are closed.
Canoeing at Kano Mangroves Baros is a rare and gentle way to connect with Yogyakarta’s coastal ecosystems, culture, and community values. Whether you choose the short route or the longer path, you’ll come away with memories of green mangrove tunnels, bird calls, and the quiet rhythm of paddling.