Rawa Bento: From Rowing Boat to New Hope for Conservation

Beneath the cool air of Kayu Aro, Kerinci, lies a swamp lake that holds more than just water and endemic birds: Rawa Bento, and a remarkable story of transformation.

Several years ago, Rawa Bento was known not for its beauty, but for its serenity, often marred by illegal activity. Bird hunting and fish poisoning were commonplace—an irony amidst a natural landscape that should be preserved.

But everything began to change when a group of local youth took the initiative. They formed the Rawa Bento Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), with the spirit of protecting nature while creating new economic opportunities for local residents. With support from Kerinci Seblat National Park, the group began developing the swamp area into a conservation-based tourism destination.

Initially, they only had a rowboat to take tourists along the lake. Visitor numbers were very limited. Promotion was minimal: they simply distributed their contact information to several homestays in the Kayu Aro area. Surprisingly, it was foreign tourists who were the first to come. They sought tranquility, natural beauty, and an authentic experience—all of which Rawa Bento offers.

But a turning point came in 2021. Through the BioCarbon Fund (BioCF) program, the group received two motorboats. Access became easier, and the tourism experience became more comfortable. At the same time, they began actively using social media to introduce Rawa Bento to the wider community.

The results were remarkable. From just two to three visitors per week, Rawa Bento now receives an average of 70 visitors per week. Not only foreign tourists but also local tourists began arriving, attracted by the beauty of the swamp, which is also known as a habitat for rare wild birds.

More than just tourism, the presence of the Rawa Bento Tourism Group (Pokdarwis) has created a positive domino effect: environmentally destructive practices have disappeared, the community has gained additional income, and awareness of the importance of conservation has increased.

Today, Rawa Bento is proof that big changes can start with small steps. From the slow pace of a paddle on calm waters, to the sound of an engine that brings hope.