orangutans indonesia tour

Discover the Natural Wonders of famed Tanjung Puting and Sebangau Orangutan National Parks from our comfortable boats. Relax on board while navigating the Majestic Rivers of Central Kalimantan. Every cruise benefits local Communities and Foundations.

Our cruises are COVID safe. Check our Clean Care Pledge

MOST POPULAR TOURS

Tanjung puting national park & camp leakey cruise.

This cruise into the famed orangutan National Park is aboard our air conditioned boats, The Sekonyer and the Kumai, uniquely offering join in cruises on boats with air conditioned, ensuite cabins and our famous food.

Orangutan & Dayak Village River Cruise

Katingan river & sebangau national park cruise.

Want to glimpse a wild orangutan? This is your opportunity to try, on a cruise along the majestic Katingan River. An adventurous experience where few other tourists venture.

Private Charter River Cruises

Provides the perfect way for families, friends or businesses to cruise on board luxurious river boats, looking for a special experience to see the iconic orangutan in its native habitat. Our boats have different capacities and our programs tailored for your group

Testimonials

ADD-ON TOUR MENU

Orangutan & Nature Tour in Tanjung Puting and Palangkaraya

8 Days – 7 Nights

Starting From

Kahayan River Tour – Jungle River Cruise & Longhouse

7 Days – 6 Nights

6 Days – 5 Nights

Dayak Cultural and Malahoi Longhouse Tour

3 Days – 2 Nights

Price on Request

SEBANGAU NATIONAL PARK - KORAN RIVER

Indonesian Wildlife Icons with SeaTrek Bali & WOW Borneo

14 Days – 13 Nights

Copyright © 2020 WOWBorneo | All Rights Reserved | Developed by Harmoni Permata

Orangutan Tour Borneo

Orangutan Tour Borneo is a company specialised on realize the best klotok tours to watch orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park from Kalimantan, Indonesia.

We offers you various kind of tours packages depending on the number of days that you want in the traditional boat called klotok sailing down the river to explore Tanjung Puting National Park.

The best Borneo klotok tour sailing up the river Sekoyer in an unforgettable adventure trip, a safari to observe wildlife and do hike through tropical rain forest.

Since our klotoks with all facilities, visitors will enjoy the scenery around the river Sekonyer in the area of Tanjung Puting National Park where will see long-tailed monkeys, many fireflies in the river, as well as beautiful birds, monkeys long nose ape trunks and sometimes if lucky to see crocodiles on the banks of the river. Wild orangutan feeding every day will be the highlight of your visit as you are most likely to see wild orangutans near their natural habitat.

Our experience in Tanjung Puting klotok boat tours and working on the field with the orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park give will you a better understanding of the orangutans and wildlife in its original habitat.

Tanjung Puting National Park is located in Central Kalimantan in an area of 415,040 ha and includes several types of vegetation and inside is Camp Leakey, established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas as a refuge for orangutans rescued from domestic capture. Today the camp remains a center for research on these amazing animals. Learn more about orangutans in Camp Leakey's information center. Wild orangutan feeding every day will be the highlight of your visit as you are most likely to see wild orangutans near their natural habitat.

This is an important conservation area because it protects endangered Orangutan (Pongo Pygmeus) species that are known to live on only two islands: Sumatra and Kalimantan in Indonesia. Other primate species like the long-nosed monkey and other many animals species also live in the park.

The park is occupied by 38 mammals including 9 primates: the Orangutans, Proboscis monkeys, long-tailed monkeys, pig-tailed macaque, Gibbons, leaf monkeys, slow lorises, Tarsiers, and there are also deer, Bornean bearded pig, leopards, dolphins, dugongs, 150 species fish, 200 species of birds, orchids, many reptiles and amphibians including crocodiles and more than 450 species of insects.

Tanjung Puting National Park, where tourists will be taken to visit the zones where orangutan feeding and through the forest in the wild. Orangutan tour is realized by the river Sekonyer in boats called Klotok that they have everything necessary to make you to enjoy a comfortable and comfortable stay. Klotoks has enough accommodation and comfortable to accommodate 2 to 8 people. The speed of Klotok is very low, so we can enjoy the atmosphere of the jungle and his animals along the river in an unforgettable experience.

Currently we hold klotok not inferior to hotel services, the cuisine is also very tasty when compared with the standards of big cities, and already used to serve foreign tourists so good quality of service as well as the day where the night suddenly arrived, we can sleep on the Boat/klotok accompanied mosquito nets, blankets, mattresses. Food would be three meals a day plus snacks and soft drinks (mainly cartons of sweetened juices, water, and tea/coffee).

We offer customisable private tours, where you a looked after from the time you are met by your guide, until the time your tour finishes at a hotel in Pangkalan Bun or at the airport. We believe in fair prices. We are a small and friendly business, wanting guests to have amazing experiences and to fall in love with Tanjung Puting and the orangutans, as we have!. All our Borneo orangutan tour will be customised for you according to your flight arrival and departure times, and whether you have any special interests or requests.

If you continue your tour around Indonesia, the easiest way to find the best hotel deals is Booking. There are thousands of options to stay in almost every destination in the world.

Experience Orangutan tours and Klotok trips in Borneo, Indonesia

Kumai’s Only Woman-Owned Indonesian Eco Tour and Cultural Tour Company. Let the Journey Begin!

Orangutan tours and Klotok trips in Borneo, Indonesia

My company offers Tanjung Puting Borneo orangutan klotok boat tours, customized Pangkalan Bun/Kumai-area eco tours and cultural tours, as well as customized Indonesian orangutan tours in Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan (plus nearby national parks), Java, and Sumatra.

Indonesian Eco and Cultural Tours

Borneo Kalimantan Eco Tours

Java Eco Tours

Sumatra Elephant Eco Tours

Where would you like to go?

Borneo kalimantan, what people are saying.

Amazing wildlife, exceptional food Siti organized a 4-day trip for us. We had a wonderful time. We booked a deluxe boat w/ a private cabin and AC, and everything was exactly as advertised.

Gabe – Colombia

Amazing Jungle Cruise I would recommend this trip to those who love the wildlife, being off grid and are not afraid to go without western comforts for 3 days/2 nights.

T. Jacobs – Dubai

Great experience! Very easy and fast communication via Whatsapp. She organized everything. If you want to go to Borneo and see the Orangutan Monkeys, go with Siti!!”

Michel – The Netherlands

Experience Orangutan tours and Klotok trips in Borneo, Indonesia. Kumai’s Only Woman-Owned Indonesian Eco Tour and Cultural Tour Company. Let the Journey Begin!

Siti`s Tanjung Puting Jl. Abd. Azis, RT 03, No.14 │ Kelurahan Kumai Hilir │Kecamatan Kumai Kabupaten Kotawaringin Barat │Kalimantan Tengah │ Indonesia

Email: [email protected] Phone: +62 812 516 0425

• North America
• South America
• National Parks
• Work with Me

All Things Ape: How to Choose an Orangutan Tour in Kalimantan | Indonesia

Imagine yourself in the thick, lush rainforest of Kalimantan, Indonesia. Hear the jungle sounds from the deck of your klotok and look out into the trees. If you’re lucky, you might just encounter exactly what you came for—orangutans.

The name orangutan translates to “man of the forest” in Malay. They share a 97% genetic match with humans, but all it really takes is a moment of eye contact to sense how similar we are. Seeing orangutans in the forest is an experience of a lifetime. But to do it responsibly, you have to seek out one of the orangutan tours in Kalimantan that prioritizes responsibility, both to the orangutans and their environment.

Like so much of nature, orangutans face an existential threat as their habitats disappear due to deforestation. Want the chance to experience orangutans while making a lighter impact? Here are some of the best orangutan tours in Kalimantan, Borneo.

Best Indonesia Orangutan Tour Operators

Orangutans are native to Indonesia and Malaysia, but they’re mostly found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. In Borneo, you’ll find them in the Indonesian provinces of Kalimantan and parts of Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak regions. In Sumatra, orangutans live in the northern provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

For this trip, we opted to see orangutans in Kalimantan, Indonesia at Tanjung Puting National Park. The main reason is that we thought a multi-day river cruise sounded like a real adventure and a better way to ensure that we’d actually see some of the wildlife we set out to see.

When picking an orangutan tour in Kalimantan (or in general), here’s what you should keep in mind…

• Ethics. Does the tour operator prioritize the well-being of orangutans and their habitats? Ensure your visit contributes to ethical tourism by reading traveler reviews. Of course, there’s no way to be sure that they’re operating ethically until you’re on the ground, but be weary of any traveler reviews that hint at operators mistreating the animals or the environment.
• Certifications and Memberships . Is the operator trusted by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) or the Orangutan Foundation International? While it’s not a perfect system, these affiliations show an increased commitment to responsible tourism.
• Reviews and Recommendations . Do they have positive reviews or are they recommended by other travelers?
• Expert Guides . What about their guides? Are they knowledgeable about orangutan behavior? Committed to ethical practices? English speaking?
• Group Size . How big are the groups? We always prefer a smaller group for wildlife tourism to minimize the impact of our visit.
• Travel Style . There’s a range of operators offering everything from bare bones to a more upscale experience.

Orangutan Applause

Orangutan Applause runs the most popular orangutan tour in Kalimantan. Their klotok houseboat trips are cozy – just a couple of travelers on the live-aboard houseboat – and itineraries run are available for 3d/2n or 4d/3n. We ultimately went with Orangutan Applause for our orangutan tour because of their commitment to sustainable tourism practices, orangutan conservation, and consistently amazing reviews of their guides and boat crew.

Our trip with Orangutan Applause was pretty amazing – I’d recommend them to anyone taking the trip. Learn more about Orangutan Applause .

WOW Borneo offers a higher-end jungle expedition as their klotoks have private cabins. Their tours are a bit more expensive but don’t compromise experience or adventure in the process. Travelers also talk about their commitment to environmental conservation and knowledgeable guides. Learn more about WOW Borneo .

Varada Borneo

Varada Borneo also gets really great reviews for their orangutan tours in Kalimantan. Most people say the experience was one of the best of their lives, and praise Varada for their quick support, tasty food, and knowledgeable guides. Learn more about Varada Borneo .

WHAT’S AN ORANGUTAN TOUR IN INDONESIA LIKE?

Most of the tours in Tanjung Puting National Park are 2-4 days and aboard a klotok – a traditional boat – that travels down the Sekonyer River. The itineraries are relatively similar, with most trips making stops at orangutan feeding stations like Tanjung Harapan or Camp Leakey and taking guests on guided jungle walks. Evenings are spent onboard the klotok, eating Indonesian meals and sleeping and lounging on deck.

Your guide will probably tell you about wildlife and the local ecosystem, as well as traditional Dayak culture, with possible visits to local villages. Overall, you can expect a nice mix of wildlife viewing, cultural experience, and a little bit of adventure in the Borneo wilderness.

HOW TO GET TO TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK

A trip to Tanjung Puting National Park begins in Pangkalan Bun – a tiny town in central Kalimantan. With just a few hotels, Pangkalan Bun serves as a gateway to the park. You can get to Pangkalan Bun by flight from major Indonesian cities – Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali – although flights are infrequent and carrier options are limited.

As most travel in Tanjung Puting National Park is through dense rainforest and along a river, a tour operator must typically arrange transportation to and within the Park.

WHAT’S THE BEST PLACE TO SEE ORANGUTANS?

As mentioned above, orangutans live in Indonesia and Malaysia on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. In Borneo, they live in the Indonesian provinces of Kalimantan and parts of Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak regions. On the island of Sumatra, orangutans are found in the northern provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

Apart from Tanjung Puting, orangutans can also be found at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah, Malaysia. You can also spot them in Gunung Leuser National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, or Bukit Lawang for guided treks. Additionally, orangutans roam freely in Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah, Borneo.

Article on the best places to see orangutans coming soon !

WHAT OTHER WILDLIFE CAN YOU SEE IN TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK?

Besides orangutans, you can also find wildlife like proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and birds like kingfishers and hornbills. The lush forest is also home to plant species, including dipterocarp trees, orchids, and pitcher plants.

Need advice for your orangutan tour in Indonesia? Drop your questions below.

You might also like, taylor record.

I'm Taylor and this is Travel Outlandish. I’m an independent traveler kind of like you. I believe we deserve better than crowds of people and manufactured experiences when we explore. Whether you're going into the wild on a backpacking trip or planning a weekend in a foreign city, you'll find everything you need to plan something awesome on Travel Outlandish. Thanks for stopping by!

No Comments

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Discover more from Travel Outlandish

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

ETHICAL TREKKING PIONEER IN BUKIT LAWANG

Let's shape together a better future for the rainforest, its WILdlife and the local communitY!

Discover all the wilderness of the Sumatran jungle IN AN ETHICAL WAY

​at sumatra orangutan explore we organize unique and unforgettable ethical  j ungle  trekking striving to respect and preserve the unique ecosystem & biodiversity of the  gunung leuser national park . we are devoted since our beginnings to protect the endangered s umatran orangutans and other wildlife and raise awareness among the local community.  our eco-friendly day tours and activities aim to support local people & traditional handicrafts. our off-the-beaten-track expeditions aim to support local communities in more rural and remote areas by discovering untouched spots., our commitment is to preserve the rainforest and protect its amazing wildlife while benefiting positively to local communities. we are devoted to have a low impact on the rainforest but a great impact on the local community of bukit lawang and other remote areas (through education and awareness, support of local associations and initiatives, women empowerment, fair working conditions and higher remuneration level). learn more about our commitments and actions ..

O ur team of experienced English-speaking guides, certified by the Indonesia Tourist Guides Association (ITGA-HPI Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia) will be glad to share their knowledge with you. They strictly follow the Gunung Leuser National Park guidelines, our own ethical jungle rules and do their best to keep the jungle clean and the wildlife safe!

Choosing a trek or a tour with us is your way to PROTECT & PRESERVE our amazing but endangered rainforest, its AMAZING WILDLIFE and its inhabitants!

The small riverside village of Bukit Lawang is located at the entrance of the Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the richest

tropical rainforests in South East Asia ! Its unique location makes it the perfect place to stay to discover the amazing rainforest of North Sumatra and its unique wildlife. 

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and placed on a list of world heritage sites in danger in 2011,

the Gunung Leuser National Park covers 1,095,000 ha in northern Sumatra and has amongst one of the most diverse

biodiversity in the world  by housing thousands species of indigenous animals, insects and plants. This amazing rainforest provides also a home for endangered and protected species like the Sumatran Tiger, Rhinoceros, Slow Loris, 

Elephant and of course the wonderful people of the forest, the Sumatran Orangutans ("orang" means people and "utan" forest) The Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the 2 only places in the world where you can observe Orangutans in the wild.    

Trekking through the Sumatran rainforest will take you into a breathtaking and unforgettable experience! 

So join us & let's begin your AMAZING & RESPECTFUL jungle adventure!

OUR MISSION

Shaping a better future for our rainforest, its amazing wildlife and the local community of Bukit Lawang

1 CHARITY SUPPORTED WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

10% OF OUR BENEFITS donated (on treks & tours)

An unforgettable experience awaits!

Our ETHICAL Jungle Treks

3 Hours Ethical Trek

This short half day trek is the perfect option for families with young children, people who don't feel like they're fit enough for a long trek or those who are on a tight schedule. This trek will take you at the entrance of the rainforest and gives you chances to spot semi-wild Orangutans and other wildlife if you're lucky. Watch them and their babies swinging in the trees. After some fresh tropical fruits, enjoy the way back by tubing down the river!

1 Day Ethical Trek

If you don't have enough time ahead but feel like you wanna explore all the wilderness of the Sumatran jungle, this trek is made for you! Enjoy a 6 to 7 hours trek through the Gunung Leuser National Park and discover its amazing fauna and flora. Meet the amazing Orangutans but also all the other species that live amongst them. After a jungle lunch and a few more walking hours, enjoy a raft ride to go back to Bukit Lawang

2 Days Ethical Trek

Experience a night in the rainforest and feel the jungle vibes with this 2 days trek! After an amazing first trekking day full of discoveries, relax on our campsite near the river or the waterfall. Refresh yourself and take a swim before having a homemade dinner. Then enjoy a entertaining evening chatting and playing games with your guides around a bonfire. Fall aseep with jungle sounds. The next morning, enjoy a yummy breakfast and go deeper in the jungle to see more wildlife before going back to Bukit Lawang by tubing! 

EXPLORE THE SUMATRAN RAINFOREST IN AN ETHICAL WAY, SPOT ORANGUTANS & AMAZING WILDLIFE, DISCOVER ALL THE SECRETS OF THE JUNGLE, ITS FAUNA & ITS FLORA WITH RESPECT!

3 Days Ethical Trek

If you feel like you want to explore more the jungle and look for unique wildlife, the 3 days 2 nights suits you well!   Go deeper in the Gunung Leuser National Park and get more chance to discover the 8 species of primates living in here. Experience 2 nights in the jungle and enjoy two different campsites at the riverside and near a waterfall. On the last day, a three hours walk will take you to the river bank to enjoy a last jungle lunch before a raft ride down Bohorok River will bring you back to Bukit Lawang.

4 Days Ethical Trek

Go into the wild with this 4 days 3 nights trek. Explore all the richness of the jungle, secrets about medicinal plants and get the chance to meet rare wildlife such as wild Peacocks, Hornbills, Giant Squirrels and traces of Sun Bears. Every night experience a new campsite or even a 2 or 3 hours night trek to observe nocturnal species. Every day you will enjoy a fresh and homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner made by your guides ! The last day relax on the way back to Bukit Lawang thanks to an amazing tubing ride!  

5 Days Ethical Trek

Feel like a real jungle adventurer ? Opt for a stunning 5 days trek and discover all the secret places of the Gunung Leuser National Park: walk through rivers, explore caves, swim in waterfalls... You will even have the possibility to do night trekking to spot nocturnal species. Get the chance to spot wild Elephants & see foot prints of the Sumatran Tiger. You will also get all the jungle survival tips. End the trek with a relaxing raft ride down Bohorok River that will bring you back to Bukit Lawang. You will remember this unique experience your whole life!  

Bat Caves Tour & BBQ at Landak River 

Explore the unique bat caves of Bukit Lawang. These huge caves hide many stalagtites and stalagmites but also amazing species of insects, snakes, bats and swallows. Then walk through the palm oil plantations to go to the amazing Landak River. Relax, chill out and take a swim in this beautiful river while your guide will prepare a chicken & fish barbecue. Veggie or vegan ? Just tell us and we will cook something yummy for you!

If you are lucky you can even see  Orangutans and other wildlife on the way! 

Our ECO-friendly Activities & day tours

In order to fulfill our mission all our daily tours focus on community-based tourism explore the surroundings of bukit lawang & the amazing spots they have to offer,  discover the everyday life in the village, meet local people & support local activities. all our activities can be combined if you wish to do 2 of them in one day.

Bukit Lawang Eco Village Tour

This half day tour takes you into a cultural trip to discover traditional activities and to meet local people. Take a traditional becak and go through the wonderful rice fields. Have a look at the everyday village life and stop by to observe homemade production of tofu and brown sugar. Learn more about traditional crafting such as attap roof thatching made with palm leaves and bamboo walls (tepas). On Friday & Sunday you can also visit traditional markets! At the end of the tour enjoy a fresh drink or a freshly harvested coconut water ! 

Refreshing Tubing Tour & BBQ

This refreshing activity is perfect for families or group of friends during sunny days! Float down the Bohorok River for 15 km while sitting in big rubber tubes. The river is perfect for a 3 hours tubing as there are a few fun white water parts where you bump over rocks and more nice and quieter parts where you can enjoy the amazing green surrounding scenery. During your trip stop on the river bank to relax, take a refreshing swim and enjoy a yummy barbecue! You will stop tubing in Bohorok where a local bus will pick you up! Enjoy the beautiful landscape on the way back to Bukit Lawang.

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Organic Soap Workshop in the rice fields

Looking for a fun & educational activity for the whole family? Immerse yourself in the Sumatran botanicals & delightful scents with this tour combining walk and workshop. Walk through the village for about 40 minutes with the lovely Aini (woman entrepreneur producing soaps) until reaching beautiful house in the rice fields. Stroll among her lush organic garden to pick the needed ingredients and learn more about plants, herbal properties & uses. Enjoy a fresh herbal drink from the garden before learning how to make natural soaps using natural oils and selected plants from her garden. For children a fun little toy will be included in the soap! At the end of the workshop enjoy a traditional meal all together in the rice fields!

Traditional Cooking Class

If you are a food lover then this activity is made for you! Taste the authentic and yummy Sumatran food by enrolling in a cooking class with locals! Go to the market in the morning and buy all the things you need to cook. Local women will then welcome you into their kitchen, share their cooking experience and teach you how to cook traditional Indonesian dishes. You will cook 2 starters and 2 main meals to choose between a large selection of local food (curry, rendang, sambal, sate, tempeh goreng...). Enjoy the meals you cooked all together! 

Botanical Dye & Ecoprint Workshop

Unlock the superpowers of the Sumatran botanical & discover all their secrets thanks to this unique workshop in the rice fields! Prepare your own piece of art, from nature to fabric. Learn all the techniques of natural dyeing and eco printing. Design your bandana and create your own pattern using leaves and flowers freshly picked in a beautiful organic garden. Thanks to the magic of nature each creation is unique! Enjoy a fresh herbal drink and some local snacks while preparing your eco print. This workshop supports our women empowerment policy as it is in close collaboration with APES Eco Print which is locally owned and operated by women from the village.

Aerobics, Yoga or Running at Bukit Lawang Trust

Want to get jungle fit? Go to Bukit Lawang Trust in Gotong Royong and join one of their fitness classes on the rooftop offering a beautiful view on the Gunung Leuser mountains! Bukit Lawang Trust is a Charitable Trust working to enhance the education and employability of the local community here in Bukit Lawang, and it's one of the charity we are directly donating to! They are offering free fitness activities every week in exchange of a donation for the School and you can even get a visit of the School! Aerobics takes place on Monday and Wednesday, Yoga & Flexibility on Thursday and Running sessions are organized on Friday! Get in touch for the exact hours. 

Coconut Cutlery Carving Workshop

Want to travel in a sustainable way?Join our carving workshop to carve your own coconut cutlery! Our friend Bodong, owner of a local art gallery, will help you to design your own on-the-go cutlery! Why we have chosen cutlery instead of the traditional jewelry carving workshop? As a sustainable tour-operator we'd like our guests to get a useful and eco-conscious asset that you could take anywhere with you (while traveling or working)! Made with coconuts harvested in the village, it is the perfect eco-friendly duo to replace the plastic cutleries you might be given in take away restaurants! One more way to fight the overwhelming plastic pollution!

Eco-trails by Project Wings

Embark on one of the eco-trails organised by Project Wings, a german NGO which is currently building the world´s biggest recycling village  from 250 tons of plastic waste. Explore the different NGO departments and sustainable initiatives thanks to the different half day eco-trails. Each eco-trail is ending with a fun, creative and enriching workshop. If you have time opt for the full day tour to explore each department and learn how to become a real eco-warrior.  You can also opt for a personalized to compose on your own with your selection of 2 half-day eco-trails (lunch included). All benefits are going to the Project Wings association to support their great initiatives. 

Canyoning, Natural Pools & Panoramic Camping 

This 2 days tour takes you into an refreshing adventure to discover secret places on the way to Berastagi. A 2 hours drive will lead you to 5 secret waterfall spots. Take a refreshing plunge in these natural swimming pools! Then you will head to Rumah Pohon Habitat. This amazing wooden structure in the trees will offer you a wonderful viewpoint while enjoying your drink. Then you will head to your panoramic camping site for the night. Perfect spot for sunset and sunsrise! The place also offers many selfie spots with stunning view on the Gunung Leuser and North Sumatra (until Medan!). The next morning wake up and enjoy your breakfast with the sounds of Siamangs. On the way back, take a break and relax at a swimming pool in the middle of the jungle. Enjoy the invigorating fresh water coming from the mountains!  

Rafflesia & Titan

Flower tour.

This daily tour takes you to Batu Katak, a small village along the Berkail River and about 40min from Bukit Lawang. This authentic and peaceful area, still preserved from tourism, is an undiscovered jewel waiting to be explored! The hidden and restful area is a unique place in the world! Indeed the jungle of Batu Katak hides the biggest  and the highest flowers of the world, the Rafflesia Flower and the Amorphophallus Titanum! Your local guide will explore the jungle with you and lead you to these amazing flowers which are very rare to see as they only bloom for 4-5 days after a gestation period of 9 months. Besides the flowers, you will have great chance to observe gibbons and siamangs while trekking. Enjoy a yummy lunch listening to the stunning gibbon songs and take a refreshing swim in the river!

DISCOVER UNSPOILT AREAS FAR FROM TOURISM & ENJOY A NEW WAY TO EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF SUMATRA. OUR MISSION IS TO ENABLE SECLUDED AREAS & LOCAL PEOPLE TO BENEFIT FROM THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF  ECO-CONSCIOUS TOURISM. JOINING ONE OF THESE TOURS IS YOUR WAY TO SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITIES.

Our off the beaten path tours.

Caves, Hot Springs & Waterfalls at Simolap

If you are looking for unspoilt nature and downtime in the wild to revitalize, this tour is made for you! We offer several adventurous all inclusive tours to Simolap from 1 to 3 days, with different activities, according to your wishes! Simolap is part of the Gunung Leuser National Park and is located around 2 hours from Bukit Lawang. The unspoilt area is full of secret places which are yours to explore! It is especially famous for it's incredible hot springs facilities and its caves. Opt for a trek through the jungle to see wildlife, explore several caves,  secret waterfall spots and take a plunge in these natural swimming pools! End the tour with a relaxing and revitalizing swim in the hot springs! If you stay a few days you can experience a 2D/1N trek with camping in a cave. You can also spend another night at the guesthouse of our lovely friends. 

Tangkahan Discovery, Jungle & Waterfall

Discover the hidden paradise of Tangkahan! At only 2,5 hours from Bukit Lawang, Tangkahan is an eco-tourism destination famous for the CRU association which is fighting against illegal logging. But this area is also offering the possibility to explore its wonderful lush green surroundings. Start your day by exploring the jungle and chase wonderful waterfalls. Tube down the river in big tires before lunch. After a freshly cooked lunch at a local restaurant at the riverside take a refreshing swim in the Buluh river, enjoy the hot springs and relax at the riverbank! It's possible to  spend a night in this wonderful place if you'd like us to ! Contact us to organize your tailor-made adventure and know the fare!

We recommend to book at least 3 months in advance

Berastagi Discovery, Volcano, nature & culture 

Explore another must-see of North Sumatra! Located at around 3 hours from Bukit Lawang, Berastagi which means "rice store", is a town located in the Barisan mountains. It's cooler weather makes it the perfect place to harvest many things hence it's lush green surroundings!  During this overnight tour you'll explore Berastagi and it's highlights! You'll climb the volcano by sunrise and enjoy lunch with the panoramic view of Gundaling Hill! During the afternoon you'll discover Lumbini garden the famous boudhist temple, enjoy the hot springs and chase waterfall! Back in Berastagi you'll explore the famous fruits market and  assist to an amazing Karonese dance demonstration! This tour will take you into a culture trip to discover more about North Sumatra.  

WE HELP YOU TO ORGANIZE YOUR TRIP

Where to stay

We'd be glad to welcome you in our ecolodge at the riverside and overlooking the amazing jungle!

How to get here

All the travel options and tips about your flight to Medan and the way to Bukit Lawang! 

What to bring

All the information you need! We give you all the tips to prepare well your trip!

Our Packages

Spare time and make the most of your trip by choosing one of our eco-conscious tour packages.

Back to Top

• Philippines
• South Korea
• National Parks
• Travel Stories
• How Much Does It Actually Cost to Travel the World?
• What’s In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List
• My Favorite Non-Fiction Travel Books
• All Budget Travel Resources
• Writing Portfolio

How to See Orangutans in Indonesian Borneo (Tanjung Puting National Park)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

From dawn the singsong of jungle birds and sharp white noise of cicadas break the silence. The river is as still as glass. The morning air is free of the humidity and sweltering heat that will inevitably come later. We woke to the cheeky macaques knawing holes into all the hot sauce bottles left table side on the open-air deck of our Klotok boat. The first day we saw no less than 8 orangutans. Drawn to the feeding platform when the 3 PM sugarcane and fruit dump is made, we saw 3 mothers with their infants clinging to their chest. They stuff their faces with goodies and climb back to the treetops with arms and mouths full.

Indonesian Borneo is the best place in the world to see Orangutans in the wild. Full Stop. There are a handful of other places around the globe where you’re tantalized by the possibility of seeing the bright orange ape, but sightings are fleeting and rare. Here, in Tanjung Puting National Park, the great apes are abundant. Well, not really, they are still a critically endangered species, but your chance of seeing one here is very nearly 100%. And up close too. This is because of the numerous rehabilitation and research centers inside Tanjung Puting National Park.

Here are the details you need to know to plan your trip to Tanjung Puting National Park and see Orangutans in Indonesian Borneo.

How To See Orangutans in Indonesian Borneo

I’m not going to bury the lead. We used Orangutan Trekking Tours in the small Indonesian town of Pangkalan Bun for our 4-day/3-night expedition into Tanjung Puting National Park. This is a luxury (ish) bucketlist-worthy travel experience and there aren’t any budget-friendly alternatives to visiting the park and seeing the orangutans. We cannot recommend Orangutan Trekking Tours highly enough. Not only is the company locally owned but it works in conjunction with the Orangutan Foundation International meaning you won’t find a more ethical agency or one more dedicated to conservation. That’s the gist of this article. You can book your tour with them off this information alone or you can continue reading for all the nitty-gritty details of what to expect in the jungle and what makes Orangutan Trekking Tours so special.

Where Can You See Orangutans in the Wild?

All the remaining Orangutans of the world are divided between two islands — Sumatra & Borneo.

There are three species of Orangutan. The Bornean Orangutan (found in both Malaysian + Indonesian Borneo), the Sumatran Orangutan found in North Sumatra in and around Gunung Leuser National Park , and the Tapanuli Orangutan also found in Sumatra but near the central Lake Toba region.

The Borneo Orangutan is the most populous with around 50,000-90,000 individuals left in the wild.

The Sumatran species has around 13,000 left and the very rare Tapanuli (also on Sumatra) has only around 800.

So, Sumatra or Borneo for Orangutans?

Both these experiences have their pros and cons. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting both islands and seeing Orangutans in both destinations.

You can read all about my Sumatran Orangutan Experience and which company I recommend.

But I wrote an entire blog post dedicated to weighing the pros and cons of Sumatra vs. Borneo and which Orangutan destination is right for you. This guide will help you to decide.

Should You Visit Malaysian or Indonesian Borneo to see Orangutans?

If you have decided to visit Borneo for Orangutans, you’re not quite done narrowing down your vacation destination yet.

Borneo is a large heavily forested island divided between 3 countries. Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Brunei has no Orangutans. Malaysia has relatively few orangutans with about 3,000 of them in the Sabah area. This is because the habitat in Malaysia is not as good as in Indonesia for Orangutans.

If it’s Orangutans you are after, it’s Indonesian Borneo that is a clear winner.

Where in Indonesian Borneo is Best for Orangutans?

There is no better place to see Orangutans in Borneo than in Tanjung Puting National Park near the small town of Pangkalan Bun. You probably could have surmised this from the title of this blog post.

This is because of Camp Leakey. Camp Leakey is a small research camp founded by Archeologist Louis Leakey in 1971. He sent now conservationist and primatologist Dr. Birute Galdikas into the jungle to embark on the longest-ever continuous study of an orangutan population. He’s the same guy who funded Jane Goodall with the Chimpanzees and Dian Fossey with the mountain gorillas.

Anyways, today these rehabilitation camps take ex-captive or orphaned orangutans and reintroduce them into the wild. This means there are TONS of orangutans inhabiting the jungle around the rehab centers. AKA a great place to see the Orangutans in the wild.

I’ve written a small guide on Pangkalan Bun & some tips for reaching the small town for trip planning purposes.

When is the Best Time of Year to See Orangutans in Borneo?

You can see Orangutans year-round in Indonesian Borneo! The best time is from May-September because this is considered the dry season in Borneo. This will make your journey more comfortable as well as the Orangutans more active.

Another great time to visit is during one of the Orangutan Trekking Tours group tours! Here are the dates for 2024.

What is Orangutan International?

Orangutan International is the organization run by Dr. Galdikas to save the Orangutans. It’s the leading charity for protecting the orangutans.

They focus on the rescue and rehabilitation of orangutan infants, making the lives of orangutans easier in the Bornean jungle, and protecting the remaining Bornean rainforest from deforestation.

There are TONS of ways that they go about doing this.

They have programs to involve and educate the local populations so that they grow a deep respect for the orangutans and are therefore less likely to engage in poaching, illegal logging, illegal mining, or work in the wildlife trade.

Orangutan International purchases huge swathes of the untouched rainforest surrounding the park to expand the habitat and prevent the Indonesian government from one day selling it to Palm Oil plantations.

They also run three feeding and rehabilitation centers inside the jungle where injured, aging, or once-captive orangutans can come to get a free meal once per day. This is vital to the survival of Orangutans as a species today.

Inspired to Donate? Here’s How to Help the Orangutans from Home.

Head to the Orangutan International website and donate directly to a cause like purchasing land for the Orangutans or sponsoring a recently rescued baby orangutan.

Infant orangutans need to be with their mothers learning the ins and outs of the jungle for 8-9 years which means the money to raise one rescued from the wildlife trade or orphaned in the jungle is substantial. Even just $5 helps.

What Does a Typical Tour of Tanjung Puting NP Look Like?

So, how do you see the orangutans inside the park?

This is one of the unique parts of spotting orangutans in Indonesia. Borneo is a flooded rainforest landscape. The Sekonyer River cuts from Pangkalan Bun through the jungle to Camp Leakey. Here along the sides of the river, you’ll spot wild orangutans coming in for a drink (if you’re lucky) and then once you reach the rehab camps you’ll trek through the jungle to the feeding platforms.

You’ll spend 80% of your time on the boat. Sleeping and eating included. The rest will be spent exploring the non-flooded regions of the jungle.

This is why it’s more expensive than other safari or trekking tours in Indonesia. It’s a more luxurious experience than camping in Sumatra for sure.

When you enter the canal the river becomes brown with silt from illegal gold mining and framed by rows and rows of coconut palms on each side. The left side of the river is unprotected land. Every now and again you happen upon a faded splintered wooden dock. These are the local villages. In the 1970s the people who had lived within the park boundaries for generations were relocated to these small carefully constructed pieces of land to minimize the human impact within the park. Today, these villages are little more than a handful of traditional longhouses, a primary school, and a hospital. The 500 residents make a living by farming or selling hand-carved trinkets to travelers passing through on their way to Camp Leakey.  But the town doesn’t feel like a tourist trap. There’s one single shop by the dock advertising souvenirs. The rest are causally displayed on the front porches of their creator’s homes throughout the village. No one actively tried to sell us anything. It was simply a look at how the indigenous people now live surrounding Tanjung Puting. It’s a hard life and although the trinkets (like this hand-carved orangutan) are rather expensive considering Indonesian standards it helps make their way of life easier. 

Why You Should Choose Orangutan Trekking Tour for Your Trip

Orangutan Trekking Tour is incredible. There are so many reasons to choose them over the competitors in Pangkalan Bun. After spending 4 days in the jungle with them and doing countless hours of research, these were the main deciding factors.

“We have spent most of our life in the deep jungle and rivers of Borneo and we grew up in the fields learning the skills to be wildlife and culture tour guides. We are also supported by the impressive and solid background of our families who have a deep knowledge of the land.” – Orangutan Trekking Tours

As I mentioned before, because of the park permits the costs of all multi-day ETHICAL safari-style tours are comparable so that wasn’t really a factor in our decision-making. Check out the cost breakdown below to see what you should budget for this adventure.

1. Bain (the owner/boat captain) is an incredible guide + photographer

Bain runs each and every tour with Orangutan Trekking. Not only is he an exceptional photographer who helped us get some cool photos– he also clearly cares deeply for the jungle environment and its inhabitants. He personally worked as a ranger within the park for nearly a decade before moving on to guide. He works closely with Orangutan International through the Green Team (more on that below).

Bain has seen (and photographed) nearly every animal in the national park. He’s an expert tracker and is respectful of the animal’s space always.

2. They Work With Orangutan International’s Green Team

The Green Team is a group of local residents who work to change the community’s opinions on the rainforest and Orangutans and show them it’s worth protecting. You can’t save the rainforest without educating the locals and giving them better opportunities for work than the palm oil plantations can. They also purchase land to add to the Tanjung Puting National Park.

It’s important that no matter which tour operator you book with that they are contributing something back to the local community or one of the numerous organizations protecting the jungle. If you decide to go with a different tour operator, do your research.

3. The Jungle Papa Boat is Super Comfortable

Some of the boats on the river looked a little dilapidated and crowded. Jungle Papa was downright comfy. The boat has a rooftop, two massive open-air deck areas for wildlife viewing, an A/C master bedroom (yes, the boat has electricity), lots of space on the deck for more beds depending on the size of the group, a full toilet and shower in the bathroom, beanbag chairs for lounging, and a dinner table usually filled with excellent meals or snacks.

4. The Company is Locally-Owned

This is super important to me specifically. Supporting local small businesses is one of the best things you can do as a traveler. It helps to employ locals, protect the environment, and keep the unique Borneo culture alive.

5. You can Tailor the Tour to Your Interests

There are both traditional and photography-focused tours offered by Orangutan Trekking Tours. Both tours have a similar set-up and activities but the photography tour is typically longer and goes to more remote destinations than the typical tour. It also includes photography coaching (if you want) from Bain who is an INCREDIBLE photographer and will make sure you get the best wildlife shots.

You can take a 2-night tour, 3-night tour, 4-night tour, or longer. Ask to have more trekking time and less time at the feeding platforms. You can take a night safari or not. It’s all up to you. Just be sure to be upfront about what you want with Bain and he will make sure it happens.

Here’s a look at a handful of the tours offered by Orangutan Trekking Tours.

What to Expect on an Orangutan Trekking Tour

As I mentioned, it’s all up to you what you want to focus on during your tour. The rough outline of my tour (traditional 4-day/3-night) was this…

Quick Packing List for an Orangutan Trekking Tour

Fortunately, you don’t need a ton of equipment to make this trip a success. Orangutan Trekking Tours takes care of 90% of the things you need on board. Here’s a list of items that would make your stay more comfortable.

• Lightweight long sleeve shirts for hot weather. This keeps mosquitos at bay and keeps you from overheating.
• Loose long pants or trekking pants. Again mosquitos.
• Comfy boat clothes. When you’re on the boat you’ll probably want shorts and tank tops.
• Mosquito repellent. Lots of it. Preferably a good deet one. This is what we use in the jungle.
• Sandals. Teva’s are my go-to.
• Closed-toe shoes for longer hikes. Even just tennis shoes will do.
• A travel towel for showering on the boat.
• DSLR Camera with a Zoom Lens. Essential for wildlife photography.
• Lifestraw water bottle. This new one even keeps the water cold!
• Sunscreen. It’s super hot here.
• A good travel hat to keep the sun out of your eyes.
• Sunglasses.
• Cash to tip the staff at the end of the excursion.
• Kindle filled with your favorite books (or Reflections of Eden by Dr. Birute Galdikas ) for all the downtime.

Note on Drones: Drones are prohibited within the park except for those who pay a $600 drone permit fee in advance. They only sell so many per year so it’s important to arrange far in advance. But honestly, I don’t see the benefit of using the drone IN the park. You can ask Bain on the first or last day once you have left the park boundaries and get some good drone shots of the river twisting and winding through the rainforest.

You do not need…

• Intense trekking clothes or trekking poles. It’s not really that kind of park.
• A swimsuit. Unless you want to sunbathe in one. There are crocs in the water so swimming is a no-go.
• Headlamp or flashlight. Unless you want to use your own.
• Mosquito net. One will be provided for you.
• Snacks. They feed you SO often on the boat I was stuffed the entire time.

Other Indonesian Rainforest Animals You Can See

Okay, obviously we are here for the Orangutans. But that’s not the only thing to see in Indonesian Borneo.

You can expect to see the Proboscis Monkey and rainbow-hued Stork-Billed Kingfisher on your trip.

Lucky guests are also likely to see Gibbons, Crocodiles, Tarsier, and a slew of nighttime insects and colorful daytime birds.

Super lucky guests who opt to trek into the forest more than the average tour goer (just ask Bain) might be able to see Bornean Clouded Leopards, civets, Malaysian sun bears, mouse deer, barking deer, sambar deer, and the wild cattle known as banteng.

How Much Does it Cost to See the Orangutans in Borneo?

There are a handful of different tours offered by Orangutan Trekking Tours.

The tour we took was their 4-day/3-night excursion. For this trip, it costs $2,250 for two people.

The 4-day/ 3-night photography tour is $2,825 for 2 people.

Here’s a little breakdown of the costs…

• $250 per person on board is donated to the green team. This goes directly to rainforest preservation.
• $12 per day Tanjung Puting National Park fee. $17 on a holiday.
• $30 per night boat docking fee charged by the National Park (this is to sleep in the park which is necessary)
• $90 per day photography permit for the boat. This allows you to take cell phone photos and videos as well as DSLR.

This is why tours to Tanjung Puting in Indonesian Borneo to see the Orangutans are so expensive. The area is highly regulated and there are many fees required by the park to hold a tour within the boundaries.

Please be careful and do your research before you book a cheap Orangutan excursion (if you happen to find one). In Borneo specifically, the preservation of the Orangutans is the highest priority and most reputable companies make a donation to Orangutan International, the rangers, or other environmental conservation groups to help preserve and protect the jungle. Companies operating for far cheaper prices could be giving nothing back to the park and cutting corners in other ways that are harmful to the environment.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly excursion to see Orangutans you should plan a visit to Sumatra instead.

Donate to Save the Orangutans Here!

Head to the Orangutan International website and donate directly to a cause like purchasing land for the Orangutans or sponsoring a recently rescued baby orangutan. Trust me, the moment you see their cute little faces you’ll want to sponsor a baby for sure.

If you’re looking for the best Borneo Orangutan tour or the best place to interact with Orangutans…look no further. Orangutan Trekking Tours offered us the experience of a lifetime and we got to see countless Orangutans in their natural habitat. This is NOT an Orangutan sanctuary– it’s a wild raw jungle experience. I hope you get a chance to see the mighty Orangutan one day. Either in Indonesian Borneo or the island of Sumatra!

Save This Post for Later!

Further Reading...

Trapped Tourists: The Infuriating Rivalry between Indonesia’s Grabcar & Taxi Agencies

Tana Toraja Funerals: How to Visit Ethically

The Best Sulawesi Itinerary: Torajan Funerals and Paradise Islands

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Sign up to our newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Introducing: Lonely Planet's National Park Collection

A guide to pangkalan bun, borneo: gateway to the orangutans, beyond_the_bucketlist.

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS THE BORNEAN ORANGUTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR

Rimba orangutan ecolodge.

Rimba  Orangutan Ecolodge is perched over the gently flowing Sekonyer River  on  the edge of the Tanjung Puting National Park. It is remote - only  accessible by  traditional “Klotok” boat or speed boat.

Rimba  is truly special, located in one of the few remaining places on  earth where Orangutans can  be seen in the wild. On a visit here, you may encounter seven other primate species, a  rich bird  life and explore the lush  surrounding rainforest.

Pangkalan Bun  airport – Central Borneo is the nearest airport to reach us. There are daily direct flight from Jakarta to Pangkalan Bun or Semarang, and you could fly from Bali (via Surabaya/Java).

We offer a  private tour  with a private guide. Our itinerary is flexible and can  be modified to meet your interest. You could also  combine your experience with sleep at Rimba  and sleep on the boat without any additional charge.

Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge

4 days - 3 nights.

D a y 1   Arrival at Pangkalan Bun and Harapan Camp (L/D) Welcome to Borneo!!

Arrive  at the Pangkalan Bun Airport, and transfer for 30 minutes by car to get Kumai   river port  and to board to the river boat (klotok). It takes 1.5 hours to arrive  at The Rimba  eco Lodge for a welcome Lunch. Later visit to The  Tanjung   Harapan feeding  station   at   the  park headquarters only  10  minutes by klotok/local traditional boat   from the lodge, and walk the trail to get for the feeding at 1500. Here also there is a large Alpha male. Dinner and overnight at the Rimba Lodge.

*This half  day  tour  suits those arriving before midday at  Pangkalan Bun – if your  flight arrival late in the afternoon, visit this camp can  be adjusted in to day  3.

D a y 2    The Orangutans o f Camp Leakey ! (B/L/D)

After breakfast at the Lodge, on this day you will visit to the famous Camp Leakey (possibly the most famous place for Orangutan Research in the world)  having lunch on the way. A short visit to The Education Centre there is a must; also  you may  see Agile Gibbons and pigs  in the camp. You then proceed to the Feeding Centre. Your guide will carry  water but  you  should take no food.

You should eat no food or drink water near an Orangutan. Humans transmit diseases to Orangutans; thus please do not initiate contact (for their sakes).

Occasionally an Orangutan may  take you  by the hand – relax  and enjoy it. Camp Leakey feeding is funded by donations  to   The   Orangutan  Foundation  International USA ( Professor Dr Birute Galdikas ). Then you walk back to the boat for  a  great trip  home in the evening through many roosting Proboscis Monkeys and perhaps the wild orangutans. Dinner and overnight at Rimba Lodge.

D a y 3    Tanggui C a m p and  The Tanjung Harapan Village . (B/L/D )

An early start with breakfast and leave for the feeding station of Pondok Tanggui , one hour upstream for morning feeding time. Look  for Giant  Squirrels, pig, and many butterflies on  the walk  in.  Here as  at  all the feeding there is a large Alpha  male. After  viewing  the Orangutans, you  can  walk  around the area. Back on the boat. Lunch on the boat is at around 13.30 when you will  leave for   The  Tanjung  Harapan feeding  Station  for  the feeding  at  1500.  Here also  there is a  large Alpha  male.  After this   feeding you may wish to drop into the local Tanjung Harapan village across the river. Return to the Lodge for dinner. If you wish, a night walk is also available.

D a y 4    Kumai harbor and  Pangkalan Bun’s airport. (B)

Enjoy breakfast at Rimba lodge before boarding our “klotok”.  Take a leisurely boat ride before returning to Pangkalan Bun airport through the port city of Kumai. Revive all your senses and let them retain the magic of Tanjung Puting National Park. Listen to the sounds of Kumai all day loudspeakers emanating from tall buildings where swift nests are being commercially harvested.

Co ntac t us :  [email protected] www.ecolodgesindonesia.com

N o t e : Number of 3 participants is based on 2 rooms Number of 5 participants is based on 3 rooms

Our package is including : -   Full board tour  including return airport transfer services, private Klotok (river boat), English  speaking guide, permit, and park  fees. -   Full board accommodation at the Rimba  Ecolodge, including all meals base on program -   Internal conservation fee

E xcluding : - Air tickets, laundry, bar and others personal expense is not included above. - Domestic air travel is variable around USD 250 to 300  return per  person, travel plan  from Jakarta, on current direct flights. We could assist you on book the internal flight

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS THE BORNEAN ORANGUTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR HOLIDAY NOW!

Contact our reservations team to book this 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS THE BORNEAN ORANGUTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR. Just fill out this form to ask any questions you may have.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * Email * Which Ecolodge are you interested in? Which Ecolodge are you interested in? Kelimutu Crater Lakes Ecolodge Mbeliling Mountain Ecolodge Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge Satwa Elephant Ecolodge None Which tour are you interested in? * Which tour are you interested in? The Birding Tour Both Sides of the Wallace Line Tour The Endangered Species Wildlife Tour The Indonesia Wildlife Safari Tour The Trans Flores Safari Tour Indonesia Art Tour Holiday The Bornean Orangutan Tour The Sumatra Elephant Tour The Komodo Tour The Three Color Lakes National Park Tour Sumatra Eco-Adventure Raja Ampat Birding Tour Jogyakarta, borobudur and prambanan temples, sultans palace, batik making and more. Birds on both sides of the wallace line Birders Rest far & wide – Sulawesi & Halmahera The Bornean Orangutan Tour and Wild Life Tour The Sumatran Elephant and Wild Life Tour The Komodo and Mbeliling Tour The Three Color Lakes Kelimutu Tour Choice 22 Message * Phone Submit

Experience wild Borneo

Responsible, sustainable private tours.

Our Adventure Tour packages have been carefully designed to build an awareness of ecotourism while taking safety and impact on the environment within Tanjung Puting National Park and wider Borneo into consideration.

We have spent most of our life in the deep jungle and rivers of Borneo and we grew up in the fields learning the skills to be wildlife and culture tour guides. We are also supported by the impressive and solid background of our families who have a deep knowledge of the land.

Our Difference

Build your tour

Wildlife is unpredictable, therefore unlike other tours within the region we don’t have a strict day by day itinerary. Instead, we offer you the opportunity of experiences and build your itinerary during the tour to make the most of the season, and most importantly the movements of the orangutans. Select from the experiences below, or let us know what you want to explore and we will tailor your tour around these!

Select from the experiences below

or let us know what you want to experience and we will tailor your tour around these!

Tanjung Puting National Park jungle trek

Trek through the thick of the jungle following the winding trails led by our knowledgeable tour guides. Learn about the native fauna and flora, traditional medicines and history of the land all while keeping an eye out for wild orangutans. Immerse yourself in 360º jungle sounds as you weave your way through with endless photo opportunities. This is your chance to get off the beaten track and absorb the beauty of this stunning corner of the world.

Now this is an experience not to miss. Be guided by a local ranger and our tour guides through the jungle with only a head torch to lead the way. As the nocturnal creatures such as tarsier and various snakes and spiders come out, succumb to the senses and experience the density of the jungle.

If you’re extremely lucky, you may have the opportunity to spot the endangered Clouded Leopard which has recently been spotted in the area by our tour guide!

Rehabilitation Camps

Camp 1 - tanjung harapan, camp 2 - pondok tanggui, camp 3 - camp leakey.

This camp meaning “cape of good hope” was originally designed as a training centre for ex-captive and orphaned baby orangutans. Also near the camp is a reforestation project which includes a botanical nursery used for growing seedlings. Follow the path loop and watch the orangutans make their way over the jungle canopy to the platform and then back into the dense jungle with a full belly.

This feeding station was once a release centre for pre-adolescent ex-captive and orphaned orangutans after they were rehabilitated.

Today the station is designed to provide supplemental food for the wild and semi-wild orangutans, which is important in order to maintain their nutrition especially when food is hard to come by during drought seasons.

You’ll be there to witness feeding time at 9.00am which is easily accessible via a short walk into the jungle.

A research centre for orangutans and one of the places where older orangutans are reintroduced into the rainforest, Camp Leakey is named after the legendary paleo-anthropologist, Louis Leakey.

This camp is located at the end of the black mirrored water of the Sekonyer River and is one of the most magical places on earth. Follow the boardwalk into the jungle where the local rehabilitated orangutans make their way to the feeding platforms at 2pm daily where fresh fruit and sugar cane is left by the rangers.

Riverside village experience

Longboat cruise, cooking class, kumai village tour.

Sekonyer River village

Why not do your part for the forest, and plant some trees!  Friends of the National Park Foundation works to protect Indonesia’s endangered wildlife while restoring forests and helping local communities become sustainable. Take a small trek from the river bank into a reforestation site where you can purchase native trees and plant them to increase the density and diversity on the planting site. All profits go straight to the foundation to continue their restoration and sustainability efforts within Indonesia.

Longboats are commonly used by locals to travel along the river, but not many tourists are seen onboard. Our tours offer you the chance to hop in and speed up the river and explore backwaters that aren’t accessible by the larger tour boats.

If the orangutans weren’t everyone’s tour highlight, then the food sure would be! Our onboard cook will walk you through traditional recipes from the region before you indulge in the meal. This is a great chance to cook and try new foods that are common within Asia that you may not have tried before such as cassava and okra.

Before you cruise down the river into the thick of the jungle, take a short walk around the streets of the riverside village with our local tour guide. Try some local foods, look behind the scenes and immerse yourself in the Indonesian culture to see how the locals live.

Highly recommended if this is your first time in Indonesia.

Conservation

Tree planting with fnpf.

Tree Planting with FNPF Borneo

Every Tour Includes:

• Transport to and from the airport
• Camp Leakey
• All meals, tea, coffee & water
• Bed on boat (other accommodation also available)
• Expert tour guides and the camera fee
• Entrance tickets to the National Park

From $300 USD per person per night (based on 4 person tour – 3 nights/4 days)*

* rates differ based on length of stay and number of people..

From $275 USD per person per night (based on 4 person tour – 4 nights/5 days)*

From $250 USD per person per night (based on 4 person tour – 5 nights/6 days)*

Why visit feeding stations?

Orangutans who visit these platforms are free to roam the jungle, but have gained the habit of visiting the feeding station during their rehabilitation. Visiting the feeding stations allow visitors a near-guaranteed opportunity to see the semi-wild orangutans within close proximity.

Due to deforestation, the variety of fruit within the jungle is limited and hard to source for rehabilitated orangutans. The feeding stations offer the orangutans a chance to supplement their diets and a chance for the local rangers to keep an eye on their health and progression. 

Orangutans at these feeding stations are in no way restricted from roaming into the jungle, and offer visitors the opportunity to get up closer to these magnificent creatures. 

If visiting the feeding stations just isn’t for you, that is completely fine! We can spend more time looking for wild orangutans and other wildlife instead.

Secure your spot in a private tour

• Your name *
• Tour you're interested in: * 3 Nights / 4 Days 4 Nights / 5 Days 5 Nights / 6 Days Photography Tour
• Number of people interested: *
• Date you wish the tour to start * DD slash MM slash YYYY
• Anything else you would like to share or ask us about?
• How did you hear about us? * Search Engine Search Referral Social Media Other
• No. I'd like a private tour.

Get in touch with the Orangutan Trekking Tours team!

[email protected]

Love the sound of Borneo but not sure how to get here? Click here to find out!

Local Guides

Borneo Orangutan Tour in Tanjung Puting

Comfortable Klotok Houseboats

The boat is half the fun! We use comfortable Klotoks with a Western shower (no Mandi) and toilet (no squat toilet) and with fresh water (no river water).

You do not share the boat with anyone . Mineral water is available throughout the day via large barrels.

A large klotok houseboat with 2 lounge areas (in the front and in the back), a dining area (in the middle) and a sleeping area (in the middle). It has a Western shower with fresh water and a Western toilet. Mineral water, coffee and tea available throughout the day. The maximum capacity is 8 people.

A fully renovated klotok houseboat for 2 people with 2 lounge areas: one with bean bags in the front and one with a wooden bench in the back. It has a dining area and a sleeping area (in the middle), and a Western shower & toilet with fresh water. Mineral water, coffee and tea available throughout the day. Perfect for couples.

A fully renovated large klotok with 2 lounge areas: one with bean bags in the front and one with a wooden bench in the back. It has a dining area and a sleeping area (in the middle), and a Western shower with fresh water and a Western toilet. Mineral water, coffee and tea available throughout the day. The maximum capacity is 8 people.

Don't use AC boats for more luxury. AC is not needed in Tanjung Puting because of the fresh breeze and the comfortable night temperatures. Moreover, AC boats have a big environmental footprint, make more noise, create bigger waves (disturbing the wildlife in the river), and lock you behind windows, spoiling the jungle vibe. Also, they're expensive.

Instead, just stay overnight at the Rimba ecolodge , located at the edge of the park. The rooms have AC, WiFi, and hot water. This is cheaper and more comfortable. We can book the ecolodge against local tariffs, and transfer you to/from the lodge during the tour. But for the magical jungle experience you should sleep on the boat deep in the jungle.

We had a 2N/3D houseboattour and this was the absolute highlight of our holiday in Indonesia! The pick up from the airport was as perfectly organised as the rest of our trip from our friendly manager Nur. The whole crew and our guide Johannes solicitous accomponied us, that we felt absolutely relaxed on that trip. ...

Wir hatten im voraus die Tour über die Webseite von Local Guides gebucht und unsere Erwartungen wurden mehr als übertroffen. Es war einmalig! Wir wurden von unserem Hotel pünktlich abgeholt und zum Boot gebracht. Alles war sehr gut organisiert. Unser Guide Joe Bowo – ein ehemaliger Ranger des Tanjung Puting National Park (siehe auch den ...

Boeken ging heel gemakkelijk. Aanbetaling per paypal. Rest contant er plekke (begin dus tijdig met het pinnen van de max. hoeveelheden die je mag). Communicatie was prima. Alle vragen werden snel en duidelijk beantwoord. Bij aankomst wordt je opgehaald door iemand van Local Guides en bij vertrek ook weer weggebracht (handig!). De boot (One Piece) ...

This tour was absolutely fantastic, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience to see orangutans in the wild. Our guide, Nur, went above and beyond to make sure that all our needs/wants were taken care of, and was enthusiastic to explain all about the wildlife and conservation challenges they face. The 5 days/4 nights ...

We had very high expectations of our Tanjung Puting tour, and it still exceeded our expectations! While cruising along the river sekonyer using klotok, we saw many bekantan and birds. The first feeding place there were some orangutans in tanjung harapan station, and then we set out again down the river and staying near the ...

This tour was more than we expected ! Beyond imagination…and it is not only about seeing orangutans and other animals. Delicious food, comfortable setting included shower and toilet (!) , fantastic service and endless serenity … I don’t what I like more seeing those beautiful creatures or just be taken away by boat cruise on ...

This tour was an amazing surprise. Everything was well organised. We booked with the help of local guides and had Nur has guide. The klokok is really nice and peaceful. You sleep in the jungle with these amazing sounds of the animals and the nature. In october there were not so many people so it ...

Our family (two adults and two teenagers) did a 3D2N tour in January 2018. We were delighted with our experience. Our individual needs and interests (one keen birdwatcher, allergy to peanuts) were accommodated seamlessly. Our guide Faisal provided additional resources about the birds of the rainforest and was constantly diligent in spotting and helping to ...

We booked a 4D/3N tour quite late into our planning as we had to move our plans following the earthquakes in Indonesia. Both the staff at Local-Guides and our assigned guide Nur were incredibly helpful before the trip began and provided lots of information to us. We stayed a night in Pangkalanbun before we set ...

What an amazing time I had! I booked 3 nights and just had the most amazing time. So peaceful and feeling at one with nature. My guide Darmin was fantastic and everything you’d want from a guide. (I am actually a tour guide myself!!!) I felt so lucky to see so many orangutans. The feeding ...

FAQ on Tanjung Puting

What is the price of an orangutan klotok tour.

You can instantly check all our prices and availabilities in our online booking form .

Note: All the presented prices are for a private tour, which means the boat is exclusively for you and your group and you don't share it with other travelers.

Where to stay in Pangkalan Bun?

It is common for visitors to start the tour upon arrival at the airport, and to fly out on the same day the tour ends. In order to start the tour rested and to accommodate the risk of a delay of your flight, you could consider to start the tour on the day after your arrival and spend the night at a good hotel in Pangkalan Bun.

Because the tour ends early on the last day, there is no need to stay overnight at the end of the tour, except if you would like to rest and enjoy a hot shower before flying to your next destination.

Recommended hotels in Pangkalan Bun in the top, middle and budget segment are the Grand Kecubung Hotel , Arsela Hotel and Hotel Bahagia , respectively.

How to get to Tanjung Puting National Park?

Fly to Pangkalan Bun. There are direct flights between Pangkalan Bun and Jakarta, Semarang and Surabaya. You can check and book domestic flights via Traveloka .

If you start the tour on the same day of your arrival, we will simply pick you up at the airport and start the tour right away. However, we advice you to arrive the day before your tour starts and stay overnight in Pangkalan Bun. The next morning we would pick you up at the lobby of your hotel and start the tour.

PS: While rare, flights to Pangkalan Bun are cancelled sometimes, and when that happens it is usually on a very short notice. This is a stressful event, further exacerbated by a poor reachability of the customer service of airlines. If your orangutan tour starts on the same morning that your flight should arrive in Pangkalan Bun, then a flight cancellation usually means that you have to take a flight on the next morning; your tour starts a day later and you have to shorten your tour by one day. Since we prepare everything for the dates that you have booked, you would have to pay the full price also if we have to shorten the tour by a day. To prevent that a flight cancellation ruins your holiday, we advice you to take at least one of the following measures to accommodate flight cancellations:

• Take a travel insurance
• Arrive in Pangkalan Bun the day before your tour starts
• Start on the day you arrive, but book at least 4 days for the orangutan tour. If everything goes fine you just have a nice 4 day tour without any travel insurance fees. If your flight gets cancelled, you could still do the 3 day tour which is sufficient to see everything, and the extra price you have paid for the 4 day tour can be considered as an insurance fee.

What time does the tour start/end?

Start. We will align the exact pick-up time with you ahead of the tour. If you stay overnight in Pangkalan Bun, we pick you up at the lobby of your hotel between 9 am and 10 am. In case you arrive in Pangkalan Bun on the same day that your tour starts, we pick you up at the airport and start the tour immediately. If you land before 11:30 am we will follow the default tour itinerary. We can also accommodate (but not advice) an arrival in the afternoon, but then you obviously will have less time in the park.

Note: In order to see the feeding at Tanjung Harapan - which starts at 3pm - we need to leave Pangkalan Bun latest at 11:30 am . It is recommended to fly to Pangkalan Bun the day before the tour starts to avoid that a flight cancellation (small but real chance) would ruin the trip.

End. The last day is only a cruise back to Kumai, and the tour ends after breakfast. We will leave Tanjung Puting National Park early in the morning, and you will be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport in the early morning. Ideally you fly out on your last day between 8:30 am and 2 pm, but also in case you have an early flight to catch, no worries: As long as you mention your flight schedule and you are ok with getting up early, you can also catch a flight as early as 7:30 am.

Should I arrive the day before the tour starts in Pangkalan Bun?

Yes! In fact, this is such an important point, that we emphasize this also in other parts of this FAQ.

While rare, flights to Pangkalan Bun are cancelled sometimes, and when that happens it is usually on a very short notice. This is a stressful event, further exacerbated by a poor reachability of the customer service of airlines. If your orangutan tour starts on the same morning that your flight should arrive in Pangkalan Bun, then a flight cancellation usually means that you have to take a flight on the next morning; your tour starts a day later and you have to shorten your tour by one day. Since we prepare everything for the dates that you have booked, you would have to still pay the full price also if we have to shorten the tour by a day. To prevent that a flight cancellation ruins your holiday, we advice you to take at least one of the following measures to accommodate flight cancellations:

• If you want to start the tour right away regardless, then book at least a 4 day orangutan tour. If everything goes fine you just have a nice orangutan tour without any travel insurance fees. If your flight gets cancelled, you could still do that is shortened by one day, and the extra price you have paid is the replacement of a travel insurance fee.

What happens if my flight to Pangkalan Bun is cancelled?

While rare, flights to Pangkalan Bun are cancelled sometimes , and when that happens it is usually on a very short notice. This is a stressful event, further exacerbated by a poor reachability of the customer service of airlines.

If your orangutan tour starts on the same morning that your flight should arrive in Pangkalan Bun, then a flight cancellation usually means that your tour starts a day later and you have to shorten your tour by one day. Since we prepare everything for the dates that you have booked, you would have to still pay the full price also if we have to shorten the tour by a day .

To prevent that a flight cancellation ruins your holiday, we advice you to take at least one of the following measures to accommodate the possibility of a flight cancellations:

• Take a travel insurance.
• Arrive in Pangkalan Bun the day before your tour starts.
• If you want to start the tour right away regardless, then book at least a 4 day orangutan tour. If everything goes fine you just have a nice orangutan tour without any travel insurance fees. If your flight gets cancelled, you could still do that is shortened by one day, and the extra price you have paid you should see as basically the replacement of a travel insurance fee.

What is the best period to visit Tanjung Puting National Park?

You can visit Tanjung Puting throughout the year. The temperature is rather constant and while it is often raining in Kalimantan, historically the most dry period has been July-September and the most wet period has been January and February. However, in recent years the rainfall has been more unpredictable, so the above should not be delt with too strictly.

Partly for the above reason, the most popular period to visit Tanjung Puting among travelers is between June and September . However, besides the weather advantages of this period, there are several downside of doing your tour in the period June - September:

• It is very crowded , which spoils the experience for some people.
• It is relatively expensive since there is a lot of demand and limited boat availability.

Considering the crowds and the value for money, in our opinion the best time to visit Tanjung Puting is in the shoulder months March & May and October & November . Even the wet months (December, January, February) are very nice months for visitation since the wet season is usually relatively mild in Tanjung Puting National Park.

In case you don't have the flexibility and are restricted to the high season period, as long as you manage your expectations that it will be crowded and you book your tour well on time (at least 5 months notice), you will still have a wonderful experience!

Should I take the 3D, 4D or 5D tour?

3D2N. We advice to take the 3D2N tour if you want to see as much as possible in as little time as possible. It is fantastic value for money as you get to see all feeding stations in Tanjung Puting. Unfortunately, you will not have any time for a short trek, or a night trek. 

Note: It is recommended to arrive in Pangkalan Bun the day before the tour starts, which is important in particular for the 3D2N Orangutan Tour. If your orangutan tour starts on the same morning that your flight should arrive in Pangkalan Bun, then a flight cancellation usually means that you have to take a flight on the next morning; your tour starts a day later and you have to shorten your tour by one day. Since a 3D2N orangutan tour is the bare minimum that is recommended, shortening the 3D2N tour by one day is impractical. Moreover, since we prepare everything for the dates that you have booked, you would still have to pay the full price for the tour you have booked and not for the tour you got following your flight cancellation.

4D3N. The 4D3N tour we advice to anyone who would like to take the time in Tanjung Puting and is especially interested to combine visiting the feeding stations with short jungle treks and a night walk . You would also visit a  reforestation site and the  Sekonyer jungle village .

5D4N. The 5D4N tour we advice to anyone that is more adventurous, is into a long jungle trek , together with rangers in a more remote part of the rainforest. At the end of the jungle trek, we return to our boat by a canoe through a small jungle river. There are no other activities in Tanjung Puting that will take you further away from the crowd than this trek, but be prepared to get a little bit dirty.

What meals are served during the tour?

This is one of the things we try to stand out with!

Our goal is to spoil our guests with mouthwatering, delicious meals , because we realize that it adds to the experience to have a well prepared meal in the heart of the jungle on a romantic wooden boat. 

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are served in the top deck on the dining area, while the fingerfood, snacks and drinks are served throughout the day. You’ll have access all day to tea and coffee. If you have a preference for a specific drink, please let us know in advance via the booking form.

Do you have any dietary wishes?  Vegetarian, Vegan, nut or gluten allergies? No worries, we have that all the time. Just let know about it and we'll take care of it.

What are the facilities on the boat?

The boat is a traditional Klotok wooden river boat.

We use comfortable Klotoks, with simple but Western toilets and a shower, as opposed to an Indonesian squat toilet or a basket of water to shower in ("Mandi"). 

There is a top deck exclusively for you, with a dining table in the back, a lounge area in the front and mattrasses under a mosquito net that will be prepared for you in the evening. The crew is in the bottom deck.

Do I share the boat with other travelers?

No, all our orangutan tours are private. This means that the boat is exclusively for your group and that you have your own personal boat crew.

All presented prices in our booking form  correspond to a private orangutan tour.

Can I get seasick on the boat?

No, that is highly unlikely. The river is quite still, and small waves are only occasionally created by passing boats.

Will I get wet on the boat when it rains?

No. Although the boats are on default open on the sides to allow visibility towards the forest, in case of rain they can be closed completely with removable tarps.

Which animals live in Tanjung Puting National Park?

The main reason people visit Tanjung Puting is because of the Orangutans, the park is also home to the bizarre looking proboscis monkey with its “Jimmy Durante” nose as well as seven other primate species. Clouded leopards, civets, and Malaysian sun bears cavort in the park, as do mouse deer, barking deer, sambar deer, and the wild cattle known as banteng.

There are over 230 species of birds, including hornbills, deep forest birds, and many wetland species. Tanjung Puting is well known for its “bird lakes,” seasonal rookeries for a half a dozen species of endangered waterbirds, including the only known Bornean nesting grounds for white egrets.

There are two species of crocodiles (you may spot one while cruising!), dozens of snakes and frogs, numerous threatened species, including the fortune-bringing and highly endangered “dragon” fish also known as the Arwana (bony-tongue).

Among the most flamboyant of these animals are the many species of colorful birds, butterflies, and moths found in the Park.

How does the rainforest look like in Tanjung Puting National Park?

In Tanjung Puting National Park, you'll see the lasting marks of environmental harm from the 1990s, alongside the park's remarkable comeback, largely thanks to tourism.

As we float down the Sekonyer River on our Klotok, lush plants line both sides. But take a closer look: the National Park thrives on the right bank, while the left is dominated by palm oil plantations. Luckily, the National Park itself remains mostly untouched by the palm oil industry. However, rampant illegal logging before the 1990s, along with forest fires, has led to much of the rainforest regrowing, resulting in mostly secondary forest today.

The rise of orangutan tours has changed things. Local communities now benefit more from preserving the rainforest than destroying it. This has led to a remarkable recovery in recent years, making Tanjung Puting National Park a shining example of successful eco-tourism.

How much should I tip the staff?

Tipping is common in Indonesia, and the staff will be extremely happy and flattered if you decide to do so, but it is of course voluntary and not expected.

There is no rule for how much to tip, as it really depends on how satisfied you are with the service and on your budget. Some clients really insist to get an indication, so we will give the rule of thumb that for every day couples could consider tipping the guide 100.000 IDR per day and 50.000 IDR per day to the cook, captain and boat helper each.

Please consider this very indicative, and deviate from it as you wish, depending on your budget and your group size. In the end, any amount is really appreciated .

Are there other places where i can see orangutans?

Among the best places in the world to see orangutans, are Tanjung Puting National Park (Kalimantan) and Gunung Leuser National Park (Sumatra). We offer tours in both places with certified, local guides.

Both are quite well accessible by air from Jakarta. Which of the two is better, depends on your personal interests and on your budget.

Generally speaking, orangutan tours in Bukit Lawang are suitable for adventurous travelers that like relatively long treks, are in shape, and love to camp in the jungle. The tour is by foot and the accommodation is typically in basic jungle camps. We return with an exciting tube raft via the jungle river. Additional advantages are that you can combine such orangutan trek with other activities (volcano treks in Berastagi, relaxing at Lake Toba, visiting villages, cycling tours etc.) and that it is relatively cheaper than the orangutan tours in Borneo. Because the tour is private, we can easily adjust the trek length and difficulty to the ability and wishes of the group and therefore this tour is also suitable for families with children.

In contrast, the orangutan tours in Tanjung Puting are by boat as you cruise through the river, and the occassional treks are very easy and short, and the accommodation is typically on the boat. It is ideal for travelers that want the excitement of a jungle adventure, but without the practicality issues of not having a (good) toilet or shower or sleeping on a thin mattress. Another practical advantage is that the location where the tour starts and ends - Pangkalan Bun - has an airport. Although this cruise is still relatively cheap for Western standards, it is ca 2 times more expensive than the jungle treks in Bukit Lawang. Also, there are fewer activities around Tanjung Puting National Park, than around Gunung Leuser National Park.

For more information about the jungle treks in Bukit Lawang as well as the tour packages we offer there, click here .

Are there any general tips?

Here are a few additional tips that you may enhance your tour experience:

1. Although Indonesia is famous for its coffee, in our experience, tourists do not like the standard coffee served at homes or in the boat, which is basically hot water with filter coffee, but then unfiltered. So if you drink coffee, we recommend to bring your own instant coffee (or French Press).

2. You may want to consider to bring your own alcoholic drink to optimally enjoy the beautiful and romantic setting from the Klotok. If you are lucky, you can store these in the fridge of the staff, but chances are that you can only drink it warm. Alcoholic beverage is not sold in Pangkalan Bun and therefore needs to be bought before arriving here.

3. In case you have time, you will appreciate staying overnight in Pangkalan Bun before (and/or after your) tour. You'll start your tour all rested, finish your tour with a hot shower, stay longer in Tanjung Puting National Park, and don't need to stress about flight delays. The best hotel in town is the Grand Kecubung Hotel .

4. Although there are plug sockets aboard, we do not recommend to use these to charge expensive gadgets (smartphones, tablets, etc.) because the power engine of the boat does not supply a constant voltage (this holds for ALL boats). Please consider to bring an external battery charger , which can be bought at any outdoor store.

5. If you have a hammock, bring it! The ultimate chill experience is to lay down in your hammock in the klotok as you cruise through the lush jungle!

6. Bring a refillable bottle , not only for your trip to Tanjung Puting but generally for your stay in Indonesia. You would dramatically reduce your plastic consumption by not using a plastic mineral water bottles. You can refill the bottle with the large mineral water barrel we have onboard.

7. Purchase online an e-simcard before you arrive in Indonesia. You don't need a physical card (hence "e"-simcard), and there are many providers, such as MobiMatter . Download the app and just purchase it if you have a smartphone.

Recommended Accommodations

Solo Travelers

Are you a solo traveler and looking for others to share the tour with? You can check out our shared tours here , or find other solo travelers in the Solo Travelers Forum .

Reading Tips

For cancellations with a shorter notice period, there is no refund of the deposit.

What happens if my flight is delayed?

Our advice is to arrive in Pangkalan Bun the day before your tour starts. In case of a flight delay, there will be no implications for the tour.

In case the tour starts on the same day the flight was supposed to arrive, then a flight delay means the tour starts at the delayed arrival time. Depending on how much the flight is delayed, the itinerary may be customised. No (partial) refund applies for the shortened tour.

What happens if my flight is cancelled?

Our advice is to arrive in Pangkalan Bun the day before your tour starts. In case of a last-minute flight cancellation, a new flight could usually be booked for the next day, and there will be no implications for the tour.

In case the tour starts on the same day the flight was supposed to arrive, then a flight cancellation usually means the tour starts a day later than what was booked:

• In case your flight is cancelled 2 weeks prior to tour start, you can change your booking details with us without penalties, but this is subject to availability.
• In case your flight is cancelled within 2 weeks prior to tour start (usually flights are cancelled on a very short notice), we are not able to change your booking. The tour will start upon your arrival a day later, but since we have hired the boat and the boat staff for the cancelled day as well, there is no refund for the lost day. 

To prevent that a flight cancellation ruins your holiday, we advice you to take a travel insurance and book flights that arrive the day before your tour starts. 

PS: While rare, flights to Pangkalan Bun are cancelled sometimes. This is a stressful event, and since airlines are not easily reachable, sometimes clients take it out on us and demand a refund for the cancelled day. While a flight cancellation is an event beyond the client's responsibility, it is also beyond our responsibility. Our responsibility is to organize the tour for the dates that the client has booked, for which costs need to be made in advance. In return it is the client's responsibility to be here at the start of the tour. And for unforeseen events that could complicate that, clients can take a travel insurance. 

Cruise through the Borneo jungle

The unknown scenic treks in Sulawesi

Orangutan jungle treks in Sumatra

Meet traditional tribes off-the-beaten track

Meet the giant dragon and enjoy the snorkelling

Visit the popular island with a licensed guide

In Indonesia children need to wear uniforms at school, partly to hide social class differences .

But poor families can't afford good shoes for their children. Or replace a damaged uniform...

The psychological framing at this formative age could affect their self-image for life.

Join us with restoring the children's dignity by donating shoes & uniforms to schools in Flores.

Conservation

The jobs created with our jungle tours, incentivises locals to stop palm oil deforestation.

Local Welfare

Our initiatives aim to help the underprivileged. Our tours are built on community engagement.

Enhance your cultural and environmental awareness via our tours and eco blog and become an ambassador for eco travelling.

Prices & Availabilities

Look up the rates and availabilities, and instantly confirm your booking request.

• Bali Day Tours
• Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking
• Flores Komodo & Overland
• Tana Toraja Funeral & Village Stay
• Tanjung Puting Orangutans

Latests posts

• 3D2N Orangutan Tour
• Turning poachers into Jungle Guides to save the Leuser Ecosystem
• Nature & wildlife experience we never will forget!
• Can’t recommend enough! Incredible 5D/4N tour

Further Info

• Affiliate Login
• Affiliate Registration

Social Media

• Bukit Lawang
• Tana Toraja
• Tanjung Puting
• REFUND POLICY

Indonesia Expedition: Orangutans of Kalimantan

12 days | embark on an authentic indonesian orangutan expedition.

Go in search of the gentle giants of the Borneo jungles – the elusive orangutan – on a 12-day wildlife expedition. Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, is teeming with jungles to explore, cultures to learn, and welcoming people to have a laugh with – and your wildlife expedition will be so much more than that. Staying in comfortable eco-lodging and a traditional longhouse in the heart of the jungle, go out in search of orangutans and learn about how the local communities’ conservation efforts have ensured that these creatures, along with other endemic wildlife, continue to thrive in this slice of jungle paradise. Share in the wonder of an untouched Borneo before others find out about it, with a unique opportunity to spot orangutans in their natural habitat.

Trip overview

• Travel aboard a traditional klotok boat, traversing the winding rivers in Tanjung Puting National Park in search of local and endemic wildlife, including the elusive orangutan.
• Learn about the organisation working to rescue, rehabilitate and release these critically endangered animals at the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOSF).
• Appreciate a truly local experience in Tumbang Malahoi village with a stay in a longhouse. Receive a welcoming blessing ceremony and enjoy a night of eating and dancing with local families.
• Head out on a canoe safari in Sebangau National Park, searching for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, monitor lizards, hornbills, kingfishers, and – if you’re lucky – clouded leopards!
• Discover Indonesia’s central metropolis in Jakarta and the up-and-coming city of Palangka Raya, with plenty of free time in both to explore at your own pace.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Coral Triangle Center Foundation. Donations help expand their coral restoration project and support their educational outreach activities for local schools in Nusa Penida.
• This trip takes you to a part of Borneo not often visited by foreign travellers and is ideal for those who have been to Indonesia previously and are keen to explore more. Each day is an adventure, and we filled this trip full of diverse wildlife experiences of Borneo which are impossible to find on any other trip. Please note that there is no guarantee of seeing wildlife on specific days of this journey, as you will be visiting national parks with endemic and rare species. Your expert guides will provide the best opportunity to see wildlife along the way, but as to be respectful to your environment, you may have a day or two simply admiring the jungle around you.
• Sometimes you’ve got to rough it to get amongst it. While most of the accommodation on this trip is tourist class, there will be some very basic accommodation during the overnight stay in the longhouse. All bedding and mattresses are provided, plus mosquito nets to sleep under.
• Some of the best scenery is found deep in Borneo’s jungles, which can be quite steamy, muddy and, at times, slippery. In order to experience the splendour of the diverse landscapes and waters, the included activities on this trip often require a moderate level of fitness. We ask that you read the Essential Trip Information and itinerary carefully to ensure that you will be able to participate fully.
• Temperatures and humidity can be high in Indonesia, especially when walking around the jungles of Borneo where there may be little respite. Be prepared by taking plenty of drink breaks and wearing appropriate skin protection.
• This trip has some long travel days by private vehicle, including on bumpy local roads. It's not unusual for journeys to take longer than estimated and travel times to vary from one departure to the next. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
• The longhouse stay is a wonderful opportunity to witness everyday rural life and includes a home-cooked dinner. Facilities are simple and multi-share but comfortable, with mattresses, bedding and mosquito nets all provided. Some travellers are nervous about the experience before they arrive, but we find most end up naming this as a highlight of their time and a rewarding, authentic experience. Other accommodation is in no frills, simple guesthouses and hotels, perfect for travellers on a budget. On occasion our accommodation may not have hot water, but you will probably be keen to cool down from the heat with a refreshing cold shower!

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Selamat datang! Welcome to Jakarta, Indonesia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you happen to arrive early, check out some of Jakarta's interesting museums such as the Wayang Museum (full of traditional puppets), Balai Seni Rupa Museum (fine arts and ceramics) or the National Museum. If you don’t have a lot of time today, do not fear! You’ll have time at the end of your expedition to explore the city some more. After your important meeting, why not gather a few of your travel pals for a local meal – your group leader will know of some great spots to go.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Jakarta - Wayang (Puppetry) Museum - IDR5000
• Jakarta - Museum Seni Rupa Dan Keramik (Fine Arts & Ceramics) - IDR5000
• Jakarta - Museum Nasional - IDR10000

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Time to begin your Kalimantan adventure! In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight bound for Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. Once arrived, take a taxi to the port where you'll board a traditional klotok river boat. These boats are named after the sound the engines make: ‘klo-tok’. On your way to the eco-lodge – your accommodation in the national park – keep an eye out for the elusive proboscis monkeys, endemic to the island of Borneo. On arrival, check into your accommodation right in the heart of the jungle and enjoy a welcome lunch. Later visit the Tanjung Harapan feeding station at the park headquarters, where large alpha male can often be spotted. Dinner is included at the ecolodge, where your leader will fill you in on the program for the next few days.

• Ecolodge (1 night)
• Tanjung Puting NP - Tanjung Harapan orangutan feeding station
• Tanjung Puting NP - Klotok boat cruise

The boat ride to our accommodation in Tanjung Puting NP takes around 90 mins.

Head off for an early morning aboard your klotok and cruise upriver in search of the local wildlife. Your first stop is the renowned Camp Leakey – possibly the most famous place for orangutan research in the world. At Leakey, visit the education centre to learn a little bit more about the region, and keep an eye out for agile gibbons and wild pigs. You’ll visit the feeding centre for an up close look at the orangutans – a truly special experience. Afterwards, cruise down the river in search of proboscis monkeys and wild orangutans socialising along the riverbank, then return to your ecolodge accommodation for dinner.

• Tanjung Puting NP - Camp Leakey
• Tanjung Puting NP - Orangutan Feeding Platform 2

Please note that at the feeding centre, as with other places where you’ll encounter orangutans, visitors are not allowed to bring in food or water, and no contact with the animals is permitted to prevent the possible spread of diseases.

After breakfast, leave for the feeding station of Pondok Tanggui, 1 hour upstream for morning feeding time. Look out for giant squirrels, pigs, and many butterflies on the walk in. As at most of the stations, you are likely to spot another large alpha male here too. After viewing the orangutans, spend some time exploring the area before getting back on the boat. Lunch today will be on board before travelling to the Tanjung Harapan feeding Station for the afternoon feeding. Visit the nearby Tanjung Harapan village across the river and then return back to your ecolodge for the evening.

• Tanjung Puting NP - Tanjung Harapan village visit
• Tanjung Puting NP - Pondok Tanggui orangutan feeding station

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Tanjung Puting National Park, boarding your klotok once more and taking a leisurely boat ride to the port city of Kumai. Stop for lunch in the city, a good chance to reflect on your special time in the national park, then drive on to Sampit. This port city is famous for its fresh seafood, so be sure to ask your leader for some tips on where to pick up local specialties for dinner this evening.

Today's total driving time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Your journey continues as you drive on to the city of Palangka Raya, the capital of the Central Kalimantan Province. This low-key city is pretty new, having grown from a small Dayak village in 1957. On arrival, your leader will let you know the best spots to sample some local dishes for lunch. There are a range of optional activities on offer this afternoon, including a trip to Tangkiling Hill – about a 30-minute drive away from the accommodation. Here, you can climb up the steps 200 metres to the top of one of the seven hills and get a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. On the way back, you might like to stop at the Dayak spiritual site of Batu Banama. Otherwise, there’s a range of walks to local villages or bikes for hire to explore further afield.

• Walking/biking to local villages - IDR60000
• Trip to Tangkiling Hill & Dayak Spiritual Site of Batu Banama - IDR20000

Time to head off for more adventures in the wild! Depart early this morning for Sebangau National Park, home to orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, monitor lizards, hornbills, kingfishers, and clouded leopards. For many years, this area was impacted by illegal logging and wildfires, and though sightings are not a guarantee, the wild animals have begun to repopulate. Spend a few hours exploring by canoe and on foot with a local ranger. After lunch, enjoy some free time to relax or swim before returning to Palangka Raya and your hotel for the evening.

• Sebangau NP - Wildlife ranger walk

Walking through peat swamp forest can be a challenge. During dry season it is quite easy but it will be harder when water levels are high. Expect rough trails and watch out for tree roots, ant nests, mosquitoes, other insects and snakes. Wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt and trail boots – high rubber boots will be necessary when the trail is flooded.

After breakfast, you’ll pay a visit to the Balanga Museum, where you’ll find fascinating Indonesian artifacts that provide insight into Kalimantan's indigenous cultures. Enjoy a local lunch nearby before taking a drive to your longhouse stay tonight. Longhouses are the traditional dwellings of people in this area, and your accommodation is located right in the centre of Tumbang Malahoi village. On arrival, there will be a Tumpang Tawar (blessing ceremony) to welcome you into the village and the longhouse. After dinner, join in on the fun with a family dance in the longhouse’s hallways.

• Longhouse (1 night)
• Tumbang Malahoi Village - Blessing ceremony
• Tumbang Malahoi Village - Traditional dancing
• Palangka Raya - Balanga Museum

At Kaja Island, you will observe the orangutans from the boat, as visitors cannot get too close to them. Minimizing human contact is crucial to helping them become wild.

Tonight, you will be staying with a local family. Accommodation is basic but comfortable. Simple mattresses will be set up on the floor in the communal area of the longhouse to sleep on, with sheets and pillows provided. Bathing facilities are cold water bucket showers, and there is a squat toilet located outside. Dinner will be served in the longhouse tonight. Expect true local food, shared together while sitting on the floor.

After a simple local breakfast, take a walk around to learn about how the people of this village live. The majority of the villagers here work as carpenters, gold miners or fishermen. Later, explore the nearby jungle with some of the locals. After lunch in the jungle, return to the longhouse to say your farewells before heading back to Palangka Raya. Sit back and relax with a chilled-out afternoon at the hotel with your travel crew.

• Tumbang Malahoi Village - Village & jungle walk

Travel time from the village to Palangaka Raya is approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, embark on a Sei Gohong river tour by canoe, making your way to Kaja Island, where you will witness the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation’s (BOSF) pre-release program in action. Kaja Island is the final step of the BOSF program before the orangutans return to the wild. In addition to observing these magnificent creatures, the island is home to a diverse range of other wildlife and birds.

• Palangka Raya - Sei Gohong River Boat Tour
• Palangka Raya - Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation Kaja Island Visit

Transfer to the airport today for your flight back to Jakarta. After checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, and with a range of things to see and do in Jakarta, such as visiting the Grand Mosque or the Catholic Cathedral – you’ll be kept occupied by this lively city.

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end, and you are free to leave the accommodation at any time.

11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners

Plane, Taxi, Klotok boat, Canoe, Private vehicle

Hotel (6 nights), Ecolodge (3 nights), Resort (1 night), Longhouse (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking for the flight ticket on this trip. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket. 2. A Single Supplement is available on this trip excluding Days 2-4 (Ecolodge) where you will be in twin share accommodation and Day 8 (Longhouse) which is multishare. 3. To secure Tanjung Puting National Park permits and the flight ticket for this trip, a scanned copy of the personal details page of your passport needs to be sent to your booking agent no later than 45 days before departure. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket or permit.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Filter by rating

• tel:+62 85389996660
• [email protected]

3 Days Orangutan Tour Liveaboard

3 days orangutan tour liveaboard featured.

Tanjung Puting, Indonesia

• Tour E-mail
• Tour Website
• +6285389996660

Check Availability

3D2N Orangutan Tour Houseboat klotok in tanjung puting is the best way to see the largest wild orangutan population in the world. explore Tanjung Puting National Park see all three camps in the national park. Stay overnights on HouseBoat klotok and wake up in the morning. refreshed your soul by the sound of nature.

Experience the best of Tanjung Puting National Park on our 3-day tour! Visit the orangutan feeding stations, cruise down the river, and explore the lush rainforest. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

How to Book Orangutan Borneo Tours Private trip?

• Minimum 2person, addtional charge for private solo traveler.
• Instan Confirmation ( Book website)  and Available manual invoice too for reservation via email or WhatsApp,  availibility 1 January 2024 – 30 June 2024 and 15 Sep – 20 Dec 2024
• Please Contact Us First via WhatsApp or email for availibility  July – August 2024 ( Tour Available with manual reservation & SPECIAL PRICE)
•  For tour 2025 and the next, please note: there will be adjustment price only entrance permit IF there is new tariff entrance permit from Authority National Park

Tour's Program

Included and exlcuded, similar tours.

1 Day Orangutan Tour by Speed Boat

7 Days 6 Nights Orangutan Tour and Dayak Village Waterfall Trekking

4 Days Orangutan Tour liveaboard

3 days Orangutan Tour stay at Rimba Lodge

TANJUNG PUTING TOUR 2D1N

Daily Share Trip Tanjung Puting 3D2N

Bukit Lawang Travel Guide: Jungle Trekking To See Orangutans

Bukit Lawang jungle trekking with a guide in Indonesia is one of the best places to see the Sumatran Orangutan in the wild, and it’s pretty easy to do on a budget!

The small village of Bukit Lawang sits on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, a big rainforest where you can see all kinds of animals, including tigers, rare birds & lizards, orangutans, and other monkeys.

Trekking packages are generally ethical and you’re almost guaranteed to see Sumatran Orangutans and other wildlife. We saw more than 20 orangutans and a bunch of rare animals in just a couple days of trekking!

This Bukit Lawang blog and guide will explain how to get there, what to do, where to stay, trekking prices, and everything else you need to know before you go! Table of Contents show 1) How To Get To Bukit Lawang 2) Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking 3) Sumatran Orangutan Facts 4) Bukit Lawang Trekking Prices & Length 5) Best Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Tour 6) Where To Stay In Bukit Lawang 7) Other Tips For Bukit Lawang 8) More Things To Do Near Bukit Lawang 9) When To Visit Bukit Lawang 10) More Indonesia Travel Tips

How To Get To Bukit Lawang

Bukit Lawang is located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, and it’s relatively easy to get there.

There’s no airport in Bukit Lawang, so the nearest international airport is in the city of Medan (KNO), which gets daily flights from places like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta starting at $40 USD for a one way ticket. You can shop for flights to Medan at Skyscanner.

Bukit Lawang is a 3 hour drive from Medan city, although in heavy traffic it can take an extra hour or more. Your hotel in Lawang can arrange a driver to pick you up at the airport in Medan, or you can book a high-rated private driver to Bukit Lawang here .

A normal price for a transfer from Medan to Bukit Lawang (or vice versa) with a private driver is about 600k Rupiah ($42 USD), but may cost a little extra in heavy traffic.

Drone pic of Gunung Leuser National Park

Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking

The rainforest has lots of great wildlife.

In two treks we saw orangutans, gibbons, thomas leaf monkeys, long tailed macaques, monitor lizards, giant ants, a spectacular banyan tree, and other jungle sights.

Inside the national park, you also have a possibility of seeing rare birds, Sumatran tigers, rhinos, elephants, sun bears, pig tailed macaques, vipers, cobras, kraits, and many other things.

This jungle is part of the Gunung Leuser National Park, and it houses some endangered animals, so there are a few rules they expect you to follow:

• Don’t enter the park without a guide. If you pay for a trekking package, you’ll have two guides with you at all times. Their job is to keep you safe in the jungle and give you info about the Sumatran Orangutan and other animals.
• Don’t enter the park without a permit. Your Bukit Lawang guide will handle this for you.
• Don’t go closer to wild animals than 10 meters. Sometimes the animals break this rule, though, and if you’re lucky they may come close to you!
• Don’t feed or touch wild animals. They can become dependent or catch diseases from us. This includes the Sumatran Orangutan.
• Don’t leave rubbish in the National Park. Self explanatory. Thankfully we didn’t see any trash in the jungle at all during our treks.

The trekking difficulty at Bukit Lawang is not too bad, but it’s harder than I expected.

This isn’t like Tangkoko or Tanjung Puting National Park , where you can walk on flat ground and burn minimal calories while enjoying the wildlife.

There are some steep hill sections at Lawang where your legs will get a big workout, and the ground can be muddy and nasty sometimes with thorns and leeches. The daytime humidity can also be crazy.

Don’t let this scare you away! It all adds to the experience. If you don’t think your fitness level is there, I’d recommend doing the 1 day trek instead of 2 days.

Creek crossing

Before dinner, we soaked in the creek to bathe and cool off after the jungle trek. It was a nice clearwater stream and exactly what we needed to beat the humidity.

The camp is very simple and consists of a small 2-person tent inside of a larger covered bamboo shack where the guides and cooks can stay.

When you wake up the next morning after your trek, your Bukit Lawang guide will give you the choice of walking back to town or rafting on inner-tubes. We decided not to do the rafting, but now I wish we had.

It gives you a great view of the jungle from the outside that you won’t get to see on foot!

The jungle day treks normally provide lunch, and for 2-day treks there’s also dinner at night and then breakfast the following morning.

The food we had on our treks was great. For lunch it was fried rice, egg, crackers, and fruit (banana, pineapple, and watermelon).

For dinner, we had some Indonesian dishes that included chicken curry and perkedel (potato cakes), fried fish & rice, and more veggies. Breakfast was like lunch, but with a choice of tea or coffee.

The trekking companies can cater to your diet if there’s anything specific you want (or don’t want). Just give them a heads up the day before you start.

This is not food. But it’s nice looking.

Sumatran Orangutan Facts

Of course, the main attraction at Bukit Lawang is the Sumatran Orangutan!

Orangutans live only in Indonesia and Malaysia (on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo), and Bukit Lawang is one of the best places to see Sumatran Orangutans in the wild. They’re gentle animals and very smart.

Orangutan is an old Indonesian word meaning ‘forest person’, and true to their name, these great apes spend most of their time in the trees, where they use their long flexible arms to find fruit and leaves.

Orangutan Conservation Status

The Sumatran Orangutan is critically endangered, and there are less than 15,000 left in the wild. This is because their habitats are being destroyed on a large scale to make way for palm oil plantations.

The total number of Sumatran Orangutans has decreased by 80% in the last 75 years, and sadly it’s expected to keep shrinking, with extinction on the horizon unless major changes are made in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Orangutans are a protected species in Indonesia, but government enforcement is weak even when the animals are killed illegally. Palm oil farming has taken priority because it brings more value to the economy.

Indonesia is still a relatively poor country, and that’s especially true in Sumatra where tourism isn’t a big player yet, so money speaks. And unfortunately that continues to motivate palm oil farming, illegal logging, the illegal wildlife trade, etc.

Hopefully the tourist money flowing into places like the Bukit Lawang orangutan sanctuary will help incentivize the proper protection of these animals so we can keep enjoying them in the future.

Bukit Lawang Trekking Prices & Length

Most tourists wanting to see the Sumatran Orangutan choose the 1 day trek ($60/pax) or 2 day trek ($100/pax). Bukit Lawang trekking prices are pretty similar across companies.

Treks of up to 7 days are available and you get to go deeper into the jungle like that, but I question how ethical it is, because critically endangered species like the Sumatran Tiger and Sumatran Rhino need all the space they can get.

Keep in mind, the Sumatran rainforests have already shrunk massively to make way for palm oil plantations (and due to illegal logging), and sadly that trend is continuing. There are less than 100 Sumatran Rhinos left in the wild.

Personally I think the 1 day trek at Bukit Lawang is the best bang for your buck, requires the least amount of work, and leaves the least ‘footprint’ on the ecosystem. That’s my opinion. We saw plenty of orangutans and other wildlife on the 1 day trek.

Natural tree swing from a jungle vine!

Best Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Tour

If you’re looking for a vetted tour company for seeing the Sumatran Orangutan, here’s a Bukit Lawang jungle trekking tour with Klook starting at $60 USD (850k IDR) for a 1 day trek or $100 for a 2 day trek.

This pretty closely mirrors the Bukit Lawang trekking prices we saw advertised in town, and it also includes hotel transfers (from Bukit Lawang or Medan), along with the national park permit fees, meals, and optional river tubing.

We’ve used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking

Morning mist

Where To Stay In Bukit Lawang

Bukit Lawang is a cozy riverside town with lots of budget friendly hotels that are basic, but comfortable.

Here are some of our top picks:

• Green Travelodge – Best rated hotel in town, with a tree house theme – 335k IDR ($24 USD)
• Thomas Retreat – Hotel and restaurant with fan or A/C rooms plus WiFi – 195k IDR ($14)
• Garden Inn – Standard rooms with a garden view – 210k IDR ($15)
• Hotel Orangutan – Family luxury room (sleeps 6) with balcony – 2.5 Mil IDR ($180)
• Rainforest Guesthouse Bukit Lawang – Budget friendly option for backpackers – 60k IDR ($4)

These prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal. Hotels in Bukit Lawang can fill up though, so it’s a good idea to book something in advance.

Green Travelodge Bukit Lawang

Other Tips For Bukit Lawang

• ATM: From the town of Bukit Lawang, the nearest ATM is about 10 kilometers away, so make sure you bring enough cash. You can also pay things by bank transfer. Credit cards aren’t accepted.
• Hotels: Expect cold showers and fans only, no air conditioning. We were never hot at night. Electricity is stable, but sometimes there are short outages.
• WiFi: Most places only have limited WiFi in the lobby/restaurant area, or none at all.
• Cell Service: Telkomsel has good 3G/4G reception in the town. We used this for a hotspot at times when we couldn’t reach our hotel WiFi.
• Restaurants: Many hotels have in-house restaurants for their guests, although you can eat at one of the restaurants in town if you’d like. We ate all of our meals at our hotel, Thomas Retreat , which had great Western and Indonesian food at reasonable prices (also good WiFi).
• Safety: We spent months traveling as a couple in North Sumatra and overall it’s very safe. Just take normal precautions. If you’re a solo female traveler, you can ask about joining a trekking group with other tourists.
• Monkeys: There are lots of cheeky macaques that visit the town every day. Most of the time they are good entertainment, but remember to close your hotel windows at night and keep an eye on your belongings or they might make off with them!
• Mosquitoes: According to this Lancet study from 2018, Malaria is rare in this part of Sumatra. I’ve never heard of a tourist getting Malaria from mosquitoes in Bukit Lawang. However, it’s still a good idea to sleep inside a mosquito net and wear repellant while out and about, just in case. Malaria can be nasty and dangerous.
• More Things To Do: There’s a bat cave near Bukit Lawang town that you can visit on a short trekking tour. However, the best day trips are to Batu Katak to see the rare giant flowers, or Tangkahan to see the elephant sanctuary. You can find more info on these places below.

More Things To Do Near Bukit Lawang

• batu katak: rafflesia & titan flower trekking.

Batu Katak is another small village on the east side of Gunung Leuser National Park where you can do flower trekking to see the giant Rafflesia and Titan Arum, two of the biggest flowers in the world!

This was one of the best highlights of our visit to North Sumatra. The Titan Arum flowers can grow to be 3 meters (10 feet) tall! There’s also several limestone water caves to see near Batu Katak, but I had an injured leg so we didn’t get to do the cave treks yet.

Batu Katak is 40 minutes south of the Bukit Lawang orangutan sanctuary. You can message Joe on WhatsApp ( ☎ +62 812-6340-3452 ) and he can arrange your pickup, trekking, and other info. He was a huge help for planning our trip.

• Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary

The Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary is a small settlement 2 hours north of Bukit Lawang where you can play with semi-wild Sumatran Elephants by the river!

Elephant tourism gets a bad rap nowadays, but these animals are critically endangered in Indonesia because their habitat is disappearing, and tourist money may be the only way to correct it. The elephants are well cared for, have lots of freedom of movement, and seemed very happy when we visited.

They have 9 rescued elephants ( a new baby was just born ) and you can pet them, feed them, and help bathe them in the river. It was a great experience!

It’s possible to visit Tangkahan on a day trip from Bukit Lawang, or if you want more time with the elephants there are some hotels in Tangkahan too.

Book Now: Tangkahan Elephant Encounter

Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary

When To Visit Bukit Lawang

Gunung Leuser National Park has a tropical rainforest climate that doesn’t follow the same weather patterns as the rest of Indonesia. You can find a monthly breakdown here .

I wouldn’t stress about when to visit. Every month is rainy at Bukit Lawang, because it’s a rainforest! The driest months are February, March, June, and July, but the rainfall is still much higher than places like Bali.

We went in December and the weather was good for trekking. The rain usually comes in the evenings or at night, and only lasts a few hours max.

Most tourists do their Bukit Lawang jungle trekking in June – August, and in the high season there are hundreds of them trekking per day. So if you want to avoid the crowds, pick a different month.

Happy travels!

More Indonesia Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed these Bukit Lawang blog tips for visiting the orangutan sanctuary in North Sumatra.

Don’t forget to check out my complete guide for the best places to visit in Indonesia !  

• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands - Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Best Hikes In Indonesia - Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide - Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide - Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Best Things To Do In Indonesia - What To Do In The Islands
• Indonesia Travel Guide - Tips, Info, & Photos

You may also like

How to spend 1 day in yosemite national park (itinerary), how to visit ciletuh geopark: waterfall valley in west java, fulidhoo island guide: shark & stingray beach in maldives, how to visit dhigurah island: budget paradise in maldives, 10 best hikes in aruba: family friendly trails, how to visit tanjung puting national park in indonesia.

Is it cheaper to book a trek once you’re in Buwit Lawang or is it similar prices to booking online (between $40-$60 for a 1 day trek)?

Hi Zofia. From what we saw, the prices are pretty similar either way.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Tanjung Puting, Home to the Amazing Orangutans

Relax on board your boat and take in the sights of monkeys jumping from tree to tree. The park is home to around eight species of monkeys including the very distinctive proboscis monkey, with its distinctive long nose it is sure to grab your attention. Try to spot wild orangutans swinging through the thick and lush vegetation. Remember to keep your eyes out for crocodiles too, they might be hard to spot but they’re definitely there! As well as this, the park is also a haven for over 220 species of birds.

Camp Leakey, the Orangutans Preservation

One of the main attractions of Tanjung Puting is Camp Leakey, the orangutans preservation. The camp was founded in 1971 as a haven for orangutans rescued from domestic capture. Today the camp remains a center of research of these amazing animals. Learn more about orangutans at the Camp Leakey information center. The daily feedings of wild orangutans will be the highlight of your visit as you will most likely get to see wild orangutans up close in their natural habitat. Camp Leakey was named after Dr Louis Leakey, the mentor of one of the camps founder’s Professor Birute Galdikas.

Pondok Tangui is also a rehabilitation center for ex-captive orangutans located in the park which has daily feedings of the apes. At both center, you will get the chance to see these amazing primates up close and learn more about how we can protect this endangered species of Borneo island. The park is also home to monkeys, birds and other wildlife, not to mention the pristine vegetation of the jungle itself. This is a world famous natural treasure which attracts a growing number of international visitors each year.

In the jungle there is no other option but to get around by foot so a visit to Tanjung Puting will involve walking in the great outdoors. As you trek through the tropical surrounds you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for orangutans, monkeys, bush pigs and wild deer as you go. Search for native wildlife sites including the great bird life while you take in the sights of a truly exotic tropical jungle.

Walks can be tailored to your level of fitness so discuss the different options with your guide before you set out. While you are staying on the river, traditional boats called klotoks will transport you around.

To explore the park, visitors must take a boat down the Sekonyer River from Pangkalan Bun . These boats will accommodate you for the duration of your stay in Tanjung Punting. Flights run from Jakarta and other major cities to Pangkalan Bun daily.

A number of tour operators run cruises from Pangkalan Bun down the river. If you pre-arrange your tour, the tour operator will pick you up from the airport and transport you straight to the river.

Nearby Spectacles

Tanjung Puting: Home of Amazing Orangutans

What they say, romantic bandung - the paris of java.

Well, I just love Bali so much, and we fell in love with the culture, people, the food. Everything was just amazing. I feel like in Bali, you can find serenity anywhere, literally. It's our favorite place that we've been to on our entire trip.

by Jack Morris Influencer

#attraction.

Wonderful.Indonesia

See the Destination

Visit our other website

This is the official website of the Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Indonesia. The contents listed on this website are intended for informational purposes rather than commercial. Any displayed sale is meant as a token of partnership and will always redirect you to our partners' sites.

• Travel Guides Plan your adventure
• Destinations Our favourite places
• Tours Book a trip
• Travel Companies Independent specialists
• Travel Guides
• Destinations
• Travel Companies

Where to see orangutans in Indonesian Borneo

An expert guide to seeing orangutans in kalimantan.

• Where to go
• Need to know

Observing orangutans

• Indonesian Borneo

Orangutans in Indonesian Borneo: Overview

Tamara Thiessen

Kalimantan or ‘Indonesian Borneo’, occupies the giant’s share of central and southern Borneo, representing about three-quarters of the island. Formerly Dutch Borneo, colonial rule was established in 1863 and wound up in 1949 when Kalimantan became a part of the Republic of Indonesia.

The majority of Bornean orangutans today are found in Kalimantan, especially along the east coast. Yet tragically, most wild populations live outside of protected areas in forests that are exploited for timber production or are being developed for agriculture. Many of these areas are off-limits to tourists, along with a host of other sites, even extending to national parks, which apart from having no transport and other visitor facilities, have long been monopolised by forestry and logging companies.

The major focus, for tourists and conservation, thus falls on the one site in central Kalimantan that has been at the heart of orangutan conservation efforts since the 1970s: Tanjung Puting National Park. But there are a handful of lesser-visited locations which can be commercially visited by tourists. Here's my guide to seeing orangutans in Kalimantan.

Hidden gems in Kalimantan

Tanjung Puting National Park

Tanjung Puting National Park & Camp Leakey

“One of the natural wonders of the world”, according to the UK’s Orangutan Foundation, Taman Nasional (National Park) Tanjung Puting is home to the world's largest population of wild orangutans and represents their best hope for survival. It was at Tanjung Puting in 1971 that leading orangutan authority Dr Biruté Galdikas established the Camp Leakey research station — an instrumental step in bringing the plight of the park’s most famous resident to worldwide attention. Set amid the largest swathe of coastal tropical heath and peat swamp forest, which used to cover much of southern Borneo, Tanjung Puting started out as a game reserve in 1935 before becoming a National Park in 1982. The best way to experience the wonders of Tanjung Puting is on a traditional klotok (houseboat) puttering gently along Sungai Sekonyer as you search for pot-bellied macaques, hornbills and the odd crocodile. Starting from the Kumai river port in the central Kalimantan city of Pangkalan Bun, your guides will typically stop at three main feeding stations within the park, where you will get to experience semi-wild orangutans during feeding sessions. The best option for this is at Tanjung Harapan, but you’ll also stop at Pondok Tangui. Your final destination will be Camp Leakey, a 4-4 ½ hour journey upriver. From the docking point, be prepared for a 45-minute walk to the first feeding platform at Camp Leakey, on a flat and well-maintained path. Here, as well as orangutans, you will see Bornean bearded pigs, gibbons and mangrove-loving proboscis. Camp Leakey is your best chance to see orangutans — most were released around here and stay close to the site. In general, orangutans around Camp Leakey are the most relaxed around humans. Look out for Tom, the camp’s alpha male (but if you do see him, be careful not to engage in a staring match). Once feeding time is over, you can explore the camp’s excellent information centre. Tanjung Puting offers plenty of other activities including birding, hiking and wildlife tours — as well as cultural trips to remote villages.

Sebangau National Park

Sebangau National Park and Katingan River

Gaye Thavisin

Sebangau National Park is rarely visited by tourists and has been at serious risk from illegal logging and land conversion, which is why I'm so keen to encourage visitors to come here. The Katingan River flows through Sebangau and its forest-lined banks offer a wonderful experience for intrepid travellers. You can canoe through the canals and trek into the park from the river, going via tiny indigenous villages to track orangutans, wild proboscis monkeys and gibbons. You might see sun bears, or even an elusive clouded leopard, as well as spotting many bird species – I have seen one of the most endangered birds - Storm’s stork - as well many magnificent hornbills, kingfishers and raptors. Trekking through the swampy forests in Sebangau can be a challenge as trails are either non-existent or very hard to follow. It's not for the faint-hearted, but Sebangau is a true hidden gem in Kalimantan and one I can highly recommend.

Indigenous cultures & conservation on the Kahayan River

The Kahayan River, immediately east of Sebangu National Park, is a real hidden gem which doesn't feature highly on most 'mainstream' orangutan-spotting itineraries. The main reason I recommend the Kahayan River to almost anyone who visits Indonesian Borneo is because it's here that you can combine wildlife spotting with real and meaningful cultural interactions with the indigenous Dayak people which is, I believe, key to ensuring the long-term survival of both the orangutans and the people who live here. You access the Kahayan River from the town of Palangkaraya, which is close to the forested island of Pulau Kaja. This is a pre-release habitat for rescued orangutans managed by the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, and it's possible to spot orangutans from the river. Downstream from Palangkaraya are Dayak villages of Bukit Rawi, Sigi Tumbang Nusa and Pilang, where you can learn about indigenous religion, cultures and traditional livelihoods. At night the captain will simply find a sheltered location on the bank to moor the boat – it's a true expedition! If you're solely interested in tracking orangutans, the Kahayan River area might not be for you (although it can be easily combined with a visit to nearby Sebangu National Park). However, if you're remotely interested in traditional culture and the interaction of cultural preservation and wildlife conservation, I can't recommend this area highly enough.

featured trips

Indonesia Wildlife Cruise

In search of orangutans and dragons.

Borneo Adventure Tours

Guided wildlife tours to the rainforests of borneo.

Traditional klotok boats moored on the Kalimantan River

Orangutans in Kalimantan: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

A massive state, Kalimantan is split into five provinces: central, east, north, south and west. For the traveller it presents a challenge: it is huge with poor roads and undeveloped tourism infrastructure. These factors, along with continuing logging activity even in nature reserves, have kept orangutan tourism low in the region, despite the relatively high population of orangutans.

Most trips here are conducted by klotok houseboats, usually with some canoeing, forest walks and cultural visits included in the itinerary.

You'll be observing orangutans from a distance – unlike gorilla trekking in East Africa, you won't come face-to-face with the apes. This is because they're more of a tree-dwelling species and tend to be exploring high up in the canopy. But it's also because they're often being re-wilded and socialising or habituating orangutans creates problems for their rehabilitation. Follow the instructions of your guide to make this a respectful and responsible interaction.

Orangutan in Kalimantan

The rainy season is from November to May with the heaviest rains falling in in January and February. The rains are welcome, coming in sudden downpours, often late in the afternoon, cooling the temperature. Temperature is usually 32 – 35C during the rains, hotter in the dry season. Humidity is 70-80%. August, September, and October are usually the driest and hottest months. At this time, the river levels fall and boat tours may have to use alternative routes. These months may also be affected by smoke.

Be aware that boat congestion on the rivers can be very high between July and September, which is one reason to consider visiting during low season months of November to May (it is also less expensive). Tour guides recommend shoulder months for a mix of good weather and low crowds: October, December, March and June.

People, language & customs

Kalteng is home to a multi ethnic mix of Dayak tribes, the indigenous inhabitants of Borneo with unique cultures, languages and religion. Kalteng is also home to Melayu, Javanese, Balinese, and many more cultures, who have migrated here from across Indonesia. Villagers often speak three languages. Early Christian missionaries converted many Dayaks, but today the Muslim faith has a majority of adherents. Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken. English is little understood.

This is not Bali! Dress is modest, with shirts having sleeves, no mini skirts, short shorts or tank tops. When meeting people, it is normal to shake hands, and if a group, to shake hands with all the people. Drinking alcohol in public is not accepted and pork is not usually served in restaurants.

• Southeast Asia

“One of the natural wonders of the world”, according to the UK’s Orangutan Foundation, Taman Nasional (National Park) Tanjung Puting is home to the world's largest population of wild orangutans and represents their best hope for survival.

It was at Tanjung Puting in 1971 that leading orangutan authority Dr Biruté Galdikas established the Camp Leakey research station — an instrumental step in bringing the plight of the park’s most famous resident to worldwide attention.

Set amid the largest swathe of coastal tropical heath and peat swamp forest, which used to cover much of southern Borneo, Tanjung Puting started out as a game reserve in 1935 before becoming a National Park in 1982.

The best way to experience the wonders of Tanjung Puting is on a traditional klotok (houseboat) puttering gently along Sungai Sekonyer as you search for pot-bellied macaques, hornbills and the odd crocodile.

Starting from the Kumai river port in the central Kalimantan city of Pangkalan Bun, your guides will typically stop at three main feeding stations within the park, where you will get to experience semi-wild orangutans during feeding sessions. The best option for this is at Tanjung Harapan, but you’ll also stop at Pondok Tangui. Your final destination will be Camp Leakey, a 4-4 ½ hour journey upriver.

From the docking point, be prepared for a 45-minute walk to the first feeding platform at Camp Leakey, on a flat and well-maintained path. Here, as well as orangutans, you will see Bornean bearded pigs, gibbons and mangrove-loving proboscis. Camp Leakey is your best chance to see orangutans — most were released around here and stay close to the site. In general, orangutans around Camp Leakey are the most relaxed around humans. Look out for Tom, the camp’s alpha male (but if you do see him, be careful not to engage in a staring match).

Once feeding time is over, you can explore the camp’s excellent information centre. Tanjung Puting offers plenty of other activities including birding, hiking and wildlife tours — as well as cultural trips to remote villages.

Related Guides

A massive state, Kalimantan is split into five provinces: central, east, north, south and west. For the traveller it presents a challenge: it is huge with poor roads and undeveloped tourism infrastructure.

Journalist-travel writer and photographer, Tamara Thiessen is an expert on Borneo with her 4th edition Bradt Travel Guide to the island due in 2020. France-Australia based, she works for newspapers, travel & leisure publications and in-flight magazines worldwide and is the author of several books

Tanjung Puting National Park cruise

Three to five day cruises to camp leakey, physical level, duration (days).

Sebangau National Park is rarely visited by tourists and has been at serious risk from illegal logging and land conversion, which is why I'm so keen to encourage visitors to come here.

The Katingan River flows through Sebangau and its forest-lined banks offer a wonderful experience for intrepid travellers. You can canoe through the canals and trek into the park from the river, going via tiny indigenous villages to track orangutans, wild proboscis monkeys and gibbons. You might see sun bears, or even an elusive clouded leopard, as well as spotting many bird species – I have seen one of the most endangered birds - Storm’s stork - as well many magnificent hornbills, kingfishers and raptors.

Trekking through the swampy forests in Sebangau can be a challenge as trails are either non-existent or very hard to follow. It's not for the faint-hearted, but Sebangau is a true hidden gem in Kalimantan and one I can highly recommend.

Gaye is the founder of Wow Borneo , one of the leading specialists in small-ship wildlife cruises in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). Gaye has been working in Borneo for the last 20 years, establishing Wow Borneo in 2007 to help conserve Borneo's threatened ecosystem by supporting small-scale and low-impact tourism.

Sebangau National Park Orangutan Cruise

Cruise the remote katingan river.

The Kahayan River, immediately east of Sebangu National Park, is a real hidden gem which doesn't feature highly on most 'mainstream' orangutan-spotting itineraries. The main reason I recommend the Kahayan River to almost anyone who visits Indonesian Borneo is because it's here that you can combine wildlife spotting with real and meaningful cultural interactions with the indigenous Dayak people which is, I believe, key to ensuring the long-term survival of both the orangutans and the people who live here.

You access the Kahayan River from the town of Palangkaraya, which is close to the forested island of Pulau Kaja. This is a pre-release habitat for rescued orangutans managed by the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, and it's possible to spot orangutans from the river. Downstream from Palangkaraya are Dayak villages of Bukit Rawi, Sigi Tumbang Nusa and Pilang, where you can learn about indigenous religion, cultures and traditional livelihoods. At night the captain will simply find a sheltered location on the bank to moor the boat – it's a true expedition!

If you're solely interested in tracking orangutans, the Kahayan River area might not be for you (although it can be easily combined with a visit to nearby Sebangu National Park). However, if you're remotely interested in traditional culture and the interaction of cultural preservation and wildlife conservation, I can't recommend this area highly enough.

Where To See Orangutans

The best place to see orangutans is in the wild, on their native islands of Borneo and Sumatra. In Borneo, orangutans are found in the two Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, and in Kalimantan on the Indonesian side of the island.

Where To See Orangutans In Sabah

Borneo is the only island in the world that is home to three nations: Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesian Kalimantan. Sabah is one of the two Malaysian Borneo states in the northern part of the island.

Where To See Orangutans In Sarawak

Sarawak together with Sabah makes up Malaysian Borneo — also known as East Malaysia.

Where To See Orangutans In Sumatra

Lush and volcanic, the Indonesian isle of Sumatra is a land of rugged tropical terrain and orangutan-filled jungles. Wedged between Java and the Malay Peninsula, the island envelopes the Leuser Ecosystem, one of the most biodiverse places on earth.

The Best Time To See Orangutans in Borneo

Sitting astride the equator, Borneo has a warm, tropical climate. Although it is broadly possible to separate Borneo’s climate into the usual two seasons for the region — wet and dry — weather conditions are often very localised and extremely difficult to predict.

Kahayan and Rungan River Cruise

Three to five day orangutan cruise, featured tours, why horizon guides.

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.

Our guides are 100% impartial and are written by independent, professional travel journalists. We make money by charging carefully-screened travel companies to list their business on our website. Our advertisers have no influence on our editorial content and we never accept payment for positive coverage.

Read more about how we work and what we believe in here .

• Travel guides
• Work with us

Sitemap , Privacy Copyright © 2024 Horizon Guides

Tanjung Puting Tour | Orangutan Houseboat Tour | Borneo Eco Tour

We are specialist tour operators in Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Borneo. We are under our legal company “CV. Wisata Alam Borneo,” established locally in Pangkalan Bun.

We provide private tours with our best Deluxe and Super Deluxe Houseboat Tours. We also provide tailor-made programs for Wildlife, Cultural and Volcanic tourism. We provide you with the best tourism services and our experience of the Animals and Culture of Borneo. During your trip you will accompanied by our Guide, Cook, Driver and Driver assistance. All of this crews will help you during your stay with us on the houseboat.

In addition, we also provide tailor-made programs to extend your trip by seeing the interior of the Longhouse and Dayak Culture on the island of Borneo or the Java Volcanoes and Komodo.

Private Tours

During your tour, you will be accompanied by our guide, cook, driver and driver assistance. all this crew will assist you during your stay with us on the houseboat..

Deluxe Houseboat Tour

A private tour with Houseboat who has a cabin with aircondition and a private bathroom with water heater.

Super Deluxe Houseboat Tour

A private tour with Houseboat which has two cabins with aircondition and each cabin has a private bathroom with water heater.

Standard Houseboat Tour

A private tour with standard Houseboat, with a cabin without aircondition and without a private bathroom.

Bird Watching Program

Borneo Bird Watching Program 4 Days 3 Nights Tanjung Puting National Park

Day. 01 Airport – Kumai – Afternoon Bird Watching – Houseboat (L, D) On arrival in Pangkalan Bun airport, meeting...

Borneo Bird Watching Program 6 Days 5 Nights Tanjung Puting National Park

Day. 01 Airport – Kumai – Tanjung Keluang – Afternoon Bird Watching – Houseboat (L, D) On arrival in Pangkalan...

East Kalimantan Bird watching in Mahakam and Kutai National Park 7D6N

Day 01: BALIKPAPAN, SAMARINDA, MAHAKAM (LD) Upon arrival at Balikpapan airport, meeting service and transfer...

Tailor Made Program

Orangutan, Komodo Dragon & Black Crested Macaque Tour 10D/9N Tanjung Puting National Park

Day 01. Airport – Kumai – Houseboat (L,D) Upon your arrival in Pangkalan Bun Airport, meeting service with our staff...

Orangutan Tour and Komodo Dragon Tour 7D/6N – TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK

Orangutan tour houseboat, bromo, ijen crater adventure 6d/5n.

Day 01: Pangkalan bun Airport – Kumai – Houseboating (L,D) On arrival in Pangkalan Bun airport, direct transfer to Kumai...

Customer Testimonial

Having arrived back home to the UK I wanted to send you a quick email. Claire and I had the most wonderful time. It was truly an experience of a lifetime and one that we will never forget. I cannot praise enough the team we were with. Tina was brilliant. She showed us so many wonderful things, was very knowledgable and extremely warm and friendly. You is a real asset to you and the Borneo ecotours company. The boat excelled all my expectations – safe, spacious and very comfortable. It was expertly piloted by your captain and his mate. Finally the food was delicious. Everything about the trip worked perfectly and we felt totally at ease from the moment we arrived to the moment we left. We would not hesitate to recommend your tours to anyone. I hope you have continued success and that 2016 is a great year for you and the team.

Best wishes, Simon and Claire Brookes

• Travel Style

• Family Trips

• Couples & Friends

• Expeditions & Off Beaten Trips

• Adventure & Sport

• Shared Trips & Join Our Groups

• Offers & Last Minutes Deals

Interest & Activities

• Photography

• TOUR SEARCH
• POPULAR TOURS
• RECOMMENDED TOURS
• BOOK FLIGHTS, FAST BOATS, TRANSFERS
• TAILOR-MADE TOUR
• TRAVEL BLOG
• INDONESIA TRAVEL GUIDE
• MICE TOURISM

• LARGE GROUPS & SPECIAL EVENTS

• TRAVEL AGENCIES - B2B

• Tour Search
• Tailor-Made Tour
• Large groups & Special events
• Travel Agencies – b2b

Indonesia is one of the countries with the greatest wildlife wealth and biodiversity of forests, and offers opportunities to create sighting trips and hiking in the more than 50 national and marine parks that this country has. Species as disparate as the world’s largest flower (Raflesia arnoldi) that can be seen in the Gunnung Leuser National Park in Sumatra or the smallest monkeys in the world such as tarsiers , and crested black monkeys that can be spotted in the National Park from Tangkoko on Sulawesi Island. As well as more known spices such as orangutans and proboscis monkey s you can find them in Borneo, rhinos and leopards in Java, Anoa, babirusas and buffaloes in Sulawesi, kuskus and casuaries in Papua, Komodo dragons in the Komodo National Park, endemic birds all over the country . And of course the majestic ocean blankets in the seas of Indonesia

Borneo – Yogyakarta – Bali – Komodo (14D/13N)

4 nights in Ubud 3D2N Yogyakarta Tour with Private Guide 3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok Travel with transfers included Island of the Gods

Borneo Bali Nusa Penida and Gili (17D/16N)

5 nights in Ubud 3 Nights hotel stay in Nusa Penida 3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok Travel with transfers included Island of the Gods

Borneo Bali Yogyakarta Karimunjawa (13D/12N)

5 nights in Ubud 2 Days Bali Tour with Private Guide 3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok Travel with transfers included Island of the Gods

Bali Ubud Borneo Seraya Labuan Bajo (12D/11N)

5 nights in Ubud 3 Nights stay in Seraya 3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok Travel with transfers included Island of the Gods

Best Borneo Orangutan Tour (3D/2N)

Sustainable tour Our own boats Tanjung Puting National Park Local specialized crew Night treking included

Borneo Orangutan Deluxe Houseboating Tour (3D/2N)

Sustainable tour Deluxe Boat Tanjung Puting National Park Local specialized crew Night treking included

Shared Borneo Orangutan Tour (3D/2N)

Sostenible Tour Our own boats Tanjung Puting National Parl Local specialized crew Nice atmosphere

Borneo Orangutan Tour by Speedboat (3D/2N)

A private speedboat adventure Hotel accommodation Rivers less visited by tourists Birding Special photographers

Popular Tours

The Tropical North of Sumatra | Nature and Adventure Special Tour (9D/8N)

Kerinci Seblat National Park | Adventure Through South Sumatra (13D/12N)

Adventure Trip in Sumatra | Exotic Nature & Culture (14D/13N)

Short Trekking Tangkoko National Park (3D/2N)

Komodo Resort Dive Package (4D/3N)

Related posts.

How to Register Your Mobile Phone IMEI Number in Indonesia (Update 2024)

All About Bornean Orangutans and Jungle Boat Trips

Discover SUMBA ISLAND & its incredible PASOLA FESTIVAL

Learn Bahasa Indonesia: LESSON 1 – INTRODUCTION

Traditional Indonesian drink: JAMU

Indonesia Travel Guide: All the information you would like to know before travel to Indonesia

A Guide to the Best Restaurants, Bars, and Beach Clubs in Bali

Must visit places in Bali

Traditional Indonesian dessert: KUE PANCONG

Discover the Enchanting Komodo Island and National Park

Traditional Indonesian dessert: KUE PUTU

Traditional Indonesian Dessert: MARTABAK MANIS

Journey to Ubud: Exploring Bali’s Cultural Capital

TRAVEL GUIDE

Email address: