Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Indonesia? Join us for a 16-day journey to explore this beautiful country's amazing wildlife and vibrant culture. You'll visit the incredible Leuser National Park, home to the endangered Orangutans, and meet the wonderful Mentawai people in the heart of Jungle Siberut, Mentawai. One of the most special parts of our experience is living with a Mentawai family, sharing their home, and enjoying their delicious dishes for a real cultural immersion. And of course, don't forget to relax on the pristine beach and soak in the crystal blue waters of Sipora Island, Mentawais. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

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• Type of trip > small group

• Level > moderate trekking

• Comfort > 3 / 5

• Duration > 16 days

• Characteristic > Culture, wildlife, and beach

> What to expect in this trip 

• Discover Sumatra orangutans in their natural habitat

• Explore Sumatra wilderness

• Live with the Mentawai tribe and meet the Mentawai flower men (Shamans) to learn about their unique forest culture.

• Explore the rich Batak culture and unwind by the beautiful Toba Lake.

• Experience the pristine beach with crystal blue water on Sipora Island in the Mentawai Islands.

• Immerse yourself in a real cultural experience by living with the native Mentawai tribe.

 
Trip Summary

Day 1: Arrival at Kualanamu International Airport, Medan – Transfer to Bukit Lawang

• Upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport, our guide will meet you and provide a private transfer to Bukit Lawang, a scenic four-hour drive.

• Check-in at our eco-lodge upon arrival in Bukit Lawang.

• Enjoy a welcome dinner and relax for an overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.

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​​Day 2: Bukit Lawang – Orangutan Jungle Trekking

• After breakfast at the guesthouse, we embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure into Gunung Leuser National Park. As we navigate the dense jungle, we will have the opportunity to encounter a variety of wildlife, including orangutans, Thomas leaf monkeys, black gibbons, macaques, Siamangs, hornbills, lizards, and other exotic bird species.

• The morning trek will last approximately three hours before we take a break for lunch.

• Lunch will be served in the heart of the jungle, where we will set up a temporary shelter for a brief rest.

• After lunch, we continue trekking for another 1–2 hours, immersing ourselves further in the pristine wilderness.

• Before sunset, we will set up camp next to a river, offering the perfect opportunity to refresh with a natural bath.

• Overnight in a jungle camp, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
   

​Day 3 Rainforest Trekking – Bukit Lawang village 

• After breakfast, we will continue trekking to see and observe more animals, flora, and fauna

• Visiting a waterfall in the jungle, while you can take a refreshing shower

• Lunch will be provided in the jungle

• Back to our eco-lodge with tubbing  

• Arrive at our ecolodge, dinner, and evening 
   

​Day 4 Bukit Lawang - Berastagi ​​

After breakfast, we drive 4 hours to Berastagi, a scenic highland town at 1,300m altitude in Batak Karo country. Known for its fertile volcanic soil, Berastagi produces tropical fruits, and more. It lies between two active volcanoes, Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung. In the afternoon, visit Berastagi’s traditional market and the Lumbini Buddhist Pagoda, a golden temple inspired by Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda. Overnight in Berastagi.
 

Days 5–6: Explore Samosir Island, Lake Toba & Batak Culture

During your stay on Samosir Island at Lake Toba, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Batak people. Highlights of your experience include:

• Visit Tomok to explore the ancient tomb of the Sidabutar kings, an important historical site of the Batak civilization.

• Discover Ambarita, where you will find the iconic stone chairs and tables once used for tribal council meetings and executions by the Sialagan kings.

• Savor authentic Batak cuisine at a local restaurant, featuring traditional dishes such as curry, grilled fish, and locally sourced vegetables.

• Explore the Batak traditional market and museum, gaining deeper insights into the customs, traditions, and artistry of the Batak people.

The rest of your time is yours to enjoy—take a scenic walk through the village or explore the island on a bicycle tour. While in Samosir, you will stay in the charming village of Tuk-Tuk, offering stunning views of Lake Toba.
 

Day 7: Transfer from Lake Toba to Medan Airport – Flight to Padang

To ensure a smooth journey, we recommend taking a midday flight from Medan to Padang.

• Depart early in the morning from Lake Toba for a transfer to Medan Airport.

• Board a one-hour flight from Medan to Padang.

• Upon arrival in Padang, transfer to your chosen hotel.

• Overnight stay in Padang.
   

Day 8: Padang – Siberut Island – Mentawai Tribe Stay

• 07:00 AM – Depart for Siberut Island via fast ferry.

• 11:50 AM – Arrive in South Siberut and transfer by minivan or pickup to a transit village.

• Upon arrival, prepare and load our belongings before continuing by motorized canoe.

• Travel upriver through the Siberut jungle for approximately 1.5 hours to reach the trekking point.

• Trek 1 hour to a Mentawai tribe family’s traditional house.

• Arrive at the Mentawai Uma (traditional longhouse), where we will stay and immerse ourselves in their way of life.
   

Days 9–11: Immersion with the Mentawai Tribe

• Over the next few days, engage in daily life with the Mentawai clan, exploring the jungle and remote villages.

• Participate in traditional activities such as:

  • Assisting with food preparation and other daily tasks.

  • Learning to construct a jungle hut in the Mentawai style.

  • Weaving baskets, trays, or bags from rattan and leaves.

  • Making poison for the bow and arrow hunting.

  • Experiencing traditional jungle survival techniques.

• Engage in conversations with the family to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.

• Depending on the timing, we may have the rare opportunity to witness a Shamanic ritual. I will keep you informed about any upcoming ceremonies.

Note: This experience follows an open itinerary, allowing for a more authentic and immersive connection with the Mentawai people.
 

Day 12: Departing the Remote Village – Siberut Port – Ferry to Sipora Island

• After breakfast, trek back to the riverbank, where a motorized canoe will take us to the transit village.

• Upon arrival, take a brief rest at a local house (with an opportunity to clean or wash our belongings).

• Transfer to Mailepet Port in Siberut and board a ferry to Sipora Island.

Note: The ferry from Siberut to Sipora operates only twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays.

• Upon arrival in Sipora, transfer to our bungalow/eco-lodge for the night.
   

Day 13: Sipora Island – Island Hopping & Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

• Explore the surrounding islands with an island-hopping excursion to Pototogat Island.

• Visit the stunning Awera Beach, known for its white sands and crystal-clear waters.

• Overnight stay in Sipora.
   

Day 14: Sipora Island – Beaches & Waterfalls

• Visit the pristine Simakakang Beach.

• Explore local waterfalls and the natural beauty of Sipora Island.

• Overnight stay in Sipora.
   

Day 15: Sipora Island – Leisure Day

• Enjoy a free day to relax on the island or engage in optional activities.

• Overnight stay in Sipora.
   

Day 16: Sipora Island – Return to Padang (Tour Ends)

• Depart from Sipora to Padang at 1:30 PM.

• Arrive in Padang at 6:00 PM, followed by a transfer to your hotel.

• End of tour.

 

Practical Information & Terms and Conditions

Accommodation & Living Conditions in Remote Villages

• Be prepared to live under the same conditions as the local community in the remote Mentawai village. Accommodation includes sleeping on a mat on the floor with a mosquito net.

• Due to the region’s poverty and isolation, host families provide more than the essentials, but the level of comfort and cleanliness may not meet Western standards. Embracing these conditions with an open mind is essential to fully appreciate the experience.

• The Mentawai communities live deep in the jungle, making access challenging. The trek involves muddy terrain, slippery and uneven ground, and walking on logs that serve as makeshift bridges.

• There is no electricity in the Mentawai jungle. Ensure your camera and phone are fully charged before departure, and bring extra batteries or a power bank.

• This experience requires mental preparedness and adaptability. Understanding the Mentawai culture and jungle lifestyle beforehand is crucial. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing before the trip.

Important Guidelines for Orangutan Trekking

Wildlife Viewing & Safety in Gunung Leuser National Park

Orangutan Behavior

• Wild orangutans spend most of their time in the forest canopy and rarely interact with humans. However, ex-captive orangutans in Bukit Lawang have become accustomed to human presence and often descend to the ground.

• Human interaction can be harmful to orangutans and contributes to their stress and illness.

Why Orangutans Are Vulnerable to Human Diseases

• Orangutans share 97% of their DNA with humans, making them highly susceptible to human illnesses.

• Diseases such as measles, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and influenza can be transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or spitting. Other infections, including hepatitis A, herpes, scabies, and intestinal parasites, can be spread through human waste.

The Consequences of Human Contact with Orangutans

• Although orangutans may seem comfortable around humans, this behavior is unnatural and can severely impact their health.

• Stress caused by human interaction can lead to:

  • Heart failure

  • Poor reproductive health

  • High infant mortality rates

  • Weakened immune systems

  • Premature death

How You Can Help: #KeepWildlifeWild

To protect orangutans, follow these guidelines and encourage fellow trekkers to do the same:
✅ Maintain a minimum distance of 15 meters from orangutans.
🚫 Do not touch them!
🚫 Do not feed or give them drinks.
🚫 Do not take selfies if an orangutan approaches you.

To ensure a comfortable and safe journey, pack light and bring only the essentials:

Clothing & Trekking Gear​​

• Trekking shoes – expect muddy and wet conditions.

• Small backpack – you can leave excess luggage at your hotel/hostel.

• Long trousers & long-sleeved shirts – protection against insects and the sun.

• Fresh underwear & t-shirts – expect heavy sweating during treks.

• Rain gear – a waterproof jacket or poncho.

• A dry bag/waterproof pocket – to protect your camera, documents, and electronics.

Camping & Personal Items

• Sleeping bag

• Mosquito repellent

• High-SPF sunscreen

• Headlamp/torch

• Toilet paper & personal hygiene items

• Sun hat/cap & sunglasses

• Water bottle

• Flip-flops – for walking around the camp or village.

First Aid & Medications

• Painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen, etc.)

• Anti-diarrhea medication

• Disinfectant/wound care supplies

• Personal medications

🚨 Do not overpack! Keep it simple and bring only what is necessary for jungle survival.

By following these guidelines, you will contribute to sustainable tourism, ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the communities and wildlife you encounter.