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Your adventure begins! Our local guide will meet you at your hotel or guesthouse in Bukit Lawang. After a short briefing and gear check, we head towards the jungle entrance.
Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek half day
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Book this tour
From:€65€55
√ Best rated √ Free hotel pickup
Duration
4 hours
Level
Easy
Availibility
All-year
Languages
Eng
Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek Half Day
Short on time but still want a real jungle experience? Our half-day trek (around 4 hours) is the perfect introduction to the magical rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park. It’s an easy-going adventure for all ages and fitness levels, no camping, no steep climbs, just nature at its best.
Led by one of our experienced local guides, you’ll follow jungle trails beneath towering trees while learning about native plants, animal tracks, and the fascinating ecosystem of this UNESCO-protected area. Along the way, you might encounter some of the park’s most iconic wildlife, including wild orangutans, Thomas leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, hornbills.
We walk at a relaxed pace, making stops to rest, take photos, and truly connect with the sights and sounds of the jungle. Midway, we’ll take a short break with fresh tropical fruit and a chance to ask your guide questions about the rainforest, its history, and conservation.
The trek ends with a refreshing swim in the river and the option to float back to Bukit Lawang on a traditional jungle raft or a peaceful walk back.
Whether you’re short on time or just want a lighter jungle adventure, this half-day trek gives you a real taste of wild Sumatra.
Highlights
√ 3–4 hour guided jungle trek in Gunung Leuser National Park√ Spot wild orangutans, monkeys, hornbills & more√ Learn about jungle plants, animal tracks & the local ecosystem√ Delicious jungle lunch picknick√ Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly outdoor adventure suitable for all ages.√ Optional rafting back to the village
Included
√ Certified English-speaking guide√ Porter√ Fresh fruits √ Fresh jungle lunch√ 1.5L bottle of water√ Entrance permit to Gunung Leuser National Park
Meeting point & time
Your guide will meet you at your guesthouse or accommodation in Bukit Lawang at 8:30 AM. No need to go anywhere, just be ready in the morning and we’ll come to you.
Staying in Medan and need a ride to Bukit Lawang?
We also offer convenient transport with pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel in Medan, the easiest way to start your jungle adventure stress-free. Read more
We also offer convenient transport with pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel in Medan, the easiest way to start your jungle adventure stress-free. Read more
What to bring
• Small backpack
• Raincoat or poncho
• Swimwear & small towel
• Change of clothes
• Camera + extra battery & memory card (in a waterproof bag)
• Insect repellent, sunscreen
• Toilet paper, personal meds
• Plastic bag for wet clothes
• Raincoat or poncho
• Swimwear & small towel
• Change of clothes
• Camera + extra battery & memory card (in a waterproof bag)
• Insect repellent, sunscreen
• Toilet paper, personal meds
• Plastic bag for wet clothes
For more details about what to bring, click here.
What to wear
• Comfortable hiking clothes (long sleeves optional)
• Waterproof shoes with grip – the jungle can be slippery!
• Keep your luggage light (max 10kg recommended)
• Waterproof shoes with grip – the jungle can be slippery!
• Keep your luggage light (max 10kg recommended)
For detailed directions and information, read our guide here.
Itinerary
Begin your adventure surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of one of the last remaining strongholds of wild orangutans. As the trail gently winds through the dense tropical forest, your senses will come alive. The rustle of leaves, distant calls of gibbons, and the vibrant colors of butterflies fluttering past.
Keep your eyes on the treetops: orangutans may appear, gracefully swinging from branch to branch. Spotting one in the wild is a magical moment you won’t soon forget.
During this 3–4 hour trek, you’ll also have the chance to see Thomas’ leaf monkeys with their mohawk-like hair, long-tailed macaques playing in the trees, hornbills soaring overhead, and more. Your experienced guide will share fascinating insights about these animals, their habits, and their place in the delicate rainforest ecosystem.
You’ll also learn about medicinal plants, jungle survival tricks, and how local communities have lived in harmony with this UNESCO-protected environment for generations.
After a morning of jungle trekking, it’s time to relax and enjoy a freshly prepared local lunch in the peaceful shade of the rainforest. Every day, our team cooks with love using fresh ingredients brought in from the village that same morning. Depending on the day, you’ll be treated to either delicious nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles), both served with vegetables, egg, and chicken.
To top it off, you’ll also enjoy a refreshing selection of seasonal tropical fruits. Sweet, juicy, and perfect after a hike. You’ll be amazed how good food tastes surrounded by nature!
Time to head back to the village! You can walk back with your guide or choose the fun way, floating down the Bohorok River on a traditional jungle raft made of rubber tubes. A short but thrilling end to an unforgettable morning in the rainforest.
Travelers rate us 4.9 out of 5!
We love sharing the jungle with travelers from all over the world, and nothing makes us happier than hearing about their experiences. Here’s what some of our guests have said about trekking with us:
“We only had one day in Bukit Lawang and this trek was the highlight of our trip to Sumatra. Within the first hour, we saw a mother orangutan with her baby, absolutely magical!”
Sophie, Australia
“I was a bit nervous before my first jungle trek, but the team made me feel completely safe. We spotted so many animals, learned about the plants, and even had fun tubing back down the river.”
Liam, Ireland
“We weren’t sure what to expect on a one-day trek, but we ended up seeing 3 orangutans, monkeys, and even a hornbill! The trail was a bit challenging at times, but the guide was patient and helpful. A great mix of hiking, wildlife, and local culture.”
Olivia, New Zealand
“Everything was well organized, from the hotel pickup to the jungle lunch. Our guide spoke excellent English and knew so much about the plants and animals. Swimming in the river at the end was such a nice way to cool off. This trek made us fall in love with Sumatra!”
Max, Germany
Our 3 promises
What Makes Us Unique?
Deep in the heart of Sumatra’s rainforest, our treks offers more than just a chance to spot orangutans, it’s an immersive jungle experience. Guided by local experts who know the forest inside out, you’ll explore the rich ecosystem of Gunung Leuser National Park, encounter rare wildlife, and learn about traditional plants and forest life. Whether it’s seeing a mother orangutan with her baby or floating down the Bohorok River on a jungle raft, this is more than a hike, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Small Groups & Private Treks
Avoid the crowds & experience nature in peace with our carefully designed small-group & private tours. This ensures a more personal and immersive experience, allowing you to fully connect with the jungle and its wildlife, far from the hustle and bustle.
Unmatched Wildlife Encounters
We know the jungle inside and out, giving you the best chance to see orangutans and other exotic animals. Our expert guides ensure every trek brings you closer to the heart of the rainforest, where unforgettable wildlife moments await at every turn.
Top-Quality Camps & Local Food
Sleep in jungle camps with clean bedding, and enjoy freshly prepared meals made from local ingredients. From jungle river tubing to campfire dinners, every detail is designed to make your adventure feel both wild and welcoming.
FAQ
Frequent Asked Questions
We’ve put together answers to the most common questions about our Bukit Lawang jungle tours. Check out the FAQ section to find everything you need to know before heading into the wild!
Lightweight, breathable clothing
The jungle is hot and humid, so it’s important to stay cool and comfortable.
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Wear quick-drying, breathable clothes to help manage sweat.
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Long sleeves and long pants protect you from insects, scratches, and irritating plants.
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Choose light, natural colors like beige, brown, or green, they don’t attract mosquitoes and help you blend into the forest.
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Avoid bright or dark colors, which can scare animals or attract bugs.
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Pro tip: wear long socks to cover the space between your pants and shoes.
- Bring swimwear if you’d like to take a dip in a jungle river. There may be a chance to cool off during the trek!
Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers
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Trails can be muddy, slippery, and uneven. Good grip and ankle support are essential.
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If your shoes aren’t waterproof or dry quickly, bring sandals or flip-flops for river crossings or camp.
A small daypack (25–35 liters)
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You’ll only carry your personal items, our team takes care of the tents, food, and gear.
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Pack essentials like water, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket.
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Don’t forget a rain cover for your backpack, rain can come unexpectedly.
Insect repellent, sunscreen & a hat
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Mosquitoes and other insects are common, use strong repellent to protect yourself.
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Even under the trees, the sun can be strong, apply sunscreen regularly.
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A wide-brimmed hat offers extra sun protection for your face and neck.
Personal medications
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Medical help may not be nearby, so bring what you might need.
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Useful items include:
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Anti-diarrhea tablets
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Oral rehydration salts (ORS)
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Antihistamines (for allergies)
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Painkillers like aspirin
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Any prescribed antibiotics
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Bring enough of any daily medications for the entire trip.
Our jungle trekking groups are kept small to ensure a personal and immersive experience. We accommodate between 2 and 7 people per group.
The trek begins at 8:30 AM. Our guide will pick you up directly from your guesthouse, so you don’t need to worry about getting there yourself.
Staying in Medan and need a ride to Bukit Lawang? We also offer convenient transport with pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel in Medan, the easiest way to start your jungle adventure stress-free. Read more
We offer jungle trekking tours all year round, as the rainforest is always an adventure. However, the best time to visit is between February and October, when the weather tends to be drier and trails are easier to navigate. During the rainy season (November to January), you can still trek, but expect wetter conditions and muddier paths. Either way, the jungle’s beauty and wildlife can be enjoyed anytime, just come prepared!
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with a sturdy, non-slip sole and good ankle support. The jungle trails can be muddy, slippery, and uneven, so stable footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
You can leave your large luggage safely at your accomodation or with us. Your bags will be kept clean and protected during the trek, free of charge.
Yes, children pay the full price for the jungle trekking. Only kids under 2 years old can join for free.
Our 1-day and 2-day jungle treks are great options for young children, as they include plenty of breaks and a manageable amount of hiking. The 3-day trek is also possible for active kids who enjoy walking and nature, it just depends on your child’s energy and experience.
Yes, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot, especially during high season. It helps us prepare your guide, meals, and permits in time. Last-minute bookings are possible depending on availability, but to avoid disappointment, it’s best to reserve early.
Is your question not listed? Send an e-mail to [email protected]
