EXPEDITION OVERVIEW
On this eight day fundraising tour; you will be visiting rainforests, trekking into the jungles of Kutai National Park, travelling up rivers on motorised canoes, driving through the lanscapes of East Borneo and experiencing the traditional dayak culture. You will go to areas of the jungle where orangutans used to live freely for generations; where COP are now working to save orangutans and protect these jungles.
You will be priviledged to spend time in a unique orangutan rescue centre where COP's team are working incredibly hard to rehabilitate orangutans for reintroduction back into the forests. This is where you will see the real difference being made by COP.
After East Kalimantan, guests have the option to spend three days on a tropical island off the coast of Berau. Alternatively, those that seek more Indonesian adventures can joing an action packed extensions to Krakatoa, Lombok, Java or perhaps to see Komodo dragons. If you are interested in adventure and giving back at the same time, then you have got to be part of this expedition.
COP's outstanding work to save orangutans!
An Introduction to COP: The Centre for Orangutan Protection was founded in 2007, and works to counter crimes that threaten orangutans and their natural habitats. As part of this mandate, COP investigate, document, expose, and if necessary, readily confront any persons or groups who threaten to disrupt the lives of the orangutan and local communities living nearby. COP are at the forefront of saving critically endangered wild animals, and strive to create a second chance for orangutans to thrive, whether this be in their natural environments or in captivity. COP operates several rapid-response teams that work to rehabilitate the orangutans into Labanan, East Kalimantan. COP work wherever orangutan are in need of assistance, from the cruelties of the illegal animal trade, circus performances, or low-standard zoos.
Your special guest hosts: You will be joined on this tour by three remarkable people; Hardi (COP founder), Leif Cocks (TOP founder/president) and Lorinda Jane (POI founder). Hardi, Leif and Lorinda will travel with the group throughout the journey and teach you about how their organisations are helping to save the orangutans and allow them to be released back into the jungle.
COP Founder - Hardi Baktiantoro
From 2005-2006, COP founder Hardi Baktiantoro worked as an assistant to Lone Droscher Nielsen at the Nyarumenteng Orangutan Reintroduction Centre/ BOSF Nyarumenteng. During this year, at least 256 orangutans were saved from concession areas reserved for palm oil plantations. This figure does not include the orangutans that died before reaching the reintroduction centre. Moved by his experiences at Nyarumenteng, Hardi felt compelled to make a stand against the palm oil companies committing these atrocities in forest areas. From the onset, he sought to expose their actions, alerting people around the world to what was truly happening on the ground. To do this, Hardi invited his two friends, Wahyuni, a videographer, and Hery, a photographer, to join his cause. During the early stages, COP also received significant assistance from Sri Hastutik, an accountant, and Nurhalik, a teacher. Eventually, COP employed these two figures as founding members. To strengthen the organisation and ensure its continual growth, COP's founders then invited several other staff to become founding members. COP is the first, and remains the only orangutan conservation organisation to originate in Indonesia.
TOP President & Founder - Leif Cocks.
The Orangutan Project was established in 1998 by founder and world-renowned orangutan expert, Leif Cocks, after a career of almost 30 year working with orangutans. Leif is a passionate campaigner for orangutans and has been the president of The Orangutan Project since its inception.
Leif's years in the field have earned him respect within the conservation field. He has been a key player in developing conservation plans for orangutans and influencing positive change for orangutan protection and survival. This includes the first ever successful reintroduction of a zoo-born orangutan. This respect has given The Orangutan Project world standing in conservation.
A small population biologist and curator by trade; Leif has several academic qualifications, including a Masters of Science studying orangutans. He lectures at universities, is a seasoned public speaker and has published several papers on orangutans in peer-reviewed journals. Leif is also the author of the books; 'Orangutans and their Battle for Survival' (2002) and Amazon best seller; 'Orangutans My Cousins, My Friends' (2016) A journey to Understand and Save the Person of the Forest.
Leif is currently a Technical Advisor for PT Alama Bukit Tigapuluh (a company leasing and protecting rainforest), President of International Elephant Project, President of International Tiger Project, Vice President of Orang Utan Republik Foundation and on the Advisor Board for Forest, Nature and Environment of Aceh.
Leif Talks Orangutan Tours
Hi, I have now completed several Leif Cocks Eco-tours. On each one we have all had a great time, learnt all about the orangutans habitat, made new friends and most importantly raised awareness and much needed funds to help save this endangered species. In the complex world of conservation and animal behaviour, it is difficult to fully grasp the realities of what we see on just a short tour. That is why I feel that the members on this tour, that are able to discuss the deeper insights of conservation and behaviour, may enjoy the trip so much more. The more you know about something the more interesting it gets! With any holiday, a lot of time is wasted getting from one place to the other, however time can fly when you have the opportunity to discuss what you have just seen and what you are about to see in a holistic and in-depth context.
Leif says, "Want an enjoyable holiday, but want it to be something more? Why not see what is really going on, connect with the most intelligent fellow beings on the planet, meet the people working at the coal face and become part of the solution".
Lorinda Jane is founder and Director of Palm Oil Investigations (POI), which she formed on the 27th March 2013 with the aim of highlighting the palm oil crisis to consumers and in turn regulating supply. With over to 200,000 dedicated facebook followers, Lorinda is excited to co-host this expedition through Borneo and visit COP Borneo which POI co-funded from the beginning of its construction. By teaming up with long time collaborators Leif Cocks and Hardi Baktiantoro, Lorinda believes that this would be an amazing educational opportunity for anyone who comes along; not only to learn about the amazing orangutans but also to understand how palm oil is impacting their existence. Lorinda and her team at POI have been passionate campaigners for the species impacted by the deforestation for palm oil and are pleased that all proceeds from the tour will go to vital conservation efforts on the ground.
Lorinda says, "This tour is important because it gives a combined knowledge of all aspects of the industry, and the opportunity to get to know us on a more personal level and understand what drives us. It will not only highlight the beauty of the endangered orangutan, but also show why we work so hard to save what remains. This tour will be a life changing experience those that join us "
PROJECT FUNDRAISING OBJECTIVES
Participants joining this expedition are required to raise funds (a minimum of $1,000 AUD per participant) by networking with friends, family and colleagues to fundraise via your own customised fundraising page. Your fundraising page is created by Orangutan Odysseys and monies raised go straight to 'The Orangutan Project'. Details of how to achieve this goal and further information will be sent once you have booked. Participants in this expedition will also be contributing to the survival of the orangutans and their habitat by adopting an orphaned orangutan (included in your trip fare).
EXPEDITION GOALS
Our goal is to provide our guests with a unique experience, to observe wild and semi-wild orangutans in their natural habitat. We will provide you with a safe platform to observe other wildlife Borneo has to offer including proboscis nose monkeys, gibbons and more. We will also provide you with comprehensive information about the destination you are in, so that you are fully informed of your surrounds. Further, Orangutan Odysseys has partnered up with The Orangutan Project which supports conservation programs in Borneo and Sumatra.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You are embarking on an adventure to places and amongst people whose lives are very different from your own. Many aspects of life in Indonesia will seem unusual. Remember that these are often the same aspects that make an area an exotic and attractive destination. While some expeditions are considered easy, no trek is easy, even those rated "easy or moderate". In addition to the personal physical challenges you may face, travel conditions can present unexpected obstacles, such as rough and bumpy roads and changeable weather. To prepare for this "pack" a flexible and relaxed attitude. Bring a spirit of adventure and inquiry, a healthy sense of humor and a willingness to encounter the unexpected and you will find your trip to Indonesia the adventure of a lifetime!
To place a booking simply click the 'Book Now' button for your preferred date and complete the compulsory fields of the booking form.
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HIGHLIGHTS
- Travel with and learn from experts Hardi Bukitano, Lorinda Jane and Leif Cocks
- See the orangutans in their natural rainforest habitat at Kutai National Park
- Experience the dayak way of life including an overnight home stay
- Travel on river boats through remote and unseen locations
- Special visit the COP's Orangutan Centre (closed to the public) and their Orangutan "university" islands
- Travel through East Kalimantan to understand the land and culture.
- Meet the indigenous people of East Borneo in the unique Merasa Village
- Help save the orangutans
ITINERARY
8 days (19 - 26 February 2019)
Day 1 - 19 Feb: Arrive Jakarta.
Today you will arrive in Jakarta and be transferred you to your hotel for overnight accommodation at the FM7 Resort Hotel located near the airport. Tonight our group will meet for a tour briefing.
Day 2 - 20 Feb: Jakarta - Balikpapan - Samarinda
This morning we fly from Jakarta to Balikpapan. On arrival in Balikpapan we will meet our local transport and then travel by mini-bus to the town of Samarinda (approx. 3 hours drive). This Afternoon we will take a town tour and see the "mighty" Mahakam River. Overnight Samarinda hotel. (B,L)
Day 3 - 21 Feb: Samarinda - Sangata
Today we drive from Samarinda to Sangata (about 5 to 6 hours). Along the way we will stop at the equator monument. We will have lunch at Bontang Koala along the way. In the afternoon after checking into our hotel then take a river trip to see the proboscis monkey's and maybe some crocodiles. Overnight Sangata Hotel. (B,L)
Day 4 - 22 Feb: Kutai National Park - Jungle Lodge
An early morning start for our jungle trek to search for wild Orangutan with forestry ranger. You will enjoy walking under the high trees in the forrest. Lunch will be served in the camp. After lunch at 3:00pm we will walk again into the forest to see more wild life and in the afternoon you can watch the orangutans make nests for sleeping. We will then return to the camp have dinner, followed by a short night trek in the evening to expore and hopefully see tarantulla and other nocturnal animals. Overnight in your jungle reserach camp. We will provide mattress, pillow and mosquito nets. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - 23 Feb: Kutai - Berau
Today we leave our jungle camp in Kutai and drive to Berau (6-7 hours). Along the way we can stop at Bukit Pelangi Hills and see the biggest coal mine in indonesia. We will also see many palm oil plantations. We will stop for lunch at Wahau (Miau Baru). Here we will see the traditional dayak long house. We may also have the chance to see some wildlife. From here we arrive in Merasa Village, a traditional dayak village, and get to experince the dayak culture which starts with a Welcoming Ceremony. The village chief will be there to weclome you and you will see traditional dancing and be introduced to the lives of the traditional people. You will then check into your village homestay accommodation for the night. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - 24 Feb: COP Orangutan Centre - Merasa Village Home Stay
Today you will be given a special visit to COP's Orangutan Centre. You will taken to see the process for rehabilitation and release of orangutan and given a presentation about the rehabilitation and rescue work being done by COP. We will enjoy lunch at the centre and have time to chat with some of the wonderful people working there. After lunch we will return Merasa village and experience more of the dayak culture. You will be asked to join in some of the activities, spend time with the local people and enjoy walking around their village. Later in the day guests will join with the local people to learn how to make some traditional food from Merasa village Lemang. This is a nice time to communicate with local people while waiting for the Lemang to be ready. Dinner and overnight at the home stay in the village. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - 25 Feb: Merasa Village - Jungle Trekking - Orangutan Islands - Berau
This morning we head off for a full days adventure. In the morning we will head down to the river and meet our boats. We will cruise along the river and the old tomb of Dayak set in a cave on the side of a cliff. We visit the original place of where the dayak once lived, do some birdwatching and a visit a waterfall and some short jungle trekking. After lunch, we will head back down along the river on boats to see the COP Orangutan islands, which allows a place for orangutans to prepare for their release back to the wild. We will join COP for feeding time and relax / swim by the river before its time to return to town. Final night stay and dinner back at the Berau hotel. (B,L)
Day 8 - 26 Feb: Berau - Balikpapan - Jakarta
This morning we will transfer to the airport and start our travels back to Jakarta (via Balikpapan) to connect with your evening flights home or continue your travel in Indonesia.
OR Continue to Derawan Island for diving and snorkelling 3 days/2 nights extension (POA)
Day 8 to 10 - 19 to 21 March: Derawan or Maratua Islands - Berau Hotel
Today you will leave the hotel and travel to the beautiful island resort at either Derewan or Maratua Islands to enjoy 2 1/2 days of snorkelling, diving, swimming and relaxing before returning to Berau for a final night of accommodation.
Day 11 - 22 March: Berau - Balikpapan - Jakarta
This morning you will start your journey back to Jakarta (via Balikpapan) to connect with your evening flights home or continue your travels in Indonesia.
INCLUSIONS - EXCLUSIONS
INCLUSIONS
- Return domestic airfares from Jakarta
- Accommodation in Jakarta on Day 1
- Accommodations Balikpapan, Kutai and Berau
- Home stay accommodation and meals in dayak village
- Meals as outlined in Itinerary. (B,L,D)
- All National park fees including camera fees
- All transfers in all locations
- Professional local guides through the expedition
- Donation included for One Orangutan Adoption
- Orangutan Odysseys t-shirt, hat and water bottle
- Ranger and local guide fees and porters
EXCLUSIONS
- International Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Visa's
- Tips
- Personal expenses; phone calls, laundry, alcohol
DONATIONS, FEES AND COST
The purpose of this trip is to create awareness of the threat of extinction facing orangutans due to the destruction of their rainforest habitat, and to raise funds to help orangutans. The trip hosts; Hardi, Leif and Lorinda are generously donating their time and expertise to help make this a unique and a special experience for all our guests. Orangutan Odysseys has raised over $900,000 since 2009 to help support the orangutans survival. Each participant of the trip will adopt an orangutan (included in trip fare) and agree to raising a minimum of $1,000 in donations for COP. Your participation in this event WILL make a difference.
How else you can help? Bring along some urgently needed equipment
The following items are needed by the COP quarantine centre and can be purchased online or through your local veterinary surgery. All of these items are small, light and easily packed in a suitcase and needed at the quarantine centre. You will be able to present any small items to the centre at the time of our visit.
- Micropore tape 2.5cm width
- Non-sterile 10cm x 10cm gauze swabs
- Vicryl suture material 2/0 or 3/0 with reverse cutting needle
- PDS suture material 2/0 and 3/0 with reverse cutting needle
- Small 50ml baby bottles (Not the larger normal size baby bottles as the centre has a surplus of these)
- Digital thermometers
- Microscope slides and cover slips
- Sterile surgical dressings
- Probiotics in powder form
- Disposable sterile surgical gowns
- Towels