There really is nothing like giving back. In this specially crafted expedition you will visit the habitat of the great orangutan and at the same time help protect the environment for generations to come. Since 2009 Orangutan Odysseys has raised in excess of $1,000,000 for orangutan conservation. In 2015 and beyond, Orangutan Odysseys will continue sponsoring orphaned orangutans, protecting more rainforest through the Safeguard program (a jungle patrol system that prevents poachers and illegal loggers), and providing cash donations to support vital conservation projects.
The Gunung Palung National Park is home to rare and interesting species. But it is orangutans, one of our closest relatives, that most people come here to visit. Their sheer beauty and passive demeanor will steal your heart. We will see wild orangutans and have the opportunity to be experience these magnificent animals in there natural environment. If you are interested in adventure and giving back to the world at the same time, then you have got to be part of this expedition.
Our 8 Day Ketapang & Gunung Palung Orangutan Experience will take you to west Kalimantan. A rarely visited location by tourists but one with some wonderful and interesting locations and culture. Gunung Palung National Park is a unique place in itself. It is not only home to the orangutan, but also many other species of monkeys and birds. During your time in the park you will be living at the local camp site, where you will be supplied with simple mattress. Our team will cook up delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When not walking through the jungle, we can relax in camp watching the wildlife, read a book or just laze the day away.
EXPEDITION GOALS
Our goal is to provide our guests with a unique experience while observing wild orangutans in their natural habitat. We will provide you with a safe platform to observe other wildlife that Borneo has to offer including proboscis 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 surroundings. Our joint efforts with The Orangutan Project continues to support conservation programs in Borneo in Sumatra. Each guest's fare includes the cost of adopting an orangutan and sponsoring 100 hectares of rainforest.
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 boat 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!
Day 1: Arrive in Destination Port (Jakarta)
We will meet at the airport and provide your hotel transfers for your overnight accommodation.
Day 2: Jakarta – Ketapang
This morning we check out of the hotel and head to the airport for our morning flight to Ketapang in West Kalimantan. On arrival you will be taken to the Aston Hotel for check in and lunch. Afternoon we shall take a city tour and visit the local education forest area to see the river and (hopefully) proboscis monkeys and bords late afternoon. Tonight we shall meet get a talk from a researcher from the IAR who will give us tell us more about their work there to help save the orangutans. Overnight at the Aston hotel (B,L)
Day 3: Ketapang Exploring - Orangutan Research camp
Early morning start today we shall venture out to see the newly protected areas of the local jungles where researchers work to protect the orangutans and other animals. We shall take a ride in our private vehicles out to the Pesagguan River and then be taken by klotok up river to the remote research station. There we shall be given talks by our team about the area and why it is so important. Then we shall hike through the peat swamps in the jungle in search of wild orangutans and other wildlife. In the afternoon we shall cruise by the river in search of proboscis monkeys on the way back to meet with our cars and return to town. Dinner at a local restaurant on return. Overnight at the Aston hotel (B,L,D)
Day 4: Ketapang - Gunung Palung National Park.
Early this morning we head into the Gunung Palung National Park (about 3 hour drive) and start our jungle trek to the campsite. Once we have arrived at Camp, we shall head out, in search for some wild orangutans and other wildlfe. After returning for lunch we shall head back into the jungle once again, with our forestry ranger accompanying us, to lead the jungle trek and search for wildlife and Orangutans. Late afternoon, back to the camp for having dinner and overnight camping. (B,L,D)
DAY 5: GPNP – Ketapang
Early morning we will do another jungle trek looking for orangutan and wildlife. The back to camp for pack out things and trek back down to the village and meet our cars for the road trip to Ketapang. Along the way we shall stop in at a local beach for a chance for a swim and lunch. Afternoon check in hotel. Overnight at Aston Hotel. (B,L)
Day 6: Ketapang
This morning will be at leisure and allow you sometime to rest and some recovery from the 3 days activities. We will then head out to have lunch on the river using a local baot where you get to see the town from the river. Then later head to “the beach” to relax and enjoy a drink and snacks as we watch the sunset. Dinner at a local restaurant in Ketapang that evening. Overnight at the Aston Hotel (B,L)
Day 7: Ketapang - Jakarta
This morning you will be transfered to the airport for your return flights. On arrival in Jakarta you will be meet for your hotel transfer. Overnight at your hotel (B)
Day 8: Tour ends - Trip extension option
Today you will travel home or continue to your next destination. (B)
TRIP EXTENSIONS
Why not think about seeing more amazing locations in Indonesia after your orangutan expedition? For details about our exciting trip extensions to other parts of Indonesia click here.
INCLUSIONS
EXCLUSIONS