5 Days 4 Nights Orangutan River Adventure
The Ultimate Exploration of Borneo’s Rainforest Wilderness
For true explorers and nature lovers seeking the most in-depth orangutan experience, this 5-day, 4-night river journey is the ultimate way to discover the wonders of Tanjung Puting National Park. With more time to explore deeper into the jungle, this adventure allows for unhurried wildlife encounters, peaceful river cruising, and meaningful connections with Borneo’s rich biodiversity.
Sailing aboard a comfortable klotok houseboat, you’ll visit all the iconic orangutan feeding stations — including Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, and Tanjung Harapan — while also venturing into quieter, less-traveled parts of the river where wildlife thrives undisturbed. Each day offers new discoveries: morning wake-ups with the call of gibbons, afternoon sightings of proboscis monkeys leaping between trees, and magical sunsets over the river.
You’ll have the opportunity to trek deeper into the forest with experienced guides, learn about conservation efforts directly from local rangers, and simply soak in the tranquil beauty of the jungle. Evenings are spent enjoying delicious meals under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
This extended itinerary is perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the rainforest — without rush, without crowds, and with a profound sense of adventure. It’s not just a tour — it’s a soulful retreat into one of Earth’s last great wild places.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival at Pangkalan Bun – Kumai – Tanjung Harapan (Camp 01) & Jungle Trekking
Upon landing at Iskandar Airport in Pangkalan Bun, our friendly local guide will greet you and escort you on a short drive to Kumai Port. There, your traditional wooden klotok boat awaits to begin your unforgettable journey into the Bornean rainforest.
Cruise up the Sekonyer River, soaking in the views of dense mangroves, wild proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife. After lunch is served onboard, we dock at Tanjung Harapan Camp, where orangutan feeding takes place daily at 3:00 PM. A short trek through the forest (approximately 1 km) will lead you to the feeding platform — an emotional, up-close encounter with these endangered apes.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll embark on a longer jungle trekking expedition, exploring deeper into the forest surrounding Tanjung Harapan. This immersive 1.5 to 2-hour walk offers opportunities to observe flora, birds, and even wild boar or hornbills in their natural setting.
Return to the klotok for dinner under the stars. Spend the night on the boat, gently rocked by the calm river and lulled by the tranquil symphony of the jungle.
Day 2 - Camp Leakey Exploration (Camp 03)
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast while cruising upstream into the heart of Tanjung Puting National Park. The destination is Camp Leakey, a historic and active orangutan research station founded by Dr. Biruté Galdikas.
The 2–3 hour boat journey is peaceful and scenic, with frequent sightings of wildlife along the riverbanks. Lunch is served on board before we reach Camp Leakey.
Once docked, a short 3-kilometer jungle trek takes you to the afternoon feeding station (around 2:00 PM). This is often the most emotional encounter, as some of the oldest rehabilitated orangutans — and even wild ones — appear from the treetops.
Return to the boat for a relaxing evening. Enjoy dinner while floating in the remote rainforest and sleep surrounded by the calls of gibbons and nocturnal creatures.
Day 3 - Pondok Tanggui – Tree Planting – Tanjung Harapan Village Visit
Today we head downstream after breakfast to Pondok Tanggui (Camp 02), arriving in time for the morning orangutan feeding session between 9:00–11:00 AM.
Afterward, you’ll take part in a tree-planting activity — contributing directly to rainforest restoration and orangutan conservation efforts.
We return to the klotok for lunch as we continue our journey downstream. In the late afternoon, visit Tanjung Harapan Village, where you’ll get to walk through a stilt-house settlement, meet friendly locals, and explore traditional crafts or snacks.
Dinner and overnight stay on the boat.
Day 4 - Remote River Trekking with Longboat Adventure
After breakfast, today offers a more rugged and adventurous experience. We’ll board a longboat (a narrow motorized canoe) and head deep into the tributaries of the Sekonyer River.
This special 2–3 hour journey takes you into quieter, wilder zones of the forest, less traveled by regular tour boats. As we glide through narrow waterways, you’ll witness untouched jungle, pristine ecosystems, and may encounter rare bird species, crocodiles, or even wild orangutans.
We’ll do light trekking at the destination point, stretching your legs and exploring deeper forest trails with the guide before returning by longboat to the klotok.
Enjoy your final full dinner onboard, reminiscing about the remarkable adventure you’ve had so far. Overnight on the boat.
Day 5 - Cruise Back to Kumai – Airport Transfer
On your final morning, enjoy breakfast as the boat cruises gently back toward Kumai Port. Reflect on your experience surrounded by the peacefulness of the river and jungle.
Upon arrival in Kumai, a car will be waiting to transfer you to Iskandar Airport (PKN) for your onward flight.
Though your trip ends, the connection you’ve made with nature, the orangutans, and the river will stay with you forever.