There are not many places left in the world where you can still observe Orangutans, the giants of the rainforests of Southeast Asia.
The journey to the orangutans of Sumatra takes us from Medan, the largest city in Sumatra, 3-4 hours west to the edge of Leuser National Park. Over 4 days, we go in search of the orangutans. We also have the chance to see other different species of monkeys and birds that live in Southeast Asia's largest national park.

During our time in Leuser National Park, we are accommodated in a nice lodge, which serves as our starting point into the forest. If you are interested, there is also the option of spending the night in tents by a river in the rainforest.

The aim of this trip is to meet the fascinating Orangutans. Being able to observe these animals in the dense greenery of their natural habitat is something very special and a dream come true for photography enthusiasts!
These endangered animals can no longer be observed in many places. Forest clearance for agriculture and livestock farming has driven them out of many regions.

To preserve this species, animals were released into the wild in the area of our tour years ago and were provided with food. Some of these animals are still accustomed to humans today and come very close to the hiking trails. However, we also have the opportunity to observe Orangutans in the deeper forest, but these remain further away from humans.
We often have the opportunity to see mother animals with their often very active offspring. Giant males can also be seen from time to time.

Of course, we also have the opportunity to find other species in this rich ecosystem. White-handed gibbons, crested langurs, Thomas's langurs, Javan monkeys and southern hog monkeys are just a few of the species that we encounter more frequently. The birdlife is of course also amazing here, with the majestic toucans as the main protagonists. We also regularly see various reptiles such as snakes.

Tigers, elephants, leopards and bears can normally only be found deep in the rainforest. A sighting is therefore possible, but would be like hitting the jackpot in the lottery!

During our time in Leuser National Park, we stay in a beautiful lodge right on the edge of the park. This lodge serves as a starting point for many visitors to the rainforest. The rooms are small but nice and also have balconies with a view of the passing river or the forest. However, do not expect 5-star accommodation! The lodge's restaurant serves mostly local dishes.

Depending on the group's interests, there is also the option of spending a night on a small river deeper in the rainforest. The conditions are very basic, with accommodation in tents and very limited sanitary facilities. However, the experience is amazing. The sounds of the forest in the dark are well worth the effort!

After arriving at the lodge and having lunch, we set off on our first excursion into Leuser National Park. Smaller excursions take 2-3 hours and require a certain level of fitness.

On the other days, we either go on shorter hikes in the mornings and afternoons or on a longer excursion deeper into the Leuser ecosystem. Catering is always provided.

The climate in these regions of Indonesia is humid and tropical. Although this makes it tempting to wear shorts, you should still wear long hiking clothes in the forest during the day. Leeches and mosquitoes are lurking!
In the evenings, however, it is much cooler here compared to the cities of Southeast Asia. Therefore the longer clothing is pleasant. Good hiking boots or sneakers are also an advantage, even if the local guides walk through the forest in flip-flops.

For photographers, we recommend medium to large lenses. The Orangutans are often very close or even on the paths, so you can get to them within a few meters. However, birds and other monkeys are often a little further away.

A backpack is ideal for carrying clothes or water.