5 to 12-day jungle expedition
Not a tourist walk. Build camp each afternoon, follow ridgelines into the Leuser interior and learn how the forest feeds the people who know it.
How the expedition unfolds
Days 1–3 · Transition
Leave the Bukit Lawang buffer zone and enter primary rainforest, searching for semi-wild and then fully wild orangutans and Thomas leaf monkeys.
Days 4–9 · Deep wild
Climb high ridges in search of rhinoceros hornbills and signs of Sumatran tigers, sleeping in camps you build from scratch each afternoon.
Days 10–12 · Survival exit
On the longest trips, practise traditional fishing and foraging with your guides before exiting by river tube or on foot.
Choose 5–6 days to get well beyond the tourist zone. Choose 10–12 if you're a wildlife photographer or want to learn real jungle survival skills.
Expedition prices by number of days
Official HPI rates per person, minimum two people.
| Duration | Price p.p. | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 5 days / 4 nights | €320 | Getting well beyond the tourist zone |
| 6 days / 5 nights | €400 | High ridges and hornbill country |
| 7 days / 6 nights | €500 | Deep wild camps, the best chance of truly wild orangutans |
| 8–12 days | on request | Photographers and jungle survival skills |
Included on the expedition
- Licensed, experienced expedition guides
- Jungle chef and all meals
- High-quality camping equipment
- National park permits
Who it's for
Experienced hikers in good health who are happy walking 6–8 hours a day in heat and humidity and sleeping in simple wild camps. If that sounds like a lot, start with the 4-day trek.
What trekkers say
Escape To Sumatra is rated Excellent on Google (30 reviews) and Tripadvisor. A few words from recent guests:
“Real jungle experience, plenty of wildlife (including orangutans!!)”
“A true highlight of our trip!”
“A totally amazing experience. Very impressive wildlife sightings.”
Expedition questions
How much does a 5 to 12-day expedition cost?
5 days €320, 6 days €400 and 7 days €500 per person (official HPI rates, minimum two people). For 8 to 12 days, tell us how long you'd like to go and we'll send a quote.
What do I need to bring?
Good trekking boots, plenty of socks, high-DEET repellent, a head torch, quick-dry clothes and personal medication. We provide camping equipment, food and the guide and porter team.
Is it safe?
Our expedition guides are the most experienced members of the team and know the interior well. You do need to be healthy, comfortable walking 6–8 hours a day in humidity, and covered by travel insurance that includes evacuation.
Other ethical Bukit Lawang treks
Day trek
Half-day or full-day walk in the national park. Short on time? Start here.
The classic trek
Full day of trekking, river camp, tube ride home.
Deeper and quieter
Two camps, a jungle waterfall and trails most day-trekkers never reach.
Into the deep zone
Primary forest, survival skills and a hidden waterfall swim.
Plan your expedition
Send us a WhatsApp with your dates and group size. We'll confirm availability, suggest the right trek, and can book your transfer from Medan and a guesthouse by the river.