Imagine gliding through lush, green river corridors in a traditional houseboat while searching for one of nature’s most charismatic creatures—orangutans. That’s precisely what the 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour offers in Tanjung Puting National Park. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour promises an intimate encounter with Borneo’s rainforests, its wildlife, and its local culture.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the kelotok boat itself provides a cozy, authentic way to explore the rainforest. Second, the tour covers two major orangutan feeding stations, Tanjung Harapan and Camp Leakey, increasing your chances of spotting these gentle apes in their natural habitat. Third, the trip includes all meals, beverages, and entrance fees, making it a hassle-free adventure. While the tour offers many highlights, some travelers mention that the schedule can be quite busy, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days of wildlife spotting and boat travel.
This tour is particularly ideal for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience Borneo’s rainforest eco-system. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive, and genuinely enriching experience, this tour could be among your top choices. Keep in mind, it’s a two-night journey—so pack your patience and your camera!
- Good To Know
- An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
- Day 1: River Cruise and Tanjung Harapan
- Day 2: Exploring Camp Leakey
- Wildlife Encounters and Bird Watching
- Final Day: Return Journey and River Wildlife Spotting
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Why This Tour Is Great Value
- Who Will Love This Tour
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Tours in Pangkalan Bun
- More Tour Reviews in Pangkalan Bun
- Looking for something different? Other Pangkalan Bun activities we've written about
Good To Know
- Authentic boat journey on a traditional kelotok with amenities like Western-style toilets
- Visits to two orangutan feeding stations—Tanjung Harapan and Camp Leakey
- All-inclusive package covers meals, beverages, entrance fees, and private transportation
- Wildlife sightings include orangutans, proboscis monkeys, langurs, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife
- Experienced guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of the rainforest ecosystem
- Comfort and convenience with overnight accommodations on the boat and pick-up services
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
The tour kicks off in Pangkalan Bun, a small Indonesian town that acts as the gateway to the rainforest. From here, you’ll be picked up and transferred to the boat, setting the tone for an intimate, relaxed journey. The boat itself is equipped with sleeping beds, mosquito nets, and Western-style toilets, which is a bonus in the middle of remote wilderness. The boat is described as cozy but functional—perfect for those who prefer a more authentic experience over luxury.
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Day 1: River Cruise and Tanjung Harapan
Your first stop is the Tanjung Harapan Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. After a scenic cruise along the Kumai River, you’ll arrive at this important orangutan conservation site, where you can witness feeding sessions and observe orangutans in a semi-wild environment. As one reviewer, Rubenaenima, noted: “The crew, guide (Darmin), and places visited were unforgettable—an experience we’ll remember forever.” Expect to see not only orangutans but also other monkeys and bird species along the riverbank.
Day 2: Exploring Camp Leakey
The next day takes you further into the rainforest to Camp Leakey, a historic site where Dr. Birute Galdikas began her groundbreaking orangutan research in 1971. The boat journey there is about two hours, winding through tea-colored waters that give you a real sense of being in the jungle. This station is renowned for its conservation work and offers a chance to watch orangutans in a more natural setting, often feeding in the trees or playing nearby.
Wildlife Encounters and Bird Watching
Beyond orangutans, the tour offers the opportunity to spot proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and various bird species. Many visitors describe the numerous wildlife sightings as a highlight. The local guide will point out these animals, adding context and insights that deepen the experience. As one reviewer mentioned, “Boating a side creek through tea-colored waters and seeing proboscis monkeys was a real highlight.”
Final Day: Return Journey and River Wildlife Spotting
On the last morning, after breakfast, you’ll cruise back down the Sekonyer River, heading towards Kumai. The cruise offers one last chance for wildlife spotting, with many travelers enjoying their coffee onboard while watching birds and monkeys along the riverbanks. The boat then returns you to Pangkalan Bun, feeling both relaxed and fulfilled from your rainforest adventure.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The all-inclusive nature of this tour makes it appealing. You’ll enjoy meals—lunch, dinner, breakfast—and snacks, along with drinks like soda, bottled water, tea, and coffee. All entrance fees and taxes are covered, simplifying your planning.
The boat’s amenities ensure comfort, with mosquito nets, a sleeping bed, and a Western-style toilet, which is appreciated in such a remote setting. The guide, offered in good English, is knowledgeable and passionate—many reviews sing praises for their guide, Darmin, who was described as “incredible” in his explanations.
However, extras like personal expenses, alcohol, souvenirs, or filming permits are on you to cover. If you’re into drone photography, note that flying drones requires a permit, and the cost isn’t included.
Why This Tour Is Great Value
At $444 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive rainforest experience with expert guidance, comfortable boat accommodations, and all meals included. Considering the remote location, the logistics involved in organizing such a trip, and the quality of wildlife encounters, this package offers solid value. It’s especially appealing for those seeking an authentic, eco-focused adventure rather than luxury accommodations.
Some travelers have noted that they booked their trip nearly 228 days in advance—an indication of high demand and the importance of early planning. Many reviews mention the tour exceeded expectations, with guests expressing intentions to return or bring their family along someday.
Who Will Love This Tour
If you’re passionate about primates, eco-tourism, and authentic jungle experiences, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for wildlife photographers eager to capture orangutans in the wild, as well as nature enthusiasts who enjoy boat rides and river scenery. The tour’s structure suits those comfortable with full days of travel and wildlife observation, and it’s also family-friendly, provided children are accompanied by adults.
That said, if you prefer a more luxurious or sedentary holiday, or dislike early mornings and boat travel, this might not be the best fit. It’s a genuine adventure that’s best appreciated by those seeking an immersive rainforest experience.
Final Thoughts
The 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour in Tanjung Puting offers an authentic, well-organized way to explore Borneo’s rainforests from the water. With guided wildlife encounters, comfortable boat accommodations, and all-inclusive amenities, it’s a compelling choice for nature lovers.
This trip provides a rare chance to see orangutans in their natural environment, witness diverse wildlife, and learn about conservation efforts firsthand. It’s a meaningful experience that combines adventure, education, and a touch of jungle magic—all without feeling overly commercialized.
For travelers craving an authentic rainforest expedition that emphasizes wildlife and nature, this tour delivers on every front. It’s a chance to disconnect from everyday life and learn about one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 days and 7 minutes, including travel time, wildlife viewing, and meals.
What transportation is included?
Private transportation is provided for pick-up and transfer between Pangkalan Bun and the boat.
Are meals included?
Yes, all meals, snacks, and beverages like coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water are included in the package.
What wildlife might I see besides orangutans?
You might spot proboscis monkeys, langurs, long-tailed macaques, crocodiles, and various bird species along the river and in the forest.
Is the boat comfortable?
The kelotok boat offers sleeping beds, mosquito nets, and Western-style toilets, making it practical and reasonably comfortable for an overnight jungle cruise.
Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though full days of wildlife spotting might suit older children better.
What should I bring?
Bring your camera, insect repellent, light rain gear, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and river travel.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 228 days ahead, so early reservation is advised to secure your spot.
This tour offers a genuine taste of Borneo’s rainforest and an up-close look at orangutans, making it a memorable addition to any wildlife or eco-travel itinerary.