Essential Indonesian Rainforest Hiking Precautions for Safe Adventures

Continuing from the previous post!
I compared two rainforests and ultimately chose Bukit Lawang, mainly because the accommodations there are relatively better. However, if I had to make the choice again, I would definitely pick Tanjung Puting National Park. Despite the more basic lodging, it offers a more pristine experience, including the unique adventure of staying on a boat.

You’ll encounter a wider array of flora and fauna, and get up close with orangutans. (By the way, I still miss the Amazon, with its incredibly rich biodiversity and the opportunity to meet a shaman for an Ayahuasca ceremony.)

[StarR] Bukit Lawang Rainforest Hiking Tips:
[OneR] Arrange for airport pickup and drop-off with your accommodation or carpool. If you opt for a mini bus to Bukit Lawang, you’ll need to go from the airport to the city first, then switch to another mini bus. This can be quite time-consuming, and the last public bus typically departs at 16:00.

[TwoR] The prices for hiking and airport transfers are fairly consistent across providers, but cheaper accommodations might offer a slightly lower overall cost. It seems that booking a more expensive place assumes you have more to spend…
[ThreeR] The hike is extremely challenging, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.

The trail is very demanding, and on the return journey, you’ll need to use both hands and feet to navigate.
[FourR] There’s a section of rafting (locally known as “jungle taxi”) on the way back. While the boat won’t capsize, you will get completely drenched. It’s best to take off your shoes or change into water shoes before boarding.

[FiveR] Wear long socks to cover any exposed areas around your ankles to protect against leeches and other biting insects.
[SixR] Bring a raincoat and sunscreen. The rainforest weather is unpredictable, and the sun can be intense.
[SevenR] Pack mosquito repellent to avoid bites on the trail and to ensure a good night’s sleep.

[EightR] Don’t forget earplugs. The local Muslims recite prayers every night, the villagers sing, and the sound of the river can be quite loud.
[NineR] Many accommodations lack hot water for showers. If this is a concern, confirm with the accommodation beforehand.
[OneR][ZeroR] Some accommodations, especially the budget-friendly ones, bundle the stay with the hiking tour, meaning if you stay there, you must book the tour with them.

Read the descriptions and reviews carefully before making a reservation.
[OneR][OneR] Some guest houses are located outside the town, and during your stay, you might have visits from curious monkeys. The path to the accommodation can also be tricky, so check the location details clearly.
[OneR][TwoR] The electricity in the area is not very stable, so be prepared for occasional power outages.

High-power appliances like hair dryers and kettles may trip the circuit breaker when used (at least that was my experience).

[StarR] Other Tips:
[OneR] The Rafflesia flower, a rare and stunning sight, only blooms for one week. To avoid missing this fleeting beauty, check with your accommodation to see if it’s currently in bloom before making the trip.
[TwoR] In addition to the exhilarating rainforest hike, there are plenty of other activities to enrich your experience.

You can arrange visits to local villages, where you’ll witness picturesque rice fields and learn traditional crafts like tofu-making, roof construction, and brown sugar production. For a touch of adventure, explore the mysterious bat cave or head to Tangkahan, about an hour and a half drive from Bukit Lawang.

Though the roads are rough, the journey is well worth it. In Tangkahan, you can enjoy elephant bathing, where you’ll get up close and personal with these gentle giants, washing, feeding, and interacting with them. The area also offers thrilling rafting, serene waterfall visits, and more bat cave explorations.

If time permits, consider spending 2-3 days in Tangkahan to fully immerse yourself in its natural wonders and activities.