ketambe-jungle-trekking-guide

Sumatra orangutan jungle trekking and wildlife observation in Ketambe

900.000 IDR | 75€ per person | per day | min. 2px

Incl. national park entrance fee

Jungle Trekking in Ketambe: Discover Wild Orangutans in the Heart of Sumatra

Ketambe, a small village tucked deep within the lush rainforests of Gunung Leuser National Park, is one of Indonesia’s last hidden gems. Far from the tourist crowds, this pristine corner of Aceh, North Sumatra, offers a rare opportunity to trek through untouched jungle and see wild Sumatran orangutans in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, nature photographer, or eco-traveler, jungle trekking in Ketambe is a raw and unforgettable experience.

📍 Where Is Ketambe?

Ketambe is located in Southeast Aceh, on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP)—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Unlike its more commercial cousin, Bukit Lawang, Ketambe remains quiet, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path.

Why Trek in Ketambe?

✅ Wild Orangutan Sightings

Ketambe is one of the best places in the world to see wild orangutans, not rehabilitated ones. These incredible great apes roam freely in the dense canopy, swinging between trees or foraging for fruit.

“On my second day, we spotted a mother orangutan and her baby calmly watching us from above. It was magical.” – Trekker testimonial

✅ Authentic Jungle Experience

The trails in Ketambe are less trafficked and more rugged than in tourist hotspots. That means:

More chances to spot wildlife
Less noise and human interference
Deeper connection with nature

✅ Biodiversity Beyond Orangutans

The rainforest is also home to:

Thomas leaf monkeys
Gibbons
Hornbills
Sun bears
Rafflesia flowers
And even clouded leopards (rare sightings)

Ketambe Overview

What to Expect on a Jungle Trek

📅 Trekking Options

Half-day trek – Perfect for casual travelers, includes orangutan tracking
1–2 day trek – Deeper forest exploration, includes overnight camping by rivers or waterfalls
3+ day trek – Hardcore adventure, deep jungle immersion, possibility of seeing rare wildlife

MEET THE LOCALS

Meet Your Local Guides

Ketambe’s guides are trained locals who know the forest intimately. Many have grown up tracking animals and identifying plants, and now work as certified eco-guides supporting conservation efforts. Hiring a local guide ensures:

You stay safe
You get a richer, educational experience
Your money supports community-based tourism

What to Pack for a Ketambe Trek

Light backpack
Camera
Walking Shoes
Long trousers & socks
Toilet Papers
Large Bottlewater
Mosquito Repellent
Sunscreen

💡 Pro tip: Bring biodegradable soap if you'll be bathing in rivers or waterfalls.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Ketambe

Most accommodations in Ketambe are simple guesthouses or eco-lodges, often family-run. They offer:

Private wooden bungalows
Jungle views and hammock areas
Organic local meals
Arrangements for guides and treks

Popular options include:

Pak Mus Guesthouse
Wisma Cinta Alam
Rainforest Lodge Ketambe

🌱 Responsible Travel in Ketambe

Tourism in Ketambe is rooted in sustainability and respect for nature. To help preserve this unique ecosystem:

Never feed or touch wildlife
Stay on trekking paths
Take your trash with you
Avoid single-use plastics
Support local businesses and guides

📍 How to Get to Ketambe

From Medan:

Private car (7–8 hours) – Most convenient
Public bus to Kutacane, then motorbike or taxi to Ketambe (budget-friendly)

From Banda Aceh:

Travel south via Takengon and Blangkejeren (multi-day route, very scenic)

1.400.000 IDR | From the airport or Hotel on private car transfer oneway

Go to Ketambe with our driver is the safest and most easy to get there. it takes about 8-9 hours ride via Berastagi highland. Stop at the rest area in Berastagi Highland. We offer very competitive and affordable trates. You will get to Ketambe Faster and and hassle free. We will discounted if you combined with the jungletrek and accommodation package.

Go to Ketambe by Public Transport or Shared taxis

First you need to get to medan from the airport or hotel by online taxis, then go to the bus loket or depot ( BTN bus, SEBAYANG bus ). This is public bus that goes to KUTACANE, the nearest and the last stop for the bus. Kutacane you need to get another bus to ketambe. Be aware that there is time limitation time for the bus from medan to kuta cane and also from kuta cane to Ketambe. This option take much longer time and not recommended.

SHARED TAXIS are better than public bus. The car will be more comfortable and also bit faster. this also stop at the Kutacane. You still need to organise transport from kuta cane to ketambe tho. ANUGRAH TRAVEL is a well known company that organise shared taxis to Ketambe. ANUGRAH TRAVEL