Experience Overview
‘Here be dragons’ goes the old cartographers’ adage, and in Indonesia there are, with forked tongues, venomous saliva and scaly bodies. Tracking Komodo dragons in the national park of the same name is just one of the experiences this vast country offers on this two-week trip through Sumatra, Bali and Komodo. We explore the jungles around Bukit Lawang looking for orangutans and various monkeys, take to the seas as we snorkel with a myriad of colourful fish and possibly swim with manta rays and uncover the culture and natural beauty of central Bali.
Profile
— Accommodation: 8 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (3 lodge, 2 boat) — Travel by minibus, boat and internal flight
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 8 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (3 lodge, 2 boat) — Travel by minibus, boat and internal flight
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate) with a Wildlife Rating of Three. Visit our Activity Level Guidelines page for more on our trip gradings or our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife Ratings. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is designed so you can see the two main wildlife highlights of Indonesia in a relatively short period of time. There is plenty to see in the time you are there, and although there is a lot of travelling involved, everything is scheduled so it doesn’t feel too rushed. On most travel days, the average travelling time is between four and six hours, though traffic is often the determining factor in how long journeys take. There is plenty of time for sightseeing and the trip has stops where we spend two or more nights. Due to the vagaries of internal flight schedules in Indonesia, travelling from Medan to Labuan Bajo normally requires two days so we have broken up the journey with a stopover in Sanur to make the journey less stressful and to allow us to see a different side of Bali to the region of Ubud we visit at the end of the trip.
The wildlife tracking is fairly accessible and should not be too hard for anyone with reasonable fitness, though the jungle trekking in Bukit Lawang, especially the longer optional hike, should not be underestimated. This takes place in hot and humid conditions, along potentially slippery mountainous terrain littered with roots. Good walking shoes/boots are highly recommended, especially if it has been raining. There are local men who can assist you for a small fee should you wish. The walks on Komodo and Rinca are not too strenuous.
When we visit Komodo National Park, we spend two nights on the boat where the sleeping arrangements are basic. There is a mix of bunk beds and mattresses on deck. Many people, however, enjoy sleeping on the deck under the stars. Spending two nights on the boat allows us to maximise wildlife viewing around the islands and to try to see as much as possible.
During the time spent on the boat, there could be a changed itinerary/route according to weather conditions to ensure overall group safety and enjoyment.
When travelling in some areas of the country, service may not be as fast or reliable as you are used to in other countries and Indonesian attitudes towards certain things such as animal welfare and food may differ from your own. That said, if you come ready for an experience, the country’s rewards will not fail to deliver.
Local guides in Komodo warn that women who are experiencing their period should avoid visiting as the smell of blood may attract the dragons. We have consulted with various people who have years of experience with the islands and the dragons and, as long as normal precautions are taken, and you stay with the group (which people should do in all cases anyway), the risk is negligible.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners are included.
Food is cheap in Indonesia and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Western food is available in Ubud and Sanur though it is well worth trying the local cuisine. In more touristy areas, especially Ubud, there are many food options and some fantastic restaurants and coffee shops catering for all tastes and requirements.
Indonesian cuisine is generally fairly simple, with rice as the main staple, though noodles are also common, accompanied by dishes created with various spices including cloves and chilies plus coconut and lemongrass. Fish is popular but meats are also common.
Peanuts are a popular ingredient especially in dishes such as sate or gado gado and you should inform your tour leader if you have a peanut allergy. Nasi (rice) and mie (noodles) are very popular, especially the staple dish nasi goreng (fried rice). Quite often tea or water (aqua) is drunk with a meal. Beer is not always cold and coffee is unfiltered and usually very sugary.
Vegetarian food is available in Indonesia; however, the concept of vegetarianism can be misunderstood so if you are a vegetarian, please be clear and state that you don’t eat meat, chicken or fish. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.
Transportation
Throughout the trip, we use a private coach usually with air conditioning. Road conditions, in many cases, are not very good and traffic is a constant problem in Sumatra and Bali. On most driving days, the average travelling time is between four and six hours. We also use a boat when visiting Rinca and Komodo islands. All bookings on domestic flights are made in economy class. Domestic flight schedules in Indonesia can change so we cannot guarantee we are using flights at the preferred times stipulated in the itinerary.
The luggage allowance on the domestic flights is one checked bag per person of maximum 44lb (20kg).
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Eco Lodge Bukit in Lawang, Jalan Besar Jl. Bukit Lawang, Sampe Raya, Kec. Bohorok, Kabupaten Langkat, Sumatera Utara
Phone: +62 812-6079-983
Recommended arrival time: This trip starts at the arrival airport. The group will all meet with the leader for the transfer.
Airport: Medan Airport
On arrival
Those not on the group flight from London, UK, meet the tour leader at Medan Airport at 9am (subject to change – see Final Joining Instructions) and then meet the rest of the group there (it is normally possible to meet the tour leader at our pre-tour hotel at 7.00am and go with them to the airport to meet the rest of the group – though this needs to be arranged beforehand). From the airport, we drive to Bukit Lawang (approximately four to five hours) on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park stopping for lunch on the way.
Please note, if you are not travelling on the group flights you need to be at our Medan hotel by 7.00am (or be at the airport when the group flight lands); the group leaves Medan on Day 1. If you are not booked on the group flights and you do not get to the pre-tour hotel (or airport) on time, you need to pay for an additional transfer locally to catch up with the group. As this is over four hours, the transfer will be expensive.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
Indonesia has an equatorial monsoon climate with the weather remaining similar throughout the year. It is hot and humid; temperatures range from 23C-33C (73F-91F) during the day and rarely drops below 20C (68F) at night. In the mountains, temperatures are much cooler; on the coast, sea breezes usually keep temperatures comfortable. In most parts of Indonesia, the rainy season falls between late October and early May, though rain occurs throughout the year. Rain tends to come in sudden tropical downpours.
Spending Money
While it is possible to obtain Indonesian rupiahs before arriving in Indonesia, the exchange rate outside the country tends to be much lower than within Indonesia. Within Indonesia, the exchange rate can vary greatly between one town and the next depending on how touristy it is.
You need about 3m-4m (US$200-US$260) for all meals not included, which allows you to eat well. Apart from the food, allow money to cover soft drinks (more if you like a beer/alcohol) and souvenirs. Some temples and sights charge a nominal camera fee, generally:
— 50,000 rupiahs (US$5) for photo cameras — 150,000 rupiahs (US$15) for video cameras
We use domestic flights to get from Sumatra to Bali to Flores and back to Bali. In the past, some groups have had to pay an airport tax at the airport, others haven’t. Still, be prepared to pay an airport tax for the various flights. The rates may change but, as a guide, budget for 60,000 rupiahs in Medan, 75,000 rupiahs in Denpasar and 22,000 rupiahs in Labuan Bajo (in total about 160,000 rupiahs/US$11).
There are several optional activities, which your leader can arrange for you if you wish. They are subject to schedules and availability; your leader will let you know what is available and the exact local costs. It is also possible to arrange many of these activities independently if you prefer.
Bukit Lawang
— Jungle hike: 305,000 rupiahs (US$20)
Sanur
— Half-day Uluwatu temple tour: 535,000 rupiahs (US$35) — Downhill biking tour Kintamani-Ubud: 610,000 rupiahs (US$40) — White-water rafting: 610,000 rupiahs (US$40) — Bali village tour: 610,000 rupiahs (US$40) — Castaway cruise: 1.5m rupiahs (US$100)
Ubud
— Full-day temple tour: 610,000 rupiahs (US$40), less for individual temples — White-water rafting: 610,000 rupiahs (US$40)
Tipping
With the increase in tourism, tipping has become customary in Indonesia. To make things easier, the leaders will organise a tipping kitty to tip local guides, hotel porters and drivers.
As we use two separate leaders, the tipping kitty will be split in two. The leader collects around 800,000 rupiah (about US$55) for the trip. This is, of course, optional and only intended to make things easier for you.
We use two leaders on this trip. If you feel your leader has performed well over the course of your trip, you may want to show your appreciation of their services. The sum you choose to give is entirely personal but, as a guide, a reasonable starting point is 46,000-76,000 rupiahs (US$3-US$5) per person per day. The tipping kitty explained above is entirely separate from any contribution to the tour leader. Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work.
Highlights
- — Journey through Indonesia’s diverse animal habitats, searching for unforgettable wildlife moments — Join expert local guides to track wild orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park — Seek prehistoric-looking dragons on the islands of Komodo and the lesser-visited Rinca — Snorkel at Manta Point, a hotspot for giant manta rays and turtles — Visit Bali to discover the artistic hub of Ubud
Trip Details
Product Code: 4297
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: b (20kg).
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: WOZ
Starts: Medan, Indonesia
Finishes: Medan, Indonesia
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical rating: Unknown
Includes
- — All breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners — All accommodation (see below) — All transport and listed activities — Tour leaders throughout
Accommodation
Hotels and boatWe spend 11 nights in hotels and two nights on the boat in Komodo National Park. The nights on the boat are idyllic as we anchor in quiet bays but please be advised the accommodation is basic. Accommodation is a mixture of bunks in cabins and mattresses on deck with shared bathrooms. The reason we spend two nights on the boat is to maximise wildlife viewing around the islands. Worth knowing The hotel in Bukit Lawang only has cold water, but as outside temperatures are hot this is refreshing.Single supplements are available (on request) for 11 nights only. The single supplement does not apply for the two nights spent on the boat in Komodo National Park. Please advise at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 6460 (CAD 461 /day)
Itinerary
Meet the tour leader at the airport at 9am (subject to change – see Final Joining Instructions) and then the rest of the group (it is normally possible to meet the tour leader at our pre-tour hotel at 7.30am and go with them to the airport to meet the rest of the group – though this needs to be arranged beforehand). From the airport, we drive to Bukit Lawang (approximately four to five hours) on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, stopping for lunch on the way. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax and explore the village. Bukit Lawang is one of the most accessible places to spot orangutans, thanks to an orangutan conservation programme that has been operating on the eastern edge of the park since the 1970s. The Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the final orangutan strongholds, with more than 5,000 thought to be living in the wild. Sumatran elephants, Sumatran rhinos and Sumatran tigers all live in the park, though very rarely seen. The village is attractive, built along one side of the river; relaxing at the riverside, it is not uncommon to see wild orangutans come to the water to drink. Accommodation: Eco Lodge Bukit Lawang (or similar)
This morning, we head into Gunung Leuser National Park, which is one of the two remaining habitats for Sumatran orangutans. This is one of the largest national parks in the world and we spend time with our guide and have an opportunity to explore the trails, searching for orangutans and other wildlife. The hike itself is a leisurely couple of hours and there is a good chance of seeing Thomas’s leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques plus, hopefully, one of the orangutans who inhabit the forest. Our hike ends at the one-time feeding station, where we have an improved chance of spotting orangutans. Accommodation: Eco Lodge Bukit Lawang (or similar)
This morning, we return to the old orangutan rehabilitation centre. Those who want will then venture further from the park headquarters, discovering the flora and fauna of the park, and continuing our search for orangutans and other wildlife. The park hosts approximately 700 different animal species: more than 175 mammals, including Thomas’s leaf monkeys, macaques and gibbons; 320 birds; 190 reptiles; and amphibians. Other mammals include Sumatran elephants and the elusive Sumatran tiger and rhinoceros, although the last is unfortunately facing imminent extinction. We are unlikely to encounter these shy animals. This excursion lasts approximately six hours, including time spent at the feeding station, and can be taxing given the steep, muddy terrain and hot and humid climate. Reasonable fitness is required and, therefore, completely optional. For anyone who chooses not to undertake the jungle hike, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax at the lodge. Accommodation: Eco Lodge Bukit Lawang (or similar)
This morning, we explore the cultural side of Bukit Lawang. Following a walk through the village, we head to a local house where we watch an Indonesian cooking demonstration by one of the villagers. This is followed by a homemade local lunch. In the afternoon, we return to Medan (approximately four hours) where we spend the night before our early morning flight tomorrow. Accommodation: Aryaduta Hotel (or similar)
We fly to Bali via Jakarta. We aim to catch an early morning flight with good connections to minimise travel time but this may not always be possible and we may have to take a later flight. If all goes as planned, we arrive in Bali in the early afternoon and transfer to our hotel in Sanur near the beach. The rest of the day is free to relax and plan any optional activities for tomorrow. Accommodation: Swastika Bungalows (or similar)
Today is a free to enjoy Sanur. There are numerous options both on land and water whether you’re feeling active, want to take in culture or just relax on a nearby beach. Some of these options include a full-day temple tour, downhill biking tour, rafting or a Bali village tour. Accommodation: Swastika Bungalows (or similar)
Today we fly to Labuan Bajo at the western tip of Flores island. This town is the main entry point into Komodo National Park and, as such, has been growing in popularity as a tourist destination. We aim to catch the afternoon flight, which means we leave for the airport around 12.30pm and arrive at our hotel in Labuan Bajo later this afternoon. Accommodation: Puri Sari Hotel (or similar)
Komodo National Park, established in 1980, is comprised of islands and the surrounding sea and includes mangrove forests, seagrass beds and colourful coral reefs. The three main large islands are Komodo, Rinca and Padar although many smaller islands come within the park boundaries. Boarding the boat early, we set sail for the next three days. Our first destination is Rinca, which we visit after lunch. Rinca is one of the islands that houses Komodo dragons but is also home to wild pigs, buffalos and birds. Going ashore, we go on a trek accompanied by a local island ranger to look for Komodo dragons in their natural environment. Afterwards, we return to the boat and set sail for Padar, where we go snorkelling in the pristine waters. In the late afternoon, we can walk to a hilltop to watch sunset above the national park. Accommodation on the boat is fairly basic and is a mix of bunks and mattresses on deck. Accommodation: Boat
This morning, we head to Komodo island. Upon arrival, we trek to Banunggulung, the riverbed where the dragons used to be fed fresh goats (until the mid-2000s). The hike takes us through spectacular scenery and there are many unusual plants along the way. There are about 2,000 Komodo dragons on the island plus wild boar, deer and buffalos. There is also good birdwatching with cockatoos and Gosong birds among others. Following this, we visit Pink Beach where we have time to snorkel with good chances of seeing parrotfish, clownfish and, with a bit of luck, various other sea creatures including sea turtles. There is ample time to swim and snorkel and enjoy the beach before we head towards Manta Point, so-named as giant manta rays, some with a wingspan of 13ft (4m), are regularly seen here. Our final leg today takes us to Gili Laba Island, where we drop anchor for the night. Accommodation: Boat
Those who wish can rise before dawn to visit a viewpoint on Laba Island to watch the sunrise. Later on, we can snorkel more around Laba Island before setting sail again. Time permitting, we make one final snorkelling stop at Kanawa Island on the way back to Labuan Bajo. Returning to Labuan Bajo, we transfer back to our hotel for the night. Accommodation: Puri Sari Hotel (or similar)
We fly back to Denpasar (flight times can vary) and drive (approximately two hours) to our final destination, Ubud, surrounded by rice fields and temples. Ubud gets its name from the Balinese word ubad (medicine); the town was originally important as a source of medicinal herbs and plants, but these days is known for its artistic community, awash with art workshops and galleries. The history of Ubud can be traced to the eighth century, when a Buddhist priest came to Bali from Java. He meditated at the confluence of the two Wos rivers at Campuan, just west of the modern town centre. A shrine was established and later expanded by Nirartha, a Javanese priest who is regarded as the founder of Bali’s religious practices and rituals as we know them today. When Ubud became a Dutch protectorate at its own request, the colonialists interfered little, allowing the traditional arts and culture of the area to remain relatively unchanged. From the 1930s onwards, Western artists and intellectuals arrived and furthered the local art scene, among them Charlie Chaplin and HG Wells. Ubud is still a haven for literati, glitterati and art collectors. Accommodation: The Artini Dijiwa Ubud (or similar)
Our first stop on our tour of central Bali is the Kintamani area, where we go on a 3mi (4.5km) hike from the rim of the Batur caldera, descending through black lava fields. We can learn more about the volcano and enjoy views over the crater and surrounding area. Our tour continues to the Tampaksiring area where we visit Gunung Kawi Temple. Set amid rice terraces, this 11th-century temple features 10 rock-hewn candi (shrines) carved into the cliff itself. They stand at 23ft (7m) and combine both Hindu and Buddhist attributes. The descent to the candi involves numerous stairs (which we also have to climb back up!). After this, we can visit Tirta Empul Temple, known among Balinese Hindus for its holy waters, which are believed to wash away bad spirits. The final stop of the day is Tegalalang for sweeping views over paddy fields. Accommodation: The Artini Dijiwa Ubud (or similar)
Today is free to wander through the vibrant streets of Ubud enjoying the cafes, shops, temples and theatres or go on another optional trip exploring other parts of the island. Your tour leader can advise you on how best to spend your time. Accommodation: The Artini Dijiwa Ubud (or similar)
The trip ends after breakfast. If you’d like more time to explore this beautiful part of the world, speak to your sales representative. Alternatively, join our post-tour extension to the Gili Islands, where white sands and a slice of paradise await.
Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Brian Bullingham - Traveled, May 2019
Primates and Dragons May 2019 A well organised trip. The chief guide was excellent as were all the additional guides. The accommodation was first class with a variety from Eco Lodges to top hotels. The tour was arranged to see the maximum sights during the 3 week period – but at times there seemed too many options and a slower pace would have improved the trip. Of necessity there were lots of internal flights that had to be endured! As a group we all mixed in -we varied from 3 couples and 6 singles but all meals etc. went well. An enjoyable trip that ticked all the photo opportunities with a blend of local culture for interest. Most Inspirational Moment The most hilarious moment was during our watch of the Orang-utangs when another visitor had left his back-pack open and this was spotted by a sharp-eyed male who shot down from his tree, snatched a crisp -packet from the bag and shot up another tree where he ripped open the packet and starting eating the crisps - never underestimate the intelligence of a primate!! My other memory is of the traffic and the number of mopeds all overtaking cars and lorries with abandon and with no overt action from the car,etc. being overtaken - a lesson in politeness for Westerners! Thoughts on Group Leader Elly our group leader was very efficient and got us in a group to the right place at the right time - no mean feat considering all the different ways of travel. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a poncho as it can rain heavily.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2019
Rebecca Fawcett - Traveled, November 2018
Amazing wildlife A fantastic holiday, you see and do a lot including the two main highlights of the trip (Orangutans & Komodo Dragons) in a beautiful country. The trip is very well organised so it’s not too hectic or tiring but full of great experiences. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the Orangutans. There was a moment when a baby was one tree away from it's mother and the mother reached her hand out for the baby to take before helping her swing into the other tree. It was such a human-like moment between a mother and child, wonderful to spend time with such a beautiful species. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was brilliant, every things she did was to ensure we enjoyed the trip and made fantastic memories. She kept an eye on us all when snorkelling, ensured we had the best photo opportunities and gave us ointments to put on sunburn when needed! Advice for Potential Travellers Bring a t-shirt / rash vest for snorkelling, the sun is incredibly strong and it's very easy to get burnt.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/06/2018
Mary Spencer - Traveled, August 2023
Inspirational Indonesia I have been on several wildlife trips with Exodus and I think this is probably , all things considered the best one that I have been on when taking into account the wonderful support of the guide Elly and the great crew on the boat . The variety of activities on offer, the locations, the food and the hotel accommodation all had a part to play in contributing to that recommendation. Most Inspirational Moment For me as an interested amateur wildlife photographer I have to say that the most inspirational moment was getting such great shots of the orangutans in Sumatra. Wildlife can never be guaranteed but we were very lucky to see as may as we did . I also got some wonderFul shots of the Komodo dragons and Thomas leaf monkeys. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was a fantastic leader and was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about her country and its nature. Nothing was too much trouble for her and she was always concerned about our well being. Elly always took us to great restaurants that she had checked out beforehand. . Advice for Potential Travellers I bought my visa on arrival at Medan airport with no problems whatsoever. I chose to change some currency before I got there and was able to pay in IDR though I think a colleague paid in euros. There is a fair bit of climbing both in the jungle and temples so a walking stick(s) are handy . I was provided with a bamboo stick for the jungle. I only went on 3 hour walks into the jungle . I heard that the 6 hour walk was considerably more strenuous with not much more to be gained in terms of wildlife sitings.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Conor Dodd - Traveled, September 2023
Primates & Dragons of Indonesia It was a great trip. Exceeded all my expectations.Our guide Elly was brilliant and always on hand if we needed anything. The local guides that were used on various parts of the trip were also very good. On the 2 days spent in the forest in Bukit Lawang we saw Orang Utans within 20 minutes of leaving our lodge. Getting fresh local fruit in the middle of the jungle was a very welcome treat. Possibly the juiciest pineapple i have ever eaten. On the boat trip to Komodo and Rinca Islands the food was very good and fresh. Sleeping on the deck of the boat was great. Saw about 15 Komodo’s over the visits to the two Islands. the snorkelling off the both on numerous occasions was brilliant. Crystal clear waters where we saw loads of turtles and fish to rival the Barrier Reef. Bring an underwater camera, I didn’t and i’m sorry i didn’t. The only slight gripe i have was the walk to the volcano/lava fields. In my opinion this was a waste of time. Elly had asked us if anyone wanted to try Durian fruit. A few of us said yes, so Elly stopped at a stall selling it. Trying Durian fruit has been on my bucket list for a long time. It tastes as disgusting as it smells but I’m glad i tried it. Overall it was a great trip and one i would highly recommend. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the Orang Utans and the Komodo Dragons. Also seeing turtles while snorkelling. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly is a great guide. Always there if we needed us. The local guides we used during the trip were also great. Advice for Potential Travellers Bring good walking boots/shoes for the jungle. It had rained during the night we were in Bukit Lawang and the jungle floor was very slippery underfoot. If you intend to go snorkelling bring an underwater camera/go pro.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Lyndsey Bainton - Traveled, August 2023
Perfect trip Loads of wildlife, orangutans, komodo dragons, snorkeling with huge manta plus monkeys, turtles, water buffalo, wild boar, deer.. The list goes on. Hindu temples and shrines, great scenery, food, an excellent guide, good local guides and transport, comfortable hotels and a group that gelled. A fantastic mixture of wildlife and culture. Most Inspirational Moment Sleeping out on deck on our boat. Baby orangutans playing in the trees. The friendliness of the Indonesians. Snorkeling with manta. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was excellent. Everything you want in a group leader and more. Organised, enthusiastic, warm. She really looked after us and made sure we made the most of our trip. Advice for Potential Travellers The walking in Sumatra is muddy and slippery. You need walking shoes/boots, not trainers or sandals. And insect repellant. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it, you will get good use out of it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Hannah M - Traveled, August 2023
Exceptionally good adventure holiday I’ve been lucky enough to travel on many small group adventure holidays over the years, and this is one of the absolute best. It features a well designed itinerary that balances activity and rest, an exceptional tour leader, and wonderful settings for wildlife viewing, scenery and culture. Although some of the walks are on the challenging side (at least if you’re unfit like I am), the days of travelling provide a good opportunity to rest up and to reflect on what you’ve seen. I finished the trip feeling both that I’d seen and done a lot, and that I was rested and had been able to relax – not something I find with many holidays where it’s either one or the other! The variety is exceptional, feeling like several holidays in one and yet all integrated well into an overall package. The standard of the accommodation and food was also really good. I’d very highly recommend the trip to anyone who enjoys this type of holiday. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing manta rays close up underwater was the absolute highlight for me, but also seeing orangutans and gibbons in the wild and all of the time on the boat were wonderful experiences. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was a truly exceptional group leader who is surely deserving of formal recognition from a tour leader awards programme. Very well organised, caring, helpful, great communication skills, assertive enough to get things done but never anything other than kind to everyone. She knew the trip inside out and made every element run smoothly - there was nothing she hadn't anticipated and sorted. On our free days she accompanied us for free on walking tours of the relevant places, something that is not required of a tour leader and was done entirely out of her own goodwill. She managed a difficult situation when one of our group fell seriously ill and had to be hospitalised, ensuring that he and his wife were supported even when they were on a different island, whilst also delivering the itinerary for everyone else to a high standard. This must have been extremely hard for her but she never gave any sign of it. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't underestimate the toll that the heat and humidity of the jungle will take on you, particularly when combined with the jet lag and tiredness after a long flight. Take it easy and don't push yourself too much. The six hour jungle trek in Bukit Lawang is really tough (I didn't do it myself) and the participants didn't see anything more than we saw on the three hour trips. You definitely need walking boots with ankle support - you'll be glad of them several times over the course of the trip and they're worth the extra weight. The boat is not as basic as the trip notes suggest - if you have been on other 'liveaboard' boats you are likely to be pleasantly surprised. There is electricity for charging, space to sit and relax and if you choose to sleep on deck, you'll find it very comfortable and enjoy a good view of the stars. There are multiple en suite bathrooms with showers and plenty of space. Some of the hotels only have bar soap so if you prefer a liquid soap then it's best to take some with you, plus some shampoo and conditioner. It's always hard to get a sense of the fitness level required for a trip as what one person finds hard can differ from another. The challenging factors here are the heat and humidity, and some short but steep up and down hill walks including multiple steps. In Bukit Lawang the paths are rough and full of hazards like roots and fallen trees, and can be extremely muddy and slippery. The pace is always as slow as you need with multiple supportive and sympathetic guides and I never felt pressured to go faster than I could manage. You also do have the option to miss out any of the active elements if you need to. I was very worried about the temple in Bali with the multiple steps but actually it's not too bad at all, as the steps are broken up by stops to see things. If you could manage the 3 hour treks in Bukit Lawang you can certainly manage that. The snorkelling is generally easy in still water with good buoyancy, suitable for beginners, and again well supported. The only more challenging swim is for the manta rays. You need to be ready to go quickly and to stick with the guide and swim fast.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2023
Craig McGarrity - Traveled, August 2023
WOZ - Sept. Excellent trip, great group and great group leader. Guides also excellent. People very friendly and helpful. Went smoothly and fulfilled expectations. Most Inspirational Moment The Great Argus Pheasant (aka the 'Sumatran pigeon'). Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was Superb. Nothing to suggest for improvement other than a little more research on restaurants. Advice for Potential Travellers Ignore hotel and accommodation restaurants. There are much better and better value restaurants outside the accommodation. Go in the dry season. We had very little rain (other than the usual afternoon downpours in the jungle).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Keith Ginnaw - Traveled, June 2023
Primates and Dragons June 2023 An outstanding tour giving a very good insight into a number of aspects of Indonesia and some amazing wildlife experiences. From the close up encounters with Orang Utans in Sumatra to the excellent viewing of Komodo dragons in Komodo and Rinca the tour delivered on its main two objectives. The second trek in Sumatra was challenging but the local guides gave adequate information to the group to allow a decision to be made but we had good viewings even on the simpler walks. In addition to this although I am personally a non swimmer the group also experienced close encounters with Manta Rays and turtles. There are a few days in transit which is inevitable given the variety this trip tries to provide and for our tour we had two boats one better than the other but as per the trip notes expect very basic accommodation but worth it for the benefits early arrival on the islands bring and the outstanding scenery around Flores and the neighbouring islands. Nice beach stay at Sanur which is not as hectic as Kuta but still provides ample nightlife. Ubud adds a nice cultural experience to the tour and a gentle trek in the mountains. I would highly recommend the optional cycling trip available from Ubud which is mainly downhill so doesn’t require any high degree of fitness. The cycling is fun but the bikes really just allow you greater interaction with the locals on the regular stops and to see the real Bali which can be harder to find these days. Another must do is the extension to Gili Islands. Absolutely stunning and a great laid back feel. If you want crazy nightlife it is available as is complete peace and quiet with everything in between. Thoughts on Group Leader Our tour leader Elly was exceptional and added to the trip considerably with her knowledge, sense of humour and continual concern for the well-being and enjoyment of the group. Also local guides used including Udin and Wayan had tremendous enthusiasm for their country and were two more great examples of the wonderfully hospitable Indonesian people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/25/2023
J V - Traveled, September 2022
Mismanaged, poorly prepared and mis-sold If you are considering booking this trip, please do be aware of the following: – The “hike” on “local trails” on day two of the trip is, in actuality, a walk down the town’s high street past all of the local tourist hotels and restaurants. – Exodus do not check the internal flights with the airline. As such, you may miss multiple days of your trip should the airline reschedule flights as Exodus will not be aware. – Exodus do not check whether Rinca Island is open. Therefore, should the island close for construction works, as it did for two years during the pandemic, you will lose out on the dragons part of the Primates and Dragons trip. – Manta Rays, are not regularly seen at Manta Point, they are instead seasonal visitors to the area with sightings outside a few months exceedingly rare due to the roughness of the sea Unfortunately, our trip encountered all of these issues and more. Exodus utterly failed to deliver nearly any part of this trip as advertised and in the aftermath have deliberately misinterpreted our complaints, refused to take responsibility for their failings and refused to make adequate amends. This was our fourth trip with Exodus. After thoroughly enjoying the first three, we never want to travel with Exodus again. Primates & Dragons of Indonesia Reply from Exodus We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review, although we are genuinely sorry that you were disappointed with several aspects of your trip to Indonesia and that this has discouraged you from travelling with Exodus again. The regrettable issues your group encountered were the result of flight schedule changes, which affected the planned itinerary, and the unexpected closure of Rinca Island, both of which were outside Exodus’ control. We understand that our customer services team have been in contact since your return and I hope that they are able to resolve your concerns as we wish that, in time, you might consider travelling with us again. We, nevertheless, remain apologetic that your recent experience did not meet your expectations. Kelly Reid, Product Manager
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2022
Sarah Coupland - Traveled, June 2019
Excellent trip - full of variety I loved the variety in this trip, it’s three different holidays in two weeks ! From jungle hiking in Sumatra to seas and sunsets in Flores and finally Bali for temples, the beach and chilling. Despite the distances covered and three flights, it doesn’t feel like you are always on the move as when you get to a location you stay for several days. All the accommodation was good and well located and the Indonesian people are lovely and welcoming. Food on the boat is exceptional and sleeping on deck is an experience. An excellent guide and fantastic travel companions made this a highly memorable trip Most Inspirational Moment The main highlights were obviously seeing the orangutans and Komodo dragons and we saw both. We were lucky to have the opportunity to watch several orangutan mothers with their babies in close proximity and we saw plenty of dragons on both Rinca and Komodo islands. Other highlights were watching the fruit bats fly at sunset and watching the playful monkeys in Ubud. I also did an optional horse riding excursion (from Sanur) which unexpectedly included a visit to a turtle conservation area where we saw just hatched baby turtles. Thoughts on Group Leader Wira was an excellent guide. He usually does the activity based trips in Bali, but had stepped in to take this tour as Elly was unavailable. Wira was always laughing, approachable, organised, practical, knowledgeable and sociable, he was always prepared to go the extra mile for you. Additionally, the local guides that accompany you in Sumatra and Flores are excellent. Wira had to deal with a couple of situations which he did quickly and effectively and he couldn't apologise enough for a couple of issues that were completely beyond his control. He helped to arrange some optional excursions that were "not on the list" and even joined a few of us on one of them. Advice for Potential Travellers Take decent walking boots, I'm glad I did especially for the 2nd day "long" walk in Gunang Leuser National Park. They provide walking sticks (no need to pack one)- I was grateful for the one I used though it does become a liability when trying to take photos ! If you are offered the opportunity to visit the Bat Cave - it's not for the faint-hearted, lots of rocks and scrambling (I had to bail part way through) A few of us wanted to do different excursions to those presented to us on the list. So from Sanur, 5 of us went horse riding on the beach with Bali Horse Riding who were very professional, taking time to assess your ability and matching you with one of their well looked after horses. Most of us slept on the boat deck for both nights. If you go July, I recommend taking something warm to sleep in. I wore my jacket and leggings both nights and many of us added socks for night two ! Some of our group got the chance to see Manta Rays at Manta Point, so make sure you are "snorkel ready" with your underwater camera when the boat gets there. Some of us also wanted to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, so Wira arranged a driver for us and actually came with us. He even arranged the hotel to do breakfast e=half and hour earlier so we could leave and get there before any of the tourist buses. We watched the locals go about their prayers, saw a cremation purification ceremony and got "classic" photos of the temple (minus hoards of tourists). We then went onto the Jatiluwih rice terraces which were beautiful and so much less touristy than the ones we'd seen the previous day on the itinerary trip. We left at 7.15am and we were back for 1.15pm and it cost us about £7/8 each (including driver's trip) well worth it. If you want to do the optional half day trip to Tanah Lot temple from Sanur, I would ask your guide if you could arrange to leave earlier than scheduled, we left at 8.15am and got stuck in the dreadful traffic and consequently we were rushed around the temple.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/25/2019
Fiona Allan - Traveled, September 2023
Fantastic From beginning to end this trip was one wow moment after another. The trip itinerary is well structured into 4 parts, all quite different. Trekking the jungle in Bukit Lawang and being lucky to see so many orangutan was unbelievably moving. The two very different stays in the chilled out beach town of Sanur and Ubud with its monkey forest (not on the itinerary but a must to visit). Flores islands were just stunning, loved the two nights sleeping on deck quite literally under the stars. The unexpected highlight of this trip was probably the snorkelling ….never have I seen such a variety of fish, corals and abundance of life underwater. Most Inspirational Moment So many moments, the very human like and curious orangutans, being charged at by a 3 meter long male Komodo, the tranquility of the temples and the peace just sitting on deck watching the sunrise in the mornings. The walk up the hill on Padar was worth every step to watch sunsetting over the islands. Thoughts on Group Leader Ely is one of the best. She guided us efficiently and effortlessly through many flights, journeys and experiences over the 14 days. Her enthusiasm never faltered even keeping us company on what should have been her rest days. Her concern for our safety was paramount even sitting in the tender boat watch over us whilst snorkelling. Ely made the trip the fantastic experience it was. Advice for Potential Travellers Long trousers a must for the jungle, be prepared because these leech get everywhere!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Isabella Campbell Harry - Traveled, November 2018
A wonderful guide and very well organised trip The trip was very well organised and the local guides were incredible. Although the trip is only 2 weeks long we were able to pack a huge amount and sample the diversity of Indonesia, with some level of flexibility. From the Orangutans in the North to the Komodo dragons and Manta rays in the south. This trip has it all and so much more. It was amazing to respectively see these creatures in the wild. Elly, our guide, is filled with so much joy and enthusiasm. It was lovely that although she has done this trip many times, she is filled with just as much awe as us tourists at Indonesia’s natural world. We could have perhaps done with a little less time in Bali but other than that I have no complaints! I hope one day I will be back and be able to visit the local people I can now proudly call friends. Most Inspirational Moment Swimming with the manta rays was extraordinary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2018
Rita Jones - Traveled, October 2018
Amazing adventures This trip packs in so much. Close encounters with orangutans, Komodo dragons and an amazing amount of marine life on the best coral we have ever seen. All the hotels used were lovely with nice pools to relax by. Our guide Elly was lovely and local guides on trips couldn’t have been nicer. Wonderful food including an amazing jungle picnic. Really felt well looked after on this trip. Wish I could go back right now! Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to select one....there were so many! Being so close to a huge but very placid male orangutan and his family. Especially when he stood up and wanderered about on two legs so close to us. Thoughts on Group Leader She was lovely. Very caring to the whole group Advice for Potential Travellers Volunteer to sleep on the deck of the boat. Cabins are a bit stuffy in the heat. Take your own towels on board. Jungle treck needs a reasonable level of fitness but you can go as slow as you want. Plenty of guides around to help. Suggestions On Summatra we had a lovely village walk including time spent talking to the schoolchildren. It would have been nice if we could have helped the local environment as we walked round e.g a voluntary litter collection .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2018
simon cappin - Traveled, October 2018
what an amazing trip This was an exceptional trip. Our guide Elly was very caring, had a great sense of humour,was incredibly well organised and ensured everything went smoothly.The itinerary was extremely varied but the pace of the trip was not too frenetic. The hotels were all very comfortable with lots of character.Seeing orang utans in the wild was a real highlight( saw 6 in total) in the jungles of Sumatra. What I particularly enjoyed was snorkelling in the seas off Rinca and Komodo.Whilst I primarily booked the trip to see the Komodo dragons the quality of the coral and abundance and variety of fish was magical.I have snorkelled and dived all over the world and this is the best I have ever seen.Swimming with 10 Manta rays was absolutely incredible.I would definitely recommend this trip Most Inspirational Moment Swimming with manta rays Thoughts on Group Leader excellent Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you have suitable sun protection for snorkelling .Buy an underwater camera Suggestions I would recommend extending your trip to include Mt Bromo and Borobudur in Java and booking the rafting trips in Bali.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/24/2018
Kev Sheard - Traveled, August 2018
Superb wildlife and varied itinerary This is a highly varied trip which includes a number of iconic species (Orangutans, Thomas Leaf Monkeys, Macaques, Komodo Dragons) and great scenery alongside local culture and beaches. I was initially worried about the amount of internal travelling, but it was broken up quite nicely and didn’t make things tiring at all. The leaders make a point of saying animal sightings aren’t guaranteed, but we saw lots. Most Inspirational Moment The jungle walks in North Sumatra were the true highlight of the trip for me, meeting the Orangutans and Thomas Leaf Monkeys. The people of N Sumatra are also extremely friendly, and clearly enjoyed meeting us as much as we did they; that was really inspirational. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was superb, nothing was too much trouble for her, and she always went the extra mile to make our holiday special and share her knowledge and information. In each area we used local specialist guides, who were without exception ultra friendly and helpful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2018
Andy Stroud - Traveled, May 2018
Amazing wildlife I really enjoyed this trip and I was very lucky with all the wild life I saw. The people of Indonesia are really friendly and it was great to see so much of the country Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the wild orangutans and komodo dragons in there natural environment was unforgettable Thoughts on Group Leader My group leader was Elly. She's great, very passionate about Indonesia and its wildlife. She was always happy to help with any thing. Advice for Potential Travellers If your into photography but want to travel light this may help. I took my DSLR with just a zoom lens 300m for the wildlife, my compact for everything else and my gopro for a few videos. On one of my free days I went on a quad bike tour in Bali. It wasn't on the list of things but Elly sorted it out for me. I definitely recommend doing this. Suggestions This is a great trip, You will love it ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2018
Dave Renvoize - Traveled, August 2017
Hectic but very rewarding trip This trip fits a lot in to the two weeks but delivers some very special experiences with both the orangutans and the komodo dragons so it is well worth the hardship of some early starts and long travel days. The accommodation is generally good although the boat is rather basic, but this is a small price to pay for the excellent snorkelling and komodo dragon sightings that the boat makes possible. The food on the boat is both tasty and plentiful and the crew very obliging. Overall this is an excellent trip and a rare opportunity to see both orangutans and komodo dragons as well as experiencing life in three areas of Indonesia. Most Inspirational Moment The first sighting of the orangutans was soon after we started our first jungle trek and was a special moment, especially as they seemed so comfortable with us being so close. This was just the beginning of our trek and was followed by many more sightings including some very playful infants and an impressive mature male. The komodo dragons were no less impressive and watching a female dragon who was guarding her nest full of eggs erupt in to action to chase off another dragon who was looking to eat the eggs is a moment that I will not forget. Thoughts on Group Leader Elly was an excellent leader. Good company, very professional and a capable problem solver as well as being around when ever she was needed, including some late nights when the group went on from the evening meal for some music and beers and Elly made sure we all got home safely! Advice for Potential Travellers Its generally hot and humid and we had nightly heavy rain when in the Sumatra jungle so a light weight waterproof jacket/poncho is useful. Pack light and get laundry done half way through the trip in Sanur, the Swastika bungalows did a good job with our laundry (24 hour turn around) for very small cost. Take a t shirt or rash vest for the snorkelling to avoid sun burnt shoulders and a torch or head lamp for the boat at night (generator off at night by group decision to enjoy the silence) and in case of power cuts in the other hotels.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/14/2017
Susan Parsons - Traveled, April 2017
Primates & Dargons of Indonesia An excellent trip seeing the highlights of Indonesia – both animals and scenery – plus the tourist areas of Bali. Most Inspirational Moment The Gunang Leuser National Park seeing the orang-utans and other primates. The rangers are very knowledgeable and know the history of the individual orang-utans in the area. The three days on the wooden boat in the islands of the Komodo National Park adjacent to Flores. Some wonderful sunrises and sunsets. Seeing the first Komodo dragon walking across the path in front of us on Rinca - giant lizards with a rather nasty bite! The snorkelling was superb - I've never seen so many different types of fish or so many of them on the coral reefs. Apart from when some of us snorkelled off the boat at Manta Point, the water was very clear. Thoughts on Group Leader We had two - Elly in North Sumatra; Wira in Bali & Flores. Elly is a very experienced tour leader and provided much useful practical knowledge i.e. you should wear decent walking boots/trainers in the NP with long trousers tucked into socks. It was steep in places and slippery (we had very heavy rain) and there were leeches! She was good company and we learnt a lot about Indonesia from her. Wira wasn't quite as practical, but was very enthusiastic and arranged 2 birthday cakes. He was also a dab hand with the first aid kit. Advice for Potential Travellers The boat isn't big and has very little storage space, so leave your big bag at the hotel in Labuan Bajo and take just what you need for 3 days. Do take a T shirt to swim in whilst snorkelling/taking the dinghy to the beach - it is hot! As a group we decided to dispense with the air conditioning as it meant running a noisy generator all night; most of us slept on deck - much cooler and very peaceful when there weren't other boats running their generators. Do take walking boots/trainers on the central Bali day - it's quite steep descending to the lava fields. The Swastika Bungalows offered a 24 hour laundry service, or you can get your laundry done by one of the local stalls, just outside the hotel. This was halfway through the trip, so worked well. Hardy, the supermarket very close to the hotel, sold just about everything, including the local Hatten wine (very drinkable). Suggestions The travelling days were long - the drive between Medan and Bukit Lawang was 4 1/2 hours; moreorless a full day flying from Medan to Bali; slightly less between Bali and Labuan Bajo. Sanur is very touristy - far more so than I'd thought it would be. Ubad less so; the stall and shop keepers were slightly less pushy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/18/2017
Carol Taylor - Traveled, August 2016
Orangutans, dragons, volcanoes and culture The best bits of Indonesia in a whistle stop tour of this friendly and vared country. Most Inspirational Moment Encountering semi-wild and wild orangutans in their natural environment. Closely followed by boating around the islands of komodo national park to see the awesome dragons. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent. Always available and willing to help and sort out any problem however big or small. When food was served cold in one hotel, she could be heard berating the staff in the kitchen from the other side of the restaurant. Advice for Potential Travellers Be ready for hot humid weather and some tough jungle treking to see the orangutans. However there were always plenty of guides to ensure everyone, from the sure footed to the less fit people were able to navigate all terrain. Indonesian food can be spicy and with lots of activities, a number of short haul flights and 2 days on a boat you should take along some immodium just in case. No Delhi belly in our group though. If you can a night or 2 in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore on the way out and an extra few nights in bali at the end will help spkit the long journey. If you can't, be ready for fast transfers at Kuala Lumpur airport. The trip is well worth the long journey though and don't let this put you off this amzing trip. Suggestions A fantastic trip for anyone who is willing to put a bit of effort into their wildlife spotting, it will definately reward you with plenty of wildlife sightings making the effort well worth while.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2016
Graham Dobbie - Traveled, October 2015
Primates & Dragons of Indonesia (Oct 15) Fantastic wildlife experiences, but not for those who want a relaxing holiday. There is a lot to see and therefore a lot of long days, but definitely worth it. Most Inspirational Moment Up close and personal with the orang-utans and snorkelling in Flores. Thoughts on Group Leader Yadi was pleasant and helpful. Advice for Potential Travellers Take account of the amount of travelling on this trip. The internal flights are at the mercy of the airlines and scheduling may not always be as efficient as travellers would like - you just have to go with the flow. That said, the individual wildlife and other experiences certainly make it worth it. The Trip Notes suggested taking a mosquito net, etc, but the hotel in the malarial area - Flores (that we stayed in - Eco Lodge) supplied them, along with a plug and tablets (so we didn't require them) and they weren't required on the boat. Suggestions The optional trips on this tour are worth considering - we really enjoyed the downhill bike ride (from Sanur) and seeing the rice terraces (around Ubud).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/18/2015
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