Guidelines for
Responsible Trekking
Ethical Trekking: Respect, Protect, and Preserve
Sustainable & Ethical Trekking
Responsible trekking ensures a minimal impact on the environment while protecting the wildlife. Follow these essential guidelines to make your adventure safe, ethical, and unforgettable.
Small Groups, Big Impact
For an optimal jungle experience and to minimize human impact, keep trekking groups to six people or fewer. Smaller groups mean less disturbance to the wildlife and a more intimate experience for you.
Hands Off the Wildlife
Never touch the orangutans or any other wildlife. Orangutans share 96.5% of human DNA, making them highly susceptible to human illnesses—and vice versa. What may seem like a harmless cold to us could be life-threatening to them.
Stay if You’re Sick
If you’re feeling unwell, please avoid trekking and let us know. Illnesses can easily spread to the orangutans, potentially endangering their lives.
Feeding Wildlife is Prohibited
Do not feed the orangutans or other animals under any circumstances. Feeding disrupts their natural behaviors and diets, and is strictly against our ethical trekking policies.
Observe from a Safe Distance
Maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from orangutans. Stay seated, quiet, and still while observing them. Avoid calling, making noises, or opening your bag. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
Avoid Dangerous Situations
Never position yourself between two orangutans, particularly a mother and her baby or a male and female during mating season. This is for your safety and theirs.
“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.”
– John Muir
Protect the Fragile Ecosystem
The rainforest is an intricate, interdependent ecosystem. Avoid damaging or taking plants, leaves, seeds, or fruits. Everything in the jungle plays a crucial role in its balance.
Follow Our Low-Waste Policy
Minimize waste during your trek and give any rubbish to our guides so it can be properly disposed of or recycled back in Bukit Lawang. Let’s work together to reduce our impact on the environment.
Keep the Jungle Clean
Leave no trace. Avoid littering—this includes tissues, bottles, cigarette butts, or food scraps. If you’re feeling extra helpful, join our guides in collecting rubbish along the trails to keep the jungle pristine.
Respect Local Culture and Communities
Be mindful and respectful of the local communities in and around Bukit Lawang. Follow local customs, ask before taking photos of people, and support local businesses by purchasing ethically made souvenirs and products.
Be Prepared for Jungle Conditions
The jungle can be unpredictable, with sudden weather changes, challenging terrain, and long treks. Wear appropriate clothing, bring insect repellent, stay hydrated, and listen to your guide’s advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Always Trek with a Certified Guide
This is a flexible section where you can share anything you want. It could be details or some information about your service 6.
Embark on your jungle adventure today
experience the wild
Start your unforgettable jungle adventure with us—explore, discover, and trek responsibly!