Before You Enter the Forest
Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Rules
Simple rules for safer trekking, respectful wildlife viewing, and protecting the forest during your visit to Gunung Leuser National Park.
Why These Rules Matter
Protect Wildlife, Yourself, and the Forest
Gunung Leuser National Park is home to orangutans, monkeys, birds, reptiles, and many other species. Visitors share the trail with wildlife that moves freely through the forest.
These guidelines reduce disturbance, prevent avoidable risks, and help keep the area clean. Every guest must follow the guideu2019s instructions throughout the trek.
Wildlife sightings depend on natural movement, weather, and trail conditions. No encounter can be guaranteed.
Remember This During Your Trek
Why These Rules Matter
Respect Orangutans and Other Animals
- Keep at least 7u201310 metres away.
- Never feed, touch, call, or chase animals.
- Do not block an animalu2019s path.
- Stay quiet during encounters.
- Do not use flash photography.
- Follow your guide if wildlife approaches.
Guide
Listen to Your Jungle Guide
- Stay with the group.
- Do not leave the trail without permission.
- Follow route and safety instructions.
- Report immediately if you feel tired or unwell.
- Ask before swimming or entering the river.
- Do not pressure guides to move closer to wildlife.
Prepare for the Trail
Jungle Trekking Safety
- Wear closed trekking shoes with reliable grip.
- Bring drinking water and protection from changing weather.
- Carry only essential items and keep both hands free.
- Choose a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Leave No Trace
Keep the Rainforest Clean
- Carry all rubbish back
- Do not leave tissues or food packaging
- Do not pick plants or seeds
- Avoid damaging trees
- Use reusable bottles
- Follow toilet instructions
Overnight in the Jungle
Camping Etiquette
- Keep the campsite clean.
- Store food as directed.
- Keep noise low after dark.
- Do not leave camp alone.
- Use designated washing areas.
- Respect the guides and other guests.
Protect People and Wildlife
Health Before Trekking
- Do not join with flu or fever.
- Inform the team if you feel unwell.
- Bring required personal medication.
- Share practical mobility needs before booking.
- Avoid coughing or sneezing toward animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close can I get to an orangutan?
Guests should remain at least 10 metres away from orangutans. Your guide may ask the group to move farther back depending on the animal’s behaviour, location, and movement along the trail.
Can I feed or touch orangutans?
No. Feeding, touching, calling, chasing, or trying to interact with wildlife is not allowed. These actions can change natural behaviour, create unsafe encounters, and increase the risk of illness passing between humans and animals.
What should I do if an orangutan approaches me?
Stay calm, do not move closer, and follow your guide immediately. Never run, touch the animal, block its path, or stand between two orangutans. Your guide will decide whether the group should wait or move away.
Can I take photos during the trek?
Yes. You may take photos from the distance set by your guide. Flash photography, sudden movement, calling animals, and moving closer for a better picture are not allowed.
Can I join the trek if I am sick?
Do not join the trek if you have a fever, flu-like symptoms, or another contagious illness. Tell the team before departure if you feel unwell so the trip can be reviewed or rescheduled.
Why must I stay with the guide?
Trail and wildlife conditions can change quickly. Stay with the group and follow every instruction about the route, distance, river crossings, rest stops, and animal encounters. Never leave the trail without permission.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear trekking shoes with good grip and lightweight clothing suitable for humid conditions. Bring rain protection, drinking water, insect repellent, personal medication, and essential items in a small backpack.
Can I leave food waste or take plants from the forest?
No. Carry all rubbish, tissues, packaging, and food waste back to the village. Do not pick plants, collect seeds, remove natural materials, carve trees, or damage anything along the trail.
Are orangutan sightings guaranteed?
No. Orangutans and other animals move freely throughout the national park. Sightings depend on natural movement, weather, trail conditions, and the route taken that day.
Can the trekking route change?
Yes. Your guide may change, shorten, or stop the route because of heavy rain, slippery trails, river conditions, fallen trees, wildlife movement, or a guest’s health. Safety decisions made during the trek must be followed.