2Ns Experience Kelotok River Cruise in Orangutan’s Homeland

Traveling to Borneo and longing for an authentic encounter with orangutans while exploring lush rainforests? The 2Ns Experience Kelotok River Cruise in Pangkalan Bun offers just that—a chance to see orangutans and wildlife up close from a traditional houseboat. With a stellar 5.0 rating from over 200 reviews, this trip promises to be unforgettable, especially for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking genuine adventure.

What makes this experience truly stand out? First, it’s the opportunity to cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park aboard a kelotok, a classic local houseboat with modern touches like Western-style toilets. Second, the guide’s expertise is frequently praised—many travelers mention guides like Darmin, who are knowledgeable about wildlife and the rainforest. Lastly, the all-inclusive nature—covering meals, fees, and transportation—makes it a hassle-free journey.

However, one aspect to consider is the duration—at just over 2 days, it’s a compact experience. If you’re after a deeper, more leisurely exploration, this might feel somewhat quick. Still, for many, the value-packed itinerary more than makes up for it. This tour is perfect for wildlife fans, eco-conscious travelers, or those keen to see orangutans in their natural habitat without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

• Authentic rainforest experience with a traditional kelotok houseboat.
• Wildlife sightings include orangutans, proboscis monkeys, langurs, and crocodiles.
• All-inclusive price covers accommodations, meals, guide, fees, and transportation.
• Expert guides like Darmin enhance the experience with wildlife insights.
• Comfortable amenities such as a Western-style toilet onboard.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 10.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to blend adventure with comfort, offering a balanced look at Borneo’s rainforest while ensuring you’re well cared for. Over nearly three days, you’ll journey by traditional kelotok, a boat that feels like stepping back in time but with modern conveniences. The experience is deeply rooted in nature: expect early mornings, wildlife spotting, and immersive encounters with orangutans at feeding stations.

Day 1: From Pangkalan Bun to Tanjung Harapan

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or designated location in Pangkalan Bun, followed by a scenic transfer to Kumai. Here, you’ll board the kelotok, which becomes your floating home. As you leave Kumai River behind, you’ll get the chance to observe local riverfront life—fishing boats, floating houses, and villagers going about their day.

The cruise then takes you along the Sekonyer River to Tanjung Harapan Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. This first stop is a chance to see orangutans in a semi-wild environment where rescue and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. Reviewers like Rubenaenima describe this part as “incredible,” praising the crew, the food, and the guide, Darmin, who is lauded for his wildlife knowledge.

Day 2: Visiting Camp Leakey and Wildlife Spotting

On the second day, the boat continues its journey deeper into the rainforest to Camp Leakey, renowned as the research station founded by Birute Galdikas in 1971. The river voyage offers views of diverse flora, and you might spot proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, or even crocodiles basking on riverbanks—guides are experts at pointing out these creatures.

Camp Leakey is more than just a research station; it’s a lively hub of orangutan activity. Expect to see orangutans in their natural setting, often feeding or playing. Many travelers comment on how special it is to witness wild orangutans up close, with one reviewer noting that the experience “will stay in our memories forever.”

Day 3: Return Journey and Wildlife Encounters

After breakfast on the boat, the journey heads back downriver toward Kumai and Pangkalan Bun. This part of the trip continues wildlife spotting—many guests enjoy sipping coffee onboard while scanning for birds, monkeys, or even crocodiles along the riverbanks. The return journey is relaxed, allowing you to reflect on the encounter with Borneo’s rainforest and its inhabitants.

The Experience on the Boat

The kelotok itself is a highlight—it’s a traditional boat, but modern enough with toilet facilities, making your overnight stay comfortable. The boat’s accommodation includes sleeping beds and mosquito nets. The crew is known for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring your comfort while you enjoy the rainforest scenery.

Meals are included throughout, featuring local dishes, snacks, and beverages. Reviewers like Rubenaenima praise the food, describing it as “incredible” and a highlight of their trip. Expect a mix of delicious Indonesian cuisine, with vegetarian options available if specified in advance.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $444 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance. But considering all inclusions—accommodation on the boat, meals, entrance fees, expert guides, and transfers—it’s a solid value. The chance to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and rainforest wildlife in a relaxed, guided setting is a rare opportunity.

The reviews consistently praise the tour’s organization and value. For instance, Rubenaenima highlights how everything from crew to food exceeded expectations, making it well worth the cost. Plus, the small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or get close-up wildlife sightings.

Practicalities and Tips

• Duration: Just over 2 days, so pack accordingly—light, comfortable clothing, and insect repellent are essentials.
• Group size: Limited to 10 travelers, which helps foster a more intimate experience.
• Transport: Private transport is included for pickup and transfer, removing logistical stress.
• Additional costs: Personal expenses, alcohol, drone permits, and insurance are not included. Bring cash for tips or souvenirs.
• Children: Child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Dietary needs: Vegetarian options available if requested at booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone interested in observing orangutans in their natural habitat. It’s suitable for most travelers, given its manageable pace and inclusive nature. If you’re seeking a comfortable, guided rainforest adventure with authentic wildlife encounters, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult, and child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the kelotok boat, accommodation, meals, guide, all entrance fees, and transfers. Beverages like soda, bottled water, coffee, and tea are also included.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged if advised at the time of booking.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 days and 7 minutes, including travel, wildlife stops, and onboard accommodations.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect orangutans at feeding stations, proboscis monkeys, langurs, long-tailed macaques, crocodiles, and a variety of rainforest birdlife.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the kelotok offers sleeping beds, mosquito nets, and Western-style toilet facilities, making overnight stays comfortable.

Are there any extra costs not covered?
Personal expenses, alcohol, drone permits, and insurance are not included. Tips are optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this experience eco-friendly?
The tour supports orangutan rehabilitation efforts and local employment, contributing positively to conservation and community.

What should I bring?
Light clothing, insect repellent, sun protection, a camera (note restrictions on filming), and any personal medications.

The 2Ns Experience Kelotok River Cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic look at Borneo’s rainforest and orangutan population. It balances comfort with adventure, providing a rare opportunity to observe wildlife in a natural setting while enjoying the simplicity of a traditional boat. The all-inclusive price and small group size make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a meaningful, hassle-free wildlife encounter.

Designed for those who crave a genuine rainforest experience without sacrificing comfort, this tour is particularly suited to animal lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone eager for a memorable Borneo adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife watcher or a first-time rainforest explorer, this trip promises sights, sounds, and moments that will stay with you long after you leave.