Pangkalan Bun’s 12 Best Tours & Experiences: Which To Choose?

Pangkalan Bun is a true wildlife lover’s paradise. Unlike many Indonesian destinations, it offers direct access to Borneo’s lush rainforests and its iconic orangutans. What makes Pangkalan Bun special is the ease of exploring Tanjung Puting National Park by boat, giving travelers a chance to see orangutans in their natural environment up close — often from a traditional houseboat called a kelotok. We particularly enjoy the 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour because it combines comfort (with Western-style toilets onboard) with immersive wildlife encounters. Plus, the 3-night experience means more time for wildlife sightings and the chance to visit multiple orangutan feeding stations.

For those seeking a more private experience, the 4-day private orangutan tour offers tailored wildlife encounters aboard a boat with a dedicated chef — ideal for travelers wanting exclusivity and a deeper connection with nature. Meanwhile, the Honeymoon Couple Tour provides a romantic, intimate ride through the rainforest with private guides, perfect for couples or special occasions. Whether you want a quick day trip or a week-long jungle adventure, Pangkalan Bun’s tours deliver genuine wildlife encounters in a setting that few other places can match.

Quick Overview

Pangkalan Bun’s top experiences focus on orangutan encounters, river cruises, and private safaris. Highlights include:
– Multi-day river cruises like the 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour and the 4-day private tour, which allow in-depth exploration of Tanjung Puting National Park.
– Shorter, day-trip options such as the Tanjung Puting Day Tour, perfect for a quick wildlife fix.
– Luxurious and personalized options like the 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.

1. 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour in Tanjung Puting Kalimantan – Borneo

At number 1, this 2-night houseboat tour stands out for its combination of comfort, wildlife, and culture. It offers a 3-day experience exploring Borneo’s rainforest by kelotok, a traditional wooden houseboat that includes Western-style toilets. The tour visits Tanjung Harapan and Camp Leakey, two of the most famous orangutan feeding stations, where you’ll witness these intelligent primates in action with a knowledgeable guide pointing out other wildlife like monkeys and crocodiles.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its all-inclusive package—meals, beverages, and entrance fees are included—making logistics easier. Reviews praise the trip’s organization, with one describing it as “an experience that will stay in our memory forever.” The perfect balance of comfort and adventure makes this tour suitable for travelers who want to enjoy wildlife in style. It’s a great entry point for first-timers seeking a comprehensive rainforest experience without sacrificing convenience.

Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for its comfort level, wildlife sightings, and inclusive pricing, ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free rainforest adventure.

2. 3ns Private Orangutan and Bornean Primates Kelotok Tour

Number 2 on our list is a 4-day private houseboat experience that emphasizes personalized wildlife encounters and conservation. This tour is distinct because it’s completely private, with no touching or talking allowed at the centers to protect the animals. You’ll cruise through Sekonyer River, visiting Camp Leakey, the legendary orangutan research station established in 1971. Alongside orangutans, you’ll see other primates, birds, and flora, with the opportunity to plant a tree in your name to support orangutan diets.

Onboard, a chef prepares all meals, ensuring a comfortable, worry-free trip. The tour’s reviews highlight the professional crew and knowledgeable guides, making it a perfect choice for families or groups seeking exclusivity. The longer duration allows you to explore deeper into Borneo’s rainforest, with more time for wildlife sightings and tranquil moments.

Bottom line: For an immersive, private experience that combines conservation, wildlife, and comfort, this tour offers great value — perfect for travelers wanting a tailored rainforest adventure.

3. Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 2Nights

This 3-day, 2-night tour offers a classic experience of Tanjung Puting National Park aboard a liveaboard. With visits to Camp Leakey, Tanjung Harapan, and Pondok Tanggui, it’s ideal for travelers who want a structured yet immersive rainforest experience. During the trip, you’ll see orangutans and other native wildlife like gibbons and proboscis monkeys, along with learning about the park’s ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.

Guests emphasize the unforgettable sightings of orangutans at close quarters and the quality of the crew, describing it as “amazing” and “a trip we will remember for the rest of our lives.” The all-inclusive nature means you can relax while wildlife, comfort, and cultural insights are woven into the experience. The moderate price point makes it accessible for many travelers who want a comprehensive rainforest adventure without the private premium.

Bottom line: This tour balances adventure with comfort, making it perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded orangutan experience in Borneo.

4. Orangutan Safari Kelotok Houseboat 3 Days 2 Nights Private

Number 4 is a private 3-day houseboat safari that focuses on wildlife encounters on the river and in the rainforest. It’s ideal if your priority is flexibility and privacy. The experience includes fresh meals, water, and jungle hikes, all on a vessel just for your group—no sharing with strangers. The tour visits Camp Leakey and offers the chance to see orangutans, macaques, and proboscis monkeys up close, often from the boat itself.

Guests praise the friendly crew and knowledgeable guide, Hendra, who work diligently to maximize wildlife sightings. The personalized itinerary means you get to focus on what interests you most, with ample time for photography and wildlife observation. The hassle-free pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, and reviews note the “incredible 3-day river cruise” as a highlight.

Bottom line: Perfect for private groups or families wanting a flexible, intimate rainforest journey with the comfort of a dedicated crew.

5. Orangutan Tanjung Puting Honeymoon Couple Tour

Number 5 offers a romantic twist on the rainforest adventure. This 3-day tour for couples includes a private klotok riverboat, with the chance to see orangutans while sleeping amid the sounds of the jungle. It’s tailored for those celebrating something special, with up to two people sharing a cozy, private experience. The tour includes visits to three orangutan feeding stations and six home-cooked meals served onboard, with round-trip airport transfers included.

Reviews highlight the intimate atmosphere and dedicated guide, making it a memorable experience for couples seeking privacy and nature. The tour’s exclusive nature and personal attention set it apart from more generic group trips. It’s best suited for honeymooners or those celebrating a milestone.

Bottom line: A romantic, all-inclusive experience ideal for couples who want a private jungle escape.

6. 5 Days Truly Orangutan Wildlife Jungle Trail

Number 6 is a longer, more intense adventure for wildlife enthusiasts. Over five days, you travel from Camp Leakey to Pondok Tanguy, with treks into true wild forest and visits to Pesalat Replantation Conservation Education Site. The itinerary includes jungle trekking, river cruises, and visits to orangutan feeding stations, providing a comprehensive look at Borneo’s flora and fauna.

Guests describe it as “most epic,” emphasizing the excellent crew and delicious food. The trip is for those who want to go beyond the basics and experience the rainforest’s ecology firsthand, with opportunities for night walks and camping. It’s more physically demanding but highly rewarding for serious wildlife lovers.

Bottom line: Suited for travelers seeking an immersive, multi-day trek into Borneo’s rainforest with extensive wildlife encounters.

7. Orangutan Tanjung Puting Day Trip

For a quick dose of orangutan magic, this 12-hour day trip is your best bet. It includes a cruise in a traditional klotok, visits to Pondok Tangguy and Tanjung Harapan feeding stations, and opportunities to see orangutans and other wildlife.

Reviews are sparse but positive, highlighting the efficient, well-organized day that fits into a busy schedule. This is ideal for travelers who don’t want to commit to multiple days but still want to see orangutans in their forest habitat.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for a short, focused wildlife experience when time is limited but wildlife is a priority.

8. Orangutan Houseboat Kelotok Tanjung Puting 3 Days Share Cost

Number 8 offers a shared-cost houseboat experience, making it more affordable. It typically involves 3 days exploring Tanjung Puting via a kelotok, with visits to Camp Leakey and Pondok Tanggui. Travelers rave about the friendly crew and delicious food, and the opportunity to see orangutans up close is a major highlight.

Shared tours are a good way to balance cost and experience, especially if you’re open to sharing the boat with other travelers. The flexible itinerary and emphasis on wildlife sightings make it a popular option for budget-conscious adventurers.

Bottom line: A budget-friendly, social way to experience orangutan sightings without sacrificing authenticity.

9. 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Orangutan Tanjung Puting

Number 9 is a luxury option with air-conditioned cabins and private observation areas. Over three days, you cruise Sekonyer River, visiting orangutan feeding stations with the comfort of a deluxe vessel. The trip includes fabulous meals, birdwatching, and primates in the wild.

Guests note the fabulous meals and comfortable cabins, making it great for travelers wanting a high-end rainforest experience. The private environment allows for a quiet, relaxed exploration, suitable for couples or those celebrating special occasions.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious rainforest escape with a focus on wildlife and comfort.

10. 3 Days 2 Nights Wildlife Tanjung Puting

This basic yet authentic 3-day trip offers a straightforward way to see orangutans and other wildlife. It features river cruises and visits to key orangutan feeding stations, with simple accommodations.

While reviews are limited, the focus on wildlife viewing and river exploration make it appealing for budget travelers or those wanting a no-frills experience. It’s best suited for flexible travelers who prioritize wildlife over luxury.

Bottom line: A solid, affordable way to experience Tanjung Puting National Park without extra frills.

11. Borneo: 3 Days Orangutan River Cruise from Pangkalan Bun

This 3-day river cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of pristine rainforest and wild orangutans. The focus is on close wildlife observation, with overnight stays on the klotok. Meals are freshly prepared, and the itinerary includes spotting proboscis monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

Perfect for nature lovers who prefer a structured tour but want to experience Borneo’s wilderness firsthand. Reviews are not available, but the itinerary indicates a well-rounded, immersive adventure.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a full rainforest experience with good wildlife viewing and comfort.

12. Pangkalan Bun Tanjung Puting Orangutan Day Tour by Speedboat

This 9-hour private day tour by speedboat offers a quick, efficient way to see orangutans. It includes visits to Pondok Tangguy and Tanjung Harapan, with the chance for wildlife encounters along the Sekonyer River.

It’s perfect for travelers with tight schedules who still want a meaningful wildlife experience. The private speedboat makes for a comfortable, flexible day trip with an English-speaking guide.

Bottom line: Ideal as a brief but focused orangutan outing for busy travelers or those passing through Pangkalan Bun.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your Pangkalan Bun experience, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a luxury, private experience, the 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat offers top comfort, while the 4-day private tour is perfect for those wanting an in-depth, tailored adventure. If cost matters, shared options like the Kelotok Houseboat tours provide authentic wildlife sightings at a lower price.

Think about your physical fitness—jungle treks and river cruises can be demanding. For example, the 5-day Jungle Trail involves trekking and camping, whereas day trips and shorter tours suit more relaxed travelers. Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.

Final Thoughts

Pangkalan Bun offers a diverse array of tours, from luxury houseboats to budget river cruises. For wildlife lovers, the 2Ns Orangutan Kelotok Tour and the 4-day private tour stand out for their combination of immersive wildlife sightings and comfort. Couples or those celebrating special occasions might prefer the romantic Honeymoon Tour, while adventure seekers will appreciate the longer jungle trails.

No matter which you choose, early booking and clear expectations will help ensure a smooth experience. Remember to pack your camera, insect repellent, and some patience — because in Pangkalan Bun, the orangutans are the true stars, and they rarely disappoint.