The 6 Top Tours In Bukit Lawang: Which Is Best?

Bukit Lawang is a haven for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its lush rainforests, home to friendly orangutans and other incredible wildlife, make it the perfect place for guided tours. What sets Bukit Lawang apart is its accessibility—you’re not just observing animals from a distance but often getting close enough to feel part of their world. Whether it’s a full-day trek, a river float, or a multi-day expedition, each experience offers a chance to understand and appreciate Sumatra’s natural beauty. Personally, I love the Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour because it combines wildlife encounters with scenic river rafting, making it a well-rounded adventure. Plus, you get to enjoy regional cuisine and contribute to conservation efforts—hard to beat.

For those considering their options, I recommend looking at various tour styles: a single-day trip perfect for a quick wildlife fix, a multi-day trek for serious nature lovers, or an exclusive private tour for a more personalized experience. Each offers a different window into Bukit Lawang’s rich environment. Check out the detailed options below to find your ideal adventure.

Quick Overview

Our list covers six of the best Bukit Lawang tours, ranging from a day-long orangutan safari to an immersive 7-day exploration. You’ll find options for eco-conscious travelers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure junkies alike. Some tours focus heavily on wildlife viewing, such as the Medan: Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour, while others combine cultural visits with natural exploration, like the 7-Day North Sumatra Highlights Tour. Multi-day options often include climbing volcanoes or visiting Lake Toba, providing a comprehensive experience of North Sumatra. Let’s explore each tour in detail.

1. Medan: Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour

At number 1 on our list, the Medan: Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour offers a full-day immersion into the rainforest. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of wildlife without a long commitment. The tour lasts about 12 hours and includes pickup from Medan City or Kualanamu International Airport, making it easy to squeeze into a busy schedule. This tour is highly rated (5/5 from 2 reviews) for its authentic experience and ethical approach—you’re not just sightseeing, but actively contributing to orangutan conservation.

What makes this tour stand out is its mix of wildlife viewing and cultural activities. You’ll walk through lush forests, where guides share insights about orangutans, gibbons, and local bird species. The itinerary features a scenic Bohorok River bamboo rafting trip, which adds a relaxing, fun element after the trek. Lunch, coffee, and local snacks enrich the day, giving you a real taste of regional flavors. The tour emphasizes responsible ecotourism, so your visit helps support orangutan preservation.

Good for: First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive day of wildlife and scenery, with a focus on ethical tourism. The rafting segment is especially memorable. Expect to see other wildlife and enjoy beautiful views along the way.

Bottom Line: An excellent, full-day snapshot of Bukit Lawang’s wildlife, suitable for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful experience.

2. 2-Day from Medan: Orangutan Bukit Lawang and Lake Toba Tour

The 2-Day from Medan: Orangutan Bukit Lawang and Lake Toba Tour is a great choice if you’re eager to combine wildlife with stunning landscapes. This tour includes a hike through the rainforest to see orangutans before ferrying across Lake Toba to visit Samosir Island. You’ll also explore the ancient tomb of King Sidabutar and get a taste of Batak culture in Tomok Village.

During this two-day adventure, you’ll experience the best of North Sumatra’s natural and cultural highlights. The ferry ride to Samosir Island is a highlight, offering spectacular views of the world’s largest volcanic lake. The tour is well-rounded, mixing wildlife encounters with cultural insight, making it ideal for travelers who want a multi-faceted experience.

While reviews are not specified, the itinerary’s balance of trekking, sightseeing, and cultural visits makes it a compelling option. It’s suited for those with a couple of days to spare, who want a deeper understanding of the region beyond just orangutans.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, scenic lake views, and local culture in a manageable 2-day trip.

3. Sumatra: 2-Day Orangutan Trekking and River Tubing Tour

For those craving an active jungle experience, the Sumatra: 2-Day Orangutan Trekking and River Tubing Tour combines trekking with river adventures. Over two days, you’ll trek through the rainforest, spotting orangutans and other wildlife, then camp by the river. The highlight is tubing down the Bohorok River, which is both fun and scenic.

This tour stands out because it offers camping by the river, allowing an intimate night in nature, and includes home-cooked dinners around the campfire. Guides are experienced, sharing knowledge about the rainforest ecology and orangutan behavior. The itinerary emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including a zero-waste policy. This tour is limited to six participants, making it ideal for those who prefer a small-group experience.

Participants should be prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, and insect repellent. The campfire stories and the opportunity to see wildlife in the early morning make this a memorable journey.

Good for: Adventure travelers who want a blend of trekking, camping, and river tubing, with a focus on environmental responsibility.

Bottom Line: An immersive, active trip perfect for wildlife lovers who enjoy camping and outdoor pursuits.

4. Bukit Lawang: 7-Day North Sumatra Highlights Tour

Taking the 4th spot, the Bukit Lawang: 7-Day North Sumatra Highlights Tour is a comprehensive tour for travelers wanting the full experience. Over a week, you’ll explore wild orangutans, climb the Mount Sibayak volcano, and relax at Lake Toba. The tour is ideal for those wanting an in-depth journey through the region’s landscapes and cultures.

This extensive trip includes wildlife sightings, volcano treks, cultural visits, and even time to relax. The itinerary balances adventure with culture, such as exploring traditional villages and experiencing local cuisine. The tour is suitable for active travelers comfortable with multiple days of trekking and outdoor activity.

While the full cost isn’t specified, the value lies in its breadth—covering key highlights of North Sumatra with expert guides. Expect to see Sumatra’s diverse ecosystems and learn about the local Batak traditions.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers with a week to spare who want a thorough exploration of North Sumatra’s wildlife, volcanoes, and culture.

5. Bukit Lawang: Private Jungle Trek & River Tubing Tour

The Private Jungle Trek & River Tubing Tour offers a personalized experience tailored to your pace. It covers a private jungle trek in Gunung Leuser National Park, combined with a traditional Indonesian lunch and a tubing adventure down the Bahorok River.

This tour is unique because it’s private, allowing for flexible timing and customized focus—whether that’s wildlife viewing or simply enjoying the serenity of the jungle. Your guide, experienced in wildlife behavior, will help you observe orangutans and other species, sharing insights about their nesting and habits. The lunch served on banana leaves in the jungle adds an authentic culinary touch, and the river tubing provides a relaxing finish.

Practical details include pickup from Medan or Kualanamu Airport, with a full-day schedule. The tour is limited to small groups, making it ideal for those seeking an intimate, stress-free experience.

Good for: Couples, families, or small groups wanting a flexible, private adventure with wildlife and cultural elements.

Bottom Line: A customizable, private tour suited for those valuing exclusivity and personal attention.

6. Medan: 3-Day Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour Package

Finally, the Medan: 3-Day Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour Package offers an extended stay for those eager to see orangutans up close. It includes feeding sessions, rainforest treks, and relaxing village stays.

Rated for its comprehensive approach, this tour features night walks, wildlife sightings, and the chance to connect deeply with the rainforest environment. Accommodation is in charming lodges that blend comfort with rustic charm. The package even includes airport transfers, simplifying logistics for travelers arriving in Medan.

While specific reviews aren’t provided, the detailed itinerary suggests excellent value for anyone serious about wildlife and eco-tourism. It’s perfect for travelers with several days to spare who want an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want a thorough, multi-day exploration with added convenience.

How to Choose

When selecting your Bukit Lawang tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you only have a day, the Medan: Bukit Lawang Orangutan Tour provides a solid introduction. Want to see more than just orangutans? The 7-Day North Sumatra Highlights Tour covers volcanoes, lakes, and culture, perfect for deeper explorers.

For active travelers, the 2-Day Orangutan Trekking and River Tubing offers camping and adventure. If privacy or customization matters, the Private Jungle Trek & River Tubing is a top pick. Those with more time and a love for immersive experiences should look into the 7-Day Package.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.

In summary, Bukit Lawang offers a range of tours for every type of traveler. Whether you want a quick wildlife encounter, a multi-day adventure, or a private trek, you’ll find options suited to your interests. For wildlife lovers, the Medan Orangutan Tour and the 3-Day Package provide some of the best chances to see orangutans in their natural habitat. More adventurous souls will appreciate the trekking and river tubing experiences, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy combining nature with Batak traditions.

No matter which tour you choose, early booking and clear expectations will ensure your time in Bukit Lawang becomes a memorable part of your journey through Indonesia.