Which Medan Tours & Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best

Medan may be Indonesia’s third-largest city, but it’s the nearby jungles, volcanoes, and wildlife that steal the show for travelers seeking memorable adventures. Whether you’re keen to see orangutans in their natural habitat, climb active volcanoes at sunrise, or enjoy a multi-day trek, Medan offers a diverse range of tours that blend nature with authenticity. Our favorites include the 3-Day Ethical Orangutan Jungle Trek for its dedication to conservation and knowledgeable guides, and the Sunrise Tour of Mount Sibayak for a quick, breathtaking sunrise over the Karo Highlands. These experiences are just the tip of the iceberg—each offers a glimpse into North Sumatra’s wild beauty.

Whether you’re after a deep jungle adventure, a scenic volcano hike, or a cultural exploration, Medan’s tours bring you close to the region’s authentic landscapes. The area’s well-organized offerings ensure you can choose based on your interests, fitness level, and time availability. Let’s explore the best options in more detail.

Quick Overview

Medan’s top tours center around wildlife encounters, especially orangutans, with ethical jungle treks and shorter 2-day jungle adventures. For those who want to combine nature with adventure, rafting trips offer a splash of adrenaline. Volcano hikes, like the Mount Sibayak sunrise, are perfect for a quick dose of spectacular scenery. Budget travelers will appreciate affordable options, while more relaxed or luxury-minded visitors can opt for private, all-inclusive packages. Now, let’s get into each experience.

1. 3-Day Ethical Orangutan Jungle Trek | Bukit Lawang, Sumatra

At number 1, this 3-day ethical orangutan trek is a standout for its focus on conservation and the chance to see critically endangered Sumatran orangutans in their natural environment. The tour is led by certified guides who share detailed knowledge about the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience as well. The trek includes nights in basic jungle camps—authentic and immersive—plus visits to Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Priced at around $205.37 per person, it’s a valuable choice for travelers eager to contribute to orangutan preservation while enjoying a meaningful adventure. Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the close encounters with orangutans, even on rainy days, making this a truly memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for conservation-minded travelers who want a deep, guided jungle experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing and local insights.

2. Monkey Business 3 days – 2 nights Jungle trekking (including rafting)

Number 2 is the Monkey Business 3-day tour, which combines trekking in Gunung Leuser National Park with an adrenaline-pumping rafting trip. For about the same price as the first tour, it’s a bigger hit for active travelers. The itinerary includes spotting orangutans, exploring the jungle’s rich wildlife, and winding down with river rafting. The guides here are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the jungle come alive. Guests love the chance to see a variety of wildlife, from orangutans to monkeys, with reviews emphasizing the professionalism and fun of the guides like Nang Nang. The inclusion of rafting makes this a well-rounded adventure that mixes wildlife, water, and wilderness.
Bottom Line: Ideal for energetic travelers seeking a full, action-packed jungle experience with wildlife viewing and river fun.

3. 2 Days and 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trek

Number 3 offers a shorter but still immersive 2-day, 1-night trek, perfect if you’re tight on time but craving the jungle’s magic. You’ll explore Gunung Leuser, listen to the rainforest’s sounds, and sleep overnight in a tent near the river or waterfall. The tour emphasizes ethical practices and wildlife protection, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers. The experience is complemented by the chance to relax in the jungle and enjoy a traditional Indonesian breakfast after a night under the stars. With reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and the chance to see orangutans up close, this tour balances adventure with conservation.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a taste of jungle life without committing to multiple days.

4. 2 Days 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trekking

Number 4 on our list is the 2-day, 1-night private jungle trek. This tour offers a personalized experience with all meals included, plus the option to walk or raft back through the river. It’s ideal for travelers who want the intimacy of a private group and the comfort of home-cooked meals in the jungle. The guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, with reviews mentioning successful orangutan sightings and the inclusion of river rafting for a fun departure. The tour’s value lies in its flexibility and personalized touch.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or small groups seeking a private, comfortable jungle adventure.

5. ORANGUTAN TREK (2D/1N) by EcoTravel Bukit Lawang

Number 5 is the EcoTravel Orangutan Trek, which combines a night in the jungle with a good chance of spotting orangutans. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, providing hot meals and a cozy mattress. The guides are experienced at navigating Gunung Leuser National Park, and the tour fits well for those wanting a balance of adventure and creature comforts. It’s slightly more affordable at $180, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an accessible, comfortable jungle experience with wildlife close encounters.

6. TOUR PACKAGE (jungle trekking, taxi, Room) 4 Days 3 Nights in Bukit Lawang

Number 6 is a comprehensive 4-day tour package, including transfers, two nights in Bukit Lawang, and two days of jungle trekking. It’s ideal for travelers who want an in-depth exploration with limited logistical fuss—everything from transportation to accommodation is covered. The guided treks focus on orangutan spotting and exploring the park’s biodiversity. Guests praise the small group size and personalized guidance, with reviews noting the guides’ deep knowledge and the quality of the meals. At $302.02, it offers good value for a multi-day, all-inclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free jungle adventure with local guides.

7. Monkey Business 2 days – 1 night Jungle Trekking (including rafting)

Number 7 is the Monkey Business 2-day trek, combining jungle hikes with river rafting for a lively, short escape. It’s affordable at just under $145 and suitable for families or solo travelers who want a quick, active trip. The guides are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with reviews highlighting multiple orangutan sightings and fun river tubing. The tour includes all meals and necessary gear, making it a convenient, action-packed option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a quick, energetic jungle trip with added water activities.

8. 3-Day Bukit Lawang Tour Including 1-Day Ethical Jungle Trekking

Number 8 offers a private, all-inclusive 3-day tour with a focus on wildlife and local culture. It features a full day trekking for orangutans, a visit to a bat cave, and comfortable accommodations. The hassle-free transfer from Medan makes it accessible, and the itinerary balances sightseeing with chances to relax. Guests mention the high-quality organization and the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, including orangutans and monkeys. It’s priced at $392.62, reflecting its premium, all-in-one package.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience with comfort and convenience.

9. Sunrise Tour or Hiking Mount Sibayak From Berastagi

Number 9 is the Mount Sibayak sunrise hike. For just around $47, you’ll be taken early morning to scale the active volcano and witness a stunning sunrise over the Karo Highlands. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Berastagi, making it ideal for a half-day escape from the city. Reviewers love the expert guidance and the chance to photograph Mount Sinabung at dawn. After the hike, soaking in the Lau Debuk-Debuk Hot Springs provides a relaxing end to your early morning adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic morning outing with excellent photo opportunities and hot springs.

10. 2-Day Jungle Trekking & Rafting in North Sumatra

Number 10 combines jungle trekking with rafting in a 2-day package, offering a balanced mix of wildlife, water, and adventure. It’s tailored for travelers who want to explore Gunung Leuser’s biodiversity while also enjoying river adventures. The tour includes pickup from anywhere in North Sumatra, making logistics simple, and features guided walks where you’re likely to spot orangutans, gibbons, and even turtles. The reviews highlight the friendly guides and the inclusion of multiple meals, making this a straightforward and fulfilling experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers combining wildlife viewing with water-based fun.

How to Choose

When selecting the right tour in Medan, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. If wildlife viewing is your priority, the ethical orangutan treks or 1-night options offer intimate encounters. For those after a quick dose of volcano scenery, the Mount Sibayak sunrise is a top pick, especially if you combine it with hot springs. Budget travelers can find value in the Monkey Business and Bukit Lawang full-day tours, which include meals and transportation. For longer, more comprehensive experiences, the 4-day jungle trekking provides a hassle-free way to see the park’s wildlife with guided support.

Final Thoughts

Medan’s tours cover a broad spectrum—from private, luxury jungle adventures to fun-filled activities like rafting and volcano hikes. For nature lovers, those seeking wildlife encounters will find the orangutan treks hard to beat, especially if they aim to support conservation efforts. Adventure travelers will enjoy the combination of jungle trekking and rafting, while quick travelers or families may prefer the shorter, focused hikes such as the Mount Sibayak sunrise tour.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak dry season from May to September when these tours fill up quickly. Whatever your style, Medan’s diverse experiences promise authentic and memorable moments—so pick what excites you most and start planning your wild Sumatran journey.