Pangkalan Bun stands out as a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its proximity to Tanjung Puting National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring Borneo’s rainforests and orangutan habitats. What makes these tours especially appealing is their focus on authentic wildlife encounters in lush, remote settings—no artificial wildlife parks here, just the real deal. I personally find the idea of cruising on a kelotok houseboat—like in the 2Ns Experience Kelotok River Cruise in Orangutan’s Homeland—to be fascinating; floating through the rainforest with expert guides while keeping a close eye out for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles is hard to beat.
If you’re contemplating a trip, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a range of options—from immersive multi-day adventures to quick day trips—that suit different interests and schedules. Whether you want a private experience, a family-friendly tour, or a romantic honeymoon outing, Pangkalan Bun has an orangutan tour that fits.
Quick Overview
This list highlights the best tours in Pangkalan Bun, focusing on wildlife viewing and rainforest exploration. We include 3- to 5-day options, some private and others shared, with prices ranging from around $320 to $1500 per group. All tours feature visits to orangutan feeding stations such as Camp Leakey and Tanjung Harapan, with options for boat cruises, jungle treks, and overnight stays on traditional houseboats. Check out the details below to find the tour that matches your adventure style.
1. 2Ns Experience Kelotok River Cruise in Orangutan’s Homeland
At number 1 on our list, this 2-night houseboat tour offers a deep dive into Borneo’s rainforest. Traveling aboard a kelotok, a traditional houseboat equipped with Western-style toilets, you’ll explore Sekonyer River and visit two key orangutan feeding stations: Tanjung Harapan and Camp Leakey. This tour is highly rated, boasting a perfect 5-star review based on over 200 reviews, which speaks to its quality and authenticity.
This experience focuses on wildlife observation and culture. You’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable local guides who are experts in the rainforest’s flora and fauna. The itinerary includes wildlife spotting for proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and various bird species, along with visits to historic and rehabilitative centers. Meals, beverages, and park admission fees are included, making it a convenient yet immersive trip.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of comfortable boat facilities and an authentic rainforest experience—you’ll sleep on the boat, wake to the sounds of nature, and explore in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded, all-inclusive rainforest adventure with excellent reviews and a genuine atmosphere.
2. 4-Day Private Orangutan and Bornean Primates Tour from Pangkalanbuun
At number 2, this private, 4-day houseboat tour takes you deeper into Borneo’s wilderness. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized experience with fewer other travelers. This tour is rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on 137 reviews, highlighting its popularity and high satisfaction.
What makes this tour unique is its extended duration, allowing more time for wildlife encounters and jungle exploration. You’ll cruise along the Sekonyer River, stop at Tanjung Harapan and Camp Leakey, and even plant a tree in your name in a forest dedicated to orangutan diet enrichment—an added eco-friendly touch. The onboard chef ensures all meals are freshly prepared, and the tour includes night treks into the rainforest to spot nocturnal animals like slow lorises and insects.
This tour emphasizes strict conservation rules—no touching or talking at the feeding stations—so you can observe the orangutans respectfully. The private boat setup allows for customized schedules and more time for wildlife watching.
Bottom Line: Best suited for eco-conscious travelers wanting a personalized, multi-day experience with a strong conservation focus.
3. Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 3D2N
Number 3 offers a 3-day liveaboard adventure exploring Tanjung Puting National Park. This tour is perfect for those wanting an immersive rainforest experience. Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 95 reviews, it’s praised for its comprehensive itinerary and wildlife sightings.
The tour visits three orangutan camps—Camp Leakey, Tanjung Harapan, and Pondok Tanggui—giving you multiple opportunities to observe orangutans feeding and wild behavior. During the cruise, you’ll also see other native animals like gibbons, proboscis monkeys, and kingfishers, and enjoy stay-onboard meals during the tour.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on education and conservation, with guides sharing insights about Borneo’s ecosystem. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, and the overnight stay on the boat enhances the sense of adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a multi-day, educational rainforest voyage that covers multiple orangutan centers.
4. Orangutan Safari Kelotok Houseboat 3 Days 2 Nights Private
Number 4 is a private 3-day houseboat tour focused on maximizing wildlife sightings and rainforest immersion. With a perfect 5-star rating from 15 reviews, it’s known for its personalized service.
This tour offers a more flexible itinerary with guided jungle hikes, wildlife spotting, and evenings listening to the sounds of the jungle. The private boat accommodates your group exclusively, with meals, water, and hot drinks included. The experience is especially suited for those wanting more time in the rainforest rather than just passively observing.
Guests consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the opportunity to see orangutans, gibbons, and proboscis monkeys in their natural environment. Many reviews highlight the memorable moments of observing wildlife close-up from the boat or during guided treks.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving an intimate, flexible, and wildlife-rich adventure.
5. 5 Days Truly Orangutan Wildlife Jungle Trail
Number 5 extends over five days, providing the most comprehensive exploration. Rated 5 out of 5 by 2 reviewers, this trip prioritizes deep jungle trekking and conservation.
Starting at Camp Leakey, this tour moves through various habitats—coastal mangroves, lowland rainforests, and peat swamp forests. You’ll visit Tanjung Harapan and Pondok Tanggui, with opportunities to observe wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and birdlife. The itinerary includes trekking into the rainforest and planting a tree to support orangutan habitat enrichment.
This tour appeals most to adventurers wanting a multi-day trekking experience combined with wildlife observation. The focus on ecological diversity makes it stand out. The cost reflects its length and depth, but the personalized experience and eco-contribution add value.
Bottom Line: Great for serious wildlife lovers and trekkers wanting an immersive, eco-focused journey.
6. Orangutan Tanjung Puting Honeymoon Couple Tour
Number 6 is a romantic 3-day tour designed for couples, rated 5 out of 5 with only 2 reviews. It features sleeping on a houseboat amid the sounds of the jungle and visiting three orangutan feeding centers.
This tour emphasizes intimate experiences, with round-trip transfers and personalized attention from your guide. It’s perfect for couples seeking a unique getaway that combines wildlife, privacy, and comfort. Meals are home-cooked, and you’ll enjoy stargazing from the boat.
Guests mention the peaceful, romantic atmosphere, and the chance to experience orangutans in a quiet, private setting. The limited group size ensures a more exclusive encounter.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantic travelers and honeymooners wanting a private, wildlife-focused escape.
7. Orangutan Tanjung Puting Day Trip
Number 7 offers a full-day tour, rated 5 out of 5 with 1 review, perfect for those short on time. It includes a visit to Pondok Tangguy and Tanjung Harapan, with wildlife viewing and a river cruise.
This day trip is compact and flexible, best suited for travelers with limited time or as an add-on to a broader Indonesia itinerary. You’ll get a taste of orangutan encounters and rainforest scenery, with some guided walking and river cruising.
Guests appreciate the efficient and well-organized experience, with the chance of seeing proboscis monkeys and other wildlife along the river.
Bottom Line: Suitable for busy travelers or those wanting a quick wildlife fix.
$1,300.00 per group (up to 15)
8. Orangutan Houseboat Kelotok Tanjung Puting 3 Days Share Cost
Number 8 is a shared-cost, 3-day houseboat experience rated 4.5 from 6 reviews. It’s a cost-effective way to experience rainforest wildlife with others.
This tour emphasizes social interaction and shared expenses, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. The itinerary includes visiting orangutan centers, river cruising, and wildlife spotting. It begins with a pickup at Pangkalan Bun and offers simple but comfortable accommodation on the boat.
Guests highlight the friendly crew and the chance to see orangutans and proboscis monkeys up close. It’s a good choice for those comfortable with group travel and looking for value.
Bottom Line: Best for budget travelers seeking a shared, authentic rainforest experience.
9. 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Orangutan Tanjung Puting
Number 9 is a luxury 3-day cruise rated 4.5 out of 5. It features deluxe cabins aboard a traditional boat, with a focus on comfort and wildlife viewing.
Highlights include cruising through different forest types and listening to bird songs. The tour visits three main orangutan centers and provides detailed commentary from experienced guides.
Guests mention the comfortable cabins and personal service, making it a good choice for travelers who want a more upscale experience without sacrificing wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: Suitable for luxury travelers seeking comfort and wildlife in a relaxed setting.
10. 3 Days 2 Nights Wildlife Tanjung Puting
Number 10 is a more affordable 3-day trip rated no reviews yet. It offers a scenic river cruise and orangutan sightings, perfect for budget travelers.
The focus is on wildlife exploration and rainforest scenery, with simple accommodations. It’s designed for those wanting to experience rainforest wildlife without extra frills.
Bottom Line: Good for budget-minded travelers seeking a straightforward wildlife adventure.
$320.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Pangkalan Bun, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For instance, if you prefer a luxurious experience, the 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat offers comfort and wildlife viewing combined. If eco-consciousness is your priority, the 4-Day Private Orangutan and Bornean Primates Tour provides a personalized, eco-focused journey.
For travelers with limited time, the Orangutan Tanjung Puting Day Trip delivers a condensed wildlife encounter, while those wanting a social experience might prefer the Shared Houseboat Tour.
In terms of planning, booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the private and luxury options, which tend to fill quickly. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when wildlife sightings are more reliable.
Pangkalan Bun offers a broad spectrum of orangutan safaris, from budget-friendly shared tours to private, luxury expeditions. Whether you’re in it for a quick day trip or a comprehensive 5-day rainforest trek, you’ll find a tour that matches your interests and travel style. For the best experience, consider what kind of wildlife encounters and comfort level you prefer, and don’t hesitate to book early to secure your spot in these unforgettable adventures.