Medan, Indonesia, isn’t just about bustling streets and spicy street food; it’s a gateway to some of Sumatra’s most extraordinary rainforest adventures. If you’re craving a quick escape into nature, Medan’s jungle tours deliver authentic wildlife encounters—think orangutans, gibbons, and maybe even a tiger if luck’s on your side. We love the 2 Days and 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trek for its ethical approach and immersive experience, while the Monkey Business 2 days – 1 night Jungle Trekking offers a fun mix of wildlife spotting and rafting. Whether you want to photograph orangutans or just enjoy the jungle’s sounds, Medan’s tours have something for every wildlife enthusiast.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of 2-day jungle expeditions, including ethical trekking, private guided adventures, and camping experiences. Some tours focus on wildlife observation, especially orangutans, while others incorporate rafting, waterfall visits, and local community insights. Prices range from around $115 to nearly $930, reflecting differences in group size, inclusivity of meals, and added activities. For detailed descriptions, see each tour below.
1. 2 Days and 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trek
At number one, this ethical jungle trek offers a thoughtful way to explore Gunung Leuser National Park. Over two days, you’ll trek with a focus on conservation and responsible wildlife viewing. The itinerary includes walking through rubber plantations, observing fauna and flora, and camping near a river or waterfall. The highlight is waking up in the rainforest after a night in the wild, enjoying a homemade breakfast and a second trek to spot more rare species. With a perfect 5-star rating from 221 reviews and a balanced price of $147.56, this tour suits eco-conscious travelers keen on authentic, low-impact experiences. Guides share their knowledge, making each encounter educational and memorable. The calm, friendly atmosphere and a chance to relax by waterfalls make this a top pick.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for eco-minded travelers wanting a responsible, immersive rainforest adventure that combines wildlife, nature, and comfort.
2. 2 Days 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trekking
This private jungle trek is perfect for those wanting a personalized experience. For about $140.87, you get a two-day trek through Gunung Leuser National Park, with all meals included and the option to camp next to a river. The tour emphasizes conservation and local community involvement, guided by knowledgeable experts who share insights about the rainforest’s medicinal plants and wildlife. Travelers consistently praise the guides for their expertise—one review mentions spotting orangutans and monkeys, making it clear this trip offers close animal encounters. The return journey can be on foot or via tube raft, adding a fun twist to the experience. This tour appeals to adventure lovers wanting an intimate, eco-friendly trek with all logistics handled.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, responsible eco-tour with comprehensive support and the chance to see orangutans in the wild.
3. ORANGUTAN TREK (2D/1N) by EcoTravel Bukit Lawang
This orangutan trek is a newer option that combines wildlife viewing with comfort. Over two days, you’ll trek through Gunung Leuser National Park, with a strong emphasis on spotting critically endangered orangutans, macaques, and even carnivorous plants. Guided by local experts, the trip includes river rafting, waterfall swimming, and staying overnight in a jungle camp with hot meals and comfy mattresses. The small group size (up to seven travelers) maximizes wildlife sightings and personal attention. It’s rated 5/5 from 121 reviews, highlighting the quality of guides and the richness of the experience. Perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and creature comforts, especially wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, wildlife-focused trek with good chances of orangutan sightings and extra activities like rafting and waterfall swimming.
4. Monkey Business 2 days – 1 night Jungle Trekking (including rafting)
If you’re after an active, fun-filled adventure, the Monkey Business Jungle Trek hits all the right notes. For just $139, you get a private two-day trek with overnight camping beside a river, plus the chance to spot orangutans, monkeys, and gibbons. The tour includes rafting, making it perfect for active travelers who want more than just walking. The itinerary involves a six- to seven-hour hike on day one, with plenty of breaks to observe wildlife, and a second day of exploring waterfalls and returning by raft. Guides share their extensive rainforest knowledge, ensuring an engaging and safe adventure. The tour is especially suited for energetic travelers who want a mix of wildlife, water activities, and a lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers seeking wildlife sightings combined with rafting and a lively group vibe.
5. 2-Day Jungle Trekking & Rafting in North Sumatra
This jungle trekking and rafting combo offers a hassle-free, all-in-one experience. For $150.61, you’ll be picked up from anywhere in North Sumatra, enabling a smooth trip into Gunung Leuser National Park. The tour features wildlife spotting—including orangutans, gibbons, turtles, and even peacocks—along with river rafting back to Bukit Lawang. The itinerary emphasizes comfort and convenience, with all logistics taken care of, so you can focus on the wildlife and landscapes. Reviews highlight the opportunity for close animal encounters and the fun of rafting. Suitable for families or travelers who want a comprehensive rainforest experience without stressing over planning.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a full rainforest adventure with minimal fuss and maximum wildlife encounters.
6. Bukit Lawang 2 Day 1 Night with Camping
Looking for a very local experience? This camping tour involves a 5-6 hour jungle hike guided by locals who know every animal call and trail. For $115.86, you’ll camp overnight near the river, with chances to see orangutans, gibbons, and Thomas Leaf monkeys. The tour includes river swimming and evening activities like playing games or making music by the campfire. The guides’ deep local knowledge and the chance to see rare wildlife make this an authentic, immersive choice. The small group and budget-friendly price make it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a genuine local experience with camping and wildlife in a relaxed setting.
7. 2 Days 1 Night in THE JUNGLE Mount Leuser (See ORANGUTAN)
This mountain jungle adventure takes you into deeper areas of Gunung Leuser, focusing on orangutan sightings. The trip includes wildlife searching, river visits, and an overnight stay in the jungle. Rated 5/5 from 52 reviews, it emphasizes the local guides’ expertise and the natural beauty of the park. It’s a bit more intense, suited for those looking for a more rugged trek with good chances of seeing orangutans in their habitat.
Bottom Line: Great for wildlife lovers ready for a slightly more challenging jungle experience that emphasizes orangutan spotting.
8. Wonderful 2Days 1Night Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Free Rafting
For an authentic, lively jungle experience, this trekking and rafting tour is ideal. With a 5/5 rating and a $139 price, you’ll stay in a campsite near a river or waterfall, camping under the stars. Wildlife spotting is frequent, and guides are certified and friendly. The tour combines jungle walks with river rafting, allowing you to see orangutans up close and enjoy the natural scenery from a different perspective. It’s best for active travelers who want a full day of adventure and good chances to see orangutans.
Bottom Line: Suitable for adventure seekers who love both trekking and rafting, making it a dynamic rainforest experience.
9. 2 Days Ethical Jungle Trek in Sumatra
This ethical jungle trek promotes sustainable tourism and focuses on conserving endangered orangutans. Over two days, your certified guides share detailed knowledge about the rainforest’s flora and fauna. The tour emphasizes waste management and wildlife protection, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers. The experience includes traditional trekking, wildlife watching, and learning about local conservation efforts. With a 5/5 rating from 35 reviews, it’s praised for its responsible approach and quality guiding.
Bottom Line: Best for eco-minded travelers who want to support conservation while experiencing the rainforest closely.
10. Wonderful 7 Days North Sumatra Tour (Include: 2 Days 1 Night Jungle Trekking)
Looking for a longer, more comprehensive trip? This seven-day tour combines jungle trekking with volcano hiking and cultural visits. The highlight includes two days of wildlife adventure in Gunung Leuser, plus river tubing and a trip to Berastagi. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a multi-activity experience with some relaxation thrown in. The $929 price reflects the extended itinerary and inclusions like accommodation and meals.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with more time who want a mix of wildlife, volcano hikes, and local culture.
11. 6 Days Bukit Lawang – Berastagi Tour (2D1N Jungle Treking + Sunrise Hiking)
This private six-day tour offers a full immersion in North Sumatra, including jungle trekking, river rafting, and mountain hikes. The 2D1N jungle trekking plus a sunrise hike to Mount Sibayak makes it suitable for active travelers eager to explore beyond the rainforest. The tour includes five nights of accommodation and hassle-free transfers. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded, multi-activity adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an intensive, diverse itinerary combining wildlife, volcanoes, and local villages.
12. 4 Day Jungle Adventure including 2 day trek
For committed nature lovers, this four-day jungle trip includes a two-day trek, wildlife spotting, and nights in jungle accommodation. It’s rated 5/5 and costs $458.60. The itinerary balances active trekking with relaxation and offers opportunities to see orangutans, gibbons, and a variety of birds. The tour includes all park fees and hotel transfers, making it a good value for travelers who want a deep dive into rainforest life.
Bottom Line: Great for dedicated explorers wanting a thorough rainforest experience over several days.
13. Two days orangutans adventure in Gunung Leuser
This straightforward orangutan adventure offers a focused wildlife experience. Over two days, you’ll search for orangutans and other native animals in their natural habitat, with guided support. The $104.08 price makes it accessible, and the emphasis on wildlife observation fits travelers eager to see orangutans without too many extras. Expect well-informed guides and a chance to get close to these gentle creatures.
Bottom Line: Best for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a dedicated orangutan viewing trip at an affordable price.
14. 2D1N Jungle Trek | 2 Night accommodation | Pick up and drop off
Finally, this comprehensive jungle trek includes two nights of jungle camping, all logistics, and personalized pickup and drop-off. For $258.20, it’s more suited for travelers who want a hassle-free experience with a strong focus on ecological responsibility and wildlife. The tour emphasizes waste management, ethical wildlife distance, and expert guides, making it perfect for eco-conscious explorers. The itinerary includes wildlife spotting, river visits, and a full immersion into rainforest life.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers looking for an eco-friendly, all-inclusive rainforest experience with added comfort.
How to Choose Your Perfect Medan Jungle Tour
When selecting your ideal 2-day jungle adventure in Medan, consider your budget, fitness level, and main interests. If you want a responsible, eco-conscious experience, tours like the ethical jungle treks and ethical jungle trek in Sumatra prioritize wildlife preservation and small-group intimacy. For those wanting more activities, rafting combined with wildlife spotting or longer trips like the 7-day North Sumatra Tour offer broader experiences. Budget travelers might prefer the Bukit Lawang camping tour, while wildlife lovers will appreciate the orangutan-focused tours.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak dry season from May to September, as these tours fill quickly. Consider your physical readiness—some treks are steep and challenging, while others are more relaxed with plenty of wildlife stops.
To sum it up, Medan’s jungle tours offer a rich mix of wildlife encounters, responsible ecotourism, and adventure activities. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of camping under the stars or prefer a comfortable jungle lodge, there’s a tour suited for you. For wildlife lovers, the top-rated ethical treks and orangutan safaris stand out as memorable options. Planning ahead ensures you get the most out of your rainforest adventure in Medan—happy trekking!