Medan, on the northern coast of Sumatra, might not be as famous as Bali or Jakarta, but it’s a surprisingly good jumping-off point for 3-day tours into the wild and wonderful Gunung Leuser National Park. Here, you can see orangutans in their natural habitat or trek through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. What makes Medan stand out for these tours is its strategic location, bordering the jungle, and the variety of options available—whether you’re after an ethical wildlife experience, a thrilling jungle adventure, or a luxury eco-tour.
Many travelers appreciate that these tours don’t just focus on wildlife spotting but also include cultural visits, river activities, and comfortable accommodations. For example, the Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek combines eco-education with a chance to see orangutans in the wild, all while supporting conservation efforts. It’s a perfect pick if you want to combine adventure with responsible tourism.
Quick Overview
The list below features eight top-rated 3-day tours around Medan, each offering different highlights:
- Ethical orangutan treks focusing on conservation (Tour #1)
- Jungle trekking with rafting, perfect for active travelers (Tour #2)
- Private sightseeing and wildlife search combined with cultural visits (Tour #3)
- Jungle trekking including river rafting, with accessible options (Tour #4)
- Wild orangutan experiences with camping and river tubing (Tour #7)
- Eco-conscious treks supporting local communities with optional river swimming (Tour #8)
- Longer jungle adventures with extra days for those wanting an extended experience (Tour #6)
- Wildlife-centric treks with expert guides, ideal for nature lovers (Tour #5)
- Shorter, focused orangutan adventures for those tight on time (Tour #7)
Now let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. 3-Day Ethical Orangutan Jungle Trek | Bukit Lawang, Sumatra
At number 1, this ethical orangutan trek stands out for its commitment to conservation and community. The tour is based in Bukit Lawang, a small village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, and includes a focus on responsible wildlife encounters. Your certified guides, all ITGA-HPI members, will take you into the rainforest where you can see orangutans, Thomas leaf monkeys, and gibbons in the wild. The tour carefully balances wildlife viewing with minimizing impact, and 15% of profits go directly to local community projects.
What makes this trip special is the deep respect for nature and the local people. The guides are passionate, sharing their 25 years of experience in birding, flora, and fauna. The trek includes three days of walking through dense jungle, with the chance to see orangutans and other wildlife, plus overnight stays in eco-friendly accommodations. The tour is praised for its sincere environmental focus and the chance to learn about conservation firsthand. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the genuine opportunity to see orangutans in the wild.
Bottom line: If you want a responsible, well-organized orangutan experience that supports local communities, this tour offers great value for its price of around $200.
2. Monkey Business 3 days – 2 nights Jungle Trekking (including rafting)
Number 2 on the list combines adventure and wildlife viewing in a way that appeals to thrill-seekers. This private three-day tour takes you deep into Gunung Leuser National Park for a 6-7 hour trek on the first day, with plenty of stops to spot orangutans, gibbons, and other primates. The tour also includes river rafting on the second day, making it perfect for travelers who want a mix of trekking, wildlife, and water activities.
What sets this tour apart is the comprehensive experience—including meals, jungle shoes, mosquito repellent, and entry tickets. The overnight camping experience immerses you in nature, with the option to swim in river waters or relax at the camp. The guides, like Nang Nang, are highly praised for their extensive knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and fun. The reviews consistently mention how close travelers get to wild orangutans and the friendliness of the team.
Value-wise, at under $200 per person, you get a full, active itinerary with all essentials included. It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with strenuous walking and outdoor conditions.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous types who want a multi-day rainforest experience with rafting thrown in—an authentic jungle adventure that’s hard to beat.
3. 3 Days Bukit Lawang Tour (Happy Jungle)
Number 3 offers a luxurious private experience designed for those with limited time. Starting from Medan, this tour combines wildlife trekking with cultural highlights of Medan and Bukit Lawang. The 3-day itinerary includes searching for orangutans in Gunung Leuser, visiting the bat cave in Bukit Lawang, and exploring Medan’s landmarks like the Maimun Palace and Great Mosque.
What makes this tour exceptional is the all-inclusive nature: breakfasts, transfers, and comfortable bungalow accommodations are part of the package. Guides are knowledgeable and focus on a personalized experience, making it ideal for travelers wanting both wildlife and cultural insights. The highlight is the full day spent trekking in the park with chances to see wild orangutans and other animals, with an emphasis on safety and education.
Reviewers love the hassle-free logistics and the opportunity to combine sightseeing with wildlife encounters. It’s well-priced considering the private service and luxury touches.
Bottom line: If you prefer a comfortable, all-in-one package that mixes wildlife with local culture, this tour offers excellent value at roughly $328.
4. Bukit Lawang Tour 3 Days-2 Night Jungle Trekking including Rafting
At number 4, this tour provides a well-rounded jungle experience with trekking and river rafting, suitable for all levels. Starting from Bukit Lawang, your guides, certified by the ITGA, will take you on 5-6 hours of jungle exploration on the first day. You’ll likely see orangutans, gibbons, and Thomas leaf monkeys along the way. The trek culminates at a riverside campsite where you can swim and relax. The second day involves more jungle trekking and an optional river tubing adventure, making it ideal for those who want a mix of activities.
This tour is praised for its friendly guides and the ability to see wild orangutans up close. The inclusion of meals, jungle permits, and camping gear makes it a good value at around $186. The basic yet comfortable camp near the river adds to the authentic jungle feel.
Bottom line: Suited for active travelers seeking a balanced mix of trekking and river fun, especially if they want an affordable, all-inclusive package.
5. 3 Days Orangutan Sumatra Jungle Trekking with Rafting
Number 5 brings you a wild orangutan experience with a focus on close wildlife encounters. This tour includes deep jungle treks with professional guides who are fluent in English. You’ll stay overnight in campsites near rivers or waterfalls—a real immersion in nature. The highlight is the chance to observe orangutans, gibbons, and other wildlife, with the added thrill of river rafting.
This experience is perfect for those who prioritize wildlife sightings and enjoy camping. The reviews note the guides’ expertise and the opportunity to see orangutans in their habitat. The package costs about $200, which is reasonable considering the wildlife focus and camping in remote jungle.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife lovers seeking a full-immersion jungle trek with the added adventure of river rafting.
6. 3D2N Jungle Trek | 2 Night Accommodation | Pick up and Drop Off
Number 6 offers a longer, more relaxed jungle trek over five days, but with a focus on two nights in jungle accommodations. The trip starts with a pick-up in Medan, followed by a 7-hour trek into the jungle on the first day. The second day takes you deeper into the rainforest, with opportunities to see orangutans, gibbons, and other primates. The tour emphasizes eco-responsibility and waste management.
This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a more comprehensive jungle experience with extra days to explore secluded parts of the rainforest. The private guides and customized itinerary make it a flexible choice. The reviews commend the local guides’ passion and the authentic environment.
Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for a slightly extended adventure with in-depth wildlife encounters and a focus on sustainability.
7. Three days orangutans adventure in Gunung Leuser
At number 7, this tour emphasizes safely spotting orangutans in their natural setting. The private trek includes river camping and a river tubing experience that offers a fun way to end the day. The focus is on close but respectful wildlife observation, with meals included.
Rated for its personalized approach and small-group nature, it’s suitable for travelers who want a more intimate experience. Many reviews mention the expert guides’ professionalism and the thrill of seeing orangutans up close.
Bottom line: Great for wildlife enthusiasts who want a focused, small-group adventure with extra activities like river tubing.
8. 3 Days 2 Nights Ethical Jungle Trekking
Finally, number 8 offers a responsible and eco-friendly trek that supports local communities. The tours include wild orangutan sightings, educational guides, and river swimming. The focus is on sustainable tourism—15% of profits go to local schools and projects—making it an excellent pick for socially conscious travelers.
The three-day itinerary features 6-7 hours of trekking each day, with optional river swimming on the last day. The guides are licensed, passionate, and focus on minimizing environmental impact.
Bottom line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers who want to support local development while experiencing wildlife and rainforest.
$200.92 per person
How to Choose
When selecting your ideal 3-day tour in Medan, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. If you’re keen on responsible tourism and wildlife conservation, the Ethical Orangutan Jungle Trek is a top choice. For those craving more adventure and water activities, the Monkey Business tour offers extensive trekking plus rafting. If comfort and cultural visits appeal more, the Bukit Lawang private tour provides a hassle-free, luxurious experience.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak dry seasons from May to September. Also, consider your fitness level—some treks involve 6-7 hours of jungle walking, and the terrain can be challenging.
Final Thoughts
Medan’s surrounding jungle offers diverse options for wildlife, adventure, and eco-tourism. Whether you want a responsible orangutan encounter, an active trekking and rafting combo, or a luxury cultural tour, there’s something on this list for you. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the multi-day jungle treks provide unforgettable memories. Budget travelers might prefer the value-packed Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek, while those seeking a more intimate, guided experience should look at the smaller tours like Tour #7.
Remember to book early, pack appropriate gear, and prepare for a genuine rainforest experience—your adventure in Medan awaits.