Pangkalan Bun stands out as a top destination for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers eager to explore central Borneo’s lush rainforests. Unlike typical city tours, this small town offers immersive experiences centered around orangutan conservation and river journeys. What we particularly like are the all-inclusive liveaboard safaris and private houseboat trips that allow you to truly feel part of the rainforest, instead of just observing it from a distance. For example, the Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 3D2N offers a worry-free, guided experience aboard a vessel that takes you into the heart of orangutan habitat. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of wildlife viewing and comfort.
While Pangkalan Bun isn’t a big city, it’s a hub for some of the most memorable 3-day jungle adventures in Borneo. Whether you prefer the camaraderie of shared trips or the privacy of your own boat, the options below give you a wide range of choices—each with its own charm and focus.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find three liveaboard experiences and two houseboat tours—each offering a different way to see orangutans and the Bornean rainforest. The first, Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 3D2N, emphasizes a structured, all-inclusive boat journey with guided visits to three orangutan camps. The second, Orangutan Safari Kelotok Houseboat 3 Days 2 Nights Private, features a private boat, providing a more personalized, relaxing safari experience. Third, the Orangutan Houseboat Kelotok Tanjung Puting 3 Days Share Cost offers a budget-friendly, social option with shared expenses. The fourth, 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Orangutan Tanjung Puting, ups the luxury factor with a cabin-style boat but at a higher price. Lastly, the 3 Days 2 Nights Wildlife Tanjung Puting rounds out the options with a straightforward, experiential trip focused on wildlife encounters.
1. Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 3D2N
This tour offers a three-day liveaboard experience that really gets you into the thick of orangutan conservation. Staying overnight on a boat, you’ll visit three key camps: Camp Leakey, Tanjung Harapan, and Pondok Tanggui, each providing different perspectives on orangutan rehabilitation. The tour is fully inclusive, with all meals covered, making it easy to relax and focus on wildlife spotting. The guides are well-versed in the local ecosystem, sharing insights into the flora and fauna that make Borneo special.
What makes this trip stand out is its comprehensive schedule—three stops, each with about three hours of orangutan viewing and exploration. Reviewers consistently praise its “worry-free all-inclusive service” and the chance to see animals like gibbons, Proboscis monkeys, and even monitor lizards during river cruises. The 95 reviews giving a perfect 5/5 rating reflect its popularity and quality.
Bottom line: If you want a balanced mix of guided wildlife encounters and comfortable amenities, this tour offers great value at $450 per person. It’s ideal for first-timers or those seeking a hassle-free, in-depth orangutan experience.
2. Orangutan Safari Kelotok Houseboat 3 Days 2 Nights Private
At number two, this private houseboat safari lets you explore Borneo’s jungle rivers on your own terms. The Kelotok houseboat is a traditional wooden vessel that offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere for your group. With three days of wildlife viewing, including orangutan sightings along the river and in the forest, it promises a more personal connection to the environment. The tour includes meals, water, guided jungle hikes, and hassle-free transfers from Pangkalan Bun, making it a very convenient choice.
What sets this tour apart is the customizable experience—you can spend more time in specific areas and enjoy the tranquility of sleeping on a boat with the sounds of the river. Multiple reviews highlight its “well-organized, friendly crew,” and some mention that the guide Hendra shared “incredible knowledge” about the wildlife and ecosystem. For $490, you’re also paying a premium for the privacy and intimate experience, which many travelers find worth it.
Bottom line: If a private, flexible, and immersive jungle adventure appeals to you, this tour delivers, especially for wildlife enthusiasts keen on spending more time on the water.
3. Orangutan Houseboat Kelotok Tanjung Puting 3 Days Share Cost
Looking for a budget-friendly option? This shared houseboat tour allows you to join a group for three days of orangutan sightings, forest walks, and river cruising. It’s priced at $500 per person, but because costs are shared among travelers, it offers significant savings—making it an excellent choice for travelers on a tighter budget.
The itinerary includes visits to Tanjung Harapan and Pondok Tanggui with opportunities to see orangutans in their natural habitat and enjoy the company of fellow wildlife enthusiasts. Reviews note the “friendly crew” and the chance to meet other travelers, which enhances the experience. While accommodations are basic, the social aspect and shared costs can make it very rewarding.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a shared experience and want to see orangutans without breaking the bank.
4. 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Orangutan Tanjung Puting
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, this deluxe cabin houseboat offers three days of wildlife exploration in style. The boat features private cabins, allowing you to relax comfortably after long days of river cruising and jungle trekking. The tour includes crossing different forest types—mangroves, dry land, peat swamp—and listening to the diverse bird calls.
What makes this tour unique is the luxury aspect combined with immersive wildlife encounters. The reviews mention the “delicious food” and the comfortable, well-maintained cabins. It costs $800 per person, which reflects the added comfort and exclusivity. It’s best suited for travelers who want a bit of indulgence and are willing to pay for a quieter, more personalized experience.
Bottom line: If comfort and style are your priorities and your budget allows, this tour delivers a premium rainforest adventure with all the amenities you could want.
5. 3 Days 2 Nights Wildlife Tanjung Puting
Finally, this straightforward tour offers a 3-day exploration of Tanjung Puting’s wildlife, focusing on orangutans and the rainforest environment. It’s the most budget-friendly at $320 per person, making it appealing for travelers who want a simple, no-frills adventure. The itinerary includes river cruises, forest treks, and orangutan sightings, with an emphasis on experiencing nature at a relaxed pace.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the tour’s detailed schedule suggests a comprehensive wildlife experience, with time to observe animals and enjoy the natural scenery. It’s suitable for those who prefer a more basic option without many added luxuries.
Bottom line: Great for budget travelers or those wanting an authentic, no-nonsense jungle experience—just be prepared for simpler accommodations.
$320.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Pangkalan Bun 3-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, preferred level of comfort, and interest in privacy or group activities. For instance, if you want a hassle-free, guided experience with all meals included, the Orangutan Tour Tanjung Puting 3D2N offers excellent value. Conversely, if privacy and a relaxed pace matter most, the Orangutan Safari Kelotok Houseboat might be the best fit. Budget travelers will appreciate the shared houseboat option, while luxury seekers should consider the deluxe cabin.
Also think about the type of wildlife experience you prefer—guided group tours tend to be more structured, while private boat trips offer more flexibility. Check the schedules and reviews carefully, especially if you’re traveling during the off-season when wildlife sightings may vary.
Finally, book early—these popular tours can fill up, especially in peak months. Each of these options provides a distinct way to see orangutans and Borneo’s rainforest, so pick one that matches your style and interests for a memorable jungle adventure.
In summary, Pangkalan Bun offers a range of 3-day tours suited to different tastes—from structured, all-inclusive safaris to intimate private houseboats or budget-friendly group trips. Whether you’re after comfort, privacy, or savings, these experiences promise unforgettable encounters with orangutans and the wilds of Borneo. Consider your priorities carefully, and don’t hesitate to reserve your spot early—these tours tend to sell out fast.