3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Orangutan Tanjung Puting

Exploring the 3 Days Deluxe Cabin Houseboat Tour in Tanjung Puting: An Honest Review

This 3-day tour of Tanjung Puting offers a unique way to see orangutans and the lush Indonesian rainforest from the comfort of a traditional Klotok houseboat. With a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic river cruises, and opportunities to walk through various forest habitats, it’s an immersive experience that blends adventure with relaxation. The fact that it’s a private tour adds a touch of exclusivity, making it ideal for those wanting a personalized wildlife expedition.

What really sets this tour apart is the chance to cruise along Sekonyer River, crossing different forest types—mangroves, peat swamps, and tropical forests—each teeming with birdlife, monkeys, and of course, orangutans. We love the detailed itinerary that balances structured wildlife visits with downtime on the boat. However, some travelers might find the boat’s basic amenities a bit limited for an overnight stay—nothing too indulgent, but perfectly functional.

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in conservation. If you’re after an authentic, educational, and picturesque journey into Borneo’s rainforest with knowledgeable guides, this could be your perfect match. Just keep in mind that it’s a physically moderate trip—light walking and river cruising—so it suits most travelers with average fitness levels.

Key Points

• Authentic experience on a traditional Klotok houseboat with private, personalized service.
• Close encounters with orangutans at three different feeding stations, including Camp Leakey.
• Diverse forest ecosystems explored, from mangroves to peat swamps, rich in bird and primate life.
• Expert guides with detailed explanations, making wildlife observation both educational and fun.
• Simple, cozy accommodations on the boat, suitable for travelers comfortable with basic amenities.
• A well-balanced itinerary that combines wildlife watching, forest walks, and river cruising for a comprehensive experience.

In-Depth Review: What You Can Expect from the Tour

Booking, Cost, and Value

At $800 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded rainforest expedition, especially considering all meals, park fees, transfers, and accommodations are included. The fact that it’s booked on average 128 days in advance signals how popular and sought-after this experience is. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the value comes from the all-inclusive package, private transfers, and the chance to stay on a traditional houseboat—an experience you won’t find in many other tours.

Itinerary Breakdown: Day by Day

Day 1: Arrival and Orangutan Introduction

The adventure kicks off early, with pick-up from Pangkalan Bun and a drive to Kumai. Passing through several Dayak villages along the way gives you a glimpse of local life before boarding the Klotok. The boat itself is simple but comfortable, with a kitchen, mosquito nets, and a basic toilet.

The highlight of Day 1 is visiting Tanjung Harapan, where you’ll witness the orangutan feeding around 3 PM. Reviewers like Tom_M mention that guides are knowledgeable and explanation-rich, helping visitors understand the rehabilitation process and forest environment. We loved the walking section through screw pine and bog forest, which offers a closer look at the orangutans’ habitat—an essential part of understanding conservation efforts.

As the boat drifts along in the evening, you’ll get a chance to observe monkeys along the riverbank. The dinner on the boat is straightforward but hearty—think fresh, local ingredients served with soft drinks to keep you going after a day of travel.

Day 2: Wildlife Encounters and Forest Treks

Early wake-up calls at 6 AM are rewarded with a cruise to Camp Leakey, home to the older orangutans reintroduced into the wild. The boat ride itself, about two hours upstream, is filled with bird calls and lush scenery. The feeding station at Pondok Tanguy is another highlight, where you can see ex-captive orangutans being fed while guides explain their rehabilitation stories.

One reviewer, Val_G, emphasizes that the food is outstanding, describing it as “authentic, delicious, and plentiful,” which is impressive considering the remote setting. This suggests the crew takes pride in providing hearty meals that fuel the day’s activities.

In the afternoon, the boat moves through different habitats, giving a broad picture of the rainforest’s diversity. The optional short trek and rainforest exploration at Camp Leakey offer chances to spot primates and learn about the dense peat swamp ecosystems.

Day 3: Local Culture and Farewell

The final day involves a drive back to Kumai and a short city tour, including visits to the Istana Kuning, a traditional market, and the Arut riverside. The tour concludes around lunchtime at a traditional Dayak house, giving you a taste of local culture.

Practical Details: Transportation, Comfort, and Tips

The trip includes round-trip private transfers in air-conditioned minivans, which makes the journey smooth and comfortable. The boat, described as a traditional riverboat, is simple and functional—equipped with basic amenities but no luxury facilities. Reviewers like Val_G mention the attentive crew and the delicious food, which significantly enhance the experience.

For those considering this tour, packing light but including essentials like mosquito repellent, sunblock, a hat, sunglasses, and a small trekking backpack** will make forest walks more comfortable. The guides are knowledgeable, and many reviews highlight their ability to point out various primates and birds, so a good camera and binoculars are highly recommended.

Timing-wise, starting at 9:00 AM for pickup and returning around 2:00 PM on day 3 allows enough time to appreciate the forest and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Love

Based on reviews, the guides’ knowledge and their ability to spot wildlife make a big difference. The delicious meals—described as “authentic” and “plentiful”—are a pleasant surprise for many, especially considering the remote setting. The scenic river cruises and forest walks are praised for their tranquility and immersive quality.

One reviewer shared that they appreciated the attentiveness of the crew, noting that the staff “identified exactly what we needed and when,” making the trip seamless and enjoyable. The opportunity to see the alpha male orangutan at Camp Leakey and observe them in their natural environment truly makes this journey special.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, adventurers, and conservation-minded travelers. If you’re interested in seeing orangutans in their habitat while enjoying a relaxing boat cruise, this trip hits the mark. It’s also suited for those comfortable with simple accommodations and light walking, as the main activities involve river cruising and short forest walks.

If you’re after a more luxurious experience, this might not be for you, but for authentic jungle encounters, it’s hard to beat. It’s also ideal for small groups or individuals who prefer a private, intimate tour environment.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

For those seeking a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, cultural exposure, and comfortable boat travel, this 3-day Orangutan Tour delivers a lot of value. The sense of being on a traditional riverboat, combined with expert guides and well-organized itineraries, creates a genuine and memorable experience.

While the simple amenities on the boat may not satisfy luxury travelers, the chance to observe orangutans in multiple feeding stations and explore the diverse ecosystems of Tanjung Puting makes this tour exceptionally rewarding. The delicious food, attentive crew, and knowledgeable guides are the cherry on top—and reviews confirm that it’s a well-loved choice among travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

This tour will suit nature enthusiasts, photo buffs, and anyone eager to understand Borneo’s rich biodiversity firsthand, all while enjoying the serenity of river life.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), park fees, and a private transfer are included. You also get accommodations on the houseboat and all activities listed in the itinerary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Cancellations less than that may be subject to penalties, so plan accordingly.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring mosquito repellent, sunblock, a hat, sunglasses, a small trekking backpack, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, small children should be prepared for outdoor walking and boat cruising. Check with the tour provider for specific age recommendations.

How many people are on the tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

What are the accommodations like?
Simple but comfortable, with a mattress, pillow, mosquito net, and basic toilet. The focus is on being close to nature rather than luxury.

Is transport comfortable?
Yes, transfers are in air-conditioned minivans, ensuring a smooth journey to and from Pangkalan Bun and during the city tour on the final day.

To sum it up, this deluxe orangutan houseboat tour combines the charm of traditional river travel with the thrill of wildlife encounters, offering a genuine taste of Borneo’s rainforest. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who value authentic experiences, expert guides, and the chance to witness orangutans in their natural habitat. While simple accommodations may not suit everyone, the overall value and immersive nature make it a worthwhile adventure for most wildlife and nature enthusiasts.