Where to see orangutans in the wild

The critically endangered orang-utan stars in many of our Asia wildlife holidays, from nigh-on guaranteed sightings at conservation projects in Malaysian Borneo, to more elusive glimpses out in the rainforest. Our Destination Specialists share the protected locations where you are most likely to see orang-utans in the wild…

Klotok boat safari through Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia

A klotok is a private houseboat, so called because of the 'klok tok tok' noise it makes as it putters along. They're an excellent way to explore Tanjung Puting National Park, which is crosshatched by rivers and lakes. The boat means you can spend a comfortable couple of days deep in the jungle, looking out for orangutans and other wildlife. Destination Specialist Kate recently returned from a visit, and told us 'It's a really special & unique experience, falling asleep and waking up to the soundtrack of the jungle on your own private house boat. I had a fantastic two days spent stopping off at different orang-utan feeding stations, as well as wildlife spotting from the boat – I saw probiscus monkeys and a lizard crossing the river from the boat. Evenings were spent firefly spotting, and enjoying freshly cooked meals.' 

Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, Malaysian Borneo

The creme de la creme of Borneo eco-tourism, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge sits deep in Danum Valley Conservation Area, is reached by boat, and offers an extraordinary level of luxury given its location. The lodge's rainforest canopy walkways stretch for miles through the treetops, with seated viewing platforms where you can rest and simply gaze out into this remarkable habitat. The lodge's feeding stations offer every chance of spotting a wild orang-utan nipping in for a fruity snack, and you'll see all manner of other wildlife during your stay... some of it right on your doorstep! Read about the lodge's facilities...

Kinabatangan River, Malaysian Borneo

The narrow strip of rainforest flanking the Kinabatangan River is home to many rainforest creatures, who have retreated to the area to escape deforestation in the surrounding areas. A boat trip along the river offers many opportunities for wildlife spotting, from dawn river safaris to nightime prowls by torchlight. Along the riverbanks you'll find tribal villages and jungle lodges where you can stay overnight and watch for more wildlife from the comfort of your verandah. Selective Asia's Martin G spotted a mother and baby orang-utan on his last trip to the area, and a recent client was lucky enough to see five orangs on her visit!

Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Malaysian Borneo

A somewhat more down-to-earth alternative to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Tabin's lodges aren't quite as posh, but its wildlife spotting opportunities are excellent. The reserve contains salt-licks which the rainforest creatures depend on for minerals, and you'll have plenty of time to explore with a resident expert guide. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even camp overnight in a hammock on the reserve's observation tower -it's an unparalled chance to experience the rainforest at night, unfilter by anything (well, apart from a mosquito net). 

Speak to one of our Destination Specialists on +44 (0)1273 670 001, or send us your enquiry.

by Guest author on 21st August 2019