Benny’s Royal Tours proudly presents the Expedition to the Land of the Orangutan, an exciting journey that begins with participants joining from any airport across India. The group assembled at Kochi International Airport by 10:10 hrs. After completing emigration and customs procedures, the group boards a Singapore Airlines flight departing at 01:10 hrs for Singapore. Upon arrival, travelers connect to another Singapore Airlines flight that takes them to Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK), Jakarta, reaching at 10:10 hrs. Welcome to the Pearl of Orient. Upon arrival in Jakarta, guests are warmly welcomed to the capital city of Indonesia, often celebrated as the Pearl of the Orient. This nickname reflects Jakarta’s rich cultural heritage, its important strategic position in Southeast Asia, and the natural and architectural beauty that makes the city stand out like a precious gem. After meeting the local guide at the airport, guests enjoy a delicious Indonesian welcome lunch, offering an authentic introduction to the region’s flavorful cuisine. The journey continues with a half-day guided city tour that highlights Jakarta’s most iconic attractions, including the majestic National Monument (Monas), the insightful National Museum, and the picturesque Fatahillah Square in Old Town Jakarta. Following the tour, guests proceed to check in to their hotel, where they can unwind before enjoying a pleasant dinner and settling in for an overnight stay, preparing for the exciting days ahead.
Overnight stay : Hotel Holmenkollen Park Hotel or similar in Oslo
Meals Plan: Breakfast and dinner on board, Dinner at the hotel.
Day 2
FLIGHT TO BORNEO
After early / packed breakfast departure to Jakarta airport to connect flight to Pangkalan Bun. Flight depart from Jakarta airport at 06:00 hrs and arrive in Pangkalan Bun at 07.30 hrs located in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Welcome to Borneo, the home of the Orangutans. Borneo is the third-largest island in the world, covering approximately 743,330 km² (287,000 sq mi). The island is shared by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, with Indonesia’s Kalimantan region occupying about 73% of its land. Borneo’s forests are among the oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests on Earth, estimated to be over 130 million years old. It is home to countless unique species, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and exotic hornbills, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Borneo is often called the home of the orangutans because it is one of the only places in the world where these great apes live in the wild on Earth. Its vast tropical rainforests, winding rivers, and swampy lowlands provide the perfect habitat, offering abundant food, shelter, and nesting sites.
A memorable river cruise in wooden luxury boats through the Sekonyer River begins.
Upon arrival, you will transfer to Kumai Harbour, located in Central Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. The harbour serves as the main gateway to Tanjung Puting National Park, a world-renowned conservation area dedicated to protecting orangutans and their natural rainforest habitat. From Kumai Harbour, visitors board the traditional wooden luxury boats, known as klotoks, and glide gently along the Sekonyer River, winding through the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforest. Along the river banks, observe the rhythmic sway of nipa palms, the tangled beauty of pandanus, and trees learning gracefully over the water. The park is famous for its wildlife, lush tropical ecosystems, and long-running rehabilitation programs that help safeguard one of the planet’s most endangered great apes. Along the Sekonyer River, as you approach Tanjung Puting National Park, we can see signboards indicating the presence of orangutans and marking key areas of the park. These signs help visitors identify important wildlife zones and raise awareness about the protected species in the area. The river is a main route for accessing the park, so it’s common to see these markers along the journey. These charming vessels offer a perfect blend of rustic charm and comfort, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the jungle.
Borneo, the Amazon of Asia
Borneo, particularly the Sekonyer River and the surrounding rainforests, is often called “the Amazon of Asia” because of its vast, dense tropical jungles and unparalleled biodiversity, which rival that of the Amazon Basin. The region is crisscrossed by winding rivers like the Sekonyer, which serve as lifelines for both wildlife and local communities, much like the Amazon River does in South America. The Amazon Forest and River in South America and the forests of Borneo along with the Sekonyer River share remarkable ecological and environmental similarities, earning both regions the reputation of being the world’s greatest tropical wildernesses. Both the Amazon and Borneo are covered by some of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in the world, featuring dense canopies, layered vegetation, and rich plant and animal life. The Amazon River in South America and the Sekonyer River in Borneo are lifelines that flow through these forests, supporting ecosystems, transporting nutrients, and connecting wildlife habitats. Both regions are home to an extraordinary variety of species. The Amazon hosts jaguars, macaws, and giant river otters, while Borneo has orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. The forests surrounding these rivers are essential for the survival of these species. These forests and rivers play vital roles in climate regulation, carbon storage, oxygen production, and water cycling, influencing both local and global ecosystems. Both rivers, the waters often appear black and muddy, rich in organic material and tannins from the forest floor. This dark coloration supports unique aquatic ecosystems adapted to nutrient-rich, low-oxygen waters and gives the rivers their distinctive character. These forests are home to extraordinary biodiversity, making Borneo a critical hub for wildlife conservation and earning it the nickname “the Amazon of Asia”. Enjoy a freshly prepared Indonesian lunch onboard.
Great chance to see rare species of Borneo rainforest.
While traveling to Tanjung Puting National Park along the waterways of the Sekonyer River, you can often see proboscis monkeys, gibbons, hornbills, and Bornean elephants—rare and iconic species of the Borneo rainforest. Marvel at the pristine rainforest scenery, including pandanus forests, nipa palms, and the rich wildlife of Tanjung Puting, such as exotic birds and long-tailed macaques. Proboscis monkeys frequently appear along the riverbanks, recognizable by the large noses of adult males and their long limbs adapted for life near water. Gibbons are spotted high in the canopy, their slender bodies and long arms carrying them effortlessly between trees as their calls echo through the forest. Hornbills glide above the river with broad wings, easily identified by their large, curved bills and colorful casques. Together, these rare species offer a vivid glimpse into the rich and fragile ecosystem of Borneo as the river journey unfolds. These waterways of the Sekonyer River are surrounded by lush forests and shelter iconic species, making them one of the richest and most complex ecosystems in the world. The combination of dense jungle, abundant rivers, and extraordinary wildlife gives Borneo and the Sekonyer River their nickname, emphasizing their status as Asia’s natural treasure. If time allows, we visit to Tanjung Harapan orangutan feeding session.
As the sky softens toward dusk, the boat continues its gentle cruise along the river, offering memorable views of playful wildlife settling in for the night. After an on-board dinner, you will have the chance to embark on a night trekking experience at Tanjung Harapan Camp—a rare and magical opportunity to witness the forest come alive with nocturnal creatures. Listen to the symphony of the jungle at night, from the rustling of leaves to the calls of civets, owls, and other elusive wildlife, as you explore the hidden corners of this pristine rainforest under the soft glow of your headlamp. Later, return to the boat for an overnight stay on the tranquil houseboat, soothed by the gentle sounds of the jungle.
As the sky begins to soften towards dusk, the boat continues cruising, offering a memorable view of playful wildlife settling for the night. After on board dinner you will get night trekking experience at Tanjung Harapan camp, a rare opportunity to witness the forest come alive with nocturnal creatures. Later return to the house boat. Overnight on your tranquil houseboat surrounded by jungle sounds.
Overnight stay : On board traditional wooden luxury boats
Meals Plan: Breakfast , Lunch, dinner on board.
Day 3
FULL DAY IN TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK
Jungle boat trips through Tanjung Puting National Park
Wake up gently to the natural symphony of the rainforest—bird calls, rustling leaves, and the distant sounds of wildlife echoing through the jungle. After enjoying traditional breakfast on board, your klotok houseboat begins sailing deeper into the heart of Tanjung Puting National Park, surrounded by dense tropical forest.
Orangutan Feeding Tour in Pondok Tanggui.
Your morning excursion brings you to Pondok Tanggui, where you will witness the orangutan feeding session. This place was established to support the conservation of endangered species, especially orangutans, whose survival is increasingly threatened by deforestation in Borneo’s rainforests. As logging and land conversion continue to shrink their natural habitat, many orangutans struggle to find food, shelter, and safe territory. Conservation centers like Pondok Tanggui play a vital role in protecting these remarkable primates, rehabilitating displaced individuals, and preserving the fragile forest ecosystem they depend on. As the feeding call echoes through the trees, orangutans begin to appear—silhouettes of long arms and rust-colored fur moving gracefully through the canopy. Native to these ancient forests, Bornean orangutans spend most of their lives high above the ground, navigating the treetops with remarkable strength and patience. Watching them descend for the feeding session is a powerful experience, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their world. Their gentle expressions, thoughtful eyes, and slow, deliberate movements reflect a deep intelligence shaped by life in the wild, creating a moment of quiet connection that is both humbling and unforgettable.
Journey through Sekonyer River, Indonesia’s black Amazon River
Continuing the journey, the klotok glides along the enchanting black water river, a calm and reflective waterway framed by towering trees whose roots twist into the dark, tea-colored waters. The surface, smooth like glass, mirrors the dense rainforest canopy, creating a doubled world of green and shadow. This black water river, much like the famous stretches of the Amazon, owes its dark color to tannins and decaying vegetation rather than sediment, giving it a distinctive tea-like hue. Unlike the sediment-heavy, muddy waters of the Amazon, black water rivers are usually nutrient-poor, supporting a unique and delicate ecosystem. The Sekonyer River in Indonesia’s Tanjung Puting National Park shares many of these characteristics. It winds through dense tropical rainforest, its waters similarly dark and reflective, fostering habitats for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and a host of other wildlife. Lunch is freshly prepared by your onboard chef and served as you cruise through this serene landscape.
In the afternoon, you arrive at Camp Leakey, the heart of orangutan research and conservation in Borneo. The camp, tucked deep within the dense rainforest, exudes a sense of quiet purpose, where every wooden platform and simple hut tells a story of decades-long dedication to protecting these magnificent creatures. A guided walk through the forest reveals more than just orangutans; your guide points out towering dipterocarp trees, the delicate orchids clinging to their trunks, and hidden trails where wild pigs and macaques scurry unseen. Along the way, you learn about the park’s intricate ecology, how the rivers and swamps sustain life, and the challenges of preserving such a rich but fragile ecosystem. As the sun dips lower, the forest comes alive with activity. Nearby, gibbons swing gracefully from branch to branch, their long arms tracing elegant arcs through the air, while wild pigs root through the undergrowth. Every encounter feels intimate, as if the forest itself is revealing its secrets. Here, in the heart of Borneo, you witness the delicate balance between wildlife and conservation, a living testament to the tireless efforts that keep the rainforest—and its extraordinary inhabitants—thriving.
As evening settles in, return to the klotok and witness a truly magical moment—thousands of fireflies illuminating the riverside nipa palms, creating a natural light show against the darkening jungle. Dinner is served on board, followed by a peaceful overnight stay on the houseboat, surrounded by the timeless sounds of the Bornean rainforest.
Overnight stay : On board traditional wooden luxury boats
Meals Plan: Breakfast , Lunch, dinner on board.
Day 4
BORNEO TRIBAL TOUR
Dayak Tribal Tour and Traditional Dance Performance
After savoring your final breakfast onboard, you’ll begin a leisurely cruise back to Kumai, soaking in the tranquil river scenery along the way. Upon arrival, visit the Dayak community in Borneo. The Dayak community, Borneo's indigenous people, have been the guardians of the island's lush forests for centuries. Here, we will be able to learn about Dayak customs, traditional crafts, and daily life, while gaining insight into the tribe’s deep connection with nature. The experience concludes with a vibrant traditional dance performance, featuring rhythmic music, colorful attire, and graceful movements that tell stories passed down through generations. This tour offers a meaningful and memorable encounter with Dayak culture and traditions.
Next, wander through a bustling traditional market, alive with colors, scents, and the vibrant energy of local trade. A serene canoe ride along the Arut River offers a peaceful moment to appreciate the natural beauty and calm surroundings. If time permits, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit the striking Yellow Palace – Istana Kuning – a local historical landmark. Lunch is served at a local restaurant, offering a taste of regional flavors before your transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight back to Jakarta. Upon arrival, your Jakarta guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel for a moment of rest. In the evening, enjoy a comforting Indian dinner, letting the day’s experiences settle in, before retiring for an overnight stay, filled with memories of your cultural journey. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel in Jakarta.
Day 5
JAKARTA - KOCHI
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel. Later, proceed for some last-minute shopping — ideal for Indonesian batik, souvenirs, chocolates, coffee, and gifts. A traditional Indonesian lunch will be served before your airport transfer.. You will then be escorted to Soekarno–Hatta International Airport for your return flight. Your flight departs Jakarta at 6:00 PM, and you will arrive at Cochin International Airport with sweet memories, marking the end of your unforgettable Expedition to the Land of the Orangutans.
