Stories from the Heart of Borneo

The rainforest has its own rhythm.

It grows, changes, and renews itself over time. From 2027, Tanjung Puting National Park will introduce scheduled annual closure periods, allowing the park and its surrounding tourism infrastructure time to rest, recover, and receive essential maintenance.

The scheduled closure periods are:

15–31 January 2027

1–15 June 2027

During these periods, visitor access and tourism activities within designated areas of Tanjung Puting National Park will be temporarily suspended, including visits to destinations such as Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, and Tanjung Harapan.

Why does the park need time to rest?

Tanjung Puting is a living rainforest.

Its rivers carry boats, its trails welcome visitors, and its forests provide a home for orangutans and countless other species.

A scheduled pause provides valuable time for the park to focus on habitat recovery, trail and facility maintenance, and the continued protection of the ecosystem and wildlife that make Tanjung Puting so special.

At Orangutan River Retreat, we believe that responsible travel also means respecting the natural rhythm of the places we visit.

Sometimes, the best thing we can do for a forest is to give it space.

Still hoping to experience Borneo during these periods?

A closure at Tanjung Puting does not mean that your journey to Borneo has to wait.

For travellers visiting during these periods, the Lamandau Wildlife Reserve offers a different way to experience the rainforest and orangutans of Central Borneo.

Located away from the usual tourist routes, Lamandau offers a quieter and more intimate wildlife experience. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, beginning with a traditional boat journey along the Arut River and continuing deep into a protected rainforest landscape.

Visitor access is carefully limited, helping to preserve the quiet character of the reserve and reduce pressure on its natural environment.

Here, there are no crowded trails or busy viewing platforms.

You travel by river.

You walk through the forest.

And you wait for nature to reveal itself in its own time.

Orangutans are wild animals, and sightings can never be guaranteed. But that is precisely what makes an encounter so meaningful when it happens.

For those looking for a quieter, more personal alternative during Tanjung Puting's scheduled closure periods, Lamandau offers the opportunity to continue exploring Borneo while discovering a different side of its rainforest.

One forest takes time to rest.

Another offers a different path into the wild.

Wherever your journey takes you, we believe the rainforest should always come first.

If you are planning a trip to Borneo in 2027, we would be happy to help you find the journey that best suits your travel dates and interests.

Your adventure begins with a peaceful journey along the rivers that weave through the heart of Central Borneo's rainforest. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, you'll immediately feel immersed in one of the world's most extraordinary natural environments.

As the boat glides quietly through the waterways, experienced local guides help identify wildlife hidden among the trees. Wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, kingfishers, and many other fascinating species may appear throughout the journey, making every trip unique.

In addition to wildlife encounters, you'll discover the remarkable peat swamp ecosystem that plays a crucial role in storing carbon and supporting an incredible variety of plant and animal life. Learning about this unique environment adds a deeper appreciation for its global importance.

Comfortable small-group travel allows plenty of opportunities to stop for photography, observe wildlife, and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the rainforest. Without large crowds, every guest can experience a more personal connection with nature.

An orangutan river adventure is far more than a sightseeing trip—it's an inspiring journey into one of Southeast Asia's last great wilderness areas, where every moment highlights the beauty of conservation, responsible travel, and authentic exploration.

Traveling in a small group offers a completely different way to experience the rainforest. With fewer participants, every guest enjoys a more relaxed atmosphere, personalized attention from experienced guides, and greater flexibility throughout the journey.

Smaller groups also minimize environmental impact. Less noise and fewer disturbances allow wildlife to behave naturally, increasing the chances of observing orangutans, birds, and other rainforest animals without disrupting their daily activities.

Another advantage is the opportunity to connect more deeply with nature. Travelers can take their time to appreciate the sounds of the forest, the beauty of the rivers, and the incredible biodiversity that makes Central Borneo one of Southeast Asia's most valuable ecosystems.

A personalized experience also encourages meaningful conversations with local guides, who share fascinating stories about rainforest ecology, wildlife conservation, and the cultural heritage of the surrounding communities. These insights enrich every stage of the adventure.

For travelers seeking authenticity rather than crowded tourist attractions, small-group eco-tourism provides the perfect balance of comfort, exclusivity, and responsible exploration while creating memories that last a lifetime.

Wild orangutans are among the most iconic species found in the rainforests of Borneo. As their natural habitats continue to face environmental challenges, responsible tourism has become an important tool in supporting conservation and raising awareness about their protection.

Ethical wildlife experiences focus on observing animals from a respectful distance without feeding, disturbing, or interfering with their natural behavior. This approach helps ensure that wildlife remains healthy while allowing visitors to witness authentic moments in nature.

Sustainable tourism also benefits local communities by creating employment opportunities and encouraging environmentally friendly practices. When local people benefit from protecting the rainforest, conservation becomes a shared responsibility for everyone involved.

Travelers play an important role by choosing operators that prioritize conservation, limit group sizes, and follow responsible environmental guidelines. Every thoughtful decision contributes to preserving the rainforest and the extraordinary wildlife that depends on it.

By participating in ethical eco-adventures, visitors not only enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters but also become part of a larger mission to protect one of the world's most valuable natural ecosystems for generations to come.

Central Borneo is home to one of the oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests on Earth. Its vast peat swamp forests provide a sanctuary for countless species, including the endangered Bornean orangutan. Exploring this remarkable ecosystem offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to experience nature in its purest form.

A journey through the rainforest reveals winding jungle rivers, towering tropical trees, and an incredible variety of wildlife. From colorful kingfishers and hornbills to playful proboscis monkeys, every moment brings a new discovery. The peaceful surroundings create a truly immersive adventure far from the distractions of modern life.

One of the highlights of visiting Central Borneo is observing wild orangutans in their natural habitat. Watching these intelligent primates move gracefully through the forest canopy is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting endangered wildlife and preserving their fragile environment.

Responsible eco-tourism plays a vital role in safeguarding these unique ecosystems. By choosing ethical travel experiences, visitors help support conservation initiatives, local communities, and sustainable tourism practices that ensure the rainforest can be enjoyed by future generations.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply seeking a meaningful adventure, Central Borneo offers an extraordinary destination where nature, conservation, and unforgettable memories come together.