Where to see orangutans in Indonesian Borneo
An expert guide to seeing orangutans in Kalimantan
Orangutans in Indonesian Borneo: Overview
Kalimantan or ‘Indonesian Borneo’, occupies the giant’s share of central and southern Borneo, representing about three-quarters of the island. Formerly Dutch Borneo, colonial rule was established in 1863 and wound up in 1949 when Kalimantan became a part of the Republic of Indonesia.
The majority of Bornean orangutans today are found in Kalimantan, especially along the east coast. Yet tragically, most wild populations live outside of protected areas in forests that are exploited for timber production or are being developed for agriculture. Many of these areas are off-limits to tourists, along with a host of other sites, even extending to national parks, which apart from having no transport and other visitor facilities, have long been monopolised by forestry and logging companies.
The major focus, for tourists and conservation, thus falls on the one site in central Kalimantan that has been at the heart of orangutan conservation efforts since the 1970s: Tanjung Puting National Park. But there are a handful of lesser-visited locations which can be commercially visited by tourists. Here's my guide to seeing orangutans in Kalimantan.
Where to see orangutans in Indonesian Borneo
Hidden gems in Kalimantan
featured trips
Southeast Asia
Indonesia Wildlife Cruise
In search of orangutans and dragons
21 days From $10,475 pp
Southeast Asia
Borneo Adventure Tours
Guided wildlife tours to the rainforests of Borneo
8 – 20 days £883 – £3,514 ppfeatured trips
Traditional klotok boats moored on the Kalimantan River
Orangutans in Kalimantan: Need to know
Everything you wish you'd known before you booked
A massive state, Kalimantan is split into five provinces: central, east, north, south and west. For the traveller it presents a challenge: it is huge with poor roads and undeveloped tourism infrastructure. These factors, along with continuing logging activity even in nature reserves, have kept orangutan tourism low in the region, despite the relatively high population of orangutans.
Most trips here are conducted by klotok houseboats, usually with some canoeing, forest walks and cultural visits included in the itinerary.
Observing orangutans
You'll be observing orangutans from a distance – unlike gorilla trekking in East Africa, you won't come face-to-face with the apes. This is because they're more of a tree-dwelling species and tend to be exploring high up in the canopy. But it's also because they're often being re-wilded and socialising or habituating orangutans creates problems for their rehabilitation. Follow the instructions of your guide to make this a respectful and responsible interaction.
Orangutan in Kalimantan
When to go
The rainy season is from November to May with the heaviest rains falling in in January and February. The rains are welcome, coming in sudden downpours, often late in the afternoon, cooling the temperature. Temperature is usually 32 – 35C during the rains, hotter in the dry season. Humidity is 70-80%. August, September, and October are usually the driest and hottest months. At this time, the river levels fall and boat tours may have to use alternative routes. These months may also be affected by smoke.
Be aware that boat congestion on the rivers can be very high between July and September, which is one reason to consider visiting during low season months of November to May (it is also less expensive). Tour guides recommend shoulder months for a mix of good weather and low crowds: October, December, March and June.
People, language & customs
Kalteng is home to a multi ethnic mix of Dayak tribes, the indigenous inhabitants of Borneo with unique cultures, languages and religion. Kalteng is also home to Melayu, Javanese, Balinese, and many more cultures, who have migrated here from across Indonesia. Villagers often speak three languages. Early Christian missionaries converted many Dayaks, but today the Muslim faith has a majority of adherents. Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken. English is little understood.
This is not Bali! Dress is modest, with shirts having sleeves, no mini skirts, short shorts or tank tops. When meeting people, it is normal to shake hands, and if a group, to shake hands with all the people. Drinking alcohol in public is not accepted and pork is not usually served in restaurants.
