🌏 General Things to Know Before Traveling to Indonesia

• Visa & Entry: Many travelers can get a visa on arrival (30 days, extendable once). Always check the latest visa policy for your nationality.

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are widely available, but bring some cash for rural areas.

• Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language. English is common in tourist areas but less so in remote places.

• Culture & Etiquette: Indonesia is diverse and largely Muslim. Dress modestly in cities and villages (except at beaches). Always use your right hand when giving/receiving items.

• Weather: Tropical climate — hot and humid year-round. The dry season (May–September) is ideal for travel, but Bukit Lawang can be visited year-round.
  
  

🌴 What to Know About Sumatra

• Nature & Adventure: Sumatra is famous for rainforests, volcanoes, waterfalls, and wildlife (especially orangutans).

• Transportation: Roads can be rough, and journeys often take longer than expected. Minivans, private drivers, and shared buses are common.

• Wildlife: Be mindful of monkeys, insects, and leeches in the jungle. Always respect animals — do not feed them.

• Food: Local dishes are spicy and flavorful (think rendang, sambal, nasi goreng). In smaller towns, vegetarian and Western food options may be limited.

• Safety: Sumatra is generally safe for travelers, but always keep an eye on belongings.
  
  

🦧 What to Know About Bukit Lawang

• Why Go: A small riverside village, it’s the main gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park, home to wild and semi-wild orangutans.

• Getting There: From Medan (Kuala Namu International Airport), it’s about a 4–5 hour drive by private car or shared minivan.

• Accommodation: Ranges from simple guesthouses to eco-lodges along the river. Expect rustic charm rather than luxury.

• Jungle Treks: Half-day to multi-day treks are available. Certified guides are mandatory to ensure both visitor safety and wildlife protection.

• What to Pack:

  • Light, breathable clothing

  • Hiking shoes / sandals with grip

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Rain jacket (weather is unpredictable)

• River & Village Life: Swimming and tubing on the Bohorok River is popular. Electricity and Wi-Fi can be unreliable — it’s part of the charm!

• Ethical Travel Tip: Choose eco-friendly tours and guides who follow responsible wildlife viewing rules (no touching or feeding orangutans).

✅ In short: Bring an adventurous spirit, prepare for rustic conditions, and you’ll find Bukit Lawang and Sumatra to be one of the most authentic jungle travel experiences in Indonesia.