Overview

The Derawan islands must be everyone’s dream of the perfect tropical paradise: warm, isolated  islands with soft white sand beaches fringed with waving palm trees, pristine seas that change color from green to deep blue, and an amazing underwater life of giant turtles, dolphins, manta rays, dugongs and barracudas, stingless jellyfish and sometimes, whales  Derawan is indeed one of world’s richest areas in bio-diversity. 

Small wonder that the Derawan Islands are considered the third best dive destination in the world. Located just away from the mainland of East Kalimantan in the district of Berau, the Derawan archipelago comprises 31 islands, most well known among these are the islands of Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki and Kakaban. Here is Indonesia’s largest nesting site of the rare and endangered giant green turtles and hawksbill turtles, where one can daily watch turtles lay their eggs in the sand or swim to sea with the turtles. The entire marine conservancy region covers a total area of no less than 1.27 million hectares.

Here, you can find 460 different species of corals, ranking this area second only to the Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua. The Nature Conservancy and a team of international experts also found more than 870 species of fish here, ranging from tiny pygmy seahorses to giant manta rays. On some days, groups of up to 50 manta rays have been seen feeding together in Derawan’s waters, says the Conservancy.

While on Kakaban, you can find the world's largest and most diverse jellyfish lake, including four unique species of stingless jellyfish one of which can swim upside down. It is for this reason that Kakaban is considered for UNESCO nomination as a World Heritage Site.

Things To Do 

Sangalaki Island

You can visit the sea turtle conservation here and if you're lucky you can see newborn turtles ready to be released to the sea or sunbathing and swimming in the pristine white beach or snorkel and see manta rays if you're luck. 

Kakaban Island

Kakaban Island is so special that inside the island is vastly occuppied by a lake which hosts a bunch of stingless jellyfish which you can only find in 2 places: here and in Palau you can swim in the lake and surrounded by jellyfish :)

When you get bored with jellyfish you can snorkel near the jetty area....there are lots of corals and colourful fishes...one of the best snorkeling spot and of course if you dive there are many dive spot around the islands.

Swimming With Sea Turtle

You can easily do this if you stay at the cottages over the water run by locals all you have to do is sit in the jetty or from your verandah and when you see them, jump into the water and discreetly come from behind them. If you manage to catch up just gently rub his shell and avoid scaring the turtles by pulling him grab his shell so he follows you.

Sangalaki Island

Don't miss to visit sangalaki island. it's only about 2 hours from derawan by fisherman's boat and take even less time using the speedboat. If you're lucky, you'll meet some Manta Rays. they will swim around your boat. we met like 10 of them! if you spend a nite on this island (no hotel on the island at the moment) you will see turtle laying their eggs on the beach every night. they're endangered species, so please don't disturb them. 

Kakaban Prehistory Lake

The lake was originally the lagoon of an atoll, formed by corals over a period of two million years. As a result of movements in the earth's crust the coral reef was raised above the sea level, trapping 5 km2 of seawater within a 50 meter high ridge, effectively creating a landlocked marine lake.

The organisms found in the lake are originally seawater species such as marine algae, sea anemones, jellyfish, sponges, sea cucumbers, crabs, and several small fish species. Seawater, which seems to enter the lake through small cracks and crevices in the surrounding reef rock, is diluted with rain water, to produce a brackish water environment. Over thousands of years the inhabitants of the lake have adapted to their unusual environment. No large channels or connecting caves have been discovered, so no larger animals have been able to enter or leave the lake for thousands of years. Marine scientists are still trying to solve the mystery of how the isolated and fragile lake ecosystem supports the requirements of its plant and animal communities. Only one other similar lake ecosystem is known; it is found on Palau in Micronesia, about 1000 km east of the Philippines. 

Gusung-Gusung (Sand Dunes)

There are several sand dunes near Derawan Island which you can visit during low tides. A nice place to take pictures :)

Snorkeling in Stingless Jelly Fish Infested Lake

Most def you should go snorkeling with them stingless jellyfish. It's really fun to swim among floating jellyfish. 

Most Recent Restaurants in Derawan

Derawan Cafe

The restaurant is part of Derawan Cafe resort. The food is so-so and price higher than average. But it has a nice swimming beach in front of it and the jetty extends out the farthest adn there is a nice snorkeling spot at the end of the jetty. So it is a pretty nice place to hang out and have drink.

Warung April

Like everything else in Derawan food takes time to prepare so it means they're so fresh :)

The choices are: fish, shrimps, chicken and squid grilled fish with the hot homemade chilly sauce is the best.

Any Resto in This Village: Order Couple Hours Before

There's 1 resto in the resort, but it caters only for guests who are staying in and they only provide in buffet style and cost USD10/pax. I once wanted to dine in but they said I shld have had to inform them few hours in advance due to limited food!

As a backpacker, I went to dine in some 'warung' (small restaurant) in the village. But it took ages to order food, in average for 2 hours!
The best one is 'ILHAM' - it's clean and the food is fine, and the best thing is the food came out quicker! :-)
Favorite Dish: Anykind of seafood, it's so fresh and delicious! 

Mirolis Pelangi: Eating By The Sea

The restaurant is part of Mirolis Pelangi Cottage, which is at the far end of the island.

Favorite Dish: We had a nice fried chicken with homemade chilly sauce for lunch and loved it 

Derawan Night Life

In Derawan there's no night life, no bars, no cafes. To spend the night, either u sit around on the jetty/beach to see beautiful sunset and talk over the night with sea breeze, or u see turtles coming to land to procreate! 

Most Recent Transportation in Pulau Derawan

 Fihserman's Boat

if you visit derawan, don't forget to visit the other islands nearby: Sangalaki, Kakaban and Maratua. to get there, just rent a boat from fishermen. to get contact with the fisherman, just ask your hotel manager. He'll be more than happy to help you. It takes 2-3 hours to get to other islands.

4 Seater Speed Boat

From Berau Airport, go by car 20 min to harbour, there find speed boat to take u to Derawan island.

The trip takes 2,5 hrs if weather is good. 1,5 hr u go cruising thru Mahakam river then 1 hr thru the ocean.

This is the hardest part of the journey since the water is very choppy and the bumpy boat makes literally 'pain in the ass' 

Small Plane

From Balikpapan u fly by this kinda plane to Tanjung Redeb/Berau. This plane is so small so they require u to scale your body weight and baggage. So don't bring too heavy things and perhaps u should go on diet before going to Derawan? :-P

Fly by KalStar ot DAS, cost around Rp 550,000/pax/1 way. 

Speed Boat

To get to other islands around Derawan (Sangalaki, Kakaban, Maratua), u have to rent a speed boat. It cost a lot, so u better share with other guests. Boat rent cost Rp 500,000 - Rp 750,000 per day. 

Pulau Derawan Sports & Out Doors

 At Sangalaki the familiar shape of Manta Rays emerges from all directions. Their wing tips breaking the surface at regular intervals. Totally unperturbed by your presence, they swim in eurythmy and sometimes glide right up to you before making a sharp nose-dive into the blue. It is not unusual to find ten of them encircling you. Though most of them are about 3,5 meters (12 ft) wide with a white belly, there are a few black giants with a 6 meters (20 ft) wing span.

Equipment: U don't have to scuba dive to see Mantas. But if u are, world down there is absolutely amazing! Here all the fish are in gigantic sizes, unlike I've seen before! 

Pulau Derawan Favourites 

Favorite thing: Just laying on the beach or on the edge of a jetty...looking at the blue ocean with some turtles swimming, bright blue sky, smell and feel of sea breeze...anything more relaxing than this?

Pulau Weh is one of the best snorkeling and diving destinations in Southeast Asia. Pulau Weh is still the Pulau Weh (or Weh Island or Sabang) that we remember; the coral reefs, the scenery, the atmosphere and its friendly people.

 

There is so much more to this island than diving; fishing, nature, sceneries, atmosphere and much more. Ask any of the many travelers who stay month after month and still come back for more all the time. Iboih, Gapang, Sumur Tiga and Sabang Town are all interesting, relaxing and popular amongst foreign visitors.

 

THE NAME PULAU WEH

Western tourists have come to use the geographical name Pulau Weh or Weh Island. Indonesians normally use the administrative name, i.e. Sabang. It can be confusing when you ask for directions. 

 

In this web portal we use Pulau Weh as it is more widely known. In Acehnese it would be Pulo Weh. "Weh" means move or go away. It can also be derived from Ie (water).

 

  

Pulau Weh> Around The Island

There is more to see on Pulau Weh than Kincir (also called Long Beach) Iboih, Gapang and Sumur Tiga. Pulau Weh is a beautiful and very green island with lush vegetation and with breathtaking sceneries.

The wildlife that you will see is a lot of monkeys, sometimes jumping on your bungalow roof, wild boars roaming for food in the late afternoon and monitor lizards running away when you drive along the roads. Colorful butterflies are everywhere and interesting birds can be seen. North of Iboih is a protected forest. A walk along the road to the northern end of Pulau Weh is recommended. It is here that Indonesia officially starts. A monument has been built to commemorate that. The spot is called Kilometer Nol (Km 0), a must for Indonesian tourists.

 

The real start of Indonesia is however Pulau Rondo. You can see it far out to the north. From there it is not too far from the Indian archipelago Nicobar. Pulau Rondo has reportedly excellent fishing. It also has snorkeling and diving, but not anything better than Pulau Weh. If you want to go there, ask any boat owner near your accommodation. The cheapest alternative would be to join a fisherman from Iemeulee near Sabang town. There you can get a good deal, as long as the fisherman can fish during the trip.

 

 Renting a motorbike is a good way to see Pulau Weh. There are many small roads through the forests, orchards, and remote villages where you will become the attraction of the week. Some roads are in very bad condition and a few are very steep, for example coming down to Balohan from the east. Be sure your bike has good brakes and be careful. Petrol can be found almost everywhere in small stands; only Rp. 5.500 per liter. To rent a motorbike is app. Rp. 80-100.000 per day. Bargain!

 When you drive over the mountain south of Gapang you will see lots of monkeys waiting for passersby to throw them bananas. On the southern foot of the mountain, in Siruit, on the waterfront is Coffee Shop, a nice place to stop for a coffee and to feel a hot spring in the sea and to see a hot mud pool on the beach. There is also an accommodation here. You can swim to the hot spring outside the coffee shop, but you need to dive down to feel any warm water. The spring is on a depth of app. 6 m. To see the hot mud pool, just follow the stony beach to the left, or ask in the coffee shop. Be careful, the mud is boiling and it can be very hot in between stones going there. Don't leave your litter behind!

Guest House Mardimi
Siruit 
Phne :081269413179, 08126091929, +031118642019,
email mardimi@planet.nl
Website:  www.pulauwehguesthouse.com 4 rooms. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 250.000. Food can be ordered.

 Follow the main road a bit further to Pria Laot where a small river flows out. If you follow it upstream you will see the biggest waterfall on Pulau Weh. Just follow the river along a partly invisible path, crossing the river several times, climbing over and jumping in between rocks and you will arrive at a beautiful place perfect for bathing and relaxing. It is recommended.

Driving over the mountain to the south is also very nice. There are a few small lakes and a volcanic area with lots of holes, gas and bad smell. The locals in the surrounding villages often have to extinguish fires. Do not smoke or use fire in this area.

In the relaxed fishing village of Paya Keunekai is a sand beach called Pasir Putih. It is very beautiful during the eastern monsoon season (roughly the first half of the year). The two coffee shops on the beach are for hanging out. Two km further is the beach Pantai Cum, a.k.a. Pantai Bango. The following coast all the way to Balek Gunung is very desolate and perfect for solitude and finding own secret spots. Especially so 5 km from the junction in Paya Keunekai. At the bridge over a nice stream, follow the path to the beach and you find a nice camping ground. Cars and motorbikes cannot go through all the way to Balek Gunung and Iboihs.

In Keunekai, at the only junction in this village, turn down to the sea and you will find some pools with warm spring water.

In the ferry harbor Balohan is one small accommodation.
Wisma Mentari
Facing the ferry terminal. Ph:+6285260329992. 6 rooms. With bath, fan: Rp. 90.000. Barth, aircon: Rp. 180.000.

AROUND WEH BY BOAT
Many of the villages on Pulau Weh are fishing villages so it is also a good idea to charter a boat for a day or less to explore the coastline of the Island. Sharing a boat with friends can be very economical.

Various locations can be reached, for example the waterfall, volcanic bubbles spring, remote coral reefs and secluded beaches where you can relax and enjoy lunch. Game Fishing is also an option, trawling, popping or line fishing.

PUulau Weh > Teupin Reudeup a.k.a. "Kincir Long Beach"

Teupin Reudeup is the official name, but tourists have come to say Kincir or Iboih Long Beach. It is a bay with a beach a couple of kilometers beyond the junction for Iboih beach (Teupin Layeu) towards Km. 0. This area has recently become more popular and has already 2 dive operators and 4 accommodations. Some hundred meters before the beach is the small Tien's place in the forest overlooking the sea. Turn right at a small sign and follow the small road. A little bit further is the beach. Besides diving it is easy to arrange snorkeling and fishing trips. Motorbikes are available for rent. There is only a five minute walk from the beach to a hot water spring.

 

Accommodation

Tien's Place Tel: +6285277775212, Fb: Tien’s Place. 2 km beyond Iboih junction, martimbang@web.de www.tiensplace.sumatraecotourism.com 4 bungalows with bathroom: Rp. 350,000. Discounts for long stay. Restaurant. Nice hideaway, bakes own bread, strong on vegetables.

2. Pulau Weh Dive Resort
   Jl. Km Nol Iboih. Tel: +6265233324999, fax: +626522324900. www.wehresort.com 13 rooms, aircon, hot water. Rp. 1,250,000-1.900.000. WiFi. Restaurant.
    
3. Seulako View Cafe & Bungalows
   Just along the main road. Ph: 085260920505 Iswardani, seulako.view@gmail.com, fb: Seulako View Cafe & Bungalows. 3 bungalows w. fan, private or shared bathroom, Rp. 100-150.000. 3 rooms, fan, shared bath: Rp. 50,000-70,000. Accept camping. Restaurant. Small shop with essentials and swap books. Parking.

4. Steffen Sea Sports
   At Kincir, Pulau Weh, NAD. Tel: +62081360811848. steffenseasports@yahoo.com www.steffenseasports.sumatraecotourism.com www.steffen-sea-sports.com 4 rooms above the dive shop. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 200,000. One six bed dorm: Rp. 250.000. Has also 3-pin plugs. Will soon have a duplex bungalow on the seafront. (In Malaysia: Pulau Kecil -Coral Bay, Perhentian Island, Tel: 6-019-9111256).

 

Pulau Weh > Iboih (Teupin Layeu)

 

The beach area near Pulau Rubiah has become known as Iboih. Teupin Layeu is a more exact name. Here we use Iboih. This area has more of a backpacker and family feeling than Gapang. Besides diving, snorkeling, swimming and relaxing the area is also nice for walks, either north to the next beach and Km 0 or south along the path to Ujung Patek and Lhok Weing. The island Rubiah just outside is worth a visit. There are even a few bungalows on the southern end. It is possible to swim over, but only if you are a good swimmer. Use fins and remember that the current in between can be very strong. Don’t do it alone. Otherwise, go by boat. Boat trips are arranged by a boat owner community group. They have a shop at the parking lot "Loket Boat". There are also glass bottom boats available.

KLKP View information at the parking lot is owned by a tourism community group. They arrange boat trips, motorbikes, bicycles, snorkeling equipment etc. Internet is available next to the dive shop, Rp. 8.000/hr. However, many establishments now offer free Wi-Fi. Ph: +6285260904101 (Mr. M. Nasir Is).

Food
Several restaurants and coffee shops can be found at the fishermen's beach and parking area are overlooking the beach. They serve mainly Indonesian food. Beyond the gate to the bungalow area are also several restaurants, serving Western inspired food, such as Dolphin, Mama, and Dee Dee’s. Most accommodations have their own restaurants, such as Olala, O'Ong, Yulia's and Iboih Inn.

Accomodation
Bungalows in Iboih have improved their standard over the last few years. Inexpensive bungalows are still there, but there are now more bungalows with private bathroom, even with aircon. Prices fluctuate very much with the length of your stay. The prices below are just indications. There are also a few bungalows on Pulau Rubiah.

1. Yulia's Bungalow & Restaurant
   Ph: +6282168564383. 18 bungalows. With outside bathroom: Rp. 60-70.000. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 150-200.000. Depending on length of stay. No advance booking.
    
2. Iboih Inn & Restaurant
   Ph: +62811841570, +628126991659 (Ms. Saliza). Fb: iboih.inn@gmail.com 16 bungalows. Budget room, bath, fan: Rp. 100.000. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 250.000. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 350.000. All rooms except budget: incl. breakfast. Pick up at Iboih pier if booked in advance. Visa and MasterCard accepted. Free Wi-Fi. Boat transportation and trips etc.
    
3. O'Ong Restaurant & Bungalows
   Ph: +6281360700150. 10 rooms. No Private bathroom: Rp. 40-50.000. With bathroom: Rp. 130.000-150.000, depending on length of stay.
    
4. Olala Restaurant & Bungalow (Moved further in to new buildings)
   Ph: +6285260607311. eka_olala@hotmail.co.uk 6 bungalows. With fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 80-90.000. Big discounts for long stay. Wi-Fi.
    
5. Mama Mia Restaurant & Bungalows
   1 bungalow. Rp. 50.000 depending on length of stay.
    
6. Fatimah Bungalows
   A couple of new bungalows available.
    
7. Iboih Hill Bungalow
   Ph: +6281360189132. 7 bungalows. With fan and outside bathroom: Rp. 150.000. Reception in Dolphin restaurant. Discounts for long stays.
    
8. Home High (former Arina)
   Ph: 082160180620. Their 4 bungalows are falling apart. Only restaurant now.
    
9. Ayub's
   2 rooms and 1 bathroom in one bungalow. Rp. 150.000/room. Discounts for long stay. Ask for Mr. Ayub at the parking area or ask in Erick's next door.
    
10. Erick's Green House
    Ph: +6282167899876. 5 rooms. Some with attached bathroom and all with kitchenette. Rp. 60-150.000. Discounts for long stay. Wi-Fi.
     
11. Fina Bungalow
    Ph: +6285262111366. Just before the gate. 6 rooms. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 150 -200.000. Aircon, bathroom: Rp. 250-300.000. Price depending on season.
     
12. Cut Agam Guest House & Coffee Shop
    First place when coming down to Iboih. Ph: +6281360363480. 4 rooms, fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 150-200.000. Big discounts for long stay. Pasta restaurant.
     
13. Jelita Bungalows
    Ph: ++6282164468376. 3 rooms, aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 250.000.
     
14. Pele's Ujung Patek Bungalows
    At the Petek point 500 meter south of Iboih, turn sharply to the right when in front of Cut Agam Guesthouse. Ph: +6285260958990 (Adun), +6285253702209 (Wani), doktorkalkyl@gmail.com 2 Bungalows. With fan and bathroom: Rp. 250.000. Remote and tranquil.
     
15. Pulau Rubiah
    Can only be reached by boat. Ph: 0813 774 11125 (Mr. Samsul), 0852 7746 4764 (Mr. Yahya). 8 bungalows.Outside bath: Rp. 100.000. Big two room bungalow with bathroom, kitchen: Rp. 300.000. Restaurant. Call for pick up. From Iboih parking area: Rp. 50.000.

Pulau Weh > Gapang

Gapang is one of the two most visited beaches on Pulau Weh. It has a wider variety of bungalows than any other beach, from very simple huts to air conditioned and TV-equipped bungalows.
Besides snorkeling, diving, hanging out and swimming you can also walk to Balek Gunung. It is not too far. For seeing flying foxes, waterfall and jungle; ask in Limbo Restaurant.

Do a JUNGLE TREK to Gunung Keris, the highest peak on Pulau Weh. See the protected forest, birds, butterflies etc. Contact Mustafa in Gapang on +6285277442222.

Food
There are several restaurants directly on the beach, such as Mama Jungle, Zero, Limbo, Barracuda and Dang Dang Na. International and Western style food available in all places. Don't forget to try Naguna Warkop & Nasi up on the main road. They serve both price worthy and nice Indonesian food.

Accomodation
If you plan to stay a week or two, you can get big discounts.

1. Guest House Obama
   Jl. Sabang-Iboih. 1 km beyond the gates to Gapang Resort. Ph: +6281360272270 (Mrs. Minna). 14 rooms. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 200.000. Incl. breakfast. Restaurant. The new place of Hamdani and Minna.
    
2. Agha Hideaway
   50m above/behind the Naguna restaurant at main Gapang gate. Ph: +85277442222 (Mustafa), gpg_m@yahoo.com 1 roomy bungalow, big bathroom: Rp. 150.000 with fan, Rp. 250.000 with aircon. Great view, good for long stays.
    
3. Gapang Resort – This big resort covers the former Leguna Resort and Flamboyan Gapang Resort and is owned by the Sabang Government. Ph. +6281370616223 (not English speaking). 21 rooms in 18 bungalows are open at the moment. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 150.000. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 250.000. 2-room aircon bungalow: Rp. 350.000. 3-room aircon bungalow: Rp. 400.000. Restaurant not open. Meeting room for 200 persons.
    
4. Dang Dang Na Restaurant & Bungalow (former Ohana)
   Ph: 0852 6041 8854 (Mr. Syukur). 6 bungalows. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 100.000. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 200.000. Restaurant. Popular.
    
5. Lumba Lumba Living and Lumba-Lumba Living Colours
   Tel/Fax: +62652-3324133, +62811682787. www.lumbalumba.com info@lumbalumba.com7 duplex (11 rooms) bungalows. With fan, bath, fridge, diver adapted, and Wi-Fi: 26-30 €. In a new extension called Lumba Lumba Colours: 6 rooms. With fan, outside bathroom: € 12. With fan, bathroom: € 18.
    
6. Chephest Bungalows
   Ph: 085358849551. 1 room. With bath, fan: Rp. 100 000. Shared bathroom.
    
7. Vira Bungalow
   Tel: 0852 9747 0446. 6 rooms. With fan, outside bath: Rp. 100.000. For long stay: Rp. 50.000.
    
8. Jroeh Bungalow
   Behind the souvenir shop. Ph: +6285260607416. 2 rooms. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 100.000. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 250.000. Depending on length of stay.
    
9. Beringin Bungalow
   Tel: 0852 7780 8024. 5 rooms. Fan, outside bath or with bath: Rp. 100-150.000.
    
10. Ramadilla
    Some bungalows, but seems to be without anyone taking care.

Pulau Weh > Balek Gunung


On the west coast, just opposite Gapang is Balek Gunung. The area can be reached by foot from Gapang and even from Iboih if you like long walks.

The coast consists of stones and has a seasonal beach that disappears app. the second half of the year. When it is there, it is extremely beautiful. A few caves are nearby. Goa Sarang can only be reached by swimming or boat at low tide.
Goa Kamprek is three small caves a few hundred meters away. The area is good for fishing, seeing Mantas, snorkeling and enjoying the solitude and the sunsets.
A new dive resort has recently been established here.

Accomodation
The Pade Dive Resort
Tel: 0652-33224500, 0652-332400, sabang@thepade.com www.thepade.com 13 rooms, aircon, bath, hot water: Rp. 950-1.200.000, incl. Breakfast and tax. WiFi.


Pulau Weh > East Coast (Sumur Tiga) 

Pantai Sumur Tiga on the east coast of Pulau Weh is during western season the best beach on Pulau Weh i.e. app. the second half of the year. For long it was kind of forgotten and only visited by locals living in the area and a few foreigners who knew about its solitude and good snorkeling.

The corals are not as good as in the Iboih/Gapang area; however when it comes to the fish there are no complaints. Dolphins are often sighted further out at sea. New resorts have been built here during the last years, with tastefully designed bungalows, international food and good service.

What is known as Sumur Tiga is a short stretch of beach, but in reality the beach stretches from Iemeulee and two miles south, thereby forming the longest beach on Pulau Weh. Sumur Tiga means the third well. There are actually five wells along this beach. The first well (Sumur Satu) is south of Iemeulee (meaning trickling water) in the beginning of the beach.

After the second well (Sumur Dua) and all the way to the far end, the land behind the sand beach is steep and the trees give a lot of atmosphere and shadow for those who prefer.

At the third well, i.e. the Sumur Tiga itself, is the bungalows of Santai Sumur Tiga, more known as Freddie's. At the forth well (Sumur Empat) is a Japanese bunker built with forced labor during WWII. Almost at the far end of the beach, is the fifth well (Sumur Lima). Here is the bungalows of Casa Nemo. By now you should be able to count to five in Indonesian. On the point itself is a new resort coming up.

A bit further down the coast beyond Sumur Tiga is Ujung Kareung with more bungalows. The east coast has some nice sand stretches in between rock formations. It can be nice to explore the coast with snorkel, mask, and fins. Check up the current before you start.

The road south is good until Anoi Itam, a popular place amongst locals on weekends. It has a black sand beach, a big Japanese bunker and nice corals. There is a new up-market resort here called Rasa Seni. There are several nice coffee shops out of the way along this road.

There are no Dive schools on the East Coast, but all the major accommodations have connections to Dive operators and can easily arrange diving. They also arrange snorkeling and fishing trips, as well as regular round trips.

Workshops
Sumur Tiga has become a popular place to do workshops. Especially the creativity and relaxing atmosphere are appreciated qualities. Santai Sumur Tiga and the new Ujung Karang Conference Center work together, coordinated by Freddie’s. Ujung Karang can take 60 persons in it’s fully equipped conference room. The new The Point also do workshops.

Accomodation

1. Freddie's Santai Sumur Tiga
   Pantai Sumur Tiga, Iemeulee. Ph: 0813 602 55001, santaisumurtiga@yahoo.com.au www.santai-sabang.com 9 bungalows and 3 family rooms. With fan, bathroom, hot water: Rp. 240-300.000. Complete international restaurant and an ala carte Restaurant on the beach. Access to meeting room for 60 persons. Wi-Fi available. Booking needed.
    
2. Casa Nemo
   Pantai Sumur Tiga, Iemeulee. Ph: 0813 6299 9942. casanemo@yahoo.com www.casanemo.com 8 bungalows w fan, bathroom: Rp. 230-295.000. Complete international buffet style restaurant. Booking needed.
    
3. Monle
   Jl. K.H. Agus Salim, Ujung Kareung. Ph: +6285371808274. 5 rooms. With fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 100.000. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 200.000. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 225.000. Next to Perdana Beach.
    
4. Perdana Beach
   Jl. K.H. Agus Salim, Ujung Kareung. Above Casa Nemo. Ph: 0852 6207 1939. 20 rooms with aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 200.000. No restaurant, but food can be ordered.

The POINT Sabang Resort Jl. K.H. Agus Salim, Ie Meulee. Tel: 0652-22433, 082164835879 (M r . Chandra), thepointsabangresort@gmail.com www.thepoint.sumatraecotourism.com 39 bungalows/rooms. With aircon, bath, hot water, TV, sea view: Rp. 420.000. Family suite: Rp. 720-850.000. Excl. tax. Incl. Breakfast

6. Ujung Kareng Conference Center
   Ujung Kareung. Ph: +6281360255001 (Managed by Freddie’s Santai Sumur Tiga). Fully equipped and serviced. Up to 60 persons. 6 rooms. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 200.000.
    
7. Tuna Paradise Resort
   Jl. Ujung Kareung - Anoi Itam. Ph: +6281269080080 (Andre). momde_39@yahoo.com 9 bungalows. With fan and bathroom: Rp. 170.000. With aircon, bathroom, TV, fridge: Rp. 300.000. Big restaurant and small private beach. Meeting room for 20-30 persons.
    
8. Café Ujung Kareung
   A relaxing coffee and noodle shop on the water front. 100m beyond Tuna Café. Open 06.30- late at night.
    
9. Rasa Seni Hotel Resort, Anoi Itam. Ph: +62527010245, +6281396858460. info@rasaseniresort.com www.rasaseniresort.com 10 rooms. With aircon, hot water, etc. Rp. 450-800.000, incl. Tax. Incl. breakfast. Restaurant.

 

 

Pulau Weh > Sabang Town

The cozy Sabang is an historical town and it shows. Many old colonial buildings are still standing, shadowed by huge trees that the Dutch once imported from Suriname. Sabang is one of the few towns in Indonesia which still has a sleepy old colonial atmosphere combined with a very social and friendly people.

 

Due to its excellent harbor and good water supply Sabang became an important coal loading station for ships en route between Europe and Asia. Sabang was once even bigger than Singapore. The Merbabu Graveyard has many odd and interesting gravestones from these times.

 

The main attraction is however the atmosphere and the people. It is a pity not to try it out. Enjoy eating out, the coffee shops, the morning market and the nearby beaches. Pantai Kasih is a very nice beach in walking distance. Further down are the beaches Pantai Tapak Gajah and Sumur Tiga. The reefs along Sabang Fair are reportedly nice for snorkeling. 

 

An oddity in Sabang is that shops close between 12.00 and 16.00 or 17.00. The official Tourism office (Dinas Pariwisata) is located on Jl. T Umar, overlooking the Taman Ria park. The Pulau Weh-Sabang Tourism Association is located next to Hotel Zahira, not so far away. See map.

Food & Drink
Don't miss the traditional Acehnese coffee shop. Order a cup of coffee and sit down. Traditional cakes on a plate will be placed in front of you. When you are finished just tell how many you had. The locally grown Acehnese coffee is excellent. It is normally filtered before served, however, in the countryside the coffee is sometimes served unfiltered. If you cannot wait for the coffee beans to sink, remove them with a spoon. The remaining beans you just spit out. Beware of coffee shops serving instant coffee. Support the local coffee farmers! A small glass costs normally around Rp. 3.000. A nice coffee shop is Pantai Jaya on the water front, open 05.00-22.00. Next to it is the juice bar Jambu Itebe, open 09.00-23.00. Both are nice. They also serve noodles.

All kinds of Noodles, called "mie" in Indonesia, are popular in Sabang. "Mie Jalak" is a Sabang specialty. Pulau Baru on Jl. Perdagangan 29B has become famous for it. A portion is Rp. 10.000. For good Minangkabau food (West Sumatra style) try Lumbung Sari on Jl. Perdagangan 7 (Ph: 0658-22678). For Acehnese food try Perkasa Utama on Jl. Perdagangan 157 (Ph: 21185). Aneka Ria has nice and price worthy sandwiches.

All the food stalls ("kaki lima") that once used to congest the main street have been moved to a new place called Rek, next to the Police station. Nice BBQ Chicken, Octopus Stay, Duck, fried potatoes and much more are sold in stalls around a square filled with tables and chairs. Recommended. Otherwise there are many restaurants along Jl. Perdagangan and in its vicinity. Beyond the RSU hospital on the sea front are a few nice places serving juices and light food in the evenings. Just walk north along Jl. T. Umar and you will see it. One of the nicer coffee shops is Paradiso Cyber Cafe', popular amongst young people with laptops. There is free Wi-Fi.
 

Fresh fish is the specialty of Sabang Food Court in Pasiran. Go out of town along the harbor. On the right hand side before the road split up in two. Only the sign is visible from the road. Ph: +6281377109903, +6282160003602. Grilled fish, live fish, lobsters, one open area and one aircon-area. Open 24 hours. Also catering. Nice night view over Sabang harbor.
Beer or other alcoholic beverages are normally not available in restaurants, but in places serving Westerners, alcoholic beverages are often available for non-Muslims.

Accomodation

1. Sabang Hill Hotel - A classical hotel with a grand view over Sabang. Sabang Hill. Ph: +62652-21999, acehsabanghill@yahoo.com www.sabanghill-aceh.com 22 rooms. Aircon, bathroom: Rp. 400-1.000.000. Suite: Rp. 1.150.000. Incl. breakfast. Discount on weekdays and for longer stays. Restaurant, karaoke bar. Conference room for 30 persons. Free Wi-Fi. Pick-up at Ferry on request; Rp. 50.000.
    
2. Wisma Zahira
   Jl. T. Umar. Near waterfront. +6281348820811. 9 rooms. With aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 250-350.000. Free coffee and tea. Nice Location.
    
3. Kartini Home Stay
   Jl. T. Umar 25. Ph: +628126925510, +6285270655169. 5 rooms. One with fan, bathroom: Rp. 100.000. Four with aircon, bathroom: Rp. 200-250.000. Incl. breakfast, coffee and tea.
    
4. Sabang Guesthouse
   Jl. T. Umar 23-25. Tel: 0652-21186. 9 rooms. With bathroom, aircon, TV: Rp. 325-350.000 incl. breakfast, coffee and tea. Free Wi-Fi.
    
5. Hotel Putra Salju
   Jl. T. Umar 16. Tel: 0652-22747. 10 rooms. With aircon and bathroom, hot water, TV: Rp. 200-450.000. WiFi.
    
6. Guesthouse Pantai Kasih
   Jl. Sultan Hasanuddin 10. Ph:+62652-21066, +681377347444 (Ayie), www.pantaikasih.com 8 rooms. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 200-225.000. With aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 300-350.000. Incl. breakfast. Directly above the Pantai Kasih beach.
    
7. Nagoya Inn
   Jl. Cut Meutia 34. Tel: +62652-22311, +62812 699 6068 (Mr. Parlan), fax: +62652-22411, www.nagoyainn.com 19 rooms. Aircon, bathroom, hot water, satellite TV: Rp. 300-500.000, incl. breakfast, coffee and tea. Free Wi-Fi. Conference room for 50 persons.
    
8. Losmen Calok
   Jl. Malahayati. Ph: +6285260362584 (Roma). calok@gmail.com 8 rooms. With aircon, bathroom: Rp. 150-225.000.
    
9. Losmen Sabang-Merauke
   Off Jl. T. Umar. Tel: 0652-21928. 12 rooms with one, two or three beds. Very basic . Run down.
    
10. Pulau Jaya Hotel
    Jl. T. Umar 21. Ph: 0652-21344. 23 rooms. With fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 40-85.000. With fan and bathroom: Rp. 125.000. With aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 180.000.
     
11. Kartika (former Sabang Jaya)
    Jl. T. Umar 17-19. Tel: 0652-22168. 14 rooms. With fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 80.000. With aircon, bathroom, TV: 180.000.
     
12. Losmen PUM (former Irma)
    Jl. T. Umar 3. Tel: 0652-21148. 13 rooms: With fan or with aircon, bathroom.
     
13. Hotel Holiday
    Off Jl. Perdagangan. Tel: 0652-21131, www.facebook.com/holidayhs 24 rooms. With fan and bathroom: Rp. 100.000-200.000. With aircon: Rp. 250.000-350.000.
     
14. Montana Hotel, Jl. Surapati 20. Tel: 0652-22817, 0852 6177 5831, hotelmontana@ymail.com 20 rooms. With fan, outsidebath: Rp. 100.000. Aircon, bath: Rp. 225-500.000. Aircon, bath, 6 beds: Rp. 600.000. Wifi.
     
15. Penginapan Pondok Tapak Gajah
    Lingkungan Keuramat, Jl. Agus Salim. Near Merbabu graveyard. Ph: 0652-22378, +6281269546700, +6285360608300, iskandarmuda62@yahoo.com 12 rooms. With fan, outside bathroom: Rp. 75.000. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 125.000. With aircon, bathroom, TV: Rp. 200.000.

Pulau Weh > Diving & Snorkeling

 

Snorkeling
You don't have to be a full-fledged diver to enjoy the underwater world of Pulau Weh. You don't even have to go far. Almost everywhere you find nice snorkeling and you don't need to compete with other snorkelers about the space. If you snorkel in Gapang, Iboih, and Sumur Tiga you will very likely see hawksbill turtles. Snorkels and fins are available for rent almost everywhere; normally Rp. 30.000 per day complete with mask and fins. To rent an underwater camera, try the dive shops. 

 

Diving
The visibility, the number of species, the big fish, the clear blue water, and both beach and boat diving, make Pulau Weh perfect for both experienced divers and beginners. All the big ones have been spotted around Weh: Mega Mouth Shark, Orcas, Whales, Whale Sharks, Manta Ray, and Sun Fish.

Pulau Weh is the place to get a diving certificate. The prices are still very attractive, especially if you also have to rent the equipment. Two guided fun dives from boat is app. 25 € including full equipment. A non-guided beach dive with full equipment it is app. 12 € and an Open Water certificate is about 280 €. (Prices are only indications.) There are several good diving schools in the Gapang – Iboih area. Diving is also arranged from Sumur Tiga. Check the websites of the operators.\

 
Dive Operators

1. Rubiah Tirta Divers
   Iboih Beach, Pulau Weh, NAD, Indonesia. Ph/fax: +62652 2234 555, Ph: +6281534020050, +628128436308. info@rubiahdivers.com www.rubiahdivers.com
    
2. Lumba Lumba Diving Centre
   Gapang Beach, Pulau Weh, NAD, Indonesia. Tel/Fax: +62652 3324133, +62811682787. info@lumbalumba.com www.lumbalumba.com
    
3. Pulau Weh Dive Resort
   Kincir (Long Beach), Pulau Weh. Tel: 0652 3332 4999, fax: 0652 2324 900, pulauwehresort@yahoo.com www.pulauwehresort.com

Steffen Sea Sports At Kincir, Pulau Weh, NAD. Tel: +62081360811848. steffenseasports@yahoo.com www.steffenseasports.sumatraecotourism.com www.steffen-sea-sports.com 4 rooms above the dive shop. With fan, bathroom: Rp. 200.000. One six bed dorm: Rp. 250.000. Has also 3-pin plugs. Will soon have a duplex bungalow on the seafront. (In Malaysia: Pulau Kecil -Coral Bay, Perhentian Island, Tel: 6-019-9111256).

5. The Pade Dive Resort
   Tel: 0652-3322 4500, 0652-332400, sabang@thepade.com

Wrecks In The Depths
Pulau Weh also has a couple of wrecks to dive at. As the waters around Pulau Weh are very deep, the wrecks are only accessible for very advanced divers. One of the wrecks, Sopie Rickmers, was sunk by its German captain in order to avoid Dutch capture. While entertaining the Dutch with drinks onboard, his crew was busy making holes in the hull. The ship is therefore laying up-right just outside Pria Laot. Its upper part is 40m deep.

Freediving
Freediving is the most natural and serene way to explore the depths of the oceans with minimal impact. It is also the ultimate way to free yourself and spend more time enjoying the beauty and silence of the sea. Anyone who has held their breath underwater has freedived. However, freediving is not simply about seeing how long you can hold your breath or how deep you can go on a single breath. You have to create the right attitude and pay attention to the limits of your body and mind. This and much more you can learn at Lumba-Lumba this summer of 2012.
A unique AIDA and their courses set the standard in international freediving education. Discover Freediving (half day) and two star course (2-3 days). For everyone, from absolute beginners to keen snorkelers. Take a look at AIDA's website www.aidainternational.org

 

 

Pulau Weh > Transportation

Going to Pulau WehThe only way to go to Pulau Weh is by sea. There is a nice car ferry and two fast passenger ferries plying the route between Ulee Lhe in Banda Aceh and Balohan on Pulau Weh. Take a taxi or becak to the harbor. Bargain for the price. High speed ferries take 45 minutes and the car ferry takes 1,5 hours. They all leave from the new ferry terminal in Ullee Lheue. There are no airplanes. Note that schedules can change without prior notice.

Prices depend on class.
Car ferry is managed by PT. ASDP Indonesia Ferry in Banda Aceh: +62651-49977

Transport On Pulau Weh

The local transportation on Pulau Weh has been criticized for over-charging. The main problem is that there are not enough passengers to run a regular service between Balohan and Gapang / Iboih. Hopefully it will improve along the road. Minibuses are waiting in Balohan where the ferry arrives. Local fare in a sometimes packed minibus to Sabang town is Rp. 15.000 and in a taxi or similar Rp. 20.000. To Sumur Tiga it is Rp. 25.000.

An "ojek": (motorbike taxi) is Rp. 20.000 and a becak Rp. 25.000. To Gapang and Iboih it is Rp. 50.000 (minimum 2 passengers). The busses take turns in talking tourists in order to avoid price war. Prices and rules are valid in the harbor area. A becak is Rp. 50.000/passenger.

Motorized becak are available in Sabang. Min. Rp. 5.000 per ride. Market to Iemeulee is app. Rp. 10.000. To Sumur Tiga maybe 15.000. You now also find becak taking passengers all over Pulau Weh. The prices need to be bargained. Can be a very pleasant alternative to the minibuses.

To rent a motorbike is Rp. 80-100.000/day depending on type. A bicycle is Rp. 50.000/day. To charter a taxi is Rp. 500.000 per day. For example: Taxi Firdaus, Ph: 085260876849, firtaxi@yahoo.com

Pulau Weh > Handicraft

Most of the handicrafts found on Pulau Weh are made from the coconut palm. The industry is still small and it is not until the last few years that the people of Pulau Weh have come to understand that their art actually is appreciated. Almost no marketing has ever been done to promote it and as a visitor to Pulau Weh one almost has to search for it. A shop has opened in the ferry terminal and it is worth a visit.

 

What you probably will see in Iboih and Gapang are very beautiful necklaces and earrings made out of coconut shell, often combined with seashells. There are a handful of guys making these at home and selling them directly to foreign visitors. Recommended!

 

The government organization Dekranas support local efforts and has a small showroom.

In Ujung Kareung on the east coast is a small factory making handicrafts of wood from the coconut tree. There you can also see the how they work. Several women make embroidery at home. The shop Toko Sabang, Tel: 0652-21140, next to PUM Losmen sells souvenirs, mainly Acehnese embroidery from the mainland.

New souvenir shops have opened recently in Iboih, Gapang and in town. Not everything they sell are made locally. They have t-shirts with Sabang motifs.

The most popular souvenir from Aceh is however the classic Acehnese dagger, the Rencong, famous from Acehnese wars. Today the Rencong mainly functions as a detail in the traditional dress. The blade is made out of steel or brass and the hilts and scabbards are normally made of ivory, wood, or buffalo horn. Even silver or gold is sometimes used. The shape of the Rencong is said to be derived from the Arabic "Bismillah irrahman irrahim" (in the name of Allah, the merciful and compassionate). The best Rencongs can be found in Banda Aceh.
 

 

Tangkahan is sometimes mentioned as the HIDDEN PARADISE IN SUMATRA. It is definitely hidden and for many a paradise. It is the perfect place to get off the beaten track, but still have access to nice food and comfortable bungalows. Tangkahan is an interesting place in many ways. Interesting for what it has to offer and an interesting background. The elephants, the jungle, and the clean rivers are obvious attractions. What makes Tangkahan different is that it is a good example on how community based eco-tourism can stop illegal logging, improve livelihood, and develop a sense of pride amongst the locals. This development on the border of Leuser National Park where the bigger river Batang Serangan meets the smaller river Sungai Musam is the hidden paradise of Tangkahan.

• Ride the Sumatran elephants in the jungle!
• Float down the clear river!
• Go jungle trekking!
• Soak yourself in hot springs!
• Or take a course in how to handle and care for elephants!

Lembaga Pariwisata Tangkahan (LPT) is a local organization formed with the purpose to develop eco-tourism as a new form of lively hood and in this way prevent illegal logging. The idea was successful and illegal logging was effectively stopped in 2001. Indecon helped establish LPT and gave training in guiding, handicraft, etc. CTO is the the tourism business owned by LPT. All visitors to Tangkahan end up in the Visitor Center managed by CTO. They also control the eco-tourism, promote, receive bookings, coordinates, and arranges the elephant riding. 

The Community Response Unit (CRU) was formed by Fauna & Flora International and elephants were brought in to Tangkahan from Aceh. In some areas where humans and elephants often come in conflict over land use, elephants have been removed to a few "elephant schools". In Tangkahan the elephants were given a new dual function:

1. They directly help the rangers to patrol the forest of the national park against illegal logging.
2. As an eco-tourism attraction they improve the livelihood of the local communities and in this way indirectly prevent illegal logging.

In 2010 the Veterinary Society for Sumatran Wildlife Conservation, VESSWIC took over and continued the program.

TANGKAHAN >TRANSPORTATION

Tangkahan can be reached form Bukit Lawang, Medan, or Aceh. The last 20 km before Tangkahan is bad and cars cannot drive fast. Tangkahan is app. 50 km from Medan. Don't forget that you also can trek through the jungle between Bukit Lawang and Tangkahan.

TANGKAHAN >TRAVEL AGENTS:

CTO(Community Tour Operator). Ph: 081361423245, 085275605865, cto-tangkahan@yahoo.com

Travel agents that offers tours to Tangkahan are for example:
Trijaya Travel Agency www.trijaya-travel.com
Synergi Ravelino Tours & Travel www.ravelinotravel.com
Narasindo Tours www.narasindotours.com
Horas Tours horas@idola.net.id

TANGKAHAN > ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD

Tangkahan has several nice accommodations, most of them with nice bungalows in a natural setting, along the clear river. All of them has restaurants. Electricity is available between 18.00 and approximately 23.00. There is now mobile phone coverage from Telkomsel.

The first three accommodations below are on the other side of the river. There is a eco-friendly boat available, using the flowing water as the only form of power. For Rp. 10.000 you get a three day pass. A walking bridge over the river will maybe be built later this year.

If you travel with your own vehicle you can park in the area in front of the Visitor Center. Rp. 10.000 per car for as long you want plus Rp. 20.000 for the first night and Rp. 10.000 for the following nights. For motor bikes parking is Rp. 5.000 for the whole stay plus Rp. 10.000 per night. (They keep it in-doors at night).

Mega Inn. Ph: 081 370 211 009, 0853 7112 2213. megadepari@yahoo.com www.megainn.com 9 rooms w. bath: Rp. 75-100.000. Two 5-bed dorms: Rp. 30.000 per person. Discounts for longer stays.

Bamboo River (aka Black Tiger Lodge). Ph: 0853 5867 6372 (Wak Youn). 9 rooms w. bath, Rp. 150-250.000, incl. Breakfast for international guests.

Jungle Lodge. Ph: 0813 7633 4787. ssitepu@aol.com www.junglelodge.net 9 rooms w private bath: Rp. 85-200.000,-.

Linnea Resort, 0812 60463071 (Benny), 0813 7053 1176 (Kinul). 8 rooms w private bath: Rp. 130.000. Restaurant.

Egy Inn, next to CTO office. Ph: 0812 6558 569. Four rooms w bath: Rp. 100.000. Just ask in the warung.

Green lodge, next to elephant training center. Phone: 0813 7008 4859, 0813 7505 2438. Twelve rooms w. Bath: Rp. 110-150.000. Restaurant. Two km distance from the CTO center, but an ojek (MC-taxi) is Rp. 10-15.000.

NOTE: Prices are only indications.

TANGKAHAN > WHAT TO SEE & TO DO

Tangkahan has a lot to offer. You can always get more information at the community owned visitor Centre, CTO. They work on behalf of the Park Authorities.

Elephant Riding

Are any of your friends an elephant? If not, Tangkahan is the best place to get an elephant friend. Meet the seven (June 2008) Sumatran elephants staying in Tangkahan. The 35 years old Eva and her female friends Agustin, Ardana, Sari and Yuni. The only male is the still relatively young Teo. The last and smallest, but not the least, is the cute Olive, still too young to join the jungle patrols. Now there is also a new elephant baby. Two babies recently died to a elephant virus, very common amongst elephants.

To join the jungle patrol, report to the CTO Visitor Centre and they will arrange everything, including the park permit (Rp. 20.000). You cannot go directly to the Elephant camp. A one hour ride in the jungle is Rp. 650.000 per person and hour. Only one and three hour rides are available. The price includes the park permit. The one hour ride basically follows the river. The three hour ride enters the jungle.

 Rides combined with camping and tubing are also available. For example a one hour ride, elephant bathing, waterfall, tubing and lunch box. A two day one night trek with 3 hours elephant riding, tubing, camping and food is Rp. 6.300.000 for 2 persons.

You also get to see and to help the elephants getting bathed. Every morning at around 08.30 and afternoon at 15.30 they come down to the river for their bath. Every elephant has its "Mahout", or elephant trainer/driver. Respect the elephants and follow the instructions of the mahouts. Elephants are big and do have a mind of their own. All the elephants in Tangkahan were born in the wild. To take part in washing of the elephants and giving them elephant snacks is Rp. 100.000.

Why not try out a 3-day course in elephant handling at the CRU. It is only Rp. 4.500.000 You need a month to become a certified mahout, but with three days you can learn a lot and get a unique experience.

Note: Rides cannot be booked in advance. Rides are available on all days except Mondays, Thursdays and national holidays. The Elephant Jungle Patrol will unfortunately be closed down in the middle of the year (2012) and the few remaining treks are fully booked.

A ride is recommended for several reasons:

1. The unique setting with one of the most impressive national parks just over the river.
2. In Tangkahan you can ride through prime rain forest.
3. The ride functions as a jungle patrol. You actively help prevent illegal logging.
4. You actively support community based eco-tourism development.

SWIMMING AND TUBING
Sungai Musam is perfect for bathing and playing around in the clear water. Or just walk up-river, exploring the sights and enjoying the stream. Just float back down! You can rent a tube for Rp. 10.000 per day. It is ideal for floating back down the river. Ask in your accommodation where the butterfly beach is.

Just opposite the accommodations in Sungai Musam is a narrow little cave. Inside is a nice hot spring; so perfect to sit alone contemplating or with a friend, talking about the beauty of life.
CTO also arranges tubing adventures that last for ½ hour, 3 hours, or 5 hours.

JUNGLE TREKKING

 

Park permit and guide are obligatory for trekking in the Leuser National Park. It is all available at the community owned CTO Visitor Centre. There are several treks and walks to choose from. Anything between so called family treks to advanced treks.




 A few examples of treks available:
A 2,5 hour "Family Trek" is Rp. 360.000 for 2 persons.
A 3-3,5 hour "Youth Trek" is Rp. 600.000 for 3 persons.
A full day trek is Rp. 990.000 for 3 persons.
 A full day combination of trekking, caving, and tubing back home is Rp. 1.260.000 for 3 persons.
CTO has several trekking packages to choose from, up to as many days you want. You can also trek to Bukit Lawang. There is a 10m high waterfall and a big cave a four to five-hour trek from Tangkahan. Going home can be done by tubing.

IN THE JUNGLE
If you never have tried jungle trekking before, don't miss it now. It is nothing strange, dangerous or difficult. You don't have to be young and adventurous to do it. You only need interest in and curiosity for nature. If you don't have that, you will probably catch it. However, you must be fit enough. In the vicinity of Banda Aceh a new form of trekking has developed. You go with former guerilla soldiers in the forest where they once took cover from the enemy.

The first time visitor can sometimes be disappointed on how few animals are normally seen. One reason for this is the natural shyness of animals. Even though the animals are not seen, they are often nearby as they hide in the under-story or in the canopy overhead. Nevertheless, a patient observer will see the animals and take their photos as well.



TO SEE ANIMALS

• Develop an eye for what is always there, but often difficult to see: the primates and the reptiles. The best way is to choose a comfortable spot and just quietly wait.
• Search for things that are all around, but often go unnoticed: butterflies, termites, insects, frogs, etc.
• Learn to recognize the sounds of the forest.
• Learn to identify the tracks and other animal signs that are left on game trails, for example tracks of bears, tigers and ungulates.

EQUIPMENT
A classic sight is when tourists meet up with the local guide for their trek. The tourists carry heavy and full backpacks and dressed in latest wildlife fashion. The local guide comes with a plastic bag in his hand and flip-flops on his feet. Some equipment is recommended though:

• Light clothes, long trousers and long sleeved shirt.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Leech socks or 2 layers of ordinary socks (nylon socks are better barriers for leeches than cotton socks).
• Hat and rain cape (material that breathes is best, because of the humidity; sometimes an umbrella is most comfortable but on tracks through bushes sometimes difficult to keep up).
• Sleeping bag for higher altitudes.
• Personal medication, antihistamines (for bee stings), malaria pills.
• Sun lotion (for river rafting), insect repellent.
• Camera. A macro lens is often more useful.
• Binoculars are recommended.
• Plastic or waterproof bag for sensitive equipment.
• Food for all participants, including the guides.
• Tent or plastic sheeting for camps.

HOW TO BEHAVE

• Even though most snakes are not poisonous, one should be careful and not disturb snakes. If you get bitten, very unusual though, put a pressure bandage above and below the wound in order to slow down the spread of poison. Contact a doctor as soon as possible.
• Don't cut rattans and vines, they are essential for the ecosystem.
• Don't leave rubbish behind. Tins and plastic don't rot.
• If a fire is being lit, use only dead wood and clean the spot before leaving.
• Crossing rivers can be dangerous, especially after rains. Most accidents happen in rivers. It is better to wait and try later when the water level drops.
• "Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints".
• Chose your guide carefully. Small groups are usually nicer than bigger ones. If you have a guide who feeds animals, for example, orangutans, report it to the National park office (PHKA).

VILLAGE LIFE

Tangkahan itself is just a few huts, but the two nearest villages, a few kilometers away, have app. 2.000 inhabitants together. The locals work mainly in the palm oil and rubber plantations/orchards. The 1st and 15th every month is the “rubber market” when the locals sell their raw rubber to the buyers that come and pick it up. It can be an interesting experience.  

 HANDICRAFTS

Check up the beautiful and price worthy necklaces made of colorful stones from the rivers.