Indonesia
Trip to Sumatra and Mentawai Islands:
Ancient tattoos and lords of the jungle
16 – 26 Jul 2026 TRIP COMPLETED
This trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands is designed for those seeking a true exploration experience, combining jungle, wildlife, and direct contact with traditional cultures. In Mentawai, we venture into one of the most remote regions of Indonesia to live alongside communities that still preserve many of their ancestral customs.
For several days, we will share their daily life deep in the jungle: we will learn how they hunt, fish, gather, and process sago; understand their belief system based on shamanism; and closely observe practices such as traditional tattooing and the crafting of hunting tools.
The second part of the journey takes us to northern Sumatra, to the Bukit Lawang area, where we will embark on a multi-day jungle trek. We will walk through a dense and demanding environment, observing wildlife such as macaques, langurs, birds, and reptiles, with the main goal of spotting orangutans in their natural habitat.
We will sleep in basic shelters in the middle of the jungle, becoming part of the environment. An active journey focused on nature and cultural learning in the field.
Download the itinerary for this trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands
Using the form below, you can download the detailed itinerary for this trip to Indonesia. Click here to easily reach the form.
Our trip to Indonesia: what we will discover
Discover the highlights of this trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands
Mentawai Islands
Immersion in Mentawai culture
During the journey, we will live with Mentawai communities deep in the rainforest. We will stay in traditional houses and share their daily life. In addition, we will accompany them in activities such as hunting, fishing or gathering. In this way, the trip to Indonesia will allow us to understand one of the oldest cultures in Indonesia.
Shamanism and Mentawai worldview
One of the key moments of this trip to Indonesia will be contact with local shamanism. A shaman will accompany us and show us his rituals and beliefs. Likewise, we will learn the meaning of traditional tattoos and their connection to the spiritual world. Thus, the trip to Indonesia will offer a deep insight into their worldview.
Trekking in the Siberut jungle
The journey will include trekking routes through the tropical rainforest. We will walk among rivers, dense vegetation and remote villages. During these days, we will explore inaccessible areas and meet isolated families. Therefore, the trip to Indonesia will combine adventure and discovery.
Sumatra Island
Responsible sighting of the Sumatran orangutan
In the second part of the trip to Sumatra and Mentawai Islands, we will enter the jungle of Bukit Lawang. There, we will undertake a trek in search of wildlife. Our main objective will be the responsible sighting of the Sumatran orangutan. In addition, we may observe other species such as macaques, birds and reptiles. Thus, the trip to Indonesia will incorporate an exceptional natural dimension.
Jungle experience: night in a shelter
During the journey, we will spend a night deep in the jungle. We will sleep in an open shelter surrounded by nature. This experience will allow a direct connection with the environment. Moreover, it will reinforce the sense of expedition.
Rafting and return to civilisation
As the final part of the jungle experience, the journey will include a river descent. We will return to Bukit Lawang on traditional rafts. Therefore, we will end this stage with a dynamic and memorable activity.
A journey of cultures and nature
Overall, the trip to Sumatra and Mentawai Islands combines ethnography, adventure and biodiversity. We will not only observe, but also understand. Each stage will add depth and contrast. For this reason, the trip to Sumatra and Mentawai Islands is ideal for travellers seeking authentic experiences.
© Photos by Aníbal Bueno taken during a trip to Sumatra and Mentawai Islands.
► Download the detailed itinerary for this trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands
Click on the button below to easily access the download form for this trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands.
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