Gunung Leuser National Park, Sumatra
Discover One of Sumatra’s Most Important Rainforest
Discover the Wild Rainforest of North Sumatra
Gunung Leuser is part of the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, a UNESCO World Heritage property made up of three national parks. The protected landscapes are internationally recognised for their exceptional biodiversity and importance to the conservation of endangered species.
Escape to Sumatra is based here, working with local guides to organise jungle treks and journeys through North Sumatra. From Bukit Lawang, travellers can explore the surrounding rainforest, learn about the region’s wildlife and discover local life.
We also organise experiences in Batu Katak and other destinations across Sumatra. This allows travellers to explore beyond the main trekking routes and discover different landscapes and local communities.
Whether you have a few days or several weeks, we can help you create an itinerary around your interests. For example, you can combine jungle trekking and wildlife experiences with volcano hikes, lakes, beaches and local culture.
In addition, your trip can be adapted to your travel dates, budget and travel style. We can arrange private transportation, accommodation and local experiences according to your needs.
Wildlife of Gunung Leuser National Park
The forests of Gunung Leuser support an extraordinary variety of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The changing landscape, from lowland rainforest to higher mountain forests, creates different habitats for wildlife.
The Sumatran orangutan is one of the region’s best-known inhabitants. Other remarkable species include gibbons, macaques, Thomas’s leaf monkeys and, across the wider protected landscape, Sumatran elephants, tigers and rhinos.
Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed. Animals move freely through the forest, and sightings depend on many natural factors. A responsible jungle experience means observing wildlife patiently, keeping a respectful distance and never feeding, chasing or disturbing animals.
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When choosing a jungle trek, look for guides who respect wildlife, follow local regulations and avoid practices that put animals or their habitat under pressure.
Protected rainforests need long-term conservation, and local communities are an important part of that effort. Responsible tourism can help support livelihoods by creating opportunities for local guides and other community members while encouraging visitors to value the forest.