In the early morning, we will use motorised canoes to visit the extensive blackwater Lake Bagantung. This is a unique peatland swamp ecosystem where we have the opportunity to spot birds and other wildlife. Then, the boat continues the cruise downstream to Tumbang Nusa village. On arrival, we will have a walking tour in the village to see some of their traditional livelihoods.  First the grey sedge or ‘purun’ weaving and handmade straw cooperative, made from rushes growing naturally in the canals and lakes. The boat will continue to cruise downstream, passing the large forested Selat and Badak Islands. Spot orangutans here in the natural vegetation of the island. The boat will stop and find a quiet place to tie up overnight.

[B/L/D]

Early morning, the boat continues downstream to the village of Pilang where we take a short walk in the forest area near the village to see the process of rubber tapping (Mamantat) and rattan harvesting (Manetes). Our village guide will also point out some local medicinal plants growing in the forest. We then have a walking tour of the village to see some of their traditional livelihoods. Watch the local ladies at their rattan weaving process and meet the villagers. Over a special tea and coffee, with traditional Dayak cakes such as apam and untuk-untuk, we will be entertained with a Kacapi (two-stringed instruments) performance. Escaping the heat of the midday sun, we will return to the boat for lunch. Depending on the flight schedule, check out and vehicles will be waiting to transfer you to the airport. On arrival in Labuan Bajo, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. [B/L/-]

Pick up from the hotel by your guide and then transfer to the harbour to board the boat to sail to the first destination – Rinca Island.  Track through the typical dry forest of the islands in this area, east of the Wallace Line. The sparse vegetation provides enough habitat and shade for different animals in the park.  Deer, buffaloes, pigs, wild boar, long tail-macaque feed on various leaves, fruit, flowers, roots and grasses found in the park.  Komodo dragons are the top predators and all animals in the park are their potential prey. Komodo dragons were scientifically described in 1912 as Varanus Komodoensis – the largest monitor lizard in the world. A ranger will lead the trek. Afternoon cruise to Komodo island. Lunch, dinner and overnight on board.

[B/L/D]

After breakfast, the safari will start by half an hour walk (2 km) to Banunggulung to see the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Komodo island is also home to wild animals such as deer, wild boar, and birds too, such as sulphur-crested-cockatoo, megapode and collared kingfisher. A ranger will lead this safari.

After returning to the boat, cruise back to Labuan Bajo with lunch onboard. There is opportunity for swimming or snorkeling at “Pantai Merah” Pink Beach. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and overnight onboard (or return to Labuan Bajo and overnight in hotel). [B/L/D]

Breakfast on board or in the hotel. If the time permits you will have a short sightseeing tour to “Batu Cermin” Mirror Cave and view the traditional market. Then you will be transferred to the airport for your flight. [B/-/-]

Remarks on Orangutan Cruise boat –

Rahai’i Pangun – join-in cruise – accommodation for up to 12 pax in 3 double ensuite air-con cabins and 2 twin bunk cabins.

Cruise rate includes: Airport and other transfers as indicated, cabin accommodation, English speaking guide, meals and drinks during the cruise, off-boat tours and service tax.

Excludes: Airfare, airport tax, porter, insurance, alcoholic and soda drinks on board, additional requested services.

Remarks on the Komodo cruise boats-

Boats can accommodate up to 6 pax on private trips in air-conditioned cabins with private bathrooms.

Includes: cabin accommodation, food onboard, transfer hotel – harbour – hotel in Labuan Bajo, English speaking guide.

Excludes: airfares Palangka Raya to Labuan Bajo, entrance fee to Komodo National Park (approx IDR 525,000 per person),  personal expenses, insurance, airport tax, additional requested service.