Why Choose WOW Borneo for Your River Adventure?
Tanjung Puting has other cruise operators. So why choose us? Because we’ve spent years building something different — where authentic experiences, deep local knowledge, and genuine conservation impact come together. We have created:
- Once-in-a-lifetime riverboat-based experiences of orangutans, wildlife, rainforest and Dayak village life.
- Responsible tourism supporting wildlife conservation, communities & villages and sustainable development.
- Adventure with comfort and safety including air-conditioned cabins, ensuites, open air decks and experienced guides.
And, for those who want the full story . . .
Unmatched Local Expertise
Born on These Rivers. We didn’t import a business model to Borneo—we grew from these rivers. Since launching in 2008, our team has extensive combined experience navigating Central Kalimantan’s waterways, understanding seasonal variations, knowing where wildlife congregates, and maintaining relationships with dozens of riverside communities.
Guides Who Call This Home. Our guides aren’t following scripts—they’re welcoming you into their home. Many grew up along these rivers, learning forest skills from their elders. They can read orangutan behaviour, identify bird calls, explain the spiritual significance of sandungs, and know which village grandmother makes the best traditional cakes. This isn’t knowledge from a training manual—it’s lived experience.
Access Others Don’t Have. Years of building trust with village communities means access to experiences unavailable elsewhere. Participate in genuine ceremonies (when invited), learn traditional crafts from master artisans, and enjoy meals made wholly from locally available ingredients. These aren’t staged tourist activities—they’re real cultural exchanges earned through long-term partnerships.
Authentic Experiences
Real Villages, Real People. We visit communities where tourism supplements traditional livelihoods, not the primary industry. The rattan weaver you meet genuinely weaves rattan for local use. The rubber tapper truly taps rubber for income. The sacred ceremonies happen whether tourists are present or not. You’re witnessing real life, not performances.
Wildlife on Their Terms. Because we support orangutan rehabilitation, our cruises include visits to locations where wildlife sightings are virtually guaranteed or, in the case of the Sebangau National Park, rely on expert guidance to maximise your chances of genuine and authentic encounters.
Flexibility for Magic Moments. Rigid schedules miss the best moments. When wild orangutans appear overhead, we stop. When a village ceremony is happening, we adjust the timing respectfully. When the weather creates perfect sunset conditions, we find the ideal spot to view it. Small groups and experienced guides enable this flexibility.
Conservation You See and Support
The Direct Conservation Impact of Your Cruise:
- BOS Foundation’s orangutan rehabilitation and release programs
- BNF’s program of canal locking and fire mitigation
- Community-based conservation initiatives
Partners That Matter. We don’t just donate to conservation organisations, our long experience in Kalimantan has enabled us to identify the most effective foundations and to support their work. We follow BOS Foundation guidelines for the observation of orangutans and the briefings we provide to our guests.
Proof That Forests Have Value. Every successful cruise demonstrates to local communities and regional authorities that standing forests generate sustainable income. This economic argument for conservation is powerful—and you’re part of making it.
Comfort Meets Adventure
Traditional Character, Modern Comfort. Our riverboats maintain the appearance of traditional Kalimantan river craft while interior re-modelling offers genuine comfort. Air-conditioned ensuite cabins with comfortable beds, showers, spacious upper decks for wildlife watching and stargazing. You’re not roughing it—you’re experiencing wilderness from a floating home.
Food Worth Remembering. Fresh local cuisine prepared daily by skilled onboard chefs. Breakfast watching proboscis monkeys in riverside trees and hornbills fly overhead, crossing the river. Lunch as dense river verge forests glide past. Dinner under the stars with the forest chorus as soundtrack. Vegetarian, dietary restrictions, preferences—all accommodated with advance notice.
Small Groups, Big Difference. We can accommodate from 1 to 8 guests per klotok. This means:
- Personal attention from guides
- Flexibility to adapt itineraries
- Intimate wildlife observations without crowds
- Genuine connections with fellow travellers
- Minimal environmental and social impact
- Safety and Professionalism
- Experienced Crew. Every klotok captain has years of experience navigating these rivers. They know seasonal water levels, weather patterns, safe anchorages, and emergency protocols. Your safety is never compromised.
Safety and Professionalism
Experienced Crew. Every klotok captain has years of experience navigating these rivers. They know seasonal water levels, weather patterns, safe anchorages, and emergency protocols. Your safety is never compromised.
Quality Equipment. Life jackets, first aid kits, communication equipment, and safety gear are maintained to international standards. Wow Borneo performs regular vessel inspections and maintenance, to the standards as required for insurance.
Clear Communication. English-speaking guides accompany every cruise. Pre-departure briefings cover expectations, safety, and cultural protocols. You’re never confused about what’s happening or why.
Transparency and Trust
No Hidden Costs. Our pricing is comprehensive and clear. What’s included is genuinely included. Optional add-ons are clearly marked. No surprise fees or pressure to upgrade.
Honest About Limitations. We won’t promise guaranteed wildlife sightings. We’re upfront about physical requirements for treks. We explain seasonal variations affecting experiences. Honest communication builds realistic expectations and prevents disappointment.
Reviews Speak Volumes. TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award Winner 2024. Read unfiltered reviews from real guests. We’re proud of our track record and stand behind every experience.
Responsible Marketing. Our photos show real experiences, not staged shots. Our itineraries reflect actual activities, not aspirational plans. What we promise, we deliver.
It’s Personal for Us
This isn’t just business—it’s personal. We’ve fallen in love with these rivers, these forests, these communities. We’ve watched orangutan mothers teach their young. We’ve shared evening meals with village families. We’ve seen conservation succeed and fail. We’ve witnessed the impact of deforestation and the hope of restoration.
We want you to experience what we’ve experienced. To understand why this place matters. To leave as an advocate for its protection. To carry these memories and connections for a lifetime.
That’s why we do this. That’s why we obsess over details. That’s why we invest in partnerships, train guides extensively, and constantly improve our practices.
Because these rivers deserve nothing less than excellence.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Choose WOW Borneo for authentic experiences, genuine conservation impact, and memories that last a lifetime.