On the trail of the Sumatran tiger
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationIndonesia / Sumatra
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions211.08 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
English
In a few words
Embark on an immersive adventure in the heart of Kerinci Seblat National Park , one of the last refuges of the Sumatran tiger . While spotting one remains a rare privilege, traversing this lush jungle holds many other treasures. Between rugged ridges , spectacular waterfalls , crystal-clear streams , and swims in the dazzling waters of Lake Kaco , every step immerses you in nature in its rawest form .
This private trek also offers the opportunity to observe remarkable wildlife: gibbons , hornbills , and a multitude of tropical birds inhabit these primary forests. Keen observers might even spot fresh tracks or scratches left by the Malayan sun bear or the famous feline, discreet witnesses to a still-preserved wildlife . A rare and profound experience for those passionate about biodiversity and authentic exploration .
The highlights
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Immersion in the heart of the jungle of Kerinci Seblat National Park
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Observation of rare wildlife: gibbons, hornbills and perhaps the Sumatran tiger
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Hiking among waterfalls, rivers and the turquoise lake of Kaco
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 4h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
Management
English
Private stay with English-speaking guide and team of porter(s)
Program
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Welcome to Sumatra
- Transportation Car - 07h30 - 300km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
You will be met in the morning at Padang International Airport by your English-speaking guide, and transferred to the small village of Lempur, located on the shores of Lake Kerinci.
Day 1 -
On the road to adventure
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, you begin your trek through a traditional market gardening area, where cinnamon, bamboo, and rattan are sustainably cultivated by the villagers. Upon crossing the shallow Manjuto River, you reach the primary forest, which marks the boundary of Kerinci Seblat National Park.
Day 2 -
In the heart of the jungle
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You then continue your hike towards Lintang Hill, where you will spend your first night in a tent. "Bukit Lintang" is indeed a place where a wide variety of wild animals roam, such as wild boar, Malayan tapir, numerous deer and, of course, the Sumatran tiger. On the other side of the hill, you'll observe and listen to the morning calls of gibbons and hornbills. Then, your guide will help you spot tiger or tapir tracks. After about five hours of hiking, you'll reach an unnamed waterfall, where you'll spend the night. Enjoy its cool water by swimming in the natural pool carved into the rock. There's also the option to continue exploring the surrounding rainforest.
Day 3 -
In search of the lost tiger
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Breakfast, served beside a cascading waterfall, is delightfully accompanied by birdsong and sets you up nicely for your jungle adventures. You resume your trek through the jungle towards Bukit Lumut, a high-altitude area covered in moss and often shrouded in mist. It is also during this day that you will attempt to get close to the famous Sumatran tiger (you will certainly have the opportunity to spot numerous distinctive paw prints).
Day 4 -
An aquarium in the forest
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You continue your trek through a lush, untouched jungle, then reach Lake Kaco, whose waters are an almost phosphorescent blue! It's a veritable aquarium in the forest. A swim is well-deserved, surrounded by numerous exotic fish and a few freshwater crabs. This natural pool is fed by a spring. Camp is set up on the lake's shore. Finally, a night walk to search for civets, flying squirrels, and a few tree frogs.
Day 5 -
Back in the valley
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The morning is free, then you set off again for approximately 3 hours of walking, searching for birds and animals, as you make your way towards civilization. You will notably stop at the Siluang Bersisik Emas waterfall, then finish your trek through magnificent rice paddies before reaching Lempur.
Day 6 -
See you very soon in Sumatra
- Transportation Car - 07h30 - 300km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Early morning transfer to Padang airport. End of trip.
Day 7
Accommodation
Access
You will be met in the morning at Padang International Airport by your English-speaking guide. Return transfer at the end of your stay is also included.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- English-speaking guide and team of porter(s)
- Ground transfers in private, air-conditioned vehicles
- Accommodation in guest houses and tents
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary above
- Site entrances and trekking permits
- Donations
- Camping equipment (including tents, sleeping bags and mattresses)
- Mineral water and energy supplements during walking days
The price does not include
- International & Domestic Air
- Insurance & assistance
- Visas and any airport taxes
- Drinks, personal expenses & tips
- Anything not mentioned in "Inclusions"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
• Visa on arrival (VOA - 30 days renewable):
○ Price: 500,000 IDR (+500,000 IDR for the 30-day extension).
○ To be obtained directly at the airport upon arrival.
○ Requires a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry and a ticket to leave the territory.
○ Allow 1 hour for the protocol.
• Online visa (30-day e-visa):
○ Available on the official website: https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
○ Allows entry into Indonesian territory within 90 days of obtaining it.
○ Allows you to avoid the queue for purchasing the visa at the airport.
○ Upon arrival, you will go through the automatic gates (follow the E-visa/Evoa signs) by directly scanning your passport.
○ A confirmation email will be sent to you once the visa is activated.
Health and Vaccines
• Health advice: We are not doctors, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate recommendations.
• Health form: To be completed in advance online or on site by scanning the QR-CODE.
Payment and Withdrawals
• Credit cards accepted almost everywhere (Indonesia is part of the G20).
• ATMs available in all major cities.
• Bring cash for warungs and small shops.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- bivouac equipment
Equipment to bring
- 20-30L backpack for trekking (with rain cover)
- Waterproof bag or pouches (protects passport, money, electronics from moisture)
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Water bottle or hydration pack (minimum 1.5L)
- Hiking poles (optional but useful for steep descents)
- Category 3/4 sunglasses
- Cap or hat for the sun
- High protection sunscreen (SPF 50)
- Tropical mosquito repellent (DEET or equivalent)
- Small first aid kit (mosquito repellent, plasters, disinfectant, personal medication, motion sickness tablets)
- Wipes / hand sanitizer
- Camera or smartphone + external battery
- Type C/F electrical plug adapter (as in France, but sometimes a power strip is useful)
Clothing to bring
For everyday life (city, beach, sightseeing):
- Lightweight and breathable T-shirts (technical fabrics or fine cotton)
- Lightweight linen or cotton shorts/trousers
- Dresses or flowing outfits suitable for the heat
- Swimsuit(s)
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt (protects from sun and mosquitoes)
- Pareo or scarf (practical for temples, the beach, or as a light blanket)
- Sandals or flip-flops (for resting after the trek and for everyday use)
For the trek:
- Windproof and waterproof jacket
- Thermal base layers (technical long-sleeved t-shirt + lightweight leggings if trekking at night)
- Breathable and comfortable hiking pants
- Hiking socks (anti-blister, breathable)
Shoes
- Suitable footwear: low-cut with a solid sole.
