Sumatra, between orangutans and population
Photography Workshop May 2025
Duration
11 Days /8 Nights
Where
Sumatra
Price
Participants
From 6 to 8
Gunung Leuser National Park, located in the north-central part of the island of Sumatra (Indonesia), covers a protected area of about 8,000 km² and offers an extraordinary variety of habitats, from swamps to rainforests. This place is home to more than four thousand plant species, more than 300 species of birds, and about 130 species of mammals, including elephants and, of course, orangutans. Orangutans are solitary creatures: females live with their young, while males prefer to be alone, except during mating season. They are among the most intelligent primates, capable of using tools and developing complex social interactions. Photographing them is a unique experience: they are remarkably peaceful animals that are curious about humans.
During this photography trip, there will be an opportunity to explore the world of orangutans and beyond. We will stay in an ecolodge along the banks of the river, where we can document the daily life of these primates, participate in unique experiences such as “bathing with elephants,” and immerse ourselves in the culture of the surrounding villages. Among rice and sugarcane plantations, we will meet warm and welcoming local communities, always ready to be photographed with a smile. Women, busy with daily chores, will greet us sympathetically as we pass through villages, populated by children who will run up to us shouting “hello” as we arrive.
Throughout the trip, I will be at the side of the participants, providing continuous support for both the photographic and experiential parts. The tour will be fully organized by private jeeps and minibuses, driven by professional local drivers, to ensure maximum flexibility. This workshop is suitable for photographers of all levels, from beginners to experts, and is a perfect opportunity to experience an unforgettable adventure in the company of other enthusiasts. Before departure, we will set up a dedicated WhatsApp group where we can start connecting and resolve any doubts. In addition, there will be a pre-departure meeting on Zoom, during which I will explain the program and answer any questions. Upon return, we will hold a review session of the shots, where I will provide suggestions and feedback to help you improve. Finally, you will have the opportunity to join a private Facebook group to continue sharing your photos and getting tips.
Price of the trip
Included
- 8 nights with breakfast in shared double bungalow with private facilities in ecolodge in Bukit Lawang. Single occupancy bungalow available
- All park admissions and photography permits
- Private minibus/jeep transportation by local professional drivers for all scheduled excursions, all costs included. Double group airport transfers included
- Lunches on “full day” excursion days to Gunung Leuser, Tangkahan and village (3 lunches)
- Local professional English-speaking tour guide
- All visits as scheduled. Inputs, trips, excursions as scheduled
- Photography workshop with accompaniment and support in the field and online sessions for post production and viewing shots
- Photographic Tour Leader
- Standard health and baggage insurance
Not included
- The international flight: cost from Italy from EUR 700, depending on the advance booking
- Health insurance including trip cancellation
- Beverages at meals and meals not mentioned
- Single room supplement
- Extra program activities and excursions
- Tips and gratuity
- Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section.
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Italy for Sumatra, Kuala Namu airport. Overnight on board.
Day 2
Early morning arrival in Kuala Namu, group pick up and transfer to Bukit Lawang where we will stay for the duration of the tour (approx. 3h). The village is situated on the banks of the Bahorok River on the edge of the jungle and has gained a reputation as a “gateway sanctuary” to the world of orangutans. Arrive, settle into your room, rest and first “acclimatization” photographic outing to the hut village and boatmen on the river. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 3
Starting at about 6am, first trek into Gunung Leuser National Park. The park is probably the last sanctuary in the world where the orangutan or “orangutan” lives in the wild: on these long but not difficult treks we will have a chance to photograph it in all its daily “occupations.” Return to Bukit Lawang at the end of the morning. Lunch, time for rest and afternoon of village shooting. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 4
Starting at about 6am, second hike and full day in Gunung Leuser Park: with more time, we will be able to go deeper and reach more remote locations, where fewer tourists are present. Lunch included. Return in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 5
Half-day excursion to a nearby village: arriving early, we will be able to photograph the “waking village,” visit the Islamic school and interact with the children at the beginning of their lessons, be next to the women intent on their daily activities, from washing clothes, to preparing lunch. We will then travel to the local market, where amidst the colors and scents the photo opportunities will be endless. Lunch on site, return to Bukit Lawang in the early afternoon. Time for rest and afternoon shooting in the village. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 6
Full-day excursion to Tangkahan, a small village off the tracks usually taken by tourists, completely immersed in the jungle at the junction of two rivers, the Buluh River and the Batang River. The journey from Bukit Lawang takes about 3 hours and is an experience in itself: villages, animals on the road, the jungle–all will be opportunities for extraordinary photographs. Once in Tangkahan we will visit the elephant rescue center and witness the extraordinary “elephant bathing” experience: we will go to the river and each person will be given the opportunity to enter the water and brush the pachyderm. Everyone who has approached this experience has said “I thought it was something for low-level tourists, I had to change my mind: the interaction with the animals is something extraordinary.” Lunch included. Return late afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 7
Morning shooting in the village. After lunch, we will make another trek into Gunung Leuser Park in search of orangutans: at different times of the day the primates are engaged in different actions, so we will have a chance to photograph them in different light and in different situations. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 8
Whole dedicated to exploring the customs and traditions of the local people: first we will take a tuk-tuk ride to a rice plantation, where we will be able to cross paths with and photograph children on their way to school. On the plantations farmers will be at work, often assisted by “buffalos,” the pack animals in these regions. Beautiful photographic situations might happen during these patrols, such as children on bikes carrying chickens or farmers with buffalos crossing rivers. We will also visit an artisanal palm oil plantation, the cross and delight of these territories, and witness how this crop can bring prosperity and problems at the same time. We will then photograph the cane sugar harvest, typical of this period. After lunch (included) and a short rest, we will return to the village where we will witness the afternoon customs: children returning from school, buffalo washing in the river, village life. Return in the late afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay in Bukit Lawang.
Day 9
Last day to “greet” the orangutans: fourth morning or afternoon trek to Gunung Leuser Park for the last shots of these amazing primates.
Day 10
Last morning of shooting at Bukit Lawang village, departure for Kuala Namu airport in time for flights back to Italy. End of field services.
Frequently asked questions and travel information
Who is it aimed at?
The trip is intended for photographers of all levels and skills, beginners or experts. For all participants it will be a unique opportunity to refine various photography techniques and learn new ones. Also an excellent opportunity to have fun in the company of like-minded friends.
Equipment
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No special photographic level is required for this trip and it is possible to participate with any kind of equipment. However, for best results, we recommend a minimum kit consisting of a digital camera body with interchangeable lenses: medium and long focal lengths (24 to 300mm) will be used. Bright fixed lenses will be most useful (70-200 f2.8 or f4, 300mm f2.8 or f4). Superzooms over 400mm not necessary, we are in the jungle, wildlife will never be far behind. Tripod optional, spare batteries (power bank useful) and a photo backpack for carrying equipment. Don’t forget to bring your memory cards, charger, connection cables and a USB flash drive.
With us, you will no longer need a laptop: all review shots will be taken after the trip directly with the photographer on Zoom platform.The trip is suitable for every level of photographer, from those taking their first steps to those who want to refine a technique they already master. It is also an excellent opportunity to have fun with friends with the same passion.
Overnight stay
8 nights with breakfast in shared double bungalow with private facilities in ecolodge in Bukit Lawang. Single occupancy bungalow available, supplement EUR 55/night to be confirmed.
Request for shared room by single travelers is understood to be subject to availability and possibility of finding a companion(s) and may not be a prejudice or constraint.
Climate, documents and useful advice
Warm humid equatorial climate, with less rainy season between May and July. Temperatures always quite high, with highs even above 30 °C, humidity important. There are 12 hours of daylight per day (roughly 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Possible wonderful morning mists and rain showers during the day, so light layered sportswear in neutral colors with an intermediate garment for the dawn hours is recommended. Sport shoes, preferably hiking shoes, wide-brimmed hats, dark glasses and high-protection sunscreen. Mosquito and insect repellents strongly recommended.
How to book
Pay a registration deposit, fully refundable in the event of cancellation of the trip or inability to participate due to new, different and unforeseeable international restrictions at the time of registration. All bank details will be provided directly upon request.
For further information, fill out the form below.
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