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BORNEO - THE RED APE TRAIL



In conjunction with the Orang Utan Foundation, this remote trekking route has been established in one of the few remaining orangutan habitats in Borneo. This trek is tough and challenging and only for serious participants.

Local Iban guides from the local communities will take participants through very hilly terrain under the canopy of a dense tropical forest woven with numerous mountain streams. Do not expect luxurious facilities. When it rains, the ground is muddy and slippery and occasionally there may be attacks from hornets.

Participants will be physically and mentally taxed. Apart from the reward of accomplishment, participants will be making a contribution towards the local communities as well as to local conservation efforts.

The Orangutans

The orangutans were one of the first great apes known to the Western world yet for many years, they were the least understood. Often called the neglected ape, they are rarely seen in their natural habitat. Today there are probably fewer than 20,000 orangutans remaining in the wild. Loss of habitat through logging of tropical timber, coupled with commercial agriculture and poaching, have put their existence under threat. These primates who share 97% genetic material with humans are one of man's closest relatives.

The Route

This trek will take you through one of the world's most diverse eco-system and also the refuge of one of the world's most endangered species, the orangutans. Participants on this trek will have a rare opportunity to see these amazing primates (though this can never be a 100% guaranteed). Basic spotting skills and counting of orangutan nests will be taught.

The local Iban guides will share their traditional jungle skills. Visits to longhouse communities will give insights on the local communities' interdependence and interaction with the forest and its wildlife.

Day 1 - Depart from Kuching. Overland to Batang Ai reservoir (41/2 hours). Journey through rural Sarawak, passing pepper gardens, cocoa and rubber plantation. En-route, a few stops will be made. Visit the colourful native market in Serian town where a variety of jungle produce such as edible ferns, bamboo shoots and unusual tropical fruit are on display. Visit a pepper garden and stop by to view wild orchids and several species of pitcher plants. Lunch is taken en route. Upon arrival at the Batang Ai reservoir, transfer onto a longboat for a 1-hour boat ride to Nanga Jelia, your trekking starting point. Hike about 20 minutes to the jungle camp. Following your arrival there will be time for relaxing and swimming. After dinner, join your guide for a jungle night walk. Wildlife that may be spotted include the shy civet cat as well as the more common large toads, frogs and tortoises found in the nearby stream. Overnight at the jungle camp. (L, D)

Day 2 - Trek for about six hours to Pantu Mong jungle camp. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Trek to Sg. Mawang. (B,L, D,)

Day 4 - Trek to Nanga Sumpa Lodge (B,L,D,)

Day 5 - Depart down river by longboatback to Kuching(B,L)

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