Responsible Tourism in the Heart of Sumatra’s Rainforest

Bukit Lawang, a small village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, has long been known as the gateway to tropical rainforest adventures and encounters with Sumatran orangutans. But behind its beauty, Bukit Lawang also stands as a real example of how tourism can become a force for conservation — when practiced ethically and sustainably.

📌 Common Issues Often Found in Bukit Lawang

Due to a lack of awareness, knowledge, and proper guidance from some tour guides, the following issues are still frequently observed:

1. 🦧 Tourists Feeding Orangutans

Although prohibited, many tourists still offer bananas or other food to orangutans. Impact:

• Disrupts their natural behavior

• Increases risk of disease transmission

• Creates dependency on humans

Solution:

• Guides must be firm and educational

• Install warning signs along trekking routes

• Launch “Observe, Don’t Touch” campaigns

2. 🗑️ Plastic Waste Along Trekking Trails

Water bottles, snack wrappers, and single-use plastics are often left behind. Impact:

• Pollutes the forest

• Harms wildlife

• Diminishes the nature experience

Solution:

• Promote “Carry Your Trash Back” campaigns

• Provide refill stations for drinking water

• Encourage use of reusable bottles

3. 🏘️ Environmentally Unfriendly Homestays

Some accommodations still use harmful chemicals, fail to separate waste, or discharge waste into rivers. Impact:

• Water and soil pollution

• Disruption of local ecosystems

• Negative impression for eco-conscious travelers

Solution:

• Introduce eco-certification for homestays

• Train owners in waste management

• Offer incentives for sustainable practices

4. 🌳 Tourists Participating in Tree Planting

On the positive side, many tourists are enthusiastic about joining tree planting programs as part of their tour. Benefits:

• Direct education on conservation

• Real contribution to forest restoration

• Meaningful experience for visitors

Solution:

• Expand tree planting programs

• Document and report impact regularly

• Collaborate with schools and local communities

✨ Tourism That Makes a Positive Impact

Bukit Lawang is not just a place to see orangutans — it’s a space to learn about harmony between humans and nature. By choosing ethical and eco tourism, we not only enjoy the beauty of Sumatra, but also help protect its future.

“Every step in Bukit Lawang’s rainforest can be a footprint of change — if we walk with heart.”