Bukit Lawang - Eco Friendly Soap Workshop

Create Natural Artisan Soaps in the Heart of Bukit Lawang

• Learn the art of handcrafted, plant-based soap making in a peaceful village setting surrounded by tropical gardens and the sounds of nature.

• This half-day eco-friendly workshop, hosted by Aini, a passionate local entrepreneur, combines creativity, sustainability, and tradition — giving you the chance to make something beautiful, natural, and meaningful to take home.

• Whether you’re a curious traveler, eco-enthusiast, or artisan at heart, this workshop offers a warm and personal glimpse into Sumatra’s culture of natural living.

Workshop Overview

• Duration: Half-day (approx. 3 hours)

• Schedule: Daily sessions, morning or afternoon

• Group Size: Minimum 2 – Maximum 6 participants

• Location: Traditional homestay in Bukit Lawang (10 minutes from village center)

• Suitable for: Everyone (no experience needed)

Workshop Highlights, Welcome & Introduction.

• Upon arrival at Aini’s charming homestay, you’ll be greeted with a smile and a refreshing organic herbal tea made from local plants.

• Aini will introduce you to the basics of natural soap making and share her inspiring story — how her small-scale, sustainable business supports her family and promotes eco-conscious living in Bukit Lawang.

• Harvesting Natural Ingredients

• Stroll through Aini’s lush organic garden, where you’ll pick fragrant leaves, flowers, and herbs such as lemongrass, hibiscus, pandan, and turmeric.

• You’ll learn how each plant contributes to the color, scent, and healing properties of natural soaps — without synthetic chemicals or artificial dyes.

• This hands-on experience also deepens your appreciation for Sumatra’s native flora and its role in sustainable, local livelihoods.

The Soap-Making Process

• Back in the workshop area, Aini will guide you step-by-step through the traditional cold-press soap-making method, using all-natural ingredients such as:

• Pure coconut oil

• Essential plant extracts

• Natural colorants and herbs

• Distilled water & natural lye (alkali)

• You’ll mix, pour, and shape your own bar of soap — infused with your chosen scent and color. Each participant will make two small soaps to take home, beautifully wrapped and ready as an eco-friendly souvenir.

Relaxation & Reflection

• While your soaps set, enjoy a break with local snacks and organic herbal tea.

• Aini will share tips on eco-living, sustainable home practices, and how small-scale natural businesses like hers help empower women and protect the environment.

• You’ll leave not just with your handmade soaps, but also new knowledge and appreciation for responsible, creative living.

Responsible Tourism & Conservation

• At Sumatra Orangutan Treks, we are proud to collaborate with APES (Aini’s Personal Eco Studio) — a local women-led initiative promoting sustainable, zero-waste living in Bukit Lawang.

• By joining this workshop, you directly:

• Support local women entrepreneurs and creative artisans

• Encourage chemical-free, plant-based production

• Reduce pollution through eco-soap alternatives

• Contribute to environmental education and awareness

• Help promote zero-waste, plastic-free tourism

Workshop Price

• IDR 570,000 / €30 / $34 per person

• (Minimum 2 – Maximum 6 participants)