This is a life changing experience. The people who work at Batu Kapal are some of the nicest, kindest people I have ever met. Without getting too mystical, there is a purity here that is sadly missing in the Western world. Although diving in headlong to every activity can be tough it is so worth it - not just the opportunity to see orangutan, macaque, langurs, butterflies, birds, lizards etc but also the sense of community that is gained from working hard towards a common goal. I am 57 and managed! You will feel incredibly sweaty, hot, bitten and tired but you will also feel fulfilled, lucky, wondrous and joyful all at the same time. Book it now or at least donate to help buy the 5 missing hectares that will create a land corridor to the National Park and keep the orangutan here.

This experience was overall more than I could’ve ever expected it to be. I volunteered with Batu Kapal as a research assistant, and was overjoyed to see orangutans daily and be welcomed by such a wonderful community of people. I will hopefully be back one day, living in the jungle was undoubtedly the best thing I have done throughout SE Asia.

My trip was amazing!! I learnt a lot about Wildlife. Cikananga center is located in a beautiful area. Everything is well organized. Barbara helped me prepare for it ( visa, vaccinations, transportation...) During my stay, the staff supported me with everything (activities, laundry, food...) The accommodation and facilities were comfortable. Highly recommended!!