Tips for responsible jungle trekking.

We have all experienced that feeling of calm that nature can bring. That sudden rush of bliss when we leave the chaos of daily life behind, and we feel a million miles from our responsibilities. Jungle Trekking is the perfect way to detox from our life of technology and restore balance within. However, how can we make sure we do not have a negative impact on the jungle?

With the help of our experienced local guide, we have come up with these top tips to help you trek responsibly.

1- Do not litter

It may seem obvious, but litter does not only consist of plastic. Here are Jungle-discovery we follow the saying "take only photos leave only footprints". We also need to be concious not to throw; cigarette ends, bottle tops, left-over fruit or food and definitely no plastic bottles.

We offer the unique opportunity to purchase a filter water bottle before your trek as an ecological solution to plastic water bottles. Each filter can last up to 4 weeks, so you can enjoy not only saving the environment but also saving money for the rest of your trip.

2- Be Mindful

There is not need to rush in the jungle. Take your time to enjoy each moment, try to keep noise levels low. This will help increase your chances of seeing wildlife and also not disturbing the natural calm of the jungle.

3- Limit your use of unnatural smells

It is not necessary to wear perfume or strong deoderant while in the jungle. Try and find natural or odorless options. Most tourists require the use of mosquito repellent while in the jungle, however, be aware that DEET is highly toxic, so it is very important to avoid animals touching you. Even better, use environmentaly friendly mosquito spray. Traditionally locals use ..... ask your guide for more information.

4- Look but do not touch

During the 1960's Bukit Lawang ran a successful rehabilitation project designed to reintroduce captured orangutans back into the wild. Although these orangutans were trained to live once again in the wild, they still are very familiar with humans and sometimes come closer than a wild orangutan would allow.

Avoid touching wildlife at all costs. It is not only dangerous because of the chemicals we might have on our skin, but it is also damaging as it can change the behaviour and encourage animals to come closer to people.

Semi-wild orangutans sighted in Gunung Leuser National Park