Pre-Trip Checklist: Bukit Lawang

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline for a smooth journey.

Your Planning Timeline

Steps to consider months, weeks, and days before departure.

Three Months Out

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure).

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Medan (KNO).

Health Consult

Consult doctor for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

One Month Out

Visa Confirmation

Apply for e-Visa (if applicable) or confirm visa-free entry.

Accommodation & Tours

Book accommodation and jungle trek with reputable guides.

Transfers & Insurance

Arrange airport transfers and purchase travel insurance.

One Week Out

Booking Confirmations

Confirm all bookings (flights, accommodation, treks, transfers).

Packing & Funds

Pack bags. Withdraw local currency (IDR) in Medan.

Digital & Home Prep

Download offline maps/apps. Notify bank. Inform family/friends. Secure home.

Required Bookings

Secure these arrangements in advance for a smooth trip.

Reservations

International and any domestic flights.
Bukit Lawang accommodation.
Jungle trek and major tours (e.g., Tangkahan day trip).
Airport transfers to and from Bukit Lawang.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowledge strengthens your experience.

Smart Research

Familiarize yourself with ethical orangutan viewing guidelines.
Read recent traveler reviews for guesthouses and guides.
Learn basic Indonesian phrases; a little effort goes a long way.
Prepare home (mail, pets, security).

Home Preparation

Steps before you lock up and leave.

Mail & Pets

Hold your mail or arrange neighbor collection.
Arrange pet care if needed.

Security & Contacts

Notify neighbors or trusted friends of travel dates.
Secure your home (lock windows, doors, set alarms).

Digital Readiness

Download offline maps and translation apps.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Final Thought on Preparation

A well-prepared traveler truly enjoys the journey.

Arrival Checklist

Immediate steps upon arrival for a smooth transition.

First Steps

1
Complete immigration procedures at Medan Kualanamu International Airport (KNO).
2
Collect luggage from baggage claim.
3
Exchange currency or withdraw cash from an ATM at KNO (best place).

Initial Setup

Purchase a local SIM card (Telkomsel recommended).
Meet your pre-arranged transfer or find public/shared transport.
Upon arrival at guesthouse, orient yourself with village layout.

Orientation & Logistics

Village Orientation

Locate the river, nearby restaurants, and national park path.

Currency & Purchases

Exchange rates are generally better in larger cities like Medan.

Initial purchases in Bukit Lawang: bottled water, snacks, local meal.

Transfer Details

Confirm transfer type and meeting point at KNO.

Ensure driver has your guesthouse name and location.

Traveler's Note on Arrivals

Careful planning for arrival streamlines your entry into Bukit Lawang.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure in advance to avoid last-minute complications.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy souvenirs well before departure day; options are limited.
No direct shipping services in Bukit Lawang.
For larger items, arrange shipping from Medan.
Ensure cultural appropriateness of purchases.

Departure Timing

Factor in 3-4 hours travel time from Bukit Lawang to KNO.
Add buffer for potential traffic delays.
Arrive at airport 2-3 hours before international flight.
Depart Bukit Lawang early to meet airport times.

Important Travel Advisories

Be aware of these critical travel details.

VAT Refunds Not Applicable

No Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists in Indonesia.
Purchased goods are not eligible for refunds.
No special tax forms.
Plan purchases accordingly.

Return Trip Final Steps

Confirm onward flights and accommodation arrangements.
Ensure your passport and all travel documents are easily accessible.
Recheck luggage weight limits for your departing flight.
Double-check all departure details.

Well-Prepared Departure

A well-prepared traveler truly enjoys the journey more.

Pre-Trip Checklist