HOW TO GET TO SUMATRA
Reaching Bukit Lawang is simple and convenient. Located in North Sumatra, this charming riverside village is the main gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the world's most important tropical rainforests and home to the endangered Sumatran orangutan.
Most international visitors arrive via Kuala Namu International Airport (KNO) in Medan. From the airport, the journey to Bukit Lawang takes around 3–4 hours by road, offering beautiful views of North Sumatra's countryside along the way.
With daily international connections through Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Jakarta, traveling to North Sumatra is easy and accessible for visitors from around the world.
Transportation Options
Choose the transportation option that best fits your travel style and budget.
- Private airport or hotel transfer
- Shared tourist minivan
- Local public transportation
- Transfers from Berastagi or Lake Toba
- Comfortable and experienced local drivers
To ensure a smooth arrival, we recommend booking your transfer at least 72 hours before your travel date. Simply send us your flight number, arrival time, pickup location, and preferred departure time.
Welcome to Bukit Lawang
When you arrive in Bukit Lawang, our team will warmly welcome you and help with your luggage. Since most accommodations are located along the riverside, a short walk may be required, and we'll happily escort you to your guesthouse.
From here, your unforgettable rainforest adventure begins. Explore the incredible Gunung Leuser National Park, discover amazing wildlife, and experience one of Indonesia's most extraordinary natural destinations.
FROM MEDAN AIRPORT TO BUKIT LAWANG
1. Public Transportation
Public transportation is the most affordable way to travel from Kuala Namu International Airport to Bukit Lawang. It's a great choice for independent travelers who would like to experience local transportation and don't mind changing buses along the way.
To reach Bukit Lawang by public transportation:
- Take the ALS Airport Bus from Kuala Namu Airport to Binjai.
- Continue by becak (motorized rickshaw) to Tanah Lapang Bus Terminal.
- Take a local bus from Binjai to Bukit Lawang.
- Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours.
- Price: From IDR 80,000 per person.
Bus schedules may change without notice, so we recommend starting your journey early in the day.
2. Shared Tourist Minivan
The shared tourist minivan is the most popular option among international visitors. It offers comfortable transportation with airport or hotel pickup and direct drop-off in Bukit Lawang.
- Airport or hotel pickup available.
- Air-conditioned shared vehicle.
- Daily departures (subject to availability).
- Travel Time: Approximately 3–4 hours.
- Price: IDR 210,000 per person.
- If only one passenger is booked, the minimum charge is for two seats (IDR 420,000).
Shared transportation is ideal for solo travelers and couples looking for a comfortable journey at an affordable price.
3. Private Car Transfer
A private transfer is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bukit Lawang. Your driver will meet you directly at the airport or your hotel and take you straight to your accommodation without any stops.
- Private vehicle exclusively for your group.
- Flexible departure time.
- Suitable for couples, families, or small groups.
- Travel Time: Approximately 3–4 hours.
- Price: From IDR 700,000 per car (maximum 4 passengers).
- Toll road fees are not included.
We recommend booking your transportation at least 72 hours before arrival. Simply send us your flight number, arrival time, and pickup location, and our team will arrange everything for a smooth and comfortable journey to Bukit Lawang.
TO / FROM BERASTAGI, LAKE TOBA
Shared Tourist Transportation
If you're exploring more of North Sumatra, we can help arrange comfortable shared transportation between Bukit Lawang and several popular destinations, including Berastagi, Lake Toba, Singkil, and Banda Aceh.
Our shared tourist minivans are equipped with air conditioning and are designed for travelers looking for an affordable and convenient way to continue their journey across Sumatra.
-
Berastagi ↔ Bukit Lawang
Travel Time: Approximately 3–4 hours.
Price: IDR 230,000 per person. -
Lake Toba (Parapat) ↔ Bukit Lawang
Travel Time: Approximately 8–9 hours.
Price: IDR 270,000 per person.
Pickup and drop-off can be arranged directly from your guesthouse in Bukit Lawang or from selected hotels and meeting points in each destination, making your journey as smooth and convenient as possible.
We recommend reserving your transportation at least 72 hours in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure seat availability.
PRIVATE CAR TRANSFER TO / FROM BERASTAGI & LAKE TOBA
For travelers who prefer comfort, flexibility, and privacy, we offer private car transfers between Bukit Lawang, Berastagi, and Lake Toba. This service is ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want to travel at their own pace without sharing a vehicle with other passengers.
Your professional local driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, guesthouse, airport, or any agreed meeting point and take you safely to your destination in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
-
Berastagi ↔ Bukit Lawang
Travel Time: Approximately 4–5 hours.
Price: IDR 900,000 per vehicle (maximum 6 passengers). -
Lake Toba (Parapat) ↔ Bukit Lawang
Travel Time: Approximately 8–9 hours.
Price: IDR 1,500,000 per vehicle (maximum 6 passengers).
During your journey, the driver can stop for short breaks, including restaurants, coffee shops, ATMs, supermarkets, or scenic viewpoints upon request, making your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
We recommend booking your private transfer at least 72 hours before departure to guarantee vehicle availability, especially during the high season.
SUMATRA ORANGUTAN TOURS
EVERY TREK INCLUDES A DONATION
TO PROTECT THE RAINFOREST AND SUPPORT LOCAL LIVES.
When you choose to trek with us, you’re not just exploring the rainforest
you’re also supporting local people, wildlife protection, and a greener future for Bukit Lawang.
HELPING WHERE IT MATTERS
12% OF OUR EARNINGS SUPPORT ONE IMPACTFUL LOCAL CHARITY
