Information & FAQs
HOW TO GET HERE
​
We can provide private transport from Medan airport for IDR 700,000 (per journey, not per person).
​
Sam’s bungalows is not accessible by car – only on foot or by motorbike. From the road, the walk is approximately 15 minutes. We have one motorbike available to transport you if you are unable to walk, this is suitable for one passenger only – for more than one guest, motorbike transport is available for around Rp 30,000 per person. We can assist with baggage – please contact us via phone, message or Whatsapp on +62 (0)813 7009 3597.
​
By car
Ask your driver to take you to ‘Terminal Atas’. From the terminal atas, you need to turn left until you reach the riverside path, then turn right and follow the path up-river (do not cross the river). There is one path, so it is not difficult – just keep on the path and you will find us near the end of the path, just before the archway to Jungle Inn.
​
By public bus
From the bus terminal, you need to take a becak (tuktuk) to Terminal Atas (about 2km). This should cost you around Rp 20,000. From the terminal atas, you need to turn left until you reach the riverside path, then turn right and follow the path up-river (do not cross the river). There is one path, so it is not difficult – just keep on the path and you will find us near the end of the path, just before the archway to Jungle Inn.
TRANSPORT
We can provide private transport on request. Prices are shown below. For other destinations please contact us for a quote.
Medan city to Bukit Lawang, one way IDR 700,000
Medan airport to Bukit Lawang one way IDR 700,000
Bukit Lawang to Tangkahan one way IDR 700,000
Bukit Lawang to Tangkahan return IDR 800,000
Bukit Lawang to Berastagi, one way IDR 900,000
Bukit Lawang to Lake Toba, one way IDR 1,400,000
​
PAYMENT
​
Do I need to pay in advance?
We do not ask for a deposit or payment in advance. However, if you wish to do so you can pay in advance by bank transfer – please contact us for more information.
​
How do I pay?
Cash – Rupiah, dollars or euros
Credit card – We accept all major credit cards, but not Maestro or debit. Please be aware that there is a 5% transaction fee when paying by card.
We also accept payment in advance by bank transfer. Please contact us for more information.
​
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
​
Families are welcome at Sam's Bungalows. We can provide an extra bed for a charge of IDR 100,000 per night. Family friendly treks can be arranged.
LOCAL AMENITIES
​
ATM/money changers
There are no ATMs in Bukit Lawang. The nearest ATM is in Bohorok (around 12km). There are several money changers.
Laundry
We provide a laundry service for a fee.
Medical care
There is not 24 hour medical care in Bukit Lawang. In an emergency we can provide transport to the nearest hospital or clinic.
TREKKING
​
Do I need to book in advance?
It is always better to book in advance so that we have time to prepare everything. However, we will always do our best to accommodate last minute requests.
Is trekking suitable for children?
We can tailor treks so that they are suitable for children.
​
What do I need to bring?
We provide sleeping bags, but if you prefer to bring your own that’s fine. We recommend that you bring sandals for wearing around camp, swimwear, a towel, insect repellent, medication, a spare clothing, and a head torch or flashlight.
​
What do I need to wear?
Comfortable walking boots or shoes with good grip. Lightweight trousers and long-sleeved tops are best.
​
Will we see orangutans?
We can never guarantee that you will see orangutans, but our guides are very knowledgeable about the movements of orangutans and will do their very best to make sure that you see them.
​
Trekking for solo travelers
Our prices are based on a minimum of 2 people. For solo travelers, there are two options:
1. You can pay for 2 people, and trek alone.
2. We can find you another trekking group to join, and therefore you pay the fee for 1 person. We cannot guarantee that there will be a group you can join, but we will always do our very best and there is a good chance that we will be able to find a suitable group.
We would prefer a private trek without joining another group
The maximum group size we take on any trek would be 6 people. If you prefer a private trek, there will be an additional charge of 20 euros per person
​
Dietary requirements
We can cater for vegetarians and vegans - please let us know in advance so we can prepare food accordingly. For other dietary requirements, please contact us in advance to discuss.
Can I cancel my trek?
Cancellation the day before the trek = 20% cancellation fee
Cancel on the day = 50% cancellation fee
Change the date day before = free of charge
Change the date on departure day = 20% fee