Volunteer with us
Gain invaluable experience, connect with nature, and build a new future.
The Ibu Bumi Orangutan organisation has the mission of protecting the rainforest through sustainable economic development, education and wildlife protection programs. To achieve our goals, we have several activities on the ground in collaboration with the rangers from Gunung Leuser NP and USU (University of North Sumatra).
We offer the opportunity to learn in the field and share knowledge, engage with the local community, and develop a range of valuable skills.
This type of volunteering is aimed at people of all ages and families who are 100% able to adapt to work and life in the field.
We are looking for individuals who:
Are passionate
Have a sense of adventure
Are interested in wildlife and nature conservation
Have skills to share
Are resourceful and resilient
Our Volunteer Programs
We have two volunteer programs currently active. The activities listed on the following slides are a guide to what you could be doing; however, this will also depend on the time of year you are joining us and the needs of the organisation at that time.
Option 1: Wildlife Conservation and Research Program (1 month)
Option 2: Jungle Enclave Immersion: 7-Day Conservation Experience
At the end of your volunteer term, you will receive a certificate of attendance, which can be a valuable addition to your resume. If you wish to extend your stay, you must inform our organisation.
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Wildlife Conservation and Research Program - 1 month
This is the perfect option for those wishing to build up real-world conservation and research experience. You will get to spend a week alongside experienced guides in Gunung Leuser NP tracking through tiger territory, exploring the forest, and conducting vital monitoring and research activities. You will also spend 5 days in the wildlife corridor tracking elephants before returning to Sapo Padang to help with educational, agroforestry, ecotourism and other community service activities.
The site where we work is an enclave on the middle of Gunung Leuser National Park at Bahorok. This agroforestry and research program is essential for the conservation of endangered species such as the Sumatran elephants and tigers that live in that area.
Volunteer activities include:- Monitoring wild elephants
Helping the local economy through the ecotourism program
- Children’s educational programs (English and environmental education)
- Trashbank program and organic composting project
- Wildlife mitigation initiatives
€2500 for 1 month
Includes: Activities, NP entry and permits, guides, porters, water and food, special shoes for the forest (from size 36-42), and all transport during the activities.
Excluded: Airport pick up, visa, flights, personal items, insurance or local doctor
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Jungle Enclave Immersion: 7-Day Conservation Experience
For those who are travelling through, or don’t have the time to spend an entire month with us. This is a great way to explore the incredible forest and immerse yourself in community life! Below is an example itinerary of what you may expect. Please note that activities always depend on weather conditions and needs of the organisation at the time.
Day 1: Arrival & Acclimation - Pick-up in Bahorok and transfer to your home base in Selang Pangeran. Settle in, relax, meet your team, and enjoy an introductory walk to familiarize yourself with the area and the mission ahead.
Day 2: The Expedition Begins - If the weather permits, embark on an exhilarating 4-hour motorbike journey deep into the jungle to the remote Sapo Padang enclave. Arrive, set up the forest homestay, and immediately begin the essential tasks: fetching water, gathering firewood, and preparing supplies for your four-day vigil in the forest.
Days 3-5: Enclave Immersion - Four full days dedicated to the core mission. You'll work alongside local guides on wildlife monitoring patrols and assist with sustainable agroforestry initiatives around the enclave. This is where you connect directly with conservation efforts, helping to protect this critical habitat.
Day 6: A final morning in Sapo Padang before making the journey back to Batu Katak village. Spend the night in our comfortable Guesthouse, enjoying a well-deserved meal and reflecting on your time within the forest.
Day 7: Departure - Departure from the Guesthouse.
€550 per week
Includes: Activities, permits, guides, porters, water and food, special shoes for the forest (from size 36-42), and all transport during the activities.
Excluded: Airport pick up, visa, flights, personal items, insurance or local doctor
Looking for an internship as part of your studies?
There are possibilities for students who have completed their studies and need an internship to do it with us or those looking for opportunities to gain field experience for their masters thesis.
““I have recently returned to Indonesia after 35 years. Just spend one week as a volunteer to support the education program and wildlife conservation. Life here is about being more rather than having more. The wildlife is spectacular. Thank you for a wonderful experience. ”
““If what you are looking for is wild nature, I totally recommend it””
