from 1,508€

Perfect 4.6rating (195)

Orangutan Sanctuary Assistant

location
1 - 3 weeks  ·  Age 17 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Play a role in the rehabilitation of orphaned, injured and displaced orangutans
  • Volunteer in a sanctuary, home to the largest number of rescued orangutans in the world
  • Get the chance to closely observe orangutans and distribute enrichment and nesting materials to them
  • Watch and observe the baby orangutans at their playground after forest school
  • Experience Bornean culture with a hilltop trek through Dayak shrines, a visit to a traditional night market, and enjoy a live music spot at a permaculture farm

Especially good for

Age 17+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Help to care for stunning endangered apes by volunteering at this sanctuary where you will help to provide enrichment and more for the resident orangutans.

Volunteer at this remarkable orangutan sanctuary in Borneo, where you'll be directly involved in the rehabilitation of orphaned, injured, and displaced orangutans. Your support aids orangutans on their long journey back to the wild or creates a safe, enriching environment for those who sadly cannot ...

About the program

Volunteer at this remarkable orangutan sanctuary in Borneo, where you'll be directly involved in the rehabilitation of orphaned, injured, and displaced orangutans. Your support aids orangutans on their long journey back to the wild or creates a safe, enriching environment for those who sadly cannot be released. As one of the world's leading sanctuaries for rescued orangutans, this centre is renowned for its pioneering rehabilitation and release programs. Play a role in the daily care and well-being of orangutans in need, helping to drive one of the most impactful orangutan conservation initiatives and support a critically endangered species.


About The Project


Founded by the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, this orangutan sanctuary is home to over 280 orangutans. Having arrived at the sanctuary as a result of the illegal pet trade or after becoming orphaned, displaced or injured when going in search of food and shelter throughout farmlands – something which occurs as a direct result of mass deforestation in Borneo. The sanctuary's main aim is to rehabilitate the apes and release them back into protected rainforests where they belong. Due to trauma and injuries, this is not always possible for some of the orangutans, and in this case, the sanctuary provides a forever home. Volunteers play an important role in the process by creating enrichment for the orangutans, helping to encourage natural behaviours and practising vital skills (usually learned in forest school) that they'll need if released in the wild.


As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to watch and observe orangutans at various stages in the rehabilitation process. Whether it be juveniles enjoying their playground after a day in orangutan jungle school or watching the adults put their wild skills to the test on the pre-release islands where the apes reside during their final stretch of rehabilitation – watching these intelligent primates thrive after a turbulent start to life is an emotional journey. You'll also have a chance to soak up some Bornean culture on a few excursions, such as a visit to a traditional night market, a permaculture farm with live music, and a hilltop hike among Dayak shrines.


Prior To Arrival


  • You must ensure your passport is valid for at least 8 months from your project start date to gain entry into Indonesia.
  • You will need to obtain a Volunteer Visa (C6B) before arriving in Indonesia. This permits a visit of up to 60 days and costs approximately US$250. We will provide all the necessary documentation you require once booked.
  • You will need to organise flights which arrive at Palangkaraya Airport between 9am and 5pm. If this is not possible, you will need to arrive the day before and book an additional night's stay in a nearby hotel. Most international flights will arrive at Jakarta International Airport, where you can catch a domestic flight to Palangkaraya.
  • Also, medical tests are required to join this project.  You must provide evidence that you do not have Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and TB before arrival.

During Your Stay


We are often asked whether or not volunteers will have the chance to touch or play with the orangutans while on this project. Our answer to this question is, and will always be, no, and this is for good reason. 


Orangutans are highly susceptible to human diseases, and something as minor as the common cold can prove fatal to a baby orangutan. Also, an environment of constant change, with new volunteers arriving and leaving the project every two or four weeks and being in contact with the orangutans, would be very detrimental to the orangutans' well-being. With no consistency in their lives, behavioural problems arise. They also tend to begin to trust humans, which is damaging if they are released back into the wild, as they will become easy targets for poachers. Finally, an orangutan is around 7 times stronger than an adult male human, so a no-contact policy is just as crucial for your safety as the orangutans' welfare.


That is not to say that as a volunteer, you will have no interaction with the orangutans; it simply means that you will have no direct contact with them. You will still observe them daily and see how your contribution makes a real difference in the orangutans' lives.



Typical day

Arrival

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the sanctuary by a project representative. You will then settle in and get to know your fellow volunteers before a brief orientation by the project facilitator.


Project Days

A typical day will involve morning and afternoon activities with ...

Typical day

Arrival

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the sanctuary by a project representative. You will then settle in and get to know your fellow volunteers before a brief orientation by the project facilitator.


Project Days

A typical day will involve morning and afternoon activities with breakfast, lunch and dinner provided. Enrichment will be the primary activity you will complete on this project, but you will also participate in many other exciting activities! Take a look below to see what you could be involved in as a volunteer at this orangutan sanctuary.


Enrichment

Enrichment is at the heart of this project, and as a volunteer, you'll play a key role in crafting and distributing various enrichment items like hammocks, ice treats, coconut husks, and bamboo goodies. You'll also gather leaves and branches for the orangutans to build their nightly nests. This enrichment promotes natural behaviours, reduces stress, and keeps up the essential skills they'll need for release back into the wild.


Orangutan Observation

You'll embark on two river cruises around the orangutan islands, where orangutans in the final stages of rehabilitation practice their forest skills before being released into the wild. From the boat, you'll spot these remarkable apes, learn about the rehabilitation work of the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOSF), and get to know some of the orangutans' personalities. Later in your itinerary, you'll head deeper into the jungle with the technicians to observe the apes up close and witness their behaviours firsthand!


Observe Orangutans at Baby Playground

If you're a fan of the TV series Orangutan Jungle School, you'll treasure the chance to quietly watch the baby orangutans returning from a day at forest school. From a respectful distance, you'll see them unwind on their playground - possibly one you helped build - after a day filled with learning and play. This is an enriching experience where you'll witness the early stages of rehabilitation.


Construction and Maintenance

Volunteers frequently help with construction and repairs that are needed at the sanctuary. This typically involves building platforms and play structures for the orangutan playground! With a new island being developed for orangutans unable to return to the wild, upcoming projects will include constructing feeding and observation platforms. Whether you're building or maintaining, your work will enhance the lives of the orangutans for years to come.


Reforestation & Tree Care

Human-driven habitat loss is the main reason orangutans rely on the care provided by BOSF, which is why volunteers participate in reforestation and tree care efforts. Whether restoring a degraded forest patch or planting on new orangutan islands, you'll be essential in reviving areas where native trees are needed. You'll also support young saplings by watering, mulching, and clearing invasive weeds.


Veterinary Clinic Tour

A fascinating tour of the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary's veterinary clinic, led by the renowned Dr Arga (featured in Orangutan Jungle School), offers volunteers a unique educational experience. Dr Arga will share valuable insights into BOSF's operations, the common health challenges orangutans face, the urgent threats to their survival, and the extensive care and rehabilitation efforts in place.


Bukit Tangkiling

Volunteers embark on a journey to Bukit Tangkiling to experience local culture and enjoy a picturesque hike up the hillside. As you climb the terrain, you'll come across various traditional Dayak shrines, culminating in breathtaking views of the expansive primary rainforest below. You'll explore the legend of Bukit Tangkiling and visit a small Hindu temple, immersing yourself in the local way of life.


Traditional Night Market

One evening, you'll explore a traditional local night market. With few tourists present, you'll have a unique chance to interact with locals, browse colourful stalls, and savour authentic regional dishes. This market serves as a hub for residents to shop for their daily essentials and groceries, providing a genuine insight into the heart of Indonesian culture and lifestyle.


Coconut Café

While participating in the project, you'll visit a permaculture and sustainable farm, and it's onsite cafe. As you gather coconut husks to create enrichment items for the orangutans, you'll have the opportunity to explore the farm and taste delicious treats like stingless bee honey and coconut brownies! Additionally, the café is a venue for live music, so you can relax with your sustainable snacks while enjoying a local performance!


Free-time activities

Volunteers will have some free time during the itinerary. Use this time to take in your remote jungle surroundings, take a trip to the village shop, or simply sit with a good book. Beer can be purchased at the sanctuary at the expense of the volunteer during your free time, but it can only be ...

Free-time activities

Volunteers will have some free time during the itinerary. Use this time to take in your remote jungle surroundings, take a trip to the village shop, or simply sit with a good book. Beer can be purchased at the sanctuary at the expense of the volunteer during your free time, but it can only be consumed within the volunteer accommodation. We kindly request that volunteers do not pack alcohol from home, particularly with regards to spirits.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 17 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 17 years old on the program start date.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (intermediate level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

No specific skills are required to join this project, however, there are some physical activities involved. Therefore we ask volunteers have a moderate level of fitness.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by The Great Projects

What’s Included? 
  • Three meals per day
  • Accommodation
  • Drinking water
  • Airport transfers
  • River cruise
  • Hilltop trek
  • Visit to the night market
  • Conservation donation
What's Not Included?
  • All flights
  • Visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Snacks
  • Alcohol and soft drinks

Airport Pickup at Tjilik Riwut Airport

You will need to organise flights which arrive into Palangkaraya Airport between 9am and 5pm. If this is not possible, you will need to arrive the day before and book an additional night’s stay in a nearby hotel. Most international flights will arrive into Jakarta International Airport, from where you can catch a domestic flight to Palangkaraya. Upon arrival, you will be met by a project representative and transferred to the project base. You will also be escorted back to the airport by project staff on the day of your departure.

Accommodation

You will be staying in a traditional style long house based on a twin share same sex basis. Each room is fit with its own western style bathroom, mosquito net, fan and bed linen but please bring your own towel. A communal kitchen and social area is available for the use of all volunteers. One double room for couples is also available but this is on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Food & Beverages

3 meals a day along with drinking water is provided throughout your time on the project. Volunteers will prepare breakfast together which will consist of staples such as toast, cereals, eggs and noodles. Lunch will be prepared for you, consisting of tasty typical Indonesian food, like rice, noodles and fried vegetables. Vegetarians/vegans can be catered for, but please be sure to let us know in advance so we can assure your dietary needs can be accommodated in time for your arrival. 

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Tjilik Riwut Airport (PKY) in Palangkaraya. We assist you to find cheap flights to Indonesia. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Indonesia provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Indonesia you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Indonesia. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

This project is extremely popular, with dates getting fully booked up to 6 months in advance. We therefore recommend that you secure your place as early as possible to ensure that you can join on your preferred start date.

This project has set start dates, all of which fall on a Sunday and can be found below.


Start Dates for a 12-Night Duration

In 2025 - March 30th, April 13th, April 27th, May 11th, June 1st, June 15th, June 29th, July 13th, August 3rd, August 17th, August 31st, September 14th

In 2026 - Feb 22nd, March 8th, March 29th, April 12th, April 26th, May 10th, May 31st, June 14th, June 28th, July 12th, August 2nd, August 16th, August 30th, September 13th, October 4th, October 18th, November 1st, November 15th


Start Dates for a 26-Night Duration

 In 2025 - March 30th, April 27th, June 1st, June 29th, August 3rd, August 31st

In 2026 - Feb 22nd, March 29th, April 26th, May 31st, June 28th, August 2nd, August 30th, October 4th, November 1st


All start dates are subject to availability. Please contact us to check whether your preferred start date is still available! 

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

1 week 6 days (min. stay) 1,508€
3 weeks 2,013€
3 weeks 6 days (max. stay) 2,392€
Average fees 716€/week

Program fees

716€ per week 1 - 3 weeks Age 17 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 3 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with The Great Projects during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

The Great Projects

Perfect 4.6 rating (195 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Lauren

Spoken languages: English

About the project

The Great Projects work with organisations worldwide to establish high standards in animal welfare and conservation within the responsible tourism sector.

Meet your organization

Looking to volunteer abroad with animals? Here at The Great Projects we believe that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.

It all began with The Great Orangutan Project in Malaysian Borneo and after a number of years working with local authorities, passionate project facilitators, and hard-working volunteers to create a sustainable, progressive, and effective project - The Great Projects decided to use the experiences and knowledge we had gained to expand our expertise to other projects in Asia, Africa, South America and Europe!

Now with over 35 projects, you can be confident in the fact that you’ll be able to volunteer with some of the world's most incredible wildlife species in completely breath-taking environments. From orangutans in the Bornean rainforest to whale sharks in the Indian Ocean; you’re sure to find something suited to your interests. What’s more, The Great Projects make sure that with us, volunteers are completely immersed into the heart of the matter, at site, delivering an experience like no other as you become familiar with the life of an animal keeper, game ranger, or wildlife conservationist.

Plus, every time someone volunteers with The Great Projects  in addition to their fee which covers accommodation, food, and transfers, we donate up to £350 to the project visited to help the project itself. Therefore, our ecotours and projects are not only designed to be an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life, but you will also join a project knowing that your travel truly does help to save endangered animals and the local communities with which they live alongside.

Here at The Great Projects, we believe that we should practice what we preach. We send volunteers to worldwide destinations on a range of truly unique and thoroughly worthwhile projects that make a real, sustainable difference to their causes. What’s more, The Great Projects provide them with dedicated UK-based staff that ensure volunteers have informative and friendly help throughout all stages of their experience, from initial enquiry to their return.

Through this, we can show volunteers that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.


Further, The Great Projects does not only aim to provide travel destinations that hold responsibility for animal welfare, but also to the environmental, economic and social impact of our conservation projects as a whole.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Here at The Great Projects, we are completely dedicated to providing our volunteers with the utmost protection with regards to health and safety.

Adventurous travel always involves some degree of risk. Our priority is to keep you safe and protect you as much as possible whilst still giving you an authentic experience of life in your chosen destination.

We conduct extensive risk assessments to make sure we have identified potential hazards and done everything we can to reduce them and we make sure you have the information you need about the destination you are visiting and how to stay safe and healthy while you are out there. We also are partnered with Endsleigh Insurance who are able to offer volunteers comprehensive insurance for all of our projects.

195 reviews · rating4.6

Godelieve Meuris rating5

2024 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

Een ongelooflijke ervaring om deel te mogen uitmaken van dit centrum waar de nood voor hulp zeer hoog is, de hitte de vochtigheid, de regen het soms harde werk is snel vergeten bij de belevingen die men heeft, een fijne groep vrijwilligers maakt het geheel af ...
Renato Bruno rating5

2024 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

It was a fantastic experience with lots of new impressions. Dom the responsible person for the volunteers is an amazing person with a fantastic humor and is well conected and is always very helpful. The people in the group are all coming from different countries worldwide and it was just wonderful ...
Petra Noordanus rating5

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

My experience with The Great Project is very good! I had a great time at Naankusé Wildlife Sanctuary. Everything was well organized and when we had changes to our arrival time at the last minute, this was arranged immediately. I recommend The Great ...
Patrick Bloomfield rating5

2024 at Wildlife Reserve Big Five Conservation

As per the title, what an amazing & rewarding experience! Our day-to-day work included clearing alien plants, removing fencing from an old corral, community involvement such as re-building a jungle gym, revitalising a vegetable garden (& playing with the local kids!). We were also privileged enough ...
Natascha Zeiler rating5

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

It was the best experience in my whole life. I will definitely return to see those great and special people living and working there again. I met so many great people from around the world. These two weeks were absolutely awesome. ..
Lily Valentin rating4.8

2024 at Samboja Lestari Orangutan Sanctuary

This being my first-ever volunteer project, I was unsure of what to expect. Leading up to the trip, the team was communicative and organized. As impending deadlines approached, they reached out with reminders. They replied via email within a day or two when support was needed. On-site, Kate's ...

Location

Asia > South East Asia > Indonesia > Kalimantan Tengah

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