In these extraordinary times we receive a lot of questions from our guests. Please understand that we are currently not able to give you a concrete answer to every question and that some consultations with partners and hotels on site may take longer. However, we would like to assure you that we are doing our best!
The whole situation for us as a tour operator is quite tough. We had to cancel all round tours for March and April and had to refund many thousands of Euros. However, for my partner Safrol as well as the locals on site in Bukit Lawang, as in many tourist places around the world, it is even harder. Since no tourists come, almost all locals there are unemployed. Even the palm oil and rubber plantations are closed. I think it will certainly drag on into May and June – start of the main season for Sumatra.
We have also refrained from reclaiming money from hotels that have already been paid for and instead left it as a voucher for later bookings, in order to help the local locals a little.
Current entry requirements
Since April 2, 2020, there has been a ban on entry of foreign nationals into Indonesia. This includes entry for transit purposes. Exceptions exist for diplomats and foreign nationals with KITAS/KITAP, provided that the medical requirements for entry are met. Please check the website of the ministry of foreign affairs from your home country for the latest updates.
Solidarity with local businesses
On this occasion we ask you for solidarity with all local homestays, small tour operators or tour guides in Sumatra and elsewhere. Due to the Corona crisis many locals are threatened in their existence. Please, if possible, do not demand back your deposits at the moment. Ask if you can rebook to a later date or get a voucher that you can redeem later. In this way you help all those affected to be able to pay for at least the most necessary things. Or even see your bookings as a small donation.
Moderat cancellation conditions
Due to the current situation we have adapted our cancellation conditions. If you are unable to start your round trip due to flight cancellations, you have the following options:
- Cancellation: You can also cancel normally at short notice and get a full refund.
- Postponement of the trip: You postpone the trip to a later date and leave the amount already paid with us. This way we can support locals on site and hopefully welcome you as guests soon. The rebooking is of course free of charge and we guarantee the price for 2 years.
No matter what you decide, we accept any opinion.
What happens to trips with later dates
For journeys and flights which have not yet been cancelled by the service providers, our standard terms and conditions with the corresponding conditions apply until further notice.
You want to do good?
As already mentioned, the current situation on site in Bukit Lawang is devastating, as in many tourist places. In the following, you will find projects and fundraising activities with which you can directly do good on site.
Fundraising for locals in Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang Trust Edcation Center