6
Exodus Travels Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE Sales & Reservations: 0845 863 9626 E-mail: [email protected] PRIMATES AND DRAGONS OF INDONESIA HIGHLIGHTS Sumatra - Indonesia's least visited, but most spectacular big island Gunung Leuser N.P. rainforest and orang-utans Climb Mt. Sibayak volcano Two days tracking Komodo dragons Ubud, the heart of Bali's artistic community SUMMARY Combining two of Indonesia's best wildlife experiences this trip takes in the islands of Sumatra and Bali as well as the archipelago of Komodo National Park. Sumatra with its magnificent natural landscapes is probably the best place in the world to view wild orang-utans and is an essential stop for any wildlife trip to Indonesia. Gunung Leuser National Park, home to thousands of orang-utans, is where we start our adventure. Wild orang-utans are only found in Borneo and Sumatra and some scientists claiming that they are mankind's closest relative. From our base at Bukit Lawang meaning 'door to the hills' we have easy access to the jungle where there are wild animals alongside the many semi- wild animals in and around the rehabilitation centre. Komodo National Park is the only place where Komodo dragons can be photographed in the wild, and despite their size and fearsome reputation owing to their razor sharp teeth and venomous bite this is very easily done. They hunt and ambush their prey including invertebrates, birds and mammals, while the diet of the bigger dragons consists of deer, as well as considerable amounts of carrion. The Komodo dragons use their tongues to detect, taste, and smell, as with many other reptiles, with the help of a favourable wind and their habit of swinging their heads from side to side as they walk; they can detect carrion from 9 kilometres away. They are now protected under Indonesian law, and the national park, was set up to aid their protection. Whilst visiting the national park there is time to snorkel on colourful coral reefs where turtles are frequently spotted, and, if lucky, Manta rays. Indonesia is part of the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' and the mighty forces raging beneath the earth's surface exert themselves upon this land with geothermal activity in the form of steam vents. Billowing sulphur fumes, hot springs and steaming mud pools can also be seen around the volcano of Mt Sibayak which we will climb. Ubud located in the cool mountains, is a traditional country town, the home of the Balinese Royal family and a flourishing arts centre and is a fitting end to our adventure. Trip Code: WOZ (AOZ) Country: Indonesia Amended: October 2013 Edition No: TH 1 2014 Valid from: 1 Jan - 31 Dec 2014 TRIP NOTES

PRIMATES AND DRAGONS OF INDONESIA TRIP NOTES · Komodo National Park is the only place where Komodo dragons can be photographed in the wild, and despite their size and fearsome reputation

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Page 1: PRIMATES AND DRAGONS OF INDONESIA TRIP NOTES · Komodo National Park is the only place where Komodo dragons can be photographed in the wild, and despite their size and fearsome reputation

Exodus Travels

Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE

Sales & Reservations: 0845 863 9626 E-mail: [email protected]

PRIMATES AND DRAGONS OF INDONESIA

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sumatra - Indonesia's least visited, but most spectacular

big island

• Gunung Leuser N.P. rainforest and orang-utans

• Climb Mt. Sibayak volcano

• Two days tracking Komodo dragons

• Ubud, the heart of Bali's artistic community

SUMMARY

Combining two of Indonesia's best wildlife experiences this trip

takes in the islands of Sumatra and Bali as well as the archipelago of

Komodo National Park.

Sumatra with its magnificent natural landscapes is probably the

best place in the world to view wild orang-utans and is an essential

stop for any wildlife trip to Indonesia. Gunung Leuser National Park,

home to thousands of orang-utans, is where we start our adventure.

Wild orang-utans are only found in Borneo and Sumatra and some

scientists claiming that they are mankind's closest relative. From our

base at Bukit Lawang meaning 'door to the hills' we have easy access

to the jungle where there are wild animals alongside the many semi-

wild animals in and around the rehabilitation centre.

Komodo National Park is the only place where Komodo dragons can

be photographed in the wild, and despite their size and fearsome

reputation owing to their razor sharp teeth and venomous bite this

is very easily done. They hunt and ambush their prey including

invertebrates, birds and mammals, while the diet of the bigger

dragons consists of deer, as well as considerable amounts of carrion.

The Komodo dragons use their tongues to detect, taste, and smell,

as with many other reptiles, with the help of a favourable wind and

their habit of swinging their heads from side to side as they walk; they

can detect carrion from 9 kilometres away. They are now protected

under Indonesian law, and the national park, was set up to aid their

protection. Whilst visiting the national park there is time to snorkel

on colourful coral reefs where turtles are frequently spotted, and, if

lucky, Manta rays.

Indonesia is part of the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' and the mighty forces

raging beneath the earth's surface exert themselves upon this land

with geothermal activity in the form of steam vents. Billowing sulphur

fumes, hot springs and steaming mud pools can also be seen around

the volcano of Mt Sibayak which we will climb. Ubud located in

the cool mountains, is a traditional country town, the home of the

Balinese Royal family and a flourishing arts centre and is a fitting end

to our adventure.

Trip Code: WOZ (AOZ)

Country: Indonesia

Amended: October 2013

Edition No: TH 1 2014

Valid from: 1 Jan - 31 Dec 2014

TRIP NOTES

Page 2: PRIMATES AND DRAGONS OF INDONESIA TRIP NOTES · Komodo National Park is the only place where Komodo dragons can be photographed in the wild, and despite their size and fearsome reputation

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IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?

This holiday is designed so that you can see the two main wildlife

highlights of Indonesia in a relatively short period of time. There is

plenty to see in the time you are there, and although there is a lot of

travelling involved, everything is scheduled so that it doesn't feel too

rushed. On most travel days the average travelling time is between

4-6 hours, though the day we go from Berastagi to Sanur via Medan

and Jakarta is a full day. There is plenty of time for sightseeing and

the trip has stops where we spend two or more nights.

The wildlife tracking on this trip should not be too hard for anyone

who is reasonably fit though conditions on the trek in Bukit Lawang

(3hrs one day and 2nd optional 6hr trek the next) can be muddy and

humid and takes place on mountainous terrain. Most walks around

the islands of Komodo and Rinca are a few hours.

When we visit Komodo National Park we spend one night on the boat

where the sleeping arrangements are fairly basic, being dorm-style.

Many people, however, enjoy sleeping on the deck under the stars

and find this to be a highlight of their trip.

LAND ONLY ITINERARY

The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the meals included

(B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner).

Day 1 (Day 2 Ex London) To Bukit Lawang

Those not flying with the group from London will meet the tour

leader at the airport at 0900h (subject to change - see Final Joining

Instructions) and will then meet the rest of the group there. From

the airport we drive to Bukit Lawang (approx. 4 hours) on the edge

of Gunung Leuser National Park. The afternoon is free to simply

relax. Bukit Lawang is one of the most accessible places to spot

orang-utans, thanks to an orang-utan conservation programme

that has been operating on the eastern edge of the park since the

1970s. The national park is one of the orang-utan's last remaining

strongholds, with more than 5000 animals thought to be living in the

wild. Sumatran elephants, Sumtran rhinos and Sumatran tigers are

all also found in the park, though very rarely seen. The village is very

attractive, built along one side of the river; relaxing at the river side

it is not uncommon to see wild orang-utans come down to the water

to drink. Time permitting there is an impressive bat cave that can be

visited today (if time does not permit we'll have the opportunity to

visit it tomorrow), access involves some scrambling and a torch will

be needed. (B)

Day 2 (Day 3 Ex London) Gunung Leuser N.P. and Bohorok Orang-

utan Centre

This morning we will head into the Gunung Leuser National Park

which is one of the two remaining habitats for Sumatran orang-utans.

This is one of the largest national parks in the world, containing over

800,000 hectares of virgin rainforest. We will spend time with our

guide and have an opportunity to explore the trails, searching for

orang-utans and other wildlife. Whilst the Organ-utan rehabilitation

centre no longer exists, semi-wild orang-utans who still can't fully

fend for themselves are fed twice a day. We will visit one of these

feeding sessions. We get the opportunity to see these incredible

relations of ours close-up and learn about the very real threats to

their continued existence. This afternoon is free or explore further

on your own. (B)

Day 3 (Day 4 Ex London) Gunung Leuser N.P.

This morning we return to the Orang-utan centre for feeding time.

We will then venture further from the park headquarters today,

discovering the flora and fauna of the park, and continuing our

search for orang-utans. The park is host to approximately 700

different species of animal, more than 175 mammals, 320 birds,

190 reptiles and amphibians including Thomas leaf monkeys,

macaques and gibbons. Other mammals found include the Sumatran

elephant and elusive Sumatran tiger and rhinoceros, although the

last is unfortunately facing imminent extinction. We are unlikely to

encounter these shy animals. This trek will last approximately 6hrs

and can be taxing given the steep, muddy terrain so is completely

optional. (B)

Day 4 (Day 5 Ex London) To Berastagi with its volcanoes

We head out (approx. 6hrs) to the cool and picturesque hill town

of Berastagi. The town's setting is dominated by its two volcanoes

Sinabung and Sibayak. Although Sibayak last erupted more than a

century ago, geothermal activity in the form of steam vents, billowing

sulphur fumes, hot springs and steaming mud pools can be seen

around the volcano. Berastagi is known for its colourful fruit and

vegetable market and famous for its passion fruit, rambutan and the

foul-smelling (but to many delicious) durian, and we will have the

opportunity stroll around it. We may also have the opportunity to visit

one of the nearby Batak villages with their huge, wooden, communal

houses. (B)

Day 5 (Day 6 Ex London) Climb Mt Sibayak Volcano

Any visit to Indonesia, part of the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' would be

incomplete without visiting a volcano. Today we climb Mt Sibayak

and, if lucky, we may see the resident Siamang gibbons jumping from

tree to tree as we ascend. If we don't see them we will undoubtedly

hear them as they have large gular sacks (throat pouches) that can

be inflated to the size of their head, allowing them to make loud

resonating calls.

Tropical pitcher plants or Monkey Cups are also found on the

mountain, the name Monkey Cups refers to the fact that monkeys

have been observed drinking rainwater from these plants. After an

approx 3-4 hour walk to the crater rim and back there will be time to

relax at a hot spring before the short driving back to our hotel after

lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free. (B)

Day 6 (Day 7 Ex London) To Medan and fly to Sanur (Bali)

Today is a day of travelling. We first drive to Medan (approx 2 hours)

before flying to Denpasar, Bali via Jakarta. Upon arrival in Denpasar

we will drive to Sanur (approx 1 hour), arriving late afternoon/early

evening. Sanur was Bali's first beach resort and remains largely

unchanged compared to the rest of Bali's beaches. (B)

Day 7 (Day 8 Ex London) Fly to Flores; overnight in Labuan Bajo

Today we fly to Labuan Bajo (approx 1½ hours) on the island of Flores.

This is the point of entry for Komodo National Park. Depending on the

flight schedule, there should be some free time and options include

taking a boat to one of the nearby islands for some snorkelling or

visiting nearby caves where stalactites and stalagmites are found. (B)

Day 8 (Day 9 Ex London) Rinca Island

Komodo National Park, established in 1980, is comprised of islands

and the surrounding sea and includes mangrove forests, sea grass

beds, and colourful coral reefs. The three main large islands are

Komodo, Rinca and Padar although many smaller islands come within

the park boundaries.

Early this morning we will board our boat and sail to Rinca Island

(approx 2 hours). We leave the boat and, after a short briefing on

the life and habitat of the Komodo Dragons, travel on foot in search

of these giant lizards. Rinca Island is smaller than Komodo and the

frequency of sightings on Rinca is higher. We will walk for between

two and three hours today before returning to our boat for lunch. We

then sail to a nearby beach and coral reef teeming with fish, where

turtles are frequently spotted and if lucky Manta Rays. Snorkelling

(optional) is highly recommended. Tonight is one of the most idyllic

as we spend the night on board the boat anchored just off Komodo

Island. Whilst the exact spot where we anchor may vary it is usually

just off of some mangroves. Sleeping on the boat means we can spend

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3

more time enjoying Rinca and Komodo and avoid having to return

all the way back to Labuan Bajo only to sail out again the following

morning. Accommodation on the boat is dormitory style though many

people chose to spend the night on deck, sleeping under the stars.

(B,L,D)

Day 9 (Day 10 Ex London) Komodo Island

The next morning we travel the short distance to the ranger station at

Loh Liang (about 15mins). Here we will be escorted by a local guide

and trek one of the routes which takes us through dry forest, a dry

river bed and over a hill, for about two hours. Vegetation on Komodo

island is different to that on Rinca being denser and with less grassy

hills. At the end of the walk we will return to our boat for lunch, before

sailing to "Pink Beach" for more swimming and fantastic snorkelling

(optional). The beach is named for the colour of its sand a mix of red/

pink corals. We end the day back at Labuan Bajo.

The day-to-day schedule for these two days should be taken only as

a general guide. A variety of factors, including currents and adverse

weather conditions, can lead to changes. Snorkel equipment can be

hired in Labuan Bajo before setting off at a per day rate. (B,L)

Day 10 (Day 11 Ex London) Fly to Bali and onto Ubud for free time

We fly back to Denpasar this morning and then drive (approx 2 hours)

to Ubud, surrounded by rice fields and temples, our final destination.

Ubud gets its name from the Balinese word ubad (medicine); the town

was originally important as a source of medicinal herbs and plants,

but these days is known for its artistic community, awash with artists'

workshops and art galleries. Ubud's history can be traced back to

the eighth century, when a Buddhist priest came to Bali from Java,

he meditated at the confluence of the two Wos rivers at Campuan,

just west of the modern day town centre. A shrine was established

and later expanded by Nirartha, a Javanese priest who is regarded as

the founder of Bali's religious practices and rituals as we know them

today. When Ubud became a Dutch protectorate at its own request,

the colonialists interfered little, allowing the traditional arts and

culture of the area to remain relatively unchanged. From the 1930s

onwards western artists and intellectuals arrived furthering the local

art scene, amongst them Charlie Chaplin and H.G. Wells. Ubud is still

a haven for literati, glitterati and art collectors. Upon arrival in Ubud

the day is free to explore. (B)

Day 11 (Day 12 Ex London) Free day

A wide range of optional excursions are possible today depending

upon peoples preferences. There are many temples and palaces to

visit including Goa Gajah, popularly known as the Elephant Cave.

Dating back to at least the 11th century, and originally a dwelling

for Hindu priests, the main highlights of this temple is the short

cave with a massive carved face of a demon at its entrance and the

holy pools. Legend has it that the pools were considered to be a

fountain of youth. The Mother Temple of Besakih, or Pura Besakih, in

the village of Besakih is the most important, the largest and holiest

temple of Agama Hindu Dharma in Bali. The temple probably dates

to the fourteenth century. It was built on the south slopes of Mount

Agung, the principal volcano of Bali and is actually a complex made

up of twenty-two temples that sit on parallel ridges. It has stepped

terraces, and flights of stairs which ascend to a number of courtyards

and brick gateways that lead up to the main structure. Gentle treks

around Ubud's rice fields or white water rafting are available for the

more adventurous, while interesting dance performances in former

palaces, or temple ceremonies depicting the eternal struggle between

good and evil play out in Ubud's mythical Barong and Kris dances.

Your tour leader will be more than happy to advise you on how best

to use your time. (B)

Day 12 (Day 13 Ex London) Transfer to Denpasar and depart

Trip ends after breakfast for Land only clients. (B)

For those on group flights, these depart in the evening and will arrive

in the UK the following day.

ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD

4 nights' comfortable hotels, 6 nights standard hotels, all en suite

and one night on board the boat in Komodo National Park. The night

spent on the boat is one of the most idyllic as we anchor in a quiet

bay. Accommodation is dormitory style with shared bathroom and,

if the weather is nice, it is possible to sleep on deck under the stars.

The accommodation is mostly two or three star. At Bukit Lawang the

hotel only has cold water, but as outside temperatures are hot this

is refreshing.

Food is cheap in Indonesia and you can generally avoid the spicier

food if you wish. Western food is readily available. Restaurants come

in all shapes, colours and standards; expensive- restoran, standard-

rumah makan and simple- warung. Quite often tea or water (aqua)

is drunk with a meal, beer is often not cold and coffee is unfiltered

and usually very sugary. Drinking water and tea/coffee are included

for the two days whilst on board the boat visiting Rinca and Komodo

Islands.

Single Accommodation:

Single rooms are available for a supplement, please enquire for

prices. Please advise the sales team at the time of booking if you

require a single room.

Extra Accommodation:

Is available before and after the trip, please ask your sales consultant

if you wish to book extra nights.

TRANSPORT

We use a private coach usually with air-conditioning. Road conditions

are often not good, and progress can be slow because of the roads

in Sumatra or heavy traffic in Bali. Most travel days the average

travelling time is between 4-6 hours. We also use a boat when visiting

Rinca and Komodo islands. All bookings on domestic flights are made

in economy class.

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WEATHER AND SEASONALITY

Indonesia has an equatorial monsoon climate with the weather

remaining similar throughout the year. It is hot and humid;

temperatures range from 23-33ºC during the day and rarely drop

below 20ºC at night. In the mountains temperatures are much cooler

and on the coast sea breezes usually keep temperatures comfortable.

In most parts of Indonesia the long rainy season falls between late

October and early May, though rain occurs throughout the year. Rain

tends to come in sudden tropical downpours.

JOINING THE TRIP IN THE UK

14 days, normally depart London Sun, return Sat

Itinerary Start

The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the day

before Day 1 of the itinerary.

Flights from London

We normally use the scheduled services of Malaysian Airlines

(depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change

regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or

your agent to confirm up-to-date timings. Please note timings may

change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately

two weeks before departure.

Internal flights during the trip are with a local airline.

UK Regional Flights

The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we

are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please visit

www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview of the

options available, and contact our sales team for expert advice.

If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a

minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check in

time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow; this is longer

than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be

subject to delays.

JOINING THE TRIP IN MEDAN

12 days, normally start Medan Mon, end Ubud Fri

PLEASE NOTE that if you are not travelling on the group flights you

will need to be at our Medan hotel by 07.30hrs (or be at the airport

when the group flight lands); the group will leave Medan on Day 1 of

the itinerary below. If you are not booked on the group flights and

you do not get to the pre tour hotel (or airport) on time you will need

to pay for an additional expensive transfer locally in order that you

can catch up with the group.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be

sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not

receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier

please contact our office or your travel agent.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income,

positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their

natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism,

covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the

practices of Exodus as a company. Local restaurants are used for

lunch stops throughout the trip benefitting the local community, and

our visits to the orang utan centre and Komodo National park helps

support conservation.

For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit:

www.exodus.co.uk/responsible-travel

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Passports and Visas

All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid beyond the

intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct

personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary,

in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit.

The information offered below is to help you with that process. We

are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs

officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent

effects.

A visa can be obtained on arrival for British nationals. This will cost

approximately USD$25 depending upon nationality .

Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current

regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required.

Vaccinations and Health

Travel health can often be something people forget about before

going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way

to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for this trip.

Recommended vaccinations for this trip are: Polio, Tetanus,

Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A.

Malaria prophylaxis is essential on this trip, and we suggest that you

seek advice from your GP or travel health clinic about which malaria

tablets to take.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited on this trip. It is a

tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There

is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and

therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We

recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

The above information can change at short notice; as we are not

qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly

recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health

Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information.

Insurance - are you adequately covered?

You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip

which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up

to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we

strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically

designed to cover all activities on your trip.

If you are a UK citizen and travelling in Europe you should obtain the

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your Post Office. This

gives free medical care in many European countries, but should not

be considered a substitute for adequate insurance.

Local Time

GMT +7hrs.

Group, Staff and Support

The group will generally be between 6 and 16 people. There will be a

local leader and drivers and local guides where needed.

The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note

that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share

accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.

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5

MONEY MATTERS

Currency Information

The national currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR),

with an exchange rate of 17500 to the UK£ and 11000 to the US$.

Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.

ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques

ATM's are now widespread in Indonesia and is the easiest way of

obtaining money. It is possible to draw a maximum 2,000,000

IDR in one go. Credit card acceptance is not widespread at places

that you will visit, except for Ubud in Bali. Travellers cheques are

not recommended, as the rate will be lower than for cash, and they

can only be changed in the main cities only which is usually time

consuming.

As you will probably be carrying much of your money in cash, we

strongly recommend using a money belt.

Extra Expenses and Spending Money

You should need about £150-£200/$240-320 for all meals not

included, which will allow you to eat well. Apart from the food, you

should allow money to cover soft drinks (more if you like a beer) and

souvenirs. There is an airport departure tax of 150,000 IDR which

must be paid in cash. Some temples and sights charge a nominal

camera fee, your leader will be able to advise you on exact amounts.

Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group

sizes)

There are a number of optional activities, which if you wish, your

leader can arrange for you. They are subject to schedules and

availability; your leader will let you know what is available and the

exact local costs.

It is also possible to arrange many of these activities independently

if you prefer.

Labuan Bajo

Snorkelling at nearby island from £15/$25pp (number dependant)

Caves with stalactites and stalagmites (number dependant) taxi costs

from approx £15/$25

Snorkel equipment £3/$5 per day for Rinca/Komodo Island

Ubud

3 hour bike tour around Ubud £15/$25

Full day temple tour £30/$48 less for individual temples

White water rafting £40/$65

Tipping (leader and local staff)

This is entirely at your own discretion however; we suggest that you

allow a few pounds for tips for the local guides and staff. In Indonesia

with the increase in tourism, tipping has become customary. The

local staff will probably expect some gratuity and we suggest you

allow for this. The leader will suggest to the group that they donate

a sum of £20/$32 per person towards a kitty on arrival. This money

is then used for tipping of local guides, hotel porters, drivers etc. It

is basically to ensure that the hassle is taken out of various activities

for you. If you do not wish to contribute to a central pool for tips you

are of course free to do so.

If you feel that your leader has performed well over the course of your

trip, you may want to show your appreciation of their services. The

sum you choose to give is entirely personal, but as a guide, £2-3/$3-5

per person per day would be a reasonable starting point.

The 'tipping kitty' explained above is entirely separate from any

contribution to the tour leader. Our local staff are paid well and fairly

for their work with Exodus.

WHAT TO TAKE

Essential Equipment and Clothing

Casual clothes. As it is generally hot and humid, light cotton (neutral

colours as this will make animals and birds more approachable) are

recommended for most of the trip, though it will be colder in Berastagi

and you should bring a light jacket/jumper with you. Please note that

Indonesia is a Muslim country so modest dress is required on this trip

when visiting holy sites and rural areas (i.e. legs, shoulders and upper

arms to be covered as well as a headscarf for women).

Sandals are useful as they are cooler and are easier to take off when

visiting temples

Torch/flashlight

Strong walking shoes for the jungle walks in Gunung Leuser N.P. and

Komodo N.P. and Mt Sibayak

Sun cream, sun hat, sunglasses, lip balm

Swimming costume will be well used

A rucksack is needed as you will be carrying your own gear during

the day walks

Lightweight waterproof jacket or an umbrella

Optional items:

You may like to take a mosquito net if you think you will get bitten

by mosquitoes, as these are not always provided. Rash vests or swim

suits that are like shortie wetsuits as they can protect you from the sun

whilst snorkelling. Binoculars. There are a number of opportunities to

go snorkelling and you may want to bring your own mask and snorkel.

Baggage and Baggage Allowance

At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on

the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We

recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.

Internal flights in the destination country are subject to a weight limit

of 15kg.

As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage

is subject to change, we suggest you check www.baa.com and/or the

airline's website for the latest information prior to your departure.

JOIN THE EXODUS ONLINE COMMUNITY

Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view

the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write-ups which

have featured in the national media and take advantage of some

special deals on travel gear and equipment.

In the Compass Café forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where

you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart.

When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your

images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other

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6

people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered

automatically into our monthly photo competition.

To make full use of the Compass Café you'll need to join My Exodus.

It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for?

http://www.exodus.co.uk/community

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL CLIENTS

Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be

contacted on 0044 (0) 1582 644 100.

Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read

the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www.

exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/essential-information?

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and

details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately

2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least

a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our

office or your travel agent.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where

differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure,

the Trip Notes supersede the brochure. All holidays can be subject to

unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared

to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure,

it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may

be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other.

In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative

arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines

manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever

to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to

keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that

our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we

recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel

Agent.

Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The

most up-to-date prices can be found on the Exodus website.

© Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP

1. Check availability

Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.

2. Secure your place

You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for

between three and seven days.

3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online

booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking

form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all

major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as

a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL)

number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority

(CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport

Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour

Operators (FTO) and ABTA - The Travel Association. This means

you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies

paid to us for your trip are fully protected.