Luxury Swim with Whale Shark Liveaboard & Sumatra Orangutan Tour Expedition 14D13N from Bali
The Luxury Swim with Whale Shark Liveaboard & Sumatra Orangutan Tour Expedition 14 Days 13 Nights from Bali is an exclusive journey designed for travelers seeking rare wildlife encounters and refined island experiences. This carefully curated itinerary combines private island exploration, elegant Komodo & whale shark liveaboard sailing, and rainforest discovery across some of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary landscapes.
First, explore the dramatic cliffs and turquoise bays of Nusa Penida. Then relax on the tropical shores of Gili Trawangan before embarking on a whale shark liveaboard expedition in Saleh Bay, Sumbawa. The adventure continues through the legendary Komodo National Park before ending deep in the rainforest of Sumatra, where wild orangutans still live freely.
Because every destination offers a completely different ecosystem, the journey delivers a remarkable blend of ocean exploration, island elegance, and jungle wildlife encounters.
Tour Highlights
- Experience a seamless 14-day journey through Bali, Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands, Sumbawa, Komodo and North Sumatra
- Explore Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong and Diamond Beach
- Snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point when sea conditions permit
- Discover colourful coral reefs at Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay
- Swim with sea turtles around the Gili Islands
- Sail from Lombok through Sumbawa to Komodo aboard a comfortable liveaboard
- Snorkel with wild whale sharks in Saleh Bay
- Visit the beautiful beaches and landscapes of Kenawa Island
- Enjoy the panoramic viewpoint from Padar Island
- Swim and snorkel at the famous Pink Beach
- Observe Komodo dragons with an experienced national park ranger
- Search for manta rays and marine life within Komodo National Park
- Explore the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park with a licensed jungle guide
- Look for Sumatran orangutans, gibbons, Thomas leaf monkeys, macaques and hornbills
- Choose between jungle camping or a lighter trekking program with lodge accommodation
- Return to Bukit Lawang by traditional river tubing when conditions are safe
- Walk through the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Bali’s cool highlands
- Admire Mount Batur and Lake Batur from Kintamani
- Discover Balinese culture through the Barong Dance, artisan villages and Tirta Empul Temple
Swim with Whale Shark Sumbawa and Sumatra Orangutan Tour: Nusa Penida Private Island Discovery
Your journey begins with a transfer from Bali to the spectacular island of Nusa Penida for a tour and snorkeling, known for its dramatic cliffs and untouched coastal beauty.
First, explore the west side of the island. Visit the famous Kelingking Beach viewpoint where the cliffs plunge into turquoise waters. Afterwards, continue to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong, two natural rock formations that showcase the island’s wild coastal landscape.
Then continue to the eastern side of Nusa Penida. Here you will discover Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach, two of the most photogenic beaches in the region. Towering limestone cliffs, white sand, and clear ocean water create a breathtaking setting.
The next day is dedicated to a snorkeling trip at several of the island’s best marine locations. One of the highlights is Manta Point, where travelers often swim alongside giant manta rays gliding gracefully through the water. The surrounding coral reefs host vibrant marine life, creating an exceptional Nusa Penida snorkeling experience.
An overnight stay at a comfortable island hotel allows you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Nusa Penida.
Sumbawa Whale Shark and Sumatra Orangutan Tour to Gili Trawangan Tropical Island Retreat
After Nusa Penida, continue to the elegant island of Gili Trawangan, snorkeling with turtles, famous for its crystal-clear water and relaxed tropical lifestyle.
Here, guests enjoy snorkeling among coral reefs and sea turtles in calm, warm waters. The island is surrounded by vibrant marine life and colorful coral gardens.
One of the unique characteristics of Gili Trawangan is the absence of motorized vehicles. Instead, transportation around the island is done by bicycle, walking, or traditional horse carriage known as a Cidomo. As a result, the atmosphere feels quiet and refined.
During the evening, enjoy beachfront dining, sunset cocktails, and stylish beach lounges overlooking the ocean. Overnight stay at a carefully selected island hotel.
Sumbawa Whale Shark Liveaboard & Sumatra Orangutan Tour Experience
The journey continues toward Sumbawa Island, where a luxury liveaboard expedition begins. From Kayangan Harbor, board a comfortable expedition vessel and sail toward the calm waters of Saleh Bay.
Swim with Whale Sharks in Saleh Bay, Sumbawa Island
Saleh Bay is one of the best places in the world to encounter whale sharks in their natural environment. These gentle giants often gather near traditional fishing platforms, creating a rare opportunity to observe them up close. Swim and snorkel with whale sharks in the morning in Saleh Bay, Sumbawa Island.
Guests can swim beside these magnificent creatures as they glide slowly through the water. Despite their enormous size, whale sharks are calm and graceful, making the encounter both thrilling and peaceful.
Sumatra Orangutan and Snorkeling in Untouched Waters with Whale Sharks in Sumbawa
In addition to whale shark encounters, the expedition includes snorkeling in clear tropical waters filled with coral reefs and marine life. Vibrant coral gardens and schools of tropical fish create spectacular underwater scenery.
Because this region remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, the environment feels authentic and exclusive. Guests can also relax on quiet beaches and admire the dramatic coastline of Sumbawa. Luxury Sumbawa Whale Shark Liveaboard from Bali is best for mix trip liveaboard.
Komodo National Park Luxury Sailing
After exploring Saleh Bay, the liveaboard expedition continues toward the world-renowned Komodo National Park, a UNESCO-listed marine reserve famous for extraordinary wildlife and island landscapes.
Komodo Dragons and Island Exploration
One of the highlights of the expedition is visiting Komodo Island to observe the legendary Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Guided walks with professional rangers allow guests to safely explore the island while learning about these ancient reptiles.
Iconic Islands and World-Class Snorkeling Liveaboard
The journey also includes several of the most famous locations within the national park.
Padar Island offers an unforgettable panoramic viewpoint overlooking three curved bays with contrasting beaches. Pink Beach presents a rare natural phenomenon where coral fragments color the sand in soft pink tones. Taka Makasar is a pristine sandbank surrounded by turquoise waters, while Manta Point provides opportunities to snorkel with majestic manta rays.
Additional snorkeling stops include Majarite Island and Kelor Island, both known for exceptional coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity.
Each day of sailing reveals new island landscapes and vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Sumatra Orangutan Rainforest Expedition Tour
After the liveaboard journey ends in Labuan Bajo, guests fly back to Bali and continue onward to Medan in North Sumatra. The final chapter of the journey takes place in the tropical rainforest surrounding Gunung Leuser National Park. The Sumbawa Whale Shark and Sumatra Orangutan Tour will be the best way to explore the archipelago of Indonesia.
Trekking to See Wild Orangutans
This protected rainforest is one of the last strongholds for wild Sumatran orangutans. During guided jungle trekking, travelers walk through dense rainforest trails in search of these remarkable primates.
In addition to orangutans, the forest is home to Thomas’s leaf monkeys, macaques, hornbills, and a wide variety of tropical wildlife.
Immersive Rainforest Experience
The jungle environment offers a completely different atmosphere from the earlier island adventures. Towering trees, flowing rivers, and dense greenery create a peaceful and immersive wilderness experience.
Guided treks and rainforest exploration allow guests to witness one of the richest ecosystems in the region.
Why This Expedition Is Unique
The Luxury Whale Shark and Orangutan Expedition from Bali combines several iconic destinations into one seamless journey. Travelers experience island exploration, marine wildlife encounters, and rainforest trekking within a single itinerary.
Highlights include swimming with whale sharks in Saleh Bay, sailing through Komodo National Park, snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, and trekking through the Sumatran rainforest to observe orangutans.
Because each destination offers distinct landscapes and wildlife, the journey delivers an unforgettable combination of adventure, comfort, and discovery.
ITINERARY
Sumbawa Whale Shark Liveaboard & Sumatra Orangutan Tour Package 14D13N from Bali
Day 1 – Bali to Nusa Penida Island Escape
Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Bali, followed by a scenic fast boat transfer to Nusa Penida Island. Upon arrival, explore the island’s most iconic coastal landscapes, including the dramatic cliffs of Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach.
After the tour, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening on the island. Overnight stay in Nusa Penida.
Day 2 – Snorkeling with Manta Rays
Start the morning with an unforgettable snorkeling adventure in the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida. Visit some of the best snorkeling spots, including Manta Point, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay, where colorful coral reefs and tropical fish surround you.
In the afternoon, continue your island exploration with a visit to the spectacular Diamond Beach. Overnight stay in Nusa Penida.
Day 3 – Transfer to Gili Trawangan
After breakfast, transfer by fast boat to the famous island of Gili Trawangan. Known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this island offers a relaxed tropical atmosphere.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach, swimming in clear waters, or watching a beautiful sunset over the sea. Overnight stay in Gili Trawangan.
Day 4 – Turtle Snorkeling Adventure
Today, you will explore the vibrant marine life around the Gili Islands. Snorkel at several beautiful locations where sea turtles, coral reefs, and tropical fish thrive in warm tropical waters.
The afternoon is free for you to relax on the beach, cycle around the island, or simply enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere. Overnight stay in Gili Trawangan.
Day 5 – Begin the Liveaboard Journey
Your ocean expedition begins today. Transfer to Lombok Harbor, where your liveaboard boat is ready to begin the journey toward Sumbawa.
Sail across the Flores Sea while enjoying sunset views and dinner prepared by the onboard crew. Overnight sailing on board.
Day 6 – Whale Shark Experience in Saleh Bay
Early morning arrival, swim with whale sharks, and Sumatra Orangutan Tour in Saleh Bay, one of the best locations to encounter whale sharks.
Enter the calm waters and snorkel alongside these gentle giants in an unforgettable wildlife experience. Later in the afternoon, visit the pristine Kenawa Island where you can relax on white sand beaches and enjoy stunning island scenery. Overnight stay on board.
Day 7 – Komodo National Park Highlights
Begin the day with an early hike on Padar Island to witness one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region.
Continue to Pink Beach, where you can swim and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. The journey then continues to Komodo Island for a guided ranger trek to observe the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Overnight stay on board.
Day 8 – Manta Rays, Siaba Snorkeling and fly to Sumatra with transit in Jakarta
Complete the final liveaboard activities before arriving in Labuan Bajo. Transfer to Komodo Airport for your flight to Medan.
The proposed flight normally includes one transit:
Departure from Labuan Bajo: Approximately 17:05
Arrival in Medan: Approximately 22:20
Baggage allowance: 10 kg
Airline: Subject to the confirmed schedule
Upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight: Medan
Meals: Breakfast and meals provided aboard the liveaboard; dinner during the flight journey is not included
Day 9: Medan – Bukit Lawang and Jungle Experience
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle from Medan to Bukit Lawang. The drive usually takes four to five hours, depending on traffic.
Pass local towns, rural villages, and the countryside of North Sumatra before arriving at your riverside lodge beside the Bohorok River.
Depending on your preferred activity level, you may begin a guided rainforest experience or enjoy a relaxed afternoon around the lodge and village.
Overnight: Clean and comfortable riverside lodge in Bukit Lawang
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 10: Gunung Leuser Wildlife Trek and Optional Jungle Camping
After breakfast, meet your licensed jungle guide and receive a safety briefing. Enter Gunung Leuser National Park in search of native wildlife, which may include Thomas leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, pig-tailed macaques, gibbons, hornbills and other rainforest species.
The standard program includes a longer jungle trek, a picnic lunch and an overnight stay at a simple riverside jungle campsite.
However, because you prefer limited trekking and expect to have already seen orangutans in Malaysian Borneo, we can adjust this section. We can arrange a shorter wildlife walk and return you to the riverside lodge instead of camping, subject to your preference.
Overnight: Jungle campsite or Bukit Lawang riverside lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 11: Jungle Experience – River Tubing – Medan
If you select the camping program, wake to the sounds of the rainforest and enjoy breakfast at the campsite. Continue the wildlife walk before returning to Bukit Lawang by traditional river tubing.
The tubing activity operates only when river conditions are safe. Otherwise, the guide will arrange an alternative return route.
After returning to Bukit Lawang, take a shower and continue by private vehicle to Medan. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
If you prefer to avoid jungle camping, we will adapt this day to include a lighter nature or cultural experience before returning to Medan.
Overnight: Medan
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 12: Medan – Bali
After breakfast, meet your driver and transfer privately to Kualanamu International Airport for your flight to Bali.
The proposed Garuda Indonesia flight includes one transit:
Departure from Medan: Approximately 15:05
Arrival in Bali: Approximately 22:20
Baggage allowance: One piece up to 23 kg
Flight schedule: Subject to availability at the time of booking
Upon arrival at Bali Airport, meet our driver and transfer privately to your hotel.
Overnight: Bali
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces and Bedugul Highlands
After breakfast, meet your private guide and driver for a scenic journey through Bali’s peaceful countryside.
Begin at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape known for its traditional Subak irrigation system. Enjoy a gentle walk through the rice fields while admiring the expansive terraces and mountain scenery.
Continue to the cool Bedugul Highlands and visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which appears to float on the calm waters of Lake Beratan. After lunch, stop at a traditional local market and enjoy views of Bali’s central mountain region.
Later, travel to Ubud and check in at your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Ubud
Meals: Breakfast
Day 14: Private Ubud and Kintamani Volcano Tour
After breakfast, begin your private tour through the cultural heart and volcanic highlands of Bali.
Watch the traditional Barong and Keris Dance, which tells the ancient story of the struggle between good and evil. Continue through Bali’s artisan villages, where local craftspeople create traditional woodcarvings, silver jewellery and handmade artwork.
Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces before travelling to Kintamani. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Batur, its volcanic caldera and Lake Batur. Stop for lunch at a restaurant overlooking the volcano.
In the afternoon, visit Tirta Empul Temple, where Balinese Hindus perform purification rituals in the sacred spring pools. Complete the day with a visit to a local coffee plantation before returning to your hotel.
Overnight: Ubud
Meals: Breakfast
Tour finish
- Passport
- Small Bag
- Hat
- Trekking Shoes
- Sun Cream
- Sun Glass
- Extra Money
- Camera
- Towel
- Mosquito Repellent
Luxury FAQ – Sumbawa Whale Shark Liveaboard & Sumatra Orangutan Tour Package 14D13N from Bali
What makes this expedition special?
This luxury expedition combines two of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters: swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa’s pristine waters and trekking through the rainforest to meet wild orangutans in Sumatra.
When is the best time to join this tour?
The ideal travel season runs from April to November, when sea conditions are calmer and whale shark encounters in Saleh Bay are more frequent.
Do I need diving experience to swim with whale sharks?
No experience is required. The whale shark encounter is done by guided snorkeling, making it accessible for beginners and experienced travelers alike.
Are whale sharks safe to swim with?
Yes. Whale sharks are gentle filter feeders that eat plankton and small fish. With professional guides and responsible wildlife practices, the experience is safe and unforgettable.
Where will we see orangutans in Sumatra?
Orangutan trekking takes place in the lush rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the last remaining habitats of the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan.
Is the jungle trekking difficult?
The trek is considered moderate and suitable for most travelers. Experienced local guides accompany every walk through the rainforest.
How far in advance should I book?
Due to limited liveaboard cabins and high demand, especially during peak travel months, we recommend booking at least 4–5 months in advance.
Is this tour private or shared?
The expedition can be arranged as a private luxury journey or a small-group experience, depending on availability and guest preference.
What kind of accommodation is included?
Guests enjoy a comfortable liveaboard cruise in Sumbawa and boutique eco-lodges in Sumatra, offering a blend of adventure and comfort throughout the journey.
Who is this tour designed for?
This journey is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and luxury adventure travelers seeking rare experiences across Indonesia’s most spectacular islands.
