Meet the Indigenous female ranger team protecting their orangutan and tiger relatives on the beautiful island of Sumatra, Indonesia.

We partner with the Nuraga Bhumi Insititute, an Indigenous-run organization in Sumatra that creates space for women and youth in conservation, to make this workshop come to life. You will have the exclusive chance to work and document alongside the fearless all-female ranger team, and to see how a resurgence of local Indigenous knowledge is being used to protect the community’s critically-endangered orangutan and tiger relatives.

Participants will:

• Create a powerful story for their portfolios.

• Learn how to reimagine conservation storytelling with Indigenous communities at the forefront.

• Deepen their ethical storytelling practice.

Impact: Participants’ images and/or videos will also be donated to the community partner for ongoing campaigns. Participants’ stories and images will also be donated to the community for ongoing campaigns that support their work year-round.

TRIP DATES: november 18-28, 2025

We welcome photographers OR videographers/filmmakers who are also seasoned travellers.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email us at info@photographerswithoutborders.org or book a call here.

Physical Rating: Moderate-Challenging

Day 1 

Fly into Medan and meet anytime during the day.  Our team will pick you up at the airport and bring you to a local 3-4 star hotel. You’ll meet up with the rest of the group in the evening to enjoy some local Indonesian cuisine and get to know your fellow travelers.

Day 2 

MEDAN

Orientation Tour. Go back in time on a tour through Medan’s colonial quarters, understanding the history that has evolved Sumatra towards the palm oil and other over-extractive industries we see today.

Participants will travel by private bus to the Medan Zoo where they will witness first-hand the challenges facing endangered species who are captured and trafficked.

Day 3-7

BUKIT LAWANG ECOLODGE

Travel by private bus to Bukit Lawang for three nights at the EcoLodge with two days of forest trekking. This is where we will see and photograph the critically endangered orangutan.  Having three full days of trekking to see these amazing animals that share 97 percent of our DNA in the wild will leave you breathless. Having the opportunity to photograph a critically endangered animal in the wild is an experience that will leave you changed! 

Day 8-10

BUKIT LAWANG HOMESTAYS

Now we check into more down-to-earth homestays to learn more about the work of Nature for Change and Nuraga Bhumi Institute. Visit the countryside, see programs in progress, and walk to an ancient bat cave. Walk with forest rangers and visit part of the Sumatran Wildlife Sanctuary—protected lands that buffer the Gunung Leuser National Park for critically endangered orangutans and tigers. See a restoration and replanting site at work, and maybe even plant your own tree!

DAY 10

MEDAN

After travelling to Medan, it’s time to select your best images and share them with the group over dinner.

Day 11

MEDAN
It’s time to see you off. Our team will drop you off at the airport with with memories that will last a lifetime!

what’s not included

• International air fare to/from Medan, Indonesia.

• Applicable tourist visas or vaccinations.

• Incidentals (e.g. snacks, souvenirs, etc.).

• Medical insurance (required).

• Airport taxes (if applicable).

• Tips or gratuities.

• Optional tours or activities (e.g. yoga, massages, etc.).

• SIM cards (bring an unlocked phone to access the internet!).

what’s included

• Airport pickup and drop-off in Medan, Indonesia.

• A local expedition leader that knows the region and will prioritize the safety of the group at all times.

• All transportation between program activity destinations and to/from all included activities.

• Accommodations: Shared double rooms at 3-4 star hotels in cities alternated with an immersive homestay experience in the village where the patrol team lives (single room supplement: $500 USD).

• Many but not all meals are included (please allow 100-300 USD for additional meals, drinks and gratuities).

• Trekking and camera permits for Gunung Leuser National Park, and other entrance fees.

register here

COST: $3,999 USD (DEADLINE TO REGISTER: OCTOBER 1, 2025)*

*ADDITIONAL FEES APPLY FOR PRIVATE OCCUPANCY

You will be required to make a deposit to secure your space.