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If you're making your way to Batu Katak, you are probably already aware that you are off the beaten path and there are only basic lodging options. I think Orchid Bungalows is advertised as having no AC, so I was super pleasantly surprised that our room DID have AC -- as far as I could tell it was the only one that had it, but perhaps this is a current expansion effort. So that was amazing! The meals were also delicious. Each non-included meal per person was 25,000 IDR. There is no menu, and everyone working (at least when we were there) only speaks Indonesian languages. So figuring out the meals was confusing at first. We found that the cook would just prepare us whatever we asked for (or you can just say you want lunch and they will decide what to cook and bring it to you). My kid is a picky eater, but it was easy to use Google Translate to tell her what he wanted to eat and she just made it for him every meal. The river is right in front of the lodgings and it's quite nice to play in for kids, or cool off in for adults. We had black gibbon monkeys in the trees right in front of the lodgings every day. There is a nice walking path you can follow along the river. There are also some really great jungle guides that work for Orchid Bungalows. We went on day trips with Mr. Mulia, who knew a ton about plants and animals. My kid touched some plant that gave him a rash on his face (no one else got it) and Mr. Mulia was called at 5am by the staff, and showed up 5 minutes later with natural medicines that worked like a charm. He sent the medicine with us when we left and checked up twice by text to make sure my child was better. The highlight of our trip to Batu Katak was the hike to see the giant flowers (amorphophallus Titanum). Mr. Mulia was able to find every single stage of the flowers' lifecycle to show us. So amazing!!! Unlike Bukit Lawang, you can negotiate tour prices with the guides in Batu Katak.

I had the most incredible stay at this hidden gem of a guesthouse! From the moment I arrived, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making me feel right at home. The location is absolutely magical – it's nestled in a serene valley next to a river, and the lush greenery around you makes you feel like you're in the heart of a rainforest. The views are nothing short of breathtaking, with nature at every turn. The activities offered were so much fun and created memories I will cherish forever. Jojo, our guide, was truly exceptional. He was so knowledgeable about the plants and animals, taking us on an unforgettable adventure. We had the privilege of seeing orangutans and a variety of monkeys up close, which was an experience I will never forget. I can’t recommend this place enough – it’s the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in nature. Truly an experience of a lifetime!