Along the shores of Kumai and Sekonyer River in Central Kalimantan sails the heavenly “Belantara", a privately-owned live aboard houseboat unlike any other in Tanjung Puting National Park. She was born in 2017 and launched in 2018 after two friends joined another boat tour and were overwhelmed with the sights and sounds of the Sekonyer River and Camp Leakey awe and adventure, but collectively had many ideas for improving the quality of the experience. Through our initial trip and many subsequent visits, we acquired a discerning taste and recognized how to make the rainforest and river safari adventure incredibly wholesome. The experience provided on the journey with Belantara was built based on our love and passion in exploring the conserved rainforest. We would like to share with you the beauty of the biodiversity, while enjoying the relaxation of being catered to with all essential necessities taken care of while on-board.

Having the advantage of running our boat independent of a tour operator, we are able to personally select a team of dedicated and highly-skilled crew working full-time. Our tours are managed by a crew of experienced and capable individuals to safely navigate the boat, prepare and serve delicious gourmets, help to spot wildlife, birds and unique flora during the journey and cater to your every need while on the river or in the forest.

The crew is led by our tour operator—Rusty. One of the most senior guide in the area, he was the first OFI’s (Orangutan Foundation International) coordinator for volunteer program and former Rimba Ecolodge manager. Very well composed and fluent in English with more than 20 years of experience in the park, his advanced knowledge of the conservatory and endemic biodiverse flora and fauna of Borneo will leave you in awe on a daily basis!

Responsible for taking care of the boat on a full-time basis between tours, Isa is extremely knowledgeable about every component and mechanical working of the boat. He interacts with guests, provides assistance to Rusty on day tours and night walks, helps maintain a clean environment and caters to your every need. Born in Kumai and has lived in the region his entire life, Isa has innate knowledge of the rainforest which he learned from his forefathers at a young age.

In addition to Rusty and Isa, the team will include a professional captain, a chef experienced in fresh meal preparation and an assistant as help on the boat.

Our crew will be available at all times to introduce and walk you through the journey on the river and rainforest, but are also happy to give you space and privacy, if you prefer. All members of the crew will be available 24 hours, as required.