Understand

Escape to the remote and peaceful city of Ketambe, tucked away in the southernmost part of Aceh. In Ketambe, you'll find yourself surrounded by the magnificent Gunung Leuser National Park, home to incredible wildlife such as wild Orangutans, black and white-handed Gibbons, and beautiful Hornbills. Unlike the bustling tourist hotspot of Bukit Lawang, Ketambe remains relatively unknown. Take the road less traveled and embark on a trekking adventure or simply unwind and relax in this charming village. Please be mindful that Aceh is partly governed by Muslim Sharia laws, so it's important to show respect by refraining from using drugs or alcohol in public. While there is no specific dress code for women, it's advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Experience the tranquility and natural wonders of Ketambe, an off-the-beaten-path destination waiting to be explored.

Get in

There are several transportation options to explore Ketambe, a beautiful destination in Indonesia. By bus: - To/from the north: Catch a small minivan taxi from Blankenjeren heading towards Kutancane. Tell the driver to stop in Ketambe. These minivans usually depart in the morning or early day. To get to Blankenjeren, you can take buses from Takengon or Banda Aceh. The journey from Kutancane to Ketambe takes around 3-4 hours, passing through scenic routes. Don't forget to check with your hotel for the minivan schedule. - To/from the south: There is a regular minibus service that operates between Ketambe and Kutancane approximately twice an hour. You can catch the bus from the small center in Ketambe or the market in Kutancane. The bus journey usually takes between 50 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs around 15.000IDR. Just let the driver know your preferred guest house, and they will drop you off there. However, be cautious of certain drivers who might want to take you to a different guest house for their own benefit. The last public transport departs between 3 and 4pm, and the fare may increase if there is low demand. By foot: For adventurous hikers, it is possible to trek from Bukit Lawang to Ketambe, or the other way around, by crossing the national park. This challenging but rewarding trek takes over a week and requires a significant investment. If you're interested, speak to the rangers in Ketambe or Bukit Lawang for more information and guidance.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing