The first ElderTreks group to experience our new and improved Sumatra itinerary just got back from a once in a lifetime experience – meeting the Sumatran Rhino.
The Sumatran rhino is now living in small populations on the island, but was originally found in Bhutan, Myanmar, and other parts of Asia. They are the smallest of the living rhinoceroses but are quickly becoming extinct. Poaching is a major threat to the species, and there are now only 100 left in the world. These rhinos birth only one calf at a time, usually every 3-4 years, and they live till they're approximately 35-40. ElderTreks is passionate about helping rebuild the species by investing in the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary and bringing the endangerment of the Sumatran rhino to the forefront of the world’s attention.
Here is Tour Leader Claudio’s take on the group meeting the endangered creatures:
“I'm glad to report we have successfully visited the SRS (Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary) this morning. All 12 members plus Eddie and myself, managed to visit Harapan at his feeding session. He was very curious and approached the fence within 4 feet of our group so they got a really good view of this rhino. We spent 1 hr. there at the SRS with Dr Zulfi and he was kind enough to come to the Eco Lodge tonight to answer all our questions. Plus he made an excellent presentation including a projector for video and pictures. It was like having our group's very own NatGeo experience... They loved it.”
Here are some photos from the experience.
.png)
Do you want to experience these rhinos up close and personal? Join us on our 20-Day Sumatra tour. With its many tribes, cultures, wildlife reserves, jungles, rivers, spectacular waterfalls and crater lakes, the island is a joy for any traveller interested in natural beauty and diverse cultures.
