Home Again: Reflections from Borneo

I’m back home after an incredible journey to Borneo, truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trip was everything I’d hoped for and more: wild, humbling, and full of moments that will stay with me forever.

Our last day was pure magic, though not without its challenges. We traveled to Lamandau, where the Orangutan Foundation operates four camps dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans. There, we had the privilege of meeting two rescued babies — Ronny and Gunawan , both just a year old. They instantly stole our hearts.

Each had been taken from their mothers and kept as pets, a heartbreaking reminder of the cost of the illegal wildlife trade. Their mothers were almost certainly killed so the infants could be sold. Seeing them cared for with such love and dedication was both moving and inspiring.

After a delicious lunch organized by the foundation, we set out on an unforgettable walk — wading through thigh-deep water for nearly a kilometer,  to witness the release of another rescued orangutan back into the wild. Standing there, watching freedom return to a creature who had once lost it, felt like witnessing hope itself.

Below are links to two videos taken by our guide, Ian Wood, who has been involved with the Orangutan Foundationfor over 20 years. Lamandau is a place few people get to visit, but thanks to Ian, we were able to end our trip on an incredible high, a rare and unforgettable experience.

Rescued orangutan being released into the wild 

Two rescued baby orangutans and a baby borneo gibbon

Borneo left me awed — by its beauty, its people, and the tireless work of those protecting its forests and wildlife. Please check out my album for photos from the trip