Experience Independent Living
Have you ever wanted to live independently? Experience an authentic and immersive life in Sumatra with the Mentawai Tribe.
Live independently and learn to live like them. Experience their way of life and culture, interact directly with Mentawai shamans who live in the remote forests of Siberut.
Meet the Mentawai people in the heart of the Siberut Forest - one of your most unique travel experiences staying with a Mentawai family.
Puck-Up Point : Muaro Padang Harbor (Mentawai Fast) at the Ferry Ticket Counter
Detail Itinerary
Morning: Journey begins from Muara Harbor, Padang City by fast ferry
Transit: One-hour transit in Pokkai, northern part of Siberut Island with lunch at local restaurant
Afternoon: Arrive in South Siberut, proceed directly to transit village near Siberut Harbor
Evening: Journey into forest by car to upstream rural village, then trek to Mentawai tribe's home. Meet with shaman and Mentawai family
Independent Living: Live with Mentawai family in the heart of the forest, fully immersed in their daily life, gaining deep understanding of their unique culture and relationship with nature.
Hands-on Activities: Actively participate in daily survival activities:
Sago Processing: Chopping down sago palms and processing them into food
Traditional Fishing: Catching fish using ancient methods
Poison Making: Preparing and making poison for hunting
Hunting Skills: Learning forest survival and hunting techniques
Forest Exploration: Exploring the forest and setting traps for animals
Food Gathering: Collecting food and resources from the forest
Cultural Exchange: Deep conversations about their traditions, experience their routines, and gain understanding of their ancestral way of life.
Special Note: This experience will push you beyond your comfort zone. Unlike standard itineraries, this trip is flexible with no set schedule - each day unfolds naturally according to the rhythm of the Mentawai people. There's even a rare opportunity to witness or participate in sacred shamanic rituals.
Morning: Final breakfast and emotional farewell with Mentawai host family
Trek Return: Walk back to the riverbank where motorized canoe awaits
Transit: Canoe journey to transit village near Siberut Harbor
Preparation: Visit Mentawai home to freshen up and pack belongings
Departure: Transfer to ferry harbor, lunch at local restaurant, then depart Siberut at 2:40 PM on fast ferry back to Padang