• Days 1: Padang – Siberut – Mentawai Tribe

06.20 : Gather at Muaro Padang Harbor and purchase ferry tickets.  
07.00 :  Depart from Padang by Mentawai fast boat.
Transit : One hour transit in Pokkai, northern Siberut Island with lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon : Arrive in South Siberut, directly to the transit village near Siberut Harbor.
Afternoon : Travel into the forest by car to a village upstream, then trekking to the Mentawai tribe's home. Meet with the shaman and Mentawai family.

• Days 2, 3 & 4: Live Independently with the Mentawai Tribe & Experience Their Lifestyle

Living in the Uma traditional house: Live with a Mentawai family in the heart of the jungle, fully immersed in their daily life, gaining a deep understanding of their unique culture and relationship with nature.
Hands-on Cultural Activities: 
- Follow Mentawai Tribe fishing in the river using traditional methods Palikga-gra.
- Making arrow poison, learning forest plants, - ancient hunting techniques.
- Learning forest hunting techniques and setting traps for wild animals.
- Looking for sago caterpillars typical food the Mentawai Tribe Tam'ra.
- Follow Mentawai Tribe making loincloth Baiko from tree bark or natural fibers.
- Witnessing the Paruak among a group of Sikerei as the ritual leader who guides customary ceremonies, prayers, and spiritual harmony.
- Making traditional necklaces.
- Free activities joining the daily forest life of the Mentawai people.
Evening: Cultural exchange and storytelling with the host family.
Special Note: Flexible schedule based on the natural rhythm of Mentawai people. Possible opportunity to witness sacred shamanic rituals.

This program offers a comprehensive and authentic cultural immersion with the indigenous community in the interior of Mentawai Tribe, where travelers live and participate in daily forest life through traditional activities such as river fishing using Palikga-gra, learning ancient hunting techniques including arrow poison preparation, forest plant knowledge, and trap setting, searching for Tam’ra (sago caterpillars), and crafting Baiko loincloths and traditional necklaces from natural materials, complemented by the opportunity to witness Paruak, a sacred ritual led by Sikerei who guide ceremonies, prayers, and spiritual harmony, as well as evening cultural exchange and storytelling with the host family, all within a flexible program that follows the natural rhythm of Mentawai life and may include rare sacred shamanic rituals.

• Days 5: Leaving the Remote Village – Siberut Harbor – Return to Padang

Morning: Final breakfast and an emotional farewell to the Mentawai host family.
Return Journey: Walk back to the riverbank where the motorized canoe awaits.
Transit: Canoe trip to the transit village near Siberut Harbor.
Preparation: Visit a Mentawai home to freshen up and pack.
Departure: Transfer to the ferry harbor, lunch at a local restaurant, then depart Siberut at 2:40 PM on the fast ferry back to Padang.

Cultural Guidelines for Visitors in Mentawai

1. Respect local customs and beliefs.
   The Mentawai people deeply value spirituality and their relationship with nature. Never mock or disrespect rituals, sacred symbols, or spiritual objects.
2. Dress modestly and simply.
   Avoid revealing clothing, especially when inside the Uma (traditional house) or during cultural ceremonies.
3. Ask permission before taking photos.
   Always request consent, particularly when photographing the Sikerei (spiritual leader), rituals, or children.
4. Follow the guidance of the Sikerei and local guides.
   The Sikerei play a central role in Mentawai life. Obey their instructions for cultural respect and personal safety.
5. Do not touch or take traditional objects.
   Sacred items, amulets, or ritual tools must not be handled or moved without permission.
6. Maintain respectful behavior and speech.
   Avoid loud laughter, inappropriate jokes, or disruptive behavior during rituals and communal activities.
7. Respect the forest and nature.
   The forest is both a living space and a spiritual realm. Do not damage plants, litter, or hunt without permission.
8. Follow communal living rules in the Uma.
   When staying overnight, respect shared living customs, including activity times, space usage, and meal practices.
9. Do not bring alcohol or drugs.
   These substances go against local values and are considered highly disrespectful.
10. Come with the intention to learn, not to judge.
    Openness, humility, and respect for cultural differences are essential for a meaningful and enriching experience.