Southeast Aceh accommodation from NZ$9

Our stay at Mountain View Cottages & Villa Tangkahan was truly memorable. It is the perfect place to disconnect from electronics, slow down, enjoy nature, and appreciate the simple things in life. Our experience started with Uncle Ramlan, who picked us up from the airport. He was incredibly kind, helpful, and always made sure we were comfortable and safely got wherever we needed to go. The villa was clean, quiet, and peaceful, with connecting air-conditioned rooms, mosquito-netted beds, a shower, and two separate restrooms. Wi-Fi is available in the shared open-air lobby and dining area if needed, but we actually enjoyed having the opportunity to disconnect. Tante Rose was truly a blessing and prepared wonderful meals for us every day—from breakfast pancakes to delicious evening dinners. Suriya and DG were also always friendly, helpful, and welcoming. The entire staff made us feel at home. The location made it easy to explore Tangkahan. We could walk to the local mini store, elephant souvenir shop, river, and a nearby café where we could watch elephants from above. We were also fortunate to have Brother Herda guide us through different activities around Tangkahan and even our orangutan-watching experience in Bukit Lawang. What made our stay most special was being able to step away from our busy everyday lives and simply enjoy nature, good food, peaceful walks, conversations, and wonderful people. Thank you to Uncle Ramlan, Tante Rose, Suriya, DG, Brother Herda!

If visiting Tangkahan, the visitor should be aware that this is still a region in in it infancy of development; years behind the more developed Bukit Lawang. There is one luxury hotel being built, but besides that, temper, your expectations and the biggest choice is how much do you care about having air-conditioning versus not having it? Most places, this one included do not have air-conditioning just a fan. With that in mind, the staff here were very friendly, there was a large open restaurant, the grounds were well-maintained, and our rooms were tidy and cute. The attached bathroom has a jungle feel kind of like you’re in the outdoors and even comes equipped with a “waterfall” that you can bathe under. True to its jungle theme, the bathroom is open to the elements, so you can expect plenty of mosquitoes and must be careful to keep your door to the bathroom closed at all times so that your bedroom is not invaded by them. As long as you understand and accept these elements, then you’ll be pleased with your stay and the willingness of the kind staff to try their best to meet any needs you may have. Overall, all of the people of Tangkahan are exceptionally friendly and honest.

A special place nestled between the jungle and the river. Very tranquil. Great staff both in the hotel and on the tours. We felt especially lucky to have Idris as our jungle guide.