The park area starts at an altitude of 0m in Kluet and reaches up to 3.404m to the peak of Gunung Leuser, which gave the area its name. Pristine and untouched rainforests are hosts to an immense biodiversity of more than 170 mammals, 320 birds and 190 reptiles and amphibians. 7 mayor river systems are floating from the heart of the Leuser Eco System to the east and west coast of Sumatra. Sveral volcanoes are bedded within the Bukit Barisan mountains. Among the 10.000 plant species recorded in the West Indo Malayan Region, appr 45% can be found in this Eco System.     Several eco systems can be found within the parks borders: beach forest, swamp areas, lowland rainforest, alpine areas and mountain forest. Our guides know very well, where to find the different species. But since we are trekking in pure nature, it can not be guaranteed, that any or all kinds of mammals will be seen, even during a long expedition. You should be aware, that you trek and move in pristine wild rainforest, pure nature. It is not like Serengeti or Krueger National Park. The rainforests are very dense and progress on ground is difficult and slow. Especially the Tiger and Leopards are very shy and rarely to be seen. Views of primates, maquaqes, Birds, Reptiles, insects are frequently. Maquaqes (Thomas Leaf Monkey) are permanent guests near our lodge, which is situated under huge rainforest giants.   Mammals Sumatran Tiger and Rhino, Orang-Utan, Elephant, clouded Leopard are the most spectaculous species, living in these pristine rainforests. Other primates like Siamang, Gibbon and several species of Maquaqes are very common all over the area.   Birds Especially along the Alas river there is big variety of birds, such as many kinds of Hornbills, Pheasants, Parrots, Eagles, Kingfishers, Bee-eaters. Nevertheless there are also many kinds of birds in the jungle, but due to very dense vegetation it is more difficult to watch them. To sight birds you need good ears and sharp eyes and a pair of binoculars. Generally you will see birds on all our trekking and expedition trips very frequently.   Reptiles and Amphibians Both groups are highly represented in the Gunung Leuser Eco System. Among the most famous are several species of Pythons, the King-Cobra, Black Cobra, Krait, tree Snakes, many species of Frogs, Turtles, Lizards. Usually snakes are very shy and flee, whenever they get aware of human beings. Whenever you spot snakes, do not disturb them or do not approach.   Flora Gunung Leuser Eco System is host to an unbelievable variety of more than 8.000 plant species. Among them are Giant Trees, Palms, flowers, Orchids, Mangrove Trees. Especially Rafflesia and Amorphophallus are very common on our tours. We will pass graceful Bamboos with heights up to 18m, fruit trees such as Mango, Rambutan, Banana, Durian, Wild Figs, Citrus. Our guides will inform you about plant-life and fruits.       Copyright © 2007, Rainforest Lodge, Kedah www.gunung-leuser-trek.net