Kalimantan Borneo
Unravel the mysteries of one of the world's last wild frontiers: Borneo, Indonesia. As the third-largest island on the planet, Borneo is a mesmerizing mosaic of ancient rainforests, diverse wildlife, and rich indigenous cultures. From the enchanting calls of the wild orangutans swinging high in the canopy, to the rhythmic dances of the Dayak tribes, and the vast caves that whisper tales of eons past—Borneo is not just a destination, but a journey into the very heart of nature. Whether you're an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this guide will lead you through the vibrant tapestry of landscapes and experiences that Borneo has to offer. Let's embark on an unforgettable expedition through Indonesia's emerald gem.
Best Time to Visit
Borneo, divided between Indonesia, Malaysia, and the tiny sovereign state of Brunei, boasts a tropical climate which means it's warm and humid throughout the year. However, the island does experience distinct wet and dry seasons that might influence when you want to visit, especially if you have specific activities in mind.
For Borneo, Indonesia, specifically the Kalimantan region, here's a detailed breakdown of the best times to visit:
Dry Season (May to September):
Weather: This is the driest period in Kalimantan, making it the most popular time for visitors. The temperatures are consistent, usually ranging between 27°C to 32°C.
Wildlife: One of the key reasons many visit Borneo is to see the orangutans. The dry season is optimal for this as the apes are easier to spot. Fruits are more scarce in the dry season, prompting the orangutans to move closer to the rivers and feeding platforms.
Festivals: The Gawai Dayak Festival, a significant celebration for the indigenous Dayak people, usually takes place at the end of May or early June. It's a great time to experience the local culture.
Considerations: Since it's the peak season, accommodations and tours may be slightly more expensive, and some tourist spots can be crowded.
Shoulder Season (March to April & October to November):
Weather: Rainfall begins to either increase or decrease during these months, making it a transitional period. You might experience occasional showers, but generally, it's still good for travel.
Wildlife: While wildlife is slightly less predictable during this period, sightings can still be good, especially in the earlier part of the shoulder season.
Considerations: Fewer tourists visit during this period, meaning less crowded attractions and possibly better deals on accommodations and tours.
Wet Season (December to February):
Weather: Rain is more frequent and can be heavy at times, especially in the afternoons and evenings. While the rainforest is indeed more lush and rivers fuller, some rural areas can be hard to reach due to the rain.
Wildlife: The dense foliage resulting from the rains can make wildlife spotting a bit more challenging. However, many birds are in full plumage during the rainy season, making it great for bird-watching.
Considerations: Always be prepared for sudden rain showers. On the bright side, fewer tourists mean you'll have a more intimate experience. But, some accommodations might be closed, and certain outdoor activities could be canceled due to weather conditions.
How to Get There
Borneo is a vast and diverse island shared by three countries: Indonesia (Kalimantan), Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), and Brunei. If you're specifically looking at the Indonesian part, Kalimantan, here's how to get there and get around:
Getting to Borneo, Indonesia (Kalimantan):
By Air: The most common way to reach Borneo is by air.
International Flights: While there are limited direct international flights to Kalimantan, most travelers usually fly into Jakarta, Indonesia's capital, or another major Southeast Asian hub, and then take a domestic flight to one of Kalimantan's main airports.
Main Airports in Kalimantan:
Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) in Banjarmasin (South Kalimantan)
Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) in Balikpapan (East Kalimantan)
Supadio International Airport (PNK) in Pontianak (West Kalimantan)
By Sea: There are a few ferry routes between parts of Borneo and other Indonesian islands, but these are less common for typical international tourists due to the longer travel times.
How to get Around
Getting Around in Borneo, Indonesia (Kalimantan):
Domestic Flights: The vastness of Borneo means that flying can be the quickest way to travel between major cities or regions. Airlines like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Citilink offer numerous domestic routes.
By Road:
Buses: Buses are a common way to travel between cities and towns, though roads can be of varying quality, and travel might be slow.
Car or Motorcycle Rental: Renting a car or motorcycle can be a flexible way to explore, especially if you're comfortable navigating Indonesian roads. Always ensure you have the correct permits and licenses.
Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi): In towns or cities, you can hire a motorcycle taxi for short trips. They're a quick and often economical way to travel.
By River:
Boats and Ferries: Given Kalimantan's dense rainforest and often challenging terrain, rivers play a vital role in transportation. Taking a boat or ferry can be a unique way to explore and is necessary for some more remote areas.
Klotok: Specifically for places like Tanjung Puting National Park, klotoks (traditional wooden riverboats) are used for tours to see orangutans and other wildlife. They offer multi-day trips with sleeping accommodations on board.
By Bicycle: In certain areas, especially towns or cities, renting a bicycle can be an enjoyable way to get around and see the sights at a relaxed pace.
Walking: Many of Borneo's attractions, especially in the rainforest, require trekking. Ensure you have appropriate footwear, and it's often recommended to hire a local guide for both safety and expertise.
Tips:
Given the vastness and diverse geography of Borneo, it's crucial to plan your routes and transportation in advance.
While roads are being continuously improved, many areas in Kalimantan are still remote, so always be prepared for longer than expected travel times.
If traveling to conservation areas or national parks, always be respectful of the environment and consider hiring local guides to enhance your experience and understanding of the region.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Kalimantan, Borneo
Top 12 Attractions in Kalimantan
Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, is home to rich biodiversity, sprawling rainforests, unique wildlife, and diverse cultures. Here are some of the top attractions in Kalimantan:
Tanjung Puting National Park: Located in Central Kalimantan, this is one of the best places to see orangutans in the wild. Visitors often take multi-day river cruises on traditional boats known as klotoks to observe orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and other wildlife.
Derawan Islands: Situated in East Kalimantan, this archipelago is a paradise for divers. The islands boast pristine coral reefs, manta rays, turtles, and the unique non-stinging jellyfish lake on Kakaban Island.
Dayak Villages: The indigenous Dayak people have a rich cultural heritage. Visiting traditional longhouses and participating in local ceremonies offers insights into their unique way of life.
Mahakam River: A major river in East Kalimantan, visitors can take a boat trip to witness traditional river communities, floating markets, and the diverse wildlife along its banks.
Samarinda: The provincial capital of East Kalimantan, known for its weaving industry, particularly the intricate "sarong samarinda."
Meratus Mountains: Located in South Kalimantan, it's a trekker's paradise with dense rainforests, traditional villages, and beautiful landscapes.
Banjarmasin: The capital city of South Kalimantan, known for its floating market, where locals trade goods from boats on the Barito River.
Kutai National Park: Located in East Kalimantan, it's another haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to orangutans, gibbons, clouded leopards, and various bird species.
Martapura: Known as the "City of Diamonds," it's a hub for traditional gem trading and has a bustling market where you can buy diamonds and other precious stones.
Balikpapan: A coastal city in East Kalimantan, it serves as a gateway for many travelers. The city has lovely beaches, and the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Center is worth a visit.
Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park: Spanning both Central and West Kalimantan, this national park offers dense forests, diverse flora and fauna, and peaks that present a trekking challenge.
Betung Kerihun National Park: Located in West Kalimantan, it's one of Indonesia's largest national parks, offering a real jungle experience with its remote, undisturbed nature.
Top 15 Activities to do in Kalimantan
Kalimantan offers a myriad of activities for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. Here are some of the top activities to indulge in when visiting the Indonesian part of Borneo:
Orangutan Spotting: Tanjung Puting National Park and Kutai National Park are prime locations to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild.
River Cruises: Explore the dense rainforests by cruising on the Mahakam River or Sekonyer River, where you can witness local wildlife, floating markets, and traditional river communities.
Diving and Snorkeling: The Derawan Archipelago, with its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, is perfect for underwater exploration.
Trekking: Navigate through the dense rainforests of the Meratus Mountains, Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park, or Betung Kerihun National Park.
Visit Dayak Villages: Engage with the indigenous Dayak people, learning about their traditions, staying in longhouses, and witnessing traditional ceremonies.
Bird Watching: Kalimantan's rainforests are home to an impressive variety of bird species. National parks and other preserved areas are ideal spots for bird enthusiasts.
Caving: Explore the numerous caves that dot the landscape, especially in the Marang Mountains.
Diamond Hunting: In Cempaka and Martapura, try your luck searching for gems in traditional mining pools.
Kayaking: Navigate the island's many waterways by kayak, a serene way to explore and appreciate the region's natural beauty.
Attend Traditional Festivals: Experience events like the Erau Festival in Tenggarong or the Gawai Dayak Festival to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Shopping at Floating Markets: The Banjarmasin floating market is a must-visit where you can experience local trading culture on boats.
Visit Sun Bear Conservation Centers: In areas near Balikpapan, see efforts to conserve and rehabilitate the threatened sun bear.
Try Local Cuisine: Delight your palate with dishes like "soto banjar," a local version of the Indonesian soup, or "amplang," a type of fish cracker.
Fishing Trips: Engage in traditional fishing methods or take part in modern sport fishing in Kalimantan's rivers and coastal areas.
Canopy Walk: Some parks offer treetop walks, allowing you to experience the rainforest from a unique aerial perspective.
Kalimantan's Must-Visit Cities and Towns
Kalimantan, with its vast rainforests, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offers various cities and towns of interest for tourists. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Palangka Raya: The capital city of Central Kalimantan, it's often used as a gateway to explore the Tanjung Puting National Park. The city also offers some attractions like the Balanga Museum and the Kahayan Bridge.
Pangkalan Bun: Located in Central Kalimantan, this town is the primary entry point for those visiting Tanjung Puting National Park. It's here where you can hire a klotok (traditional boat) for a river cruise to see the orangutans and other wildlife.
Samarinda: The provincial capital of East Kalimantan, Samarinda is known for its weaving industry, particularly the intricately designed "sarong samarinda." The city acts as a base for trips along the Mahakam River.
Balikpapan: Located on the east coast of Kalimantan, this city is known for its oil industry. For tourists, it offers modern amenities, shopping malls, beaches, and is often the starting point for many exploring East Kalimantan due to its international airport.
Banjarmasin: The capital of South Kalimantan, known as the "River City." It's famous for its floating markets and the production of traditional diamonds and gems in nearby Martapura.
Pontianak: The capital of West Kalimantan, it's unique for being situated directly on the equator. The city has the Equator Monument as one of its main attractions. Pontianak also offers a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Dayak cultures.
Tarakan: Located off the northeastern coast of Borneo, this island city in North Kalimantan is known for its oil production and World War II history. It's also a gateway to some diving spots.
Singkawang: Situated in West Kalimantan, this city is notable for its Chinese heritage and the Cap Go Meh festival, celebrated 15 days after the Lunar New Year. The city is also known for its many temples.
Tenggarong: Located near Samarinda in East Kalimantan, this town is known for the Erau Festival and the Mulawarman Museum which houses the Sultanate of Kutai's historical artifacts.
Berau and Derawan Archipelago: Berau is the launching point for trips to the Derawan Islands, a diving and snorkeling paradise with spots like Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki.
Best Shopping
Shopping in Kalimantan offers a blend of traditional handicrafts, precious stones, local textiles, and day-to-day market items. While it's not a significant shopping destination like Jakarta or Bali, you can find unique and authentic items to take home. Here's a rundown of the best shopping experiences in Kalimantan:
Martapura's Diamond Market (Pasar Intan): Located near Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan, Martapura is famously known as the "City of Diamonds." The market offers various gems, especially diamonds. While there, you can also visit traditional diamond polishing workshops and witness the entire process from rough stone to a sparkling jewel.
Floating Markets: Banjarmasin is famous for its floating markets, like Lok Baintan Floating Market and Siring Floating Market. Though primarily a place for locals to trade fresh produce, it's a unique shopping experience where you can purchase local fruits, snacks, and handicrafts directly from boats.
Handicrafts and Souvenirs: The Dayak community in Kalimantan is known for its intricate beadwork, wooden carvings, masks, and woven rattan products. Many of these are available in local markets throughout Kalimantan.
Samarinda Sarongs: Samarinda in East Kalimantan is renowned for its hand-woven sarongs called "Sarong Samarinda." Made using a traditional weaving technique, they are beautifully designed and make for a perfect souvenir.
Traditional Fabrics: Aside from Samarinda Sarongs, you can find other textiles like "batik Kalimantan" and "tenun ikat," each displaying unique patterns and colors representative of the region.
Local Produce: Kalimantan is rich in agricultural produce. Local markets offer items like honey, traditional snacks, and local fruits such as durian, rambutan, and langsat.
Borneo Agarwood: This highly prized aromatic resin, used in perfumes and incense, can be found in shops, especially in areas like Tarakan.
Malls and Modern Shopping: While traditional markets dominate the shopping landscape, cities like Balikpapan and Samarinda have modern malls and shopping centers. Here you can find branded items, electronics, and entertainment options. Balikpapan's Plaza Balikpapan and Samarinda's Big Mall are among the notable ones.
When shopping, especially in traditional markets or when purchasing high-value items like diamonds, always remember to bargain. It's a common practice, and doing so respectfully can get you a better deal. Also, when buying handicrafts, ensure that they are sustainably made and that the purchase benefits the local artisans directly
Local Cuisine
The cuisine of Kalimantan, like its culture and natural landscape, is diverse and deeply influenced by the Dayak indigenous community, as well as Malay, Javanese, Bugis, and Chinese settlers. Here's an overview of some of the notable dishes and specialties from the region:
Amplang: A popular snack made from fish and tapioca. These crispy fish crackers are fried until golden and can be found throughout Kalimantan.
Soto Banjar: A fragrant chicken soup from Banjarmasin, typically served with rice cakes, shredded chicken, and boiled eggs, often flavored with local spices and herbs.
Bubur Pedas: Translating to "spicy porridge," this dish is made from rice and a mixture of vegetables, seasoned with various spices and fermented shrimp paste. It's a traditional Dayak dish often consumed during special occasions.
Ayam Bakar Bumbu Rujak: Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy, tangy "rujak" sauce. The chicken is usually grilled over a charcoal fire, giving it a smoky flavor.
Mandai: A preserved and fermented part of the cempedak fruit, often used as an ingredient in various dishes or consumed as a side dish.
Nasi Kuning Banjar: A Banjar-style yellow rice, usually prepared with coconut milk and turmeric, often served with accompanying side dishes.
Lepat: A sweet snack made from glutinous rice mixed with grated coconut and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed.
Tahai Fish: Smoked fish that's a local specialty and can be found in many traditional markets.
Tutut: A traditional dish made of river snails cooked in a spicy broth, popular among the Dayak community.
Tempoyak: A fermented durian paste, which can be quite pungent. It's often mixed with other ingredients and used as a base for various dishes.
Ketupat Kandangan: A type of rice cake wrapped in young coconut leaves, distinct for its elongated shape. It's often enjoyed with peanut sauce or rendang.
Pansuh: A Dayak specialty where chicken, fish, or other meats are cooked with herbs and spices inside bamboo tubes. The bamboo imparts a unique flavor to the dish.
Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak: A dish made from the Patin fish cooked in a creamy, spicy gravy made from the fermented durian paste, tempoyak.
Like other regional cuisines in Indonesia, Kalimantan's dishes offer a rich interplay of flavors — from the creamy richness of coconut milk and fragrant spices to the tangy kick of fermented ingredients.
Accommodations
The best area to stay in Kalimantan largely depends on your interests and the kind of experiences you're seeking. Here's a breakdown of notable areas to consider:
Balikpapan (East Kalimantan): As one of the more developed cities in Kalimantan, Balikpapan offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget lodgings. Being a hub for the oil industry, the city boasts various international restaurants, shopping malls, and beaches. It's a great base if you're looking for modern amenities while exploring the eastern part of Kalimantan.
Banjarmasin (South Kalimantan): Often referred to as the "River City," Banjarmasin is famous for its floating markets. The city has a mix of hotels, and staying near the river offers a unique experience. It's also a gateway to the diamond markets of Martapura and the Meratus Mountains.
Pangkalan Bun (Central Kalimantan): This is the primary entry point for visitors to Tanjung Puting National Park. The town itself has a limited range of accommodations, mainly lodges and guesthouses. However, many opt for river cruises in klotoks (traditional boats) where you stay on the boat while exploring the national park.
Pontianak (West Kalimantan): As the provincial capital, Pontianak has a good range of hotels. It's known for the Equator Monument and is a melting pot of cultures. The city can serve as a base for trips into the hinterland or as a cultural exploration in itself.
Samarinda (East Kalimantan): A good base for those looking to explore the Mahakam River or the Dayak interior. Samarinda offers various accommodations and is known for its weaving industry.
Tenggarong (East Kalimantan): Close to Samarinda, this town is known for the Mulawarman Museum and the Erau Festival. Staying here provides a cultural immersion and is more laid-back compared to the bustling Samarinda.
Berau (East Kalimantan): If you're interested in diving or beach holidays, Berau is the starting point for trips to the Derawan Archipelago, including Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki islands. While Berau itself has standard accommodations, the islands offer a range from dive resorts to homestays.
Palangka Raya (Central Kalimantan): This is another gateway to the region's rainforests and rivers. The city has a mix of accommodations, and it's also a starting point for exploring the surrounding national parks and reserves.
