Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a paradise of untamed rainforests, diverse wildlife, ancient traditions, and stunning rivers. The island is shared by Indonesia (Kalimantan), Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak), and Brunei, with Kalimantan being the largest portion of the island.
From spotting wild orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park to exploring floating markets in Banjarmasin, from hiking lush mountains to discovering Dayak tribal culture, Kalimantan offers an unforgettable adventure into nature and tradition.
📍 Top Attractions in Borneo (Kalimantan)
1️⃣ Tanjung Puting National Park – The Home of Wild Orangutans
🦧 Why Visit?
- One of the best places in the world to see wild orangutans in their natural habitat.
- Take a Klotok (wooden riverboat) tour through the jungle and spot proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and hornbills.
- Visit Camp Leakey, a famous research center for orangutan conservation.
📷 Photo Opportunity: An orangutan swinging through the jungle near the river
2️⃣ Derawan Islands – The Hidden Tropical Paradise
🏝 Why Visit?
- Features turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and world-class diving spots.
- Swim with manta rays, sea turtles, and jellyfish in the pristine reefs.
- Visit Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki Islands for secluded island getaways.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A wooden pier leading to overwater bungalows on Maratua Island
3️⃣ Banjarmasin – The Venice of Borneo
🚣 Why Visit?
- Famous for its floating markets, where vendors sell fresh fruits and seafood from wooden boats.
- Explore the Martapura River and experience daily life on the water.
- Visit the Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in Kalimantan.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A boat filled with colorful tropical fruits at the floating market
4️⃣ Loksado – The Land of Bamboo Rafting & Dayak Culture
🌿 Why Visit?
- Experience traditional bamboo rafting down the Amandit River.
- Discover Dayak villages, home to longhouses, ancient rituals, and tattooed warriors.
- Hike to Haratai Waterfall, a beautiful hidden gem in the jungle.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A local Dayak guide standing on a bamboo raft, floating down the river
5️⃣ Mahakam River – A Journey into the Heart of Borneo
🛶 Why Visit?
- A multi-day river cruise through remote Dayak villages and dense jungles.
- Spot freshwater dolphins (Pesut Mahakam), one of the rarest river dolphins in the world.
- Learn about Dayak traditions, woodcarving, and ancient burial sites.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A traditional wooden longboat navigating the misty Mahakam River at sunrise
6️⃣ Kutai National Park – A Lesser-Known Wildlife Haven
🦜 Why Visit?
- A great alternative to Tanjung Puting, offering a less touristy orangutan experience.
- Spot rare species like clouded leopards, sun bears, and hornbills.
- Trek through pristine rainforest, some of the oldest in the world.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A baby orangutan playing in the treetops
7️⃣ Tanjung Puting vs. Kutai National Park – Which One Should You Visit?
| Feature | Tanjung Puting | Kutai National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Orangutan Sightings | 🦧🦧🦧🦧🦧 | 🦧🦧🦧 |
| Accessibility | 🚢 Boat only | 🚗 + 🚶 Easy access |
| Tourist Crowds | 👫👫👫👫 | 👫 |
| Other Wildlife | Monkeys, crocodiles, hornbills | Clouded leopards, sun bears |
| Adventure Level | Moderate | High |
8️⃣ Sebangau National Park – The Peat Swamp Forest
🌲 Why Visit?
- One of the last remaining peat swamp forests, home to over 6,000 orangutans.
- A great spot for canoe trips and jungle trekking.
- Less crowded than other national parks, offering a true wilderness experience.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A canoe floating through a narrow waterway surrounded by lush jungle
9️⃣ Maratua Island – The Maldives of Indonesia
🐠 Why Visit?
- Features overwater bungalows with direct access to the coral reef.
- One of Indonesia’s top diving and snorkeling spots.
- Spot manta rays, sea turtles, and thousands of colorful fish.
📷 Photo Opportunity: A drone shot of an overwater bungalow surrounded by clear turquoise waters
🏞 Best Natural Wonders in Kalimantan
- Danau Sentarum National Park – A stunning seasonal floodplain with unique wildlife.
- Meratus Mountains – A lush, mountainous region with traditional Dayak villages.
- Bukit Bangkirai – A tree-top canopy bridge offering breathtaking views of the rainforest.
- Lamandau Wildlife Reserve – A lesser-known conservation area for orangutans and exotic birds.
🍽 What to Eat in Kalimantan
✅ Nasi Kuning Banjar – Yellow rice served with fried chicken, boiled eggs, and sambal.
✅ Soto Banjar – A flavorful chicken soup with vermicelli noodles and hard-boiled eggs.
✅ Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish) – Freshly caught seafood grilled with local spices.
✅ Ketupat Kandangan – A unique rice cake served with coconut milk and smoked fish.
✅ Es Cendol – A refreshing dessert made from coconut milk, palm sugar, and green rice flour jelly.
🚆 How to Get to & Around Kalimantan
✈ By Air: Major airports include Balikpapan (BPN), Banjarmasin (BDJ), and Pontianak (PNK).
🚢 By Boat: River transport is the best way to explore Mahakam River, Tanjung Puting, and Banjarmasin.
🚗 By Car: Roads are limited in some areas, but rental cars are available in major cities.
🛶 By Klotok (Wooden Boat): The best way to explore rainforest rivers and see orangutans.
🌦 Best Time to Visit Kalimantan
🌿 Dry Season (May–October): Best for jungle trekking, river tours, and wildlife spotting.
🌧 Rainy Season (November–April): Expect flooding in some areas, but rainforests look lush and vibrant.
🕰 Opening Hours: National parks open from sunrise to sunset, but some require overnight tours.
✨ Why Visit Kalimantan?
Kalimantan (Borneo) is a true paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Whether you’re sailing through jungle rivers, spotting orangutans in the wild, or exploring ancient tribal villages, this is one of the most unique destinations in Indonesia!
🇮🇩 Selamat Jalan! (Safe Travels!) ✨
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