East Kalimantan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in East Kalimantan, Indonesia with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan is a majestic province that is located in the eastern part of Kalimantan, Indonesia. The province is located on Borneo Island and has diverse landscapes that include rainforests, mountains, and beaches. The capital city of East Kalimantan is Samarinda, which is the center of government, education, and commerce for the province.

Our comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary details that you need to know before planning a trip to East Kalimantan. It will include an itinerary, places to visit, where to stay, and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan offers a range of options for tourists who seek adventure and relaxation. Here are some of the popular places to visit in East Kalimantan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mulawarman Museum: Located in Tenggarong, Mulawarman Museum is the most prominent museum in East Kalimantan. It showcases the history and culture of the province, with items such as artifacts, traditional costumes, and weapons.
  • Kutai Kartanegara Palace: The palace is situated in Tenggarong and was the seat of the Kutai Sultanate. The palace is an excellent example of the traditional architecture of Java and Bali.
  • Kampung Tepian: It is a small village located in the city of Samarinda. This village is famous for its wooden stilt houses and has a rich history that dates back to the colonial period.

Natural Attractions of East Kalimantan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Derawan Islands: Derawan Islands are a group of 31 small islands off the east coast of Borneo. These islands are known for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. Tourists can indulge in diving, snorkeling, and swimming activities.
  • Mahakam River: The Mahakam River is the longest river in East Kalimantan, stretching almost 900 km from the hinterland to the east coast. The river is known for its scenic landscapes and various animal species, such as Orangutans, Proboscis Monkeys, and Irrawaddy dolphins.
  • Kayan Mentarang National Park: This national park is located in the northern part of East Kalimantan. It has a diverse range of flora and fauna species, such as the endemic Black Orchid, the Sumatran Rhino, and the Bornean Gibbon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan has some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in Indonesia. Here are some of the popular routes for trekkers and bikers:

  • Gunung Lumut: The hike to Gunung Lumut is one of the most popular hiking trails in East Kalimantan. The mountain offers a stunning view of the surrounding rainforest and is home to many endemic species.
  • Bukit Bangkirai: Bukit Bangkirai is a famous forest conservation area located near Samarinda City. The forest has many hiking and biking trails, and tourists can also enjoy the canopy walk that is 30 meters above the ground.

Best Things to Do in East Kalimantan: Activities and Tours

East Kalimantan has plenty of things to offer to tourists. Here are some of the best activities and tours to do in East Kalimantan:

  • Diving and snorkeling in Derawan Islands: Derawan Islands offers some of the best diving and snorkeling experiences in Indonesia. Tourists can experience the different marine life found here.
  • Mahakam River Cruise: Exploring the Mahakam River on a boat is a unique experience. Tourists can explore the local village life and see some of the unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Visit traditional markets: East Kalimantan has a wide variety of colorful traditional markets where tourists can buy souvenirs, local food products, and see local customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Kalimantan

Here is a week-long itinerary that can help you plan your visit to East Kalimantan:

Day Activity
1 Explore Tenggarong and visit Mulawarman Museum and Kutai Kartanegara Palace
2 Visit Kampung Tepian in Samarinda and take a Mahakam River Cruise
3 Explore Bukit Bangkirai and take a canopy walk
4 Visit Derawan Islands and indulge in diving and snorkeling activities
5 Visit the traditional markets of Balikpapan
6 Explore the Kayan Mentarang National Park
7 Visit local coffee plantations in Samarinda

Food and Drink Scene of East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan has a rich culinary culture that offers unique flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pecel Lele: Pecel Lele is a traditional dish made from fried catfish served with vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.
  • Nasi Hainam: Nasi Hainam is steamed rice cooked with chicken broth and served with chicken, egg, and cucumber.
  • Sate Banjar: Sate Banjar is a skewered grilled meat dish that is served with a sweet soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Kapal Api: Kapal Api is a famous coffee brand in Indonesia produced in East Kalimantan, which is known for its rich aroma and taste.
  • Tuak: Tuak is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.

Where to Stay in East Kalimantan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Kalimantan has many accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Swiss-Belhotel Borneo Samarinda: Located in the center of the city of Samarinda, Swiss-Belhotel Borneo Samarinda offers upscale amenities, including a pool, spa, and fitness center.
  • Hotel Mega Lestari: Hotel Mega Lestari is located in the heart of Tenggarong and offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.
  • Bumi Senyiur Hotel: Bumi Senyiur Hotel is located in Balikpapan city and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and also has a fitness center.

What to Buy in East Kalimantan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the souvenirs and local products to take home from East Kalimantan:

  • Dayak Crafts: Dayak is an indigenous tribe of Borneo and produces unique crafts such as woven baskets, wooden carvings, and traditional clothes.
  • Kapas Island Sea Salt: Kapas Island is a small island near Balikpapan city that produces pure sea salt.
  • Rattan Bags: Rattan bags are a popular souvenir in East Kalimantan and are famous for their intricate designs and sturdy construction.

Local Culture and Customs of East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan has a diverse and vibrant culture that reflects in its customs, traditions, and festivals. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs, which include observing appropriate dress codes when visiting temples and mosques.

Best Time to Visit East Kalimantan

The best time to visit East Kalimantan is from June to September when the weather is dry and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Kalimantan

Visitors to East Kalimantan should be aware of the following do’s and dont’s:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques.
  • Bargain when shopping at traditional markets.

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended.
  • Drink the tap water, only drink bottled water.
  • Take photographs without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should be careful when swimming in open water, and it is advisable to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Health in East Kalimantan

Visitors should take precautions against malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. It is also advisable to get a Hepatitis A and B vaccine before traveling to East Kalimantan.

Getting to East Kalimantan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near East Kalimantan

The nearest major airport to East Kalimantan is the Sepinggan International Airport in Balikpapan, which is the main gateway to the province.

Bus Stations Near East Kalimantan

Buses are the most common means of transportation within East Kalimantan. Visitors can travel to various cities such as Samarinda, Balikpapan, and Tenggarong via the bus.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to East Kalimantan by sea or river, but these options are less convenient and time-consuming.

How to Get Around in East Kalimantan

Visitors can get around East Kalimantan by bus, taxi, and rented cars. It is advisable to rent a car with a driver as the roads can be challenging to navigate.

Where to Go Next from East Kalimantan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring the beauty of East Kalimantan, visitors can explore some of the nearby destinations, such as:

  • North Kalimantan: North Kalimantan is a province located north of East Kalimantan, which is known for its stunning national parks and diverse cultures.
  • Sabah, Malaysia: Sabah is a state of Malaysia located across the border from East Kalimantan. It offers stunning beaches, wildlife, and an exciting cultural experience.

Conclusion

East Kalimantan is a hidden gem in Indonesia, which offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious culinary experiences. Our comprehensive guide has covered everything you need to know about East Kalimantan, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Orangutan in Kutai National Park Orangutan in Kutai National Park


    Apo Kayan
    Bontang
    Derawan
    Nunukan
    Samarinda
    Tarakan