Bintan Travel Guide (Riau Islands/Sumatra/Indonesia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bintan

Bintan Island is a hidden gem located in the Indonesian archipelago. Located just an hour away from Singapore, the island is the epitome of Southeast Asian paradise. Blessed with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical forests, Bintan is a beautiful blend of natural and modern attractions. There is a diverse range of things to see and do, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers, honeymooners, backpackers, or families. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or indulge in thrilling outdoor activities, Bintan has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Bintan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bintan Island is known for its rich cultural heritage, and taking a stroll through its historical landmarks and museums is a must during your stay. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Penyengat Island: Located on a small island off the coast of Bintan, Penyengat Island is steeped in history. The island was the seat of the Riau-Lingga Sultanate from the late 18th to early 20th centuries, and it still retains many historical landmarks, including the royal tombs, palace ruins, and the grand mosque.
Senggarang Village: Senggarang is a charming fishing village that showcases the unique Chinese-Malay cultural mix of Bintan. The village was established in the 1700s by Chinese immigrants from Fujian province, and it is home to several historical shrines, temples, and houses that offer a glimpse into the past.
Bintan Island Heritage Walk: The Bintan Island Heritage Walk is a guided tour that takes you through the historical landmarks of Tanjung Pinang, the capital of Bintan. The tour covers places such as the Senggarang Market, the Old Mosque, and the Bazaar Street.

Natural Attractions of Bintan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bintan Island boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Southeast Asia. The island’s pristine beaches, dense forests, and tranquil lakes offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit:

Banyan Tree Beach: Nestled on the northwestern coast of Bintan, Banyan Tree Beach is a secluded paradise that offers breathtaking views of the sunset. The sandy beach is dotted with swaying palm trees, and the water is perfect for swimming and water sports.
Gunung Bintan: Gunung Bintan is the highest mountain on the island, and it offers a challenging hiking trail that rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The trail takes you through dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls, and it takes around four hours to complete.
Pulau Mapur Island: Pulau Mapur Island is a tiny island that is only accessible during low tide. The island is home to a beautiful coral reef that offers some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Bintan.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bintan

Bintan Island’s scenic landscapes are perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes on the island:

Bintan Eco Farm and Resort: The Bintan Eco Farm and Resort offers a range of outdoor activities, including cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the farm’s organic vegetable gardens, animal farm, and fish pond.
Gunung Bintan: As mentioned earlier, Gunung Bintan is the highest mountain on the island, and it offers a challenging hiking trail.
Trikora Beach: Trikora Beach is a popular beach destination, but it also offers a scenic hiking trail that takes you through the lush forests that surround the beach.

Best Things to Do in Bintan: Activities and Tours

Bintan Island offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Bintan:

Watersports: Bintan Island is a popular destination for watersports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and banana boating. There are several watersports operators on the island that offer equipment rental and guided tours.
Golfing: Bintan Island is also known for its world-class golf courses. Some of the best courses include the Bintan Lagoon Golf Course, the Laguna Golf Bintan, and the Ria Bintan Golf Club.
Spa Treatments: Bintan Island is home to several luxurious spa resorts that offer a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The spas also have saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bintan

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best attractions and activities on Bintan Island:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Arrival and check-in at a hotel or resort
Day 2	Cultural tour of Tanjung Pinang and Senggarang
Day 3	Hiking at Gunung Bintan
Day 4	Watersports at Trikora Beach
Day 5	Beach hopping and island hopping
Day 6	Spas and relaxation
Day 7	Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bintan

No trip to Bintan Island is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Otak-Otak: Otak-otak is a popular Indonesian street food that is made of fish paste mixed with spices and wrapped in banana leaves. The dish is then grilled over charcoal.
Ikan Bakar: Ikan bakar is a grilled fish dish that is marinated in spices and served with rice and vegetables.
Sate: Sate is a popular Indonesian dish that consists of grilled meat on skewers. The meat can be chicken, beef, or lamb, and it is served with a peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

Teh Botol: Teh botol is a popular Indonesian sweet tea that is sold in supermarkets and restaurants.
Bintang Beer: Bintang Beer is a local Indonesian beer that is brewed in Jakarta. The beer has a light, refreshing taste and is perfect on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Bintan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bintan Island has a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay on the island:

Bintan Lagoon Resort: Bintan Lagoon Resort is one of the most popular resorts on the island. It offers a range of activities, including golfing, spa treatments, and watersports.
Nirwana Gardens: Nirwana Gardens is a beachfront resort that offers a range of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and tennis. The resort also has a spa and several restaurants.
Bintan Hostel: Bintan Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel that offers dorm rooms and private rooms. The hostel has a communal kitchen, a lounge, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Bintan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bintan Island is known for its handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Bintan:

Batik: Batik is a traditional Indonesian fabric that is decorated with intricate patterns. You can buy batik shirts, skirts, and dresses in Bintan Island.
Kue Lapis: Kue Lapis is a traditional Indonesian layer cake that comes in a range of flavors, including pandan, chocolate, and durian.
Woodcarvings: Bintan Island is also known for its intricate woodcarvings, which are made by local craftsmen.

Local Culture and Customs of Bintan

Bintan Island has a diverse cultural mix, with influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indonesian cultures. The island’s main religion is Islam, but there is a significant Chinese minority. Visitors should respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. It is also advisable to ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.

Best Time to Visit Bintan

The best time to visit Bintan Island is between April and October, as this is the dry season. The weather is pleasant and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach hopping. The monsoon season runs from November to March and brings heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can limit the number of activities available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bintan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Bintan Island:

Do:

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Try the local cuisine and beverages
Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

Take photographs without permission
Leave trash on the beaches or in the water
Ignore warning signs and safety guidelines

Safety and Health

Safety in Bintan

Bintan Island is a safe destination, but visitors should take normal precautions such as locking their valuables in their hotel safe and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Bintan

Visitors should ensure that they are up to date with routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza. It is also recommended to consult a travel health specialist before visiting Bintan Island and to purchase travel insurance.

Getting to Bintan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bintan

The nearest airport to Bintan Island is Raja Haji Fisabilillah International Airport (BTH), located in Tanjung Pinang. There are several daily flights to and from Jakarta and Singapore.

Bus Stations Near Bintan

The most convenient way to get to Bintan Island from Singapore is by ferry. The ferry departs from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrives at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal in Bintan.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire on Bintan Island. Some hotels and resorts offer airport shuttle services for their guests.

How to Get Around in Bintan

The most convenient way to get around Bintan Island is by taxi or car rental. Visitors can also rent motorcycles, bicycles, or take a local bus. The local transportation system is relatively underdeveloped, so visitors should plan their trips in advance.

Where to Go Next from Bintan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bintan Island is well-connected to other Indonesian destinations, making it an ideal starting point for further exploration. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

Batam Island: Batam Island is a popular destination in the Riau Islands, located just 20 km away from Singapore. The island is known for its golf courses, spas, and shopping malls.
Anambas Islands: The Anambas Islands is a pristine archipelago located between Bintan and the Malaysian coast. The islands are relatively undeveloped and offer some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

Bintan Island is a wonderful destination that offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Plan your trip in advance to make the most out of your stay, and don’t forget to try the local cuisine and beverages. With so much to see and do, Bintan Island is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler who visits.

Bintan Image Gallery

One of the local beach resorts at Trikora

Map of Bintan

Some of the ferries linking the various Riau Islands at the Tanjung Pinang ferry terminal.

Along the northern coast of Bintan near Sumpat