Discover the wonders of Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, with its rich biodiversity, pristine beaches, and fascinating local cultures. Plan your visit during the dry season to make the most of your experience in this Indonesian hidden gem, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions that make Kalimantan truly special.
Must-See Kalimantan: Wildlife, Beaches, and Tradition, Borneo's Hidden Gem
Why Visit Kalimantan:
- Rich biodiversity: Home to orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and diverse marine life
- Pristine landscapes: From breathtaking beaches to verdant rainforests.
- Local traditions: Explore the vibrant cultures and traditions of Kalimantan's diverse ethnic groups. Kalimantan's indigenous people, collectively known as the Dayak, comprise over 200 ethnic groups. Dwelling in Borneo's rivers and hills, Dayak communities possess diverse customs, languages, and beliefs. Their cultural heritage encompasses wood carvings, traditional dances, and spiritual rituals. Engaging with Dayak communities provides insights into their vibrant cultures and helps preserve their unique identity for future generations.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kalimantan is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park tend to be most active during the June to September period.
Top cities most visited by tourists in Kalimantan
Derawan Islands is known for world-class diving and snorkeling
- Activities: Diving, snorkeling, beach relaxation
- Food: Fresh seafood, local dishes
- Accommodations: Derawan Dive Lodge, Derawan Island Resort
- Festivals: Berau Festival, showcasing cultural performances and traditional games
Banjarmasin is a famous for its floating market and cultural experiences
- Activities: Floating market, river tours, cultural experiences
- Food: Soto Banjar, Bubur Pedas (spicy congee)
- Festivals: Tabalong Festival, featuring traditional boat races
Balikpapan is a gateway to explore the region's natural attractions
- Activities: Beach visits, nature exploration, cultural attractions
- Food: Ikan Patin dishes, local street food, Black pepper crab
- Festivals: Balikpapan Festival, highlighting local art and cultur
Berau ia a base for visiting Derawan Archipelago
- Activities: Gateway to Derawan Archipelago, nature tours+
- Food: Local seafood, traditional cuisine
- Festivals: Erau Festival, celebrating the region's cultural diversity
Pontianak is the capital of West Kalimantan with diverse attractions. Pontianak and Singkawang in Kalimantan boast diverse ethnic groups. Pontianak has Dayak, Malay, Bugis, and Chinese people, while Singkawang is predominantly Chinese, including Hakka and Teochew. This blend of cultures influences local traditions, languages, and customs, making these areas fascinating to explore.
- Activities: Cultural attractions, river tours, equator monument visit
- Food: Chinese Indonesian peranakan food local delicacies
- Festivals: The Cap Go Meh Festival is an annual celebration in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, marking the end of Chinese New Year festivities. Held on the 15th day of the lunar new year, the festival showcases a unique fusion of Chinese and Dayak cultures. Highlights include the mystical Tatung parade, Barongsai and Ular Naga dances, Choi Lam Shin (Keranjang Jelangkung), and lantern parades. The event occurs in January or February, attracting visitors worldwide to witness the region's cultural heritage and unity.
Palangkaraya is the capital of Central Kalimantan, known for its river cruises
- Activities: Mahakam River cruises, rainforest exploration
- Food: Local seafood, Indonesian cuisine+
- Festivals: Isen Mulang Festival, commemorating the Dayak community's ancestral spirits
Accommodations: stay in rivercruise for few nights
