Discover the best places to visit in Kalimantan, Indonesia’s Borneo paradise. Explore orangutan sanctuaries, tropical islands, rainforests, rivers, and hidden ecotourism destinations in this complete travel guide.
Best Places to Visit in Kalimantan
Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo Island, is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating travel destinations. Known for its ancient rainforests, incredible wildlife, exotic rivers, and untouched islands, Kalimantan offers adventures unlike anywhere else in Indonesia. From orangutan conservation parks to world-class diving spots, travelers can experience authentic nature and culture far away from crowded tourist destinations.
If you are searching for the best places to visit in Kalimantan, this guide covers the top destinations that should be on your itinerary. Whether you are interested in ecotourism, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or island escapes, Kalimantan has something extraordinary to offer.
Why Travel to Kalimantan?
Traveling to Kalimantan is ideal for visitors seeking a more adventurous and authentic Indonesian experience. Unlike Bali or Java, Kalimantan remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. The island is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and contains remarkable biodiversity including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and rare tropical plants.
Many travelers choose Kalimantan for:
- Jungle trekking adventures
- Orangutan conservation tours
- River cruises
- Diving and snorkeling
- Indigenous Dayak culture
- Remote island exploration
- Ecotourism experiences
With increasing tourism infrastructure and better flight connections, visiting Kalimantan is becoming easier for international tourists.
- Tanjung Puting National Park
Among the best tourist attractions in Kalimantan, Tanjung Puting National Park is the most famous destination. Located in Central Kalimantan, this national park is globally recognized for its orangutan conservation programs.
The highlight of the park is traveling aboard a traditional wooden riverboat called a klotok. Visitors cruise through dense rainforest while spotting wildlife along the riverbanks. Orangutans are commonly seen at feeding stations such as Camp Leakey, Pondok Tanggui, and Tanjung Harapan.
Besides orangutans, visitors may encounter:
- Proboscis monkeys
- Crocodiles
- Hornbills
- Gibbons
- Wild macaques
The experience of sleeping on a riverboat surrounded by rainforest sounds makes Tanjung Puting one of the most unforgettable destinations in Indonesia.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from June to September offers the best wildlife viewing conditions.
- Derawan Islands
The Derawan Islands in East Kalimantan are considered one of the top marine tourism destinations in Indonesia. If you love tropical beaches, diving, and marine biodiversity, this is one of the best places to visit in Kalimantan.
The archipelago consists of several stunning islands including:
- Derawan Island
- Maratua Island
- Kakaban Island
- Sangalaki Island
The waters surrounding these islands are home to manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks, and colorful coral reefs.
- Popular Activities
- Scuba diving
- Snorkeling
- Swimming with manta rays
- Turtle watching
- Island hopping
Kakaban Island is especially unique because of its famous jellyfish lake where visitors can swim with stingless jellyfish.
- Banjarmasin
Known as the “City of a Thousand Rivers,” Banjarmasin is one of the cultural highlights of South Kalimantan. The city is famous for its traditional floating markets where traders sell fruits, vegetables, and local snacks directly from wooden boats.
The Lok Baintan Floating Market is the most popular attraction and usually operates early in the morning. Visiting the market offers a glimpse into local river culture that has existed for generations.
Other attractions in Banjarmasin include:
- River cruises
- Traditional Banjar cuisine
- Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque
- Cultural villages
- Handicraft shopping
For travelers interested in local traditions and authentic experiences, Banjarmasin is among the must visit places in Kalimantan.
- Kutai National Park
Kutai National Park in East Kalimantan is another excellent destination for wildlife lovers. The park protects tropical rainforest ecosystems and is home to wild orangutans living in their natural habitat.
Compared to Tanjung Puting, Kutai offers a more rugged and less commercialized experience. Visitors can explore jungle trails while observing wildlife in untouched rainforest surroundings.
Animals commonly found here include:
- Orangutans
- Sun bears
- Deer
- Hornbills
- Various reptiles and birds
The park is ideal for eco-travelers and photographers looking for authentic rainforest adventures.
- Mahakam River
The Mahakam River is one of the longest rivers in Indonesia and an important transportation route in East Kalimantan. A cruise along the river provides opportunities to visit remote Dayak villages and experience local culture.
One of the highlights is spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphins that inhabit certain parts of the river.
Travelers can also enjoy:
- Traditional longhouses
- Dayak cultural performances
- River photography
- Wildlife observation
- Traditional handicrafts
Exploring the Mahakam River is perfect for travelers who want deeper cultural immersion during their Kalimantan journey.
- Maratua Island
Maratua Island is often described as a hidden paradise in Indonesian Borneo. Located within the Derawan archipelago, the island features crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and luxury overwater accommodations.
Many travelers searching for the best islands in Kalimantan choose Maratua because of its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular underwater scenery.
Diving spots around Maratua feature:
- Sea turtles
- Barracudas
- Reef sharks
- Vibrant coral walls
The island is also suitable for honeymooners and luxury ecotourism travelers.
- Danau Sentarum National Park
Located in West Kalimantan, Danau Sentarum National Park is one of the largest wetland ecosystems in Southeast Asia. During the rainy season, the area transforms into a vast interconnected lake system.
This national park is known for:
- Rich biodiversity
- Rare fish species
- Birdwatching
- Traditional Dayak communities
- Rainforest landscapes
Nature lovers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations will find Danau Sentarum highly rewarding.
- Balikpapan
Balikpapan is often used as the gateway to East Kalimantan adventures. The city is modern, clean, and offers comfortable facilities for international travelers.
Popular attractions include:
- Mangrove forests
- Beaches
- Crocodile farms
- Local seafood restaurants
- Nature reserves
Balikpapan is also an excellent starting point before traveling deeper into Borneo’s rainforest regions.
- Samarinda
Samarinda, the capital of East Kalimantan, combines urban development with cultural tourism. Visitors can explore local markets, riverfront attractions, and nearby Dayak cultural villages.
As Indonesia develops the new national capital Nusantara in East Kalimantan, Samarinda is becoming increasingly important as a tourism and transportation hub.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kalimantan
Before planning your adventure to the best places to visit in Kalimantan, here are some useful travel tips:
Prepare for Tropical Weather
Kalimantan has a humid tropical climate. Lightweight clothing, rain protection, and mosquito repellent are highly recommended.
Respect Nature and Wildlife
Many destinations in Kalimantan are protected conservation areas. Avoid feeding wildlife or leaving plastic waste behind.
Domestic Flights Are Important
Due to Kalimantan’s enormous size, domestic flights are often necessary between regions such as Balikpapan, Pontianak, and Pangkalan Bun.
Bring Cash for Remote Areas
Some remote destinations may have limited ATM access or card payment facilities.
How to Get to Kalimantan?
Major entry points to Kalimantan include:
- Balikpapan
- Pontianak
- Banjarmasin
- Samarinda
- Pangkalan Bun
Flights are available from Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali, and other Indonesian cities. International travelers usually connect through Jakarta or Bali first.