Discovering East Borneo’s Wonders: Mahakam River, Kutai Park & Maratua (11D/10N)
Embark on an extraordinary 10-night journey to uncover the treasures of Borneo, the third-largest island on our planet. This expedition seamlessly blends three of Borneo's most captivating experiences: the enigmatic Dayak tribes, the awe-inspiring freedom of orangutans in their untamed habitat, and the mesmerizing beauty of one of Earth's most biodiverse landscapes.
As you venture along the eastern coast of Borneo, you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Dayak culture, where tradition meets modernity. Explore the lush rainforests from the comfort of a floating house, where the sights and sounds of nature are your constant companions. Witness remarkable encounters with orangutans, spot elusive water bird species, and share the jungle with diverse monkey populations.
The journey crescendos in the pristine wonderland of the Derawan Archipelago, a sanctuary for giant turtles and awe-inspiring whale sharks, some reaching an astonishing 9 meters in length. Here, in this aquatic paradise, the adventure of a lifetime truly begins.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Balikpapan - Mahakam River
Your East Borneo adventure commences in Balikpapan, a city that has grown from a humble fishing village, largely influenced by the Bugis people. This bustling port city not only offers a vibrant array of jewelry and gem markets but also boasts inviting white sandy beaches where you can unwind and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Upon your arrival at Sepinggan airport, our friendly guide will be there to give you a warm welcome and ensure your smooth transition to Loajanan, which is a scenic 2.5-hour drive away. Waiting for you there is a traditional houseboat, your comfortable and picturesque abode for this remarkable journey.
Throughout your adventure, your meals and accommodations will be thoughtfully arranged on board the houseboat, providing not only convenience but also the opportunity to relish the scenic landscapes that East Borneo has to offer. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with culture, nature, and discovery!
Meals: Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Standard Houseboat with Air Conditioning
Day 2: Muara Muntai - Mancong - Tanjung Isuy - Muara Pahu
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on a brief but enriching visit to the Muara Muntai Wooden village. From there, you'll continue your journey by motor canoe, crossing the picturesque Jempang Lake. This serene passage will take you through the lush rainforest, providing ample opportunities to spot the region's vibrant wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds.
Upon reaching the charming Mancong village, you'll be greeted with a traditional Dayak welcome, complete with ceremonial dances. This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant culture of the Dayaq Benuaq, one of East Kalimantan's oldest Dayak Longhouse communities.
As the sun sets, you'll embark on another picturesque motor canoe cruise, this time to Tanjung Isuy, where you'll be treated to more breathtaking sightseeing. Finally, you'll return to the houseboat for a sumptuous dinner and a restful overnight stay as the houseboat gently sails to Muara Pahu, ensuring you wake up to another day of exciting adventures.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Standard Houseboat with Air Conditioning
Day 3: Muara Pahu - Kutai National Park
Arriving at Muara Pahu, your adventure continues with an exciting journey upstream along the Kedang Pahu River, all aboard a trusty canoe. Your destination is Mount Bayan, which is home to the Terbisak Dayak village. This village is unique for its distinctive Longhouse, which accommodates around 100 Dayak residents who proudly uphold age-old traditions, including dry rice cultivation and hunting.
As you gracefully paddle downstream, keep your senses sharp to spot the region's exotic creatures, such as otters, leaf monkeys, the endangered proboscis monkeys, and a captivating array of bird species. Your journey will ultimately lead you to the delta of the Belowan River, a mysterious blackwater peat swamp forest. Here, you'll have ample opportunities to spot freshwater dolphins at the confluence of the Kedang Pahu and Bolowan River streams.
After this thrilling excursion, it's time to return to your trusty houseboat for a journey upstream to Melak, where yet another exciting day of exploration awaits.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Standard Houseboat with Air Conditioning
Day 4: Melak - Eheng - Ombau Asa
Upon your arrival in the captivating town of Melak, your adventure takes you on a scenic drive to Eheng. The journey, conducted by comfortable Jeep or minibus, allows you to traverse the breathtaking highlands. Your destination is the historic Dayak Tunjung longhouse, a living testament to the enduring culture of the Dayak people.
While you're in the area, a visit to Kersik Luway provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the lush forest surroundings. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous black orchid, a rare and prized find in these verdant woodlands.
As the day unfolds, you'll make your way to the picturesque Ombau Asa waterfall, a hidden gem that invites you for a refreshing swim in its pristine waters. As evening approaches, it's time to return to Melak and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
You'll board your trusty houseboat once again, embarking on a downstream journey to Tenggarong, where more thrilling experiences await.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Standard Houseboat with Air Conditioning
Day 5: Tenggarong - Sangatta
Upon your arrival in Tenggarong, a treasure trove of cultural exploration awaits. Your first stop is the former palace of Sultan Kutai Kertanegara, a place steeped in history and culture. Inside, you'll discover an impressive collection of heirlooms, ceramics, Dayak art, and a rich array of cultural artifacts that provide a window into the region's storied past.
After this enriching cultural experience, you'll embark on a somewhat lengthy but scenic six-hour car journey to Sangatta. This drive offers a unique opportunity to soak in the landscapes of Borneo, filled with natural beauty and the allure of the unknown. Upon your arrival in Sangatta, you'll check in at the comfortable Abna Sangata Hotel, where a hearty dinner and a well-deserved rest await you.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Abna Sangata Hotel
Day 6: Sangatta - Kutai National Park
Your day in Kutai National Park Reserve kicks off with an invigorating early morning adventure. You'll board a motor canoe, your trusty vessel for the day, and journey upstream along the meandering Sangatta River. This river, flanked by the lush tropical greenery of the rainforest, promises a picturesque route into the heart of the park.
Upon your arrival at the Prefab Orangutan Research Station, you'll drop off your belongings and prepare for an exciting jungle trek. This trek is not just about the incredible sights of the rainforest but also about the quest to encounter wildlife, particularly the magnificent orangutans that call this place home. Your expert guide will lead the way, sharing insights about the diverse flora and fauna you encounter.
After your trek, you'll return to the Prefab Station for a well-deserved lunch and some relaxation. However, your day's adventure isn't over yet. In the afternoon, you'll embark on another forest trek, further immersing yourself in the wonders of Borneo's mesmerizing flora and fauna.
As evening descends and the rainforest comes alive with its enchanting sounds, you'll spend the night at the Prefab Research Station, truly connecting with the heart of the jungle.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Jungle Lodge Kutai NP
Day 7: Kutai Reserve - Delta - Sangkima - Samarinda
After a hearty breakfast, your day begins with another exciting adventure. You'll board a motor canoe for an excursion to the mangrove forest located at the Delta of the Sangatta River. This unique ecosystem is a haven for wildlife, and you'll have several thrilling opportunities for sightings.
As you glide through the serene waters of the mangrove forest, keep a keen eye out for the distinctive Longnose Monkeys, known for their remarkable proboscis noses. The forest canopy also hosts a myriad of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Additionally, the mangrove ecosystem is home to other intriguing creatures, including crocodiles.
After your mangrove adventure, you'll return to Sangatta for a well-deserved lunch. Following your meal, you'll continue your journey by car, traveling for approximately 1.5 hours to Sangkima. This leg of your journey offers a fascinating opportunity to pass through Buginese villages, where you can catch glimpses of local life and culture.
Upon arriving in Sangkima, you'll have the chance to encounter an ancient giant hardwood tree and witness the area's diverse vegetation. This promises to be a memorable experience, connecting you with the natural wonders of Borneo.
As the day unfolds, you'll enjoy dinner en route to Samarinda, where you'll spend the night at the comfortable Senyiur Samarinda Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Senyiur Samarinda Hotel – Standard Room
Day 8: Samarinda - Balikpapan
You'll start your day with a leisurely breakfast, giving you the opportunity to savor the delightful ambiance of the hotel at your own pace. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the relaxed morning atmosphere until it's time for your transfer to Balikpapan.
Upon arriving in Balikpapan, you'll check in at the Grand Senyiur Balikpapan Hotel, where you'll spend a comfortable night. This provides the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of your Borneo adventure.
Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Accommodation: Grand Senyiur Balikpapan – Standard Room
Day 9: Balikpapan - Berau - Maratua
You'll kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Following this, our designated driver will be ready to transfer you to the airport for your flight to Berau.
Upon landing in Berau, our attentive driver will be there to ensure a seamless transition to the next leg of your journey. You'll be transported to Berau Harbour, where an exciting maritime adventure awaits. It's from here that you'll board a boat that will take you to the captivating Maratua Island.
With the afternoon stretching ahead of you, it's the perfect time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders that Maratua Island has to offer. Whether you're eager to explore its pristine beaches, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, discover untouched islands, or venture into the vast forests, the choice is yours to savor.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Pratasaba Resort - Standard Room
Day 10: Free Day
Your day on Maratua Island is a canvas awaiting your exploration. Whether you're drawn to the enchanting world beneath the waves or the lush beauty of the island itself, today is yours to make the most of.
For underwater enthusiasts, a unique opportunity awaits. Dive into the mesmerizing waters around Kakaban, where you can snorkel alongside stingless jellyfish. The sight of these gentle creatures is truly remarkable. Perhaps you'll encounter a majestic school of barracuda or witness the grace of Manta Rays gliding through the water. And of course, keep an eye out for the resting turtles, a serene spectacle beneath the waves.
If you're seeking personalized recommendations or assistance, the friendly staff at the front desk is always at your service. They can help you tailor your day to match your interests and desires, ensuring that your time on Maratua Island is nothing short of extraordinary.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Pratasaba Resort - Standard Room
Day 11: Maratua - Berau - Balikpapan - Farewell
As your extraordinary journey through Borneo comes to an end, we'll arrange your transfer to Berau, the final chapter of this incredible adventure. From there, you'll board your flight back to Balikpapan.
We hope that this adventure has left you with a treasure trove of memories, from the lush rainforests and vibrant cultures of East Kalimantan to the pristine beauty of Maratua Island. We extend our heartfelt thanks for choosing Come2Borneo as your guide through this remarkable corner of the world. Sampai Jumpa! Until we meet again!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: -
What's included?
- Flight Tickets: Balikpapan – Berau, Berau – Balikpapan.
- Fast Boat: Berau – Maratua – Berau.
- Accommodation: 4 Nights on a Standard Houseboat with Air Conditioning, 1 Night at Hotel Abna Sangatta, 1 Night at Jungle Lodge Kutai NP, 1 Night at Hotel Senyiur Samarinda, 1 Night at Hotel Grand Senyiur Balikpapan, 2 Nights at Hotel Pratasaba in Maratua.
- Donations and fees: Donations and Entrance Fees, Permits.
- Meals, accommodations, and activities: Meals, Accommodations, and Activities as Mentioned in the Itinerary
What's excluded?
- Flights: International flights, Domestic Flight.
- Visa fees
- Additional beverages: Additional beverages such as soft drinks, juice, and alcohol.
- Personal expenses: Personal expenses, including tips, laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages.
- Insurance: Travel insurance (Highly Recommended).
- Extra costs: Extra costs arising from circumstances beyond our control, like flight delays or cancellations.
- Not Mentioned: Anything not explicitly mentioned in the "Tour Inclusions" section.
What to bring?
- Sports shoes (special trekking shoes not necessary, as walks are gentle)
- Sandals (with Velcro recommended)
- Synthetic socks
- Long pants (quick-drying material)
- Raincoat
- Sweatshirt
- Lightweight t-shirts (quick-drying material)
- Long-sleeved shirt (quick-drying material)
- Towel
- Mosquito repellent (unscented and effective)
- Personal medicines and hygiene essentials
- Malaria prophylaxis (recommended)
FAQs
Ready for an awe-inspiring Borneo adventure? Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Dayak tribes and witness the majesty of orangutans in their natural habitat!
Before you go, explore our Borneo Travel Information FAQs page for vital trip information. From transportation and accommodations to respecting local customs and responsible wildlife encounters, we've got you covered.
Join us in preserving Borneo's biodiversity and cultural heritage. Plan your dream trip now and experience the magic of Borneo!
Terms and Conditions
Before you embark on your exciting tour with us, we kindly request you to review our terms and conditions thoroughly. These guidelines set clear expectations and responsibilities for both parties involved in the tour booking process.
To access our comprehensive terms and conditions page for booking tours, simply click on the link provided below. We highly recommend dedicating some time to read through the terms attentively, ensuring a seamless and delightful travel experience.
We sincerely appreciate your choice in selecting Come2Borneo for your travel needs. Our team eagerly anticipates offering you an unforgettable tour experience filled with cherished memories.
Click the link to visit our Terms & Conditions page for booking tours.
Explore the Derawan Archipelago's paradise islands, venture into the rainforests of Kutai National Park, and experience the traditional Dayak culture that defines the region.
