Kalimantan Tours, Travel Guide, Hotels

KALIMANTAN Travel Guide

Vast, wild, and wonderfully untamed, Kalimantan – the Indonesian portion of Borneo – offers one of Southeast Asia’s last great frontiers. Luxury travel here is not defined by opulence but by the rarity of experience: drifting along jungle rivers aboard elegant private boats, spotting orangutans in their natural habitat, and immersing in the traditional Dayak way of life. From the lush rainforests of Tanjung Puting to remote eco-retreats nestled deep in the jungle, Kalimantan invites discerning travellers to slow down and connect with nature, culture, and themselves – far from the beaten path.

Kalimantan is a land where ancient traditions meet untamed wilderness — a journey into the heart of Borneo’s majestic rainforests, vibrant indigenous cultures, and extraordinary wildlife.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF KALIMANTAN

Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, boasts a deep-rooted history shaped by ancient kingdoms, tribal cultures, and colonial encounters. Long before modern borders, it was home to the Dayak peoples, known for their rich oral traditions, longhouses, and animist beliefs. The region saw the rise of Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms like Kutai in East Kalimantan as early as the 4th century. Later, the spread of Islam influenced coastal communities, while the interior remained largely independent and tribal. During the colonial era, the Dutch exerted control over much of Kalimantan, though many interior areas remained largely autonomous. Today, Kalimantan is a mosaic of indigenous cultures, dense jungles, and vital ecosystems, playing a key role in Indonesia’s cultural and environmental heritage.

KALIMANTAN HIGHLIGHTS

Pristine Rainforests & Wildlife

Discover diverse flora and fauna, including orangutans and proboscis monkeys.

Dayak Culture & Traditions

Experience authentic longhouse visits and tribal ceremonies.

Scenic River Cruises

Explore the Kapuas and Mahakam Rivers with breathtaking views and remote village stops.

Jungle Adventures

Enjoy trekking, river safaris, and canopy walks in untouched wilderness.

Luxury Eco-Resorts

Relax in exclusive accommodations blending comfort with nature.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Kalimantan is accessible primarily by air, with several key airports serving different regions of the island. The main international gateway is Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport in Balikpapan and Supadio International Airport in Pontianak. Regular flights connect these airports to major Indonesian hubs like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. For remote areas, domestic flights or riverboat transfers are common. Some travelers also arrive via ferry from neighboring islands or by land from Malaysia in the northern parts.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Getting around Kalimantan often involves a combination of river travel and road transport. Riverboats and longboats are essential for reaching remote jungle villages and eco-resorts along the rivers. In urban areas, taxis, rental cars, and motorbikes are common. For adventure travelers, guided jungle treks and off-road vehicles provide access to deeper rainforest regions. Due to limited infrastructure, travel times can be longer, but the journey offers unique insights into Kalimantan’s natural beauty and culture.

Interested in festivals? read more about festivals in Kalimantan and around Indonesia.

DESTINATIONS IN INDONESIA