In contrast to the impenetrable and mysterious Indonesian side of Borneo across the border, Balikpapan is surprisingly cosmopolitan as the result of oil money and the influx of expats. The city with its glittering shopping centres and high-end lodgings serves as the gateway to the beautiful tropical rainforest, the indigenous Dayak tribes and diving sites rich with biodiversity.
PLACES OF INTEREST
1. Bukit Bangkirai
Imagine one of the world’s most beautiful virgin conservation forests, home to many wildlife creatures and more than 45 species of wild orchids. Don’t forget to check out the famous canopy bridge!
2. Kemala Beach
This beach is situated right in the city where locals crowd on weekends for beach activities and some relaxing family time!
3. Lamaru Beach
If you’re looking to get out of the city and straight into the refreshing clear waters, Lamaru Beach offers a lovely picnic spot for a sweet escape.
4. Borneo Crocodile Recreational Park
Be greeted by thousands of crocodiles in this recreation park where you can learn about different species of crocodiles. Unique souvenirs made from crocodile skin and the infamous crocodile satay are sold here.
5. Manggar Segara Sari Beach
Favoured amongst the locals for a quick getaway, it’s 13,000 square metres of fine sandy beach surrounded by lush pine trees–the place to be for an afternoon of beach volleyball, swimming or banana boating.
6. Museum Kodam VI/Mulawarman (Tanjungpura Museum)
Military enthusiasts, don’t miss the museum’s amazing collection of World War II relics such as rifles, missiles and cannons.
7. Samboja Lestari Orangutan Sanctuary and Eco Lodge
Escape into the green sanctuary where the orangutans roam freely, or stay a night at the eco lodge surrounded by Borneo rainforest. Participate in rescue hunts to save the animals from harm’s way!
8. Pasar Kebun Sayur
Despite its name (Vegetable Garden Market), you won’t find any vegetables here. Instead, there are gemstones, home-grown products and souvenirs aplenty at this market!
9. Kepiting Soka
Soft shell crab coated in a batter of flour, egg, sugar, garlic, pepper and salt, deep fried to perfection! This soft, crispy and melt-in-your-mouth dish is a must-try specialty when in Balikpapan.
10. Nearby Attractions
Derawan Islands
Not only is it a hotspot for snorkelling, diving and swimming, Derawan is also adored for its peaceful atmosphere. Beyond beautiful, this chain of islands is rich with rare marine life. Kakaban Island in particular is unique because you can swim with the stingless jellyfishes!
Kayan Mentarang National Park
With a total area of 1,360,500 hectares, Kayan Mentarang National Park is the largest single area of primary and secondary forest in Southeast Asia. Adventurers will have the chance to encounter orangutans, gibbons and leaf monkeys, among others.
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