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East Kalimantan’s tourist destinations feature stunning natural beauty and rich cultural diversity, making it ideal for adventure and unforgettable experiences.
As a province bordering Malaysia, East Kalimantan offers extraordinary natural wonders, from beautiful beaches and tropical forests to captivating underwater life.
For those seeking tranquility and adventure, East Kalimantan is the perfect destination. Here are 10 must-visit attractions in East Kalimantan to immerse yourself in its unparalleled beauty:
1. Kakaban Lake: The Stingless Jellyfish Wonder
Located on Kakaban Island, Kakaban Lake is a must-visit destination in East Kalimantan. This lake is renowned for its rare, stingless jellyfish, offering a unique snorkeling and diving experience. Besides jellyfish, visitors can marvel at the vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish.
The surrounding waters of Kakaban Island also boast impressive marine life, including barracudas, white-tip sharks, black-tip sharks, and hammerhead sharks, making it one of the exciting Things to do in Samarinda that enrich your diving adventure.
2. Derawan Island: A Magnificent Marine Paradise
Derawan Island is one of East Kalimantan’s most famous tourist destinations, known internationally. The island is home to breathtaking coral reefs, lush seagrass meadows, and pristine mangrove forests.
It is also a hotspot for diverse marine life, including manta rays, making it a favorite destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts seeking extraordinary underwater beauty.
3. Haji Mangku Cave: Exotic Natural Charm on Maratua Island
Haji Mangku Cave, located on Maratua Island in Berau, East Kalimantan, is a serene natural wonder. The cave’s crystal-clear, bluish water and tranquil surroundings create a calming atmosphere.
Accessible via a short 10-minute walk from the entrance, this cave is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
4. Maratua Island: A Mesmerizing Underwater Paradise
Situated near the Indonesia-Malaysia maritime border, Maratua Island is a diver’s paradise. Its rich underwater life includes stunning coral reefs and rare marine species.
As the day winds down, visitors can witness lionfish, white stingrays, and turtles near the pier, adding to the island’s enchanting appeal.
5. Blue Lake Tulung Ni’ Lenggo: Peaceful Natural Beauty
Located in Kampung Tembudan, Batu Putih, Berau, Blue Lake Tulung Ni’ Lenggo offers a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery.
This tranquil destination is perfect for reflection and enjoying the natural countryside atmosphere.
6. Sangalaki Island: Turtle Sanctuary and Underwater Splendor
Sangalaki Island is a small, serene paradise with soft white-sand beaches. Visitors can stroll along the coast or explore its exceptional underwater spots, such as Manta Run and Sherwood Forest, which feature vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
The island is also known for its turtle population, offering insights into their life cycles and conservation efforts.
7. Batu Dinding Natural Tourism: Majestic Hills and Refreshing Scenery
Located in Kutai Kartanegara, Batu Dinding (Wall Rock) offers majestic hill views surrounded by sunkist orange plantations, dragon fruit orchards, and rubber trees.
Reaching this destination involves a trek along footpaths, but the stunning scenery makes the journey worthwhile. It’s an ideal spot for tranquility and appreciating East Kalimantan’s natural beauty.
8. Labuan Cermin Lake: Mirror-Like Waters
Labuan Cermin Lake, located in Biduk-Biduk, Berau, is one of East Kalimantan’s most unique attractions. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters that reflect like a mirror.
The clarity allows visitors to observe underwater life with ease, making it an excellent spot for photography and capturing unforgettable moments.
9. Gusung Island: Bali-Like Beach Serenity
Gusung Island offers stunning white sand beaches and coral reefs reminiscent of Bali’s beaches. Located just 1.6 km from Makassar’s mainland, the island is easily accessible by speedboat or motorized boat.
This destination is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful and natural beach environment.
10. Bukit Bingkirai Natural Tourism: Exploring the Tropical Rainforest
Bukit Bingkirai is a captivating natural destination nestled in a tropical rainforest. It features lush greenery and the iconic Bangkirai trees, which are over 150 years old.
Visitors can enjoy forest canopy views from the Tajuk Bridge, which crosses the treetops. This destination offers an immersive experience into East Kalimantan’s pristine rainforest.
East Kalimantan boasts extraordinary natural wonders, from beaches and islands to lakes and untouched tropical forests. With destinations like Kakaban Lake, Derawan Island, and Bukit Bingkirai, the province provides unforgettable experiences for nature and adventure lovers.
When planning a trip to East Kalimantan, include the Tourist Attractions in Balikpapan to enjoy its captivating natural beauty.