The Mahakam River is a tourist highway to the natural and cultural treasures of Kalimantan, and it offers a unique gateway into the region’s vibrant heritage. Houseboats cruise along this mighty river, taking tourists on a fascinating journey through the history of the Sultan Kingdoms and the traditional jungle water-villages of the Dayak Tribes. These communities still thrive within the rainforest of Borneo, where culture and nature exist in harmony.
The Mahakam River Cruise is not just a trip but an adventure into the heart of Kalimantan’s wild beauty and rich traditions. It brings travelers to Dayak Longhouses, which are adorned with intricate carvings and stand as symbols of cultural artistry. Because of the region’s biodiversity, visitors encounter exotic flora like black orchids and rare fauna such as freshwater dolphins and orangutans.
So, whether exploring Lake Jempang and Lake Melintang or witnessing traditional ceremonies in villages like Tanjung Isuy and Mancong, this journey promises unforgettable experiences. The Mahakam River is more than a waterway—it is a bridge to history, nature, and the enduring spirit of the Dayak people.
Here’s a revised version of the tour itinerary with enhanced readability and transitions using “and,” “but,” “so,” and “because” where appropriate:
Mahakam River Cruise Itinerary
Day 01: BALIKPAPAN, SAMARINDA, MAHAKAM (-LD)
Meet your tour guide upon arrival at Balikpapan airport. After a short meeting and briefing, transfer directly to Samarinda harbor to board your houseboat. This will mark the start of your jungle cruise along the Mahakam River. Lunch and dinner will be provided, and you will spend the night aboard the houseboat, enjoying the tranquil river atmosphere.
Day 02: , MUARA PMUARA MUNTAI, MANCONG, TANJUNG ISUYAHU (BLD)
Begin the day with breakfast on board as the houseboat anchors at Muara Muntai, a quaint wooden village. Here, take a short sightseeing tour to experience the river life of the local people. Then, continue your journey by canoe across Jempang Lake and through the lush Ohong Creek to the Mancong Dayak Longhouse village.
During the canoe cruise, you can marvel at the surrounding rainforest and wildlife, including proboscis monkeys and colorful birds. Upon arrival at Mancong, the Dayaq Benuaq will welcome you with a traditional ceremony in their intricately decorated longhouse.
In the afternoon, visit Tanjung Isuy, a settlement near Semayang Lake, known for its shamanic health rituals. Afterward, return to the houseboat to continue cruising upstream along the mighty Mahakam River, often referred to as Kalimantan’s “highway to the hinterland.” Dinner and overnight stay on board.
Day 03: MUARA PAHU, KEDANG PAHU RIVER, MOUNT BAYAN, TERBISAK, DOWNSTREAM (BLD)
Enjoy breakfast on board as you arrive at Muara Pahu, located at the delta of the Kedang Pahu River. Here, a new adventure begins as you cruise by canoe for over an hour to Mount Bayan. Visit the Dayak settlement of Terbisak, surrounded by tropical rainforest, where the community lives harmoniously while practicing traditional farming and hunting.
On the way back downstream, take in the stunning scenery of slopes and jungle valleys. You might spot exotic wildlife, including otters, leaf monkeys, proboscis monkeys, and birds along the riverbank.
Later, visit the delta of the Belowan River, a blackwater peat swamp forest, and look for freshwater dolphins in the merging streams of the Kedang Pahu and Belowan Rivers. In the afternoon, return to the houseboat and begin the journey downstream to Tenggarong, home of the Kutai Sultanate.
Day 04: TENGGARONG, SAMARINDA, BALIKPAPAN (B–)
Arrive at Tenggarong and visit the palace of the Sultan of Kutai Kartanegara, which houses an impressive collection of heirlooms, ceramics, and Dayak art and cultural items. Afterward, continue the cruise downstream to Samarinda. From there, transfer by overland transport to Balikpapan airport for your onward flight to your next destination.
Tour Rates Include:
- Transfers from Balikpapan airport to Samarinda by car or minibus.
- Accommodation for 3 nights on an air-conditioned houseboat.
- Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) and drinks (Aqua, Tea, Coffee).
- English-speaking tour guide.
- Entrance fees, parking fees, and donations.
- Houseboat cruises along the Mahakam River, including visits to Muara Muntai, Jempang Lake, Tanjung Isuy, Mancong, Muara Pahu, Mount Bayan, Terbisak Village, and Bolowan River.
Tour Rates Exclude:
- Airfares.
- Travel insurance.
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Any services not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of the Mahakam River and the rich cultural heritage of Kalimantan.
