The Indonesian part of Borneo is called Kalimantan, and it offers three main eco experiences: a river cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park to see wild and semi-wild orangutans, cultural visits to Dayak communities along rivers like the Mahakam, and, on the east coast, the marine life of the Derawan Islands. They are far apart, so most travellers choose one or two, not all three.
This guide explains where each experience is, what a trip involves, and how to approach it responsibly. If you are planning a longer route, our 13-day Indonesia itinerary shows how different regions can be linked.
Where to go
| Place | Province | What it offers |
| Tanjung Puting National Park | Central Kalimantan | Orangutans, proboscis monkeys, river cruises by klotok |
| Mahakam River | East Kalimantan | Dayak and Kutai cultures, river villages, possible freshwater dolphin sightings |
| Derawan Islands | East Kalimantan | Snorkelling, diving, jellyfish lake at Kakaban, manta rays at Sangalaki |
Tanjung Puting by klotok
Tanjung Puting is the most accessible and best-known orangutan destination in Indonesian Borneo. Most visitors fly to Pangkalan Bun, drive to the river town of Kumai and board a klotok, a traditional wooden river boat.
What a typical trip looks like
- A klotok is slow and quiet. It has a covered deck for meals and a sleeping area with mattresses and mosquito nets. Standards vary from basic to comfortable, so ask what is included.
- Two to four days is typical, with 3 days and 2 nights the most common balance.
- Feeding stations. Rangers run supplementary feeding at several stations, such as Tanjung Harapan, Pondok Tanggui and Camp Leakey, the research site founded by Dr. Biruté Galdikas in the early 1970s. Times and arrangements can change, so check ahead.
- Orangutans are the highlight, but proboscis monkeys, macaques, hornbills and kingfishers are often seen from the boat, especially at dawn and dusk.
Seeing orangutans responsibly
- Keep a respectful distance, and follow your guide’s direction. Orangutans can pass on human illnesses, so avoid visiting if you are unwell, and wear a mask if you have any symptoms.
- Do not feed them or leave food unattended. Orangutans can be surprisingly strong and quick.
- Choose operators that follow park rules and use local guides.
Dayak culture and the Mahakam River
Kalimantan is home to many Dayak communities, each with its own languages, crafts and traditions. On the Mahakam River in East Kalimantan, travellers can visit river villages, meet craftspeople and learn about traditional longhouse culture. The experience works best with a guide who can introduce you properly, as unannounced visits can be intrusive. Ask before taking photographs, and treat any offer of food, drink or a performance as hospitality.
Derawan and the East Kalimantan marine side
The Derawan archipelago is a different trip altogether: warm water, coral reefs, and sites such as Kakaban’s jellyfish lake and Sangalaki’s manta rays. It is a long journey from Tanjung Puting, so treat it as a separate stay rather than a day extension. Check conditions and access rules for protected sites before you travel.
Best time to go
Borneo is hot and humid year-round, and rain can occur at any time. The drier months, roughly May to September, are generally more comfortable for river trips and walking. Conditions vary, so check the forecast close to your dates.
Health, packing and practical tips
- Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for sun and insects
- Insect repellent and a hat
- A dry bag for electronics
- Sturdy sandals and walking shoes
- A rain jacket
- Binoculars
- Any prescription medicines, plus personal first aid
Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria advice before you travel. Connectivity is limited on the river, so tell family before you go.
Common mistakes
- Expecting a guaranteed sighting. These are wild animals.
- Choosing the cheapest klotok without asking about cabin comfort, food and crew.
- Trying to combine too much. Flights between Kalimantan’s regions are not always direct, so distances can eat into the trip.
- Visiting communities without introduction. Always go through a guide.
For general travel etiquette, see our Indonesia dos and don’ts.
Combining Borneo with other destinations
Tanjung Puting often pairs with Java, since flights connect Pangkalan Bun to major hubs. Derawan can pair with a sea-focused trip, and for travellers who enjoy underwater time, Wakatobi National Park offers another remote diving destination. For a wildlife and boat combination, consider a Komodo boat trip.
FAQ
Where can I see orangutans in Indonesian Borneo? Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan is the most accessible place, usually visited by klotok river boat.
What is a klotok? A klotok is a traditional wooden river boat used for multi-day cruises in Tanjung Puting. It includes a covered deck, meals and a sleeping area.
How many days do I need in Tanjung Puting? Two to four days. Three days and two nights is the most common balance.
What is the best time to visit Borneo? The drier months, roughly May to September, are generally more comfortable, but rain can occur at any time.
Can I combine Borneo with other parts of Indonesia? Yes. Borneo pairs well with Java, Komodo or Sulawesi, though flights are not always direct, so plan connections carefully.
Plan a private Borneo trip
If you would like a Borneo eco trip with a private klotok, naturalist guides and onward travel to other parts of Indonesia, Bespoke Indonesia Holiday can design it around your interests and comfort level. Contact us to start planning.