Introduction : Kalimantan

Kalimantan is located in the island of Borneo and share its boundaries with the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam and the Malaysian states or Serawak and Sabah, occupying a total of two-third of the island.

Kalimantan's largest indigeneous group is the Dayak which number over 200 tribes, but the most well-known groups are the Kenyah dan Kayan in the east, the Ngaju in the central region and the Iban in the west. The best way to reach the Dayak country in the island's interior is by river, such as the Mahakam and Kayan using traditional bamboo rafts, motor longboats or klotok ( River Bus ) and chartered houseboats. Organized trips into interior are available through travel operators who have link with agent in Jakarta.


Some of the most accessible Dayak Communities in the interior are in Tanjung Isuy, Muara Muntai, Melak or Long Iram. At Tanjung Isuy, welcome rituals and dances are often performed for visitors. Dayak families live in great longhouse that may accommodate 20 to 30 families, such as the one in Barong Tongkok.

The wildlife of Kalimantan is among the most diverse in the world and great effort are being taken to protect many rare species of plant and animals. In the upper reaches of the Mahakam River, Kersik Luwai is a 5.000 acre orchid reservation protecting around 72 different species of orchid including the very rare black orchid, Cologenia pandurata. The seas that surround Kalimantan shelter a diverse ecosystem. At Derawan, sea turtles ( green, hawksbill, scarlet and star fruit turtles ) come in shore at night to lay their eggs. Surrounded by shallow lagoon and the reefs, Maratua and Sangalaki have over 500 species of hard and soft corals and manta rays.

Several of the most important wildlife rehabilitation centers are found in Central Kalimantan. Tanjung Puting National Park and its three camp ( Tanjung Harapan, Pondok Tanggul and Camp Leakey ) are where tamed orangutans are rehabilitated and taught to re-adapt to their natural environment. The area is also the site for bountiful pearl diving. Kijing and Temajoh island in West Kalimantan are also ideal for diving, fishing and sailing.

Rivers are central in the lives of the people of Kalimantan and many of their daily activities revolve arround the rivers. The kuin floating market is a colorful sight that begins at dawn till mid morning. Vendors paddle longboats selling fruits, vegetables, traditional snack and beverages.

Banjarmasin and nearby Martapura are famous as a center of semi precious and precious stones, mined in the surrounding areas. Get good bargains for diamonds, emeralds, saphires and amethysts.

Tresure from the Interior

The art of the Dayak produces superb decorative and religious design that are painted or carved on longhouse, masks and religious structure. Apart from their weaving and basketwork, the Dayak's beadwork is well known for its color and intricacy. Most traditional markets carry Dayak handicraft which are cheaper than at art shops. But travelling to different regions will be rewarded with the original item