Explore the best tourist destinations in East Kalimantan, including Derawan Island, Kakaban Lake, and Maratua, for an unforgettable holiday experience.
East Kalimantan is not only rich in natural resources, but also has a myriad of amazing natural tourist destinations. From exotic islands to stunning lakes, East Kalimantan offers a unique and memorable holiday experience. Here are the 10 best tourist attractions that you must visit when visiting East Kalimantan.
1. Derawan Island
Derawan Island is an icon of East Kalimantan tourism that is known internationally. Located in Berau Regency, this island offers exotic views of white sand beaches and clear sea water. Beneath the sea surface, there is a beautiful coral reef ecosystem, lush seagrass beds , and stunning mangrove forests.
Activities that you can do on Derawan Island are very diverse, ranging from snorkeling, diving, to surfing. If you are lucky, you can also see green turtles swimming around the island. The underwater beauty makes this island a paradise for divers, both beginners and professionals.
2. Kakaban Lake
Still in the Derawan Islands area, Kakaban Lake offers a unique experience that you will hardly find anywhere else. This lake is home to thousands of stingless jellyfish, which provide an extraordinary swimming sensation. There are four types of jellyfish here, including moon jellyfish and box jellyfish.
Kakaban Lake is also surrounded by dense forest which adds to the natural impression. Besides swimming with jellyfish, you can explore the area around the lake to enjoy the peaceful and beautiful natural scenery.
3. Sangalaki Island
Sangalaki Island is a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts. Located not far from Derawan Island, this island has white sandy beaches and clear blue sea water. The island is also known as a conservation area for green turtles and hawksbill turtles.
Sangalaki Island has several famous dive spots such as Manta Run, Sherwood Forest, and Coral Gardens. In addition, you can witness the process of releasing baby turtles into the sea, an educational and touching experience.
4. Batu Dinding Nature Tourism
Batu Dinding Nature Tourism offers a magnificent panorama of hills in Kutai Kartanegara Regency. To reach this location, you have to pass through a path surrounded by orange groves, rubber trees, and dragon fruit.
Once you arrive at the location, you will be treated to a view of towering rock cliffs, like a giant natural wall. This place is also a favorite spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.
5. Labuan Cermin Lake
Located in Biduk-Biduk District, Berau Regency, Labuan Cermin Lake is famous for its clear water. The clear, mirror-like water of the lake creates a beautiful illusion of reflection, making visitors feel like they are in another world.
This lake has two layers of water, namely fresh water on the surface and salt water at the bottom, a unique phenomenon that has attracted the attention of scientists. Activities such as swimming, diving, or simply taking pictures are the perfect choices to enjoy the beauty of Labuan Cermin Lake.
6. Haji Mangku Cave
Haji Mangku Cave, located on Maratua Island, offers an adventurous tourism experience. With its clear turquoise water, this cave is a favorite place for swimming and exploring nature.
The distance from the entrance to the cave only takes about 10 minutes on foot, so this place is easy to reach. The calm atmosphere around the cave makes it an ideal place for relaxation.
7. The Blue Lake of Tulung Ni’ Lenggo
Tulung Ni’ Lenggo Blue Lake is a new destination located in Tembudan Village, Batu Putih District, Berau Regency. The clear blue lake water surrounded by shady trees creates a beautiful and calming atmosphere.
This place is perfect for relaxing and reflecting. With its enchanting natural beauty, Telaga Biru is often a favorite spot for tourists who want to capture the moment through photography.
8. Wet Rice Island
Beras Basah Island is one of the hidden gems in the Makassar Strait, Bontang. This island offers white sandy beaches, clear sea water, and calm waves.
This island is a paradise for snorkeling and diving lovers, with a variety of marine life such as starfish and coral reefs. Although the journey to the island takes about three hours, the natural beauty it offers makes it worth the visit.
9. Sembinai Hill Stone Park
Located in Kasungai Village, Batu Sopang District, Paser Regency, Batu Bukit Sembinai Park offers stunning views. The path to this location is quite challenging, with winding climbs and descents.
However, upon arrival at the location, you will be presented with a panorama of exotic rocks and captivating sunrise and sunset views. This place is perfect for those of you who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while having an adventure.
10. Maratua Island
Maratua Island is an exclusive tourist destination located on the border of Indonesian and Malaysian waters. Known as an “underwater paradise,” the island offers stunning coral reefs, rare fish, and a variety of other marine life.
Towards dusk, you can see lionfish, white rays, and turtles appearing around the pier. The island also has luxury resorts that offer direct views of the sea, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
East Kalimantan is not only known as a region producing natural resources, but also as a paradise for nature tourism lovers. From exotic islands to unique lakes, East Kalimantan offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Don’t miss the chance to explore the 10 tourist attractions above and discover the beauty you’ve never seen before!
