About Bontang

Bontang – Mangrove Forests and Industrial Coast in East Kalimantan

Bontang is an independent city in East Kalimantan province, on the shore of the Makassar Strait. The city is one of Indonesia's most important LNG (liquefied natural gas) centres, yet sits in a surprisingly rich natural setting. Bontang Mangrove Park and the nearby Kutai National Park create a unique contrast between industrial facilities and untouched tropical nature.

Attractions and Activities

Bontang Mangrove Park is the city's pride: 200 hectares of mangrove forest with boardwalks and observation towers where you can spot monkeys, large snakes and exotic birds. Nearby Kutai National Park is one of the last habitats of the Bornean orangutan – reachable as a day trip from Bontang. Beras Basah Island, with its white-sand beach, is about 30 minutes by boat from the harbour and a popular weekend destination for snorkelling. The city's fish market (Pasar Ikan) is a lively dawn affair with fresh sea creatures.

Culture and Cuisine

Bontang's population is mixed: Kutai, Bugis, Javanese and Banjar communities live here following industrial migration. Local cuisine is built on fresh fish from the Makassar Strait – ikan bakar (grilled fish) with sambal kecombrang (torch ginger sauce) is a Bontang speciality. Pepek (dried pressed fish) and amplang (fish crackers) are popular local snacks.

Public Safety

Bontang is a safe industrial city. You can move around the city centre and residential areas freely at night. Security checks may occur near industrial zones (LNG plants), but these do not affect tourists. Only use reliable boat operators for trips to Beras Basah Island and check the weather. The city has a hospital (RSUD Bontang); for more serious cases, Samarinda or Balikpapan are the nearest major cities.

Practical Information

The nearest airports are Samarinda (APT Pranoto, approx. 3 hours) or Balikpapan (Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, approx. 4 hours by car). Buses also run to Bontang from Samarinda. The best time to visit is April to October. The city offers mid-range hotels and guesthouses.

East Kalimantan is Borneo's largest province, where the Derawan Islands' marine paradise, the Mahakam River's culture, and the new capital Nusantara converge. The region is world-famous for diving, sea turtles, and the stingless jellyfish lake.

Where is East Kalimantan?

The province is located on Borneo's eastern coast, along the Celebes Sea. Balikpapan and Samarinda are the main cities, both with international airports. Indonesia's planned new capital, Nusantara, is currently under construction in the province's northern part.

What to See?

1. Derawan Islands – Marine Paradise

The Derawan Islands are an archipelago with crystal-clear waters where sea turtles, manta rays, and sponges await. Kakaban Island's stingless jellyfish lake is unique: the jellyfish don't sting, and you can swim among them. Sangalaki Island is a nesting site for manta rays and sea turtles.

2. Kutai National Park

Kutai National Park is one of Borneo's oldest protected areas. Orangutans, Bornean elephants, and rare bird species live here. The park spans rainforests around Sangatta.

3. Mahakam River

Indonesia's third-longest river is the stage for Dayak and Banjar culture. River cruises offer sightings of dolphins, traditional villages, and floating markets. Tenggarong and Kutai Kartanegara are historically significant towns along the river.

4. Nusantara – The New Capital

Nusantara, Indonesia's planned new capital, is currently under construction in northern East Kalimantan. The implementation is in progress, and the region is becoming an increasingly important tourism and economic hub.

5. Balikpapan and Samarinda

Balikpapan is the oil industry center, but Kumala Beach and local gastronomy are also attractive. Samarinda is the gateway to the Mahakam River, from where river excursions depart.

When to Visit?

March–October is the dry season, ideal for diving at the Derawan Islands and river tours. The jellyfish lake is visitable year-round.

How Long to Stay?

5–7 days recommended:

2–3 days: Derawan Islands, diving, jellyfish lake
1–2 days: Mahakam River cruise
1 day: Kutai National Park
1 day: Balikpapan or Samarinda

Summary

East Kalimantan is where marine experiences meet river culture. The Derawan Islands offer world-class diving, while the Mahakam River provides an authentic Borneo experience.

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