About Mahakam Hulu

Mahakam Hulu – The Upper Mahakam River and Dayak Communities

Mahakam Hulu Regency lies in the innermost part of East Kalimantan province, on the upper reaches of the Mahakam River. Its capital is Long Bagun. The region is one of Kalimantan’s most isolated and pristine areas, home to Dayak Bahau and Dayak Kenyah communities.

Attractions and Activities

Multi-day boat expeditions can be arranged on the upper Mahakam River: travelling upstream from Samarinda, the river becomes increasingly wild – rapids, gorges, pristine rainforest. Dayak Bahau and Kenyah villages live in traditional longhouses: carved totem poles, ceremonies. Proximity to Kayan Mentarang National Park (on the North Kalimantan border) offers biodiversity. Tiong Ohang and Long Apari are remote Dayak settlements offering authentic cultural experiences.

Culture and Cuisine

Dayak Bahau and Kenyah culture is defining: the longhouse (lamin) communal house, the mandau (Dayak sword), the hudoq dance are part of cultural life. Cuisine is Dayak: lemang (rice cooked in bamboo), pansoh (meat cooked in bamboo), freshwater fish from the Mahakam.

Public Safety

Mahakam Hulu is an isolated and hard-to-reach region. Travel only with a local guide. Infrastructure is minimal. Medical care: puskesmas in Long Bagun; Samarinda (approx. 3 days by boat) is the nearest hospital.

Practical Information

MAF or Susi Air flights to Long Bagun small airstrip from Samarinda (limited, weather-dependent). From Samarinda, 3–5 days by boat. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: local hospitality in longhouses.

About East Kalimantan

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.

Properties in Mahakam Hulu, East Kalimantan