Lestariweb
a journey through Kalimantan
Lestariweb
The Mahakam river originates at the Mueller Mountain and is 920 kilometres long,
and is the most important traffic route in East Borneo. It has many tributaries and small lakes and
fascinates with Amazonian scenery. In a number of places it is
400 to 500 meters wide. Lush jungle vegetation covers both banks and beautiful lakes and wild
rapids are found along its middle and upper reaches. The Mahakam can be navigated far into the hinterland.
Many small settlements of the Dayak people are located here.
These former headhunters traditionally live in communal longhouses
A longhouse has several compartments, which are typically used by one family.
The length of a complete long house is between 100 and 300 meters. In the past, longhouses of a length
of up to 400 meters could be found.
The more traditional Dayak people have pierced earlobes,
which over the years have become stretched by the weight of heavy gold or brass rings.
The way to Mahakam river goes via the city of Samarinda. Unfortunately, the airport
of Samarinda serves only regional flights within Kalimantan. Therefore, you have to fly to
Balikapan first. Balikapan airport is well connected within Indonesia, so to Jakarta
and Surabaya, for example.
From Balikapan you can go by air to Samarinda. Three regional airlines serve the connection
Balikapan/Samarinda. These are
Susu Air,
Kal-Star, and Kaltim Airlines.
All three airlines serve Samarinda only by regional flights within Kalimantan.
Another possibility to go from Balikapan to Samarinda is by bus. Therefore go by taxi to the Bau Ampar
bus terminal north of the city. The bus takes only 2 hours to Samarinda, so this
might by an alternative, even the ride will be extremely uncomfortable.
Find your accomodation in Indonesia by checking our hotel recommendations. You might get additional information on culture and attractions of Indonesia by trying on of the suggested books and guides. If you have special questions on a particular tour or trip, don't hesitate to contact one of the tour operators. We wish you a pleasant stay on our site, and maybe we once meet in Indonesia: the land of natural attractions and cultural diversity.
