Lestariweb
a journey through Kalimantan
Lestariweb
The Derawan area consists of serveral very tiny islands, named Derawan, Nabucco, Sangalaki, Karaban and Maratua. Travellers will find a nature reserve with beautiful scenery and beaches. These islands are inhabited by the Bajau people. Their sea gardens are beautiful and the coastal forests are inhabited by sea birds, iguanas, and swallows. The waters around Derawan are good for swimming, fishing, scuba diving, and other water sports. But the area is first and foremost known for its diving sites. Several species of rare flora and fauna are preserved here, such as scaled turtles and sea cows. It is even possible to swim among black mantas up to 3.5 meters wide.
The way to Derawan is long, complicated and expensive.
You have to fly to Balikapan first. Balikapan airport is well connected within Indonesia, so from Jakarta
and Surabaya, for example. From Balikapan take a flight to Kalimarau airport in Tanjung Redeb,
the main town in Berau regency. Kalimarau airport is only served by regional airlines,
e.g. by Kal-Star.
From there you can take either a taxi or a bus to the village of
Tanjung Batu, which is the gateway to the Derawan area. From here you take a speedboat to each
of the islands, which will cost between Rp. 200,000 and 400,000.
If you stay at the Derawan Dive Resort, the boat transfer might be organized by the resort.
Pulau Derawan
Pangkalan Bun
Phone: +0868 1216143
Located directly aside the famous Derawan Dive Resort,
this simple homestay offers small but clean rooms, each with shared bathrooms.
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.
