Samarinda, the capital of East Kalimantan, a province in Indonésie located on the island of Borneo, is often dismissed by international travelers as merely a transit hub due to its lack of major tourist attractions. Yet this city and its surroundings conceal remarkable sites that can captivate curious visitors.

History

In 1667, the kingdom of Gowa, in southern Sulawesi, was defeated by the Dutch. Sultan Hassanudin was forced to sign the Treaty of Bongaya, which ended the kingdom's independence and granted the Dutch a monopoly over the spice trade in the region.

Refusing to submit to Dutch domination, a faction of Bugis allied with the Gowa kingdom fled to the neighboring island of Borneo. They found refuge in the kingdom of Kutai, where the sultan granted them land. It was on these lands that they founded Samarinda. The name derives from the Bugis term "sama renda," meaning "of equal height." It is thought to reference the tradition of this ethnic group to build houses on rafts, all of the same height to symbolize equality.

Today, Samarinda is home to more than 800,000 people. It is a major center for industry and commerce. Local tourism also plays a significant role in its economy. The city welcomed 1.2 million domestic tourists in 2019, making it the second most popular tourist destination in East Kalimantan.

However, Samarinda suffers from regular flooding, as the city is situated in an exceptionally low-lying area.

What to Do in Samarinda?

Discover the Samarinda Textile Weaving Process

Samarinda is renowned for its checkered-patterned textiles. The principal manufacturing centers for this product are the villages of Kampung Baqa and Kampung Masjid, where traditional techniques are still employed. Visit to witness their production process and appreciate the artistic and cultural value reflected in their typically high prices.

Enjoy Beras Basah Island

Beras Basah Island, a 3-hour drive from Samarinda, is an ideal tourist attraction for families. This islet, crowned by an abandoned lighthouse, is surrounded by white sand and pristine waters perfect for swimming. Visitors can also snorkel here. Stunning underwater creatures can be observed.

Meet the Dayak Kenyah Tribe at Desa Budaya Pampang

Desa Budaya Pampang is a village offering an excellent immersion into the daily life and artistic performances of the Dayak Kenyah, one of the many ethnic groups of Borneo. Every Sunday afternoon, villagers gather in their lamin (meeting hall) to watch or participate in performances, during which they proudly wear their traditional attire. You have the opportunity to rent these garments to photograph them in front of their traditional houses. The village also hosts shops where you can purchase unique souvenirs.

Explore the Unmul Botanical Garden

Just 10 km from Samarinda's city center lies the Unmul Botanical Garden, which belongs to Mulawarman University but is open to the public. Beyond the plants, you'll find a large lake ideal for pedal boating, a mini zoo, and a museum dedicated to timber.

Visit Samarinda Crocodile Conservation

Samarinda Crocodile Conservation is a tourist attraction located in Makroman. This sanctuary for crocodiles spans 7 hectares. Three crocodile species have found refuge here: saltwater crocodiles, false gharials, and Siamese crocodiles.

Spend a Day at Terjun Pinang Seribu

Air Terjun Pinang Seribu is a multi-tiered natural waterfall nestled north of Samarinda. It offers a spectacular display with water cascading down a series of natural steps. Accessible via a short hike from the parking area, the waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation. Amenities such as picnic areas and refreshment kiosks are available for visitor convenience. For those wishing to extend their stay, accommodations are also available nearby.

Climate

Samarinda enjoys an equatorial climate, hot and humid year-round. Average temperatures range between 24 and 32°C, with humidity often reaching around 90%. Rainfall is abundant and regular, with an average annual precipitation of 2,989 mm. The rainy season extends from January through May. The dry season begins in June and ends in October. This is the best time to visit Samarinda and its surroundings.

From Jakarta

Numerous Indonesian airlines connect the capital to Samarinda, with direct flights available.

From Balikpapan

Samarinda is accessible by bus or car from Balikpapan, the nearest city and the region's industrial center. It is also connected by air to other celebrated destinations in Kalimantan, such as Pontianak and Banjarmasin.