Balikpapan

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the Balikpapan Monument, where you can learn about the city's rich history and significance in Indonesia. Take a leisurely stroll around the nearby park, enjoying the fresh morning air and local flora. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional Indonesian breakfast of Nasi Goreng and kopi tubruk.

In the afternoon, head to the Balikpapan Old Town area, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Explore local markets and shops, picking up unique souvenirs and trying street food delights like sate and bakso. Visit the local museum to gain deeper insights into the cultural heritage of Balikpapan.

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the coast where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves crash against the shore. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories about your day. End the evening with a walk along the beach, taking in the tranquil ambiance and beautiful night sky.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Melawai Beach for a day of sun and surf. Rent a kayak or a jet ski to explore the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the thrill of water sports. Don’t forget to take some time to sunbathe on the sandy shores, soaking in the tropical ambiance.

After a morning of activity, grab lunch at one of the beachside warungs, sampling local dishes like grilled fish and fresh coconut juice. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the nearby coral reefs, discovering the vibrant marine life that inhabits these waters. Alternatively, relax with a good book under a beach umbrella and enjoy the gentle sea breeze.

As evening approaches, enjoy a beachside barbecue where you can indulge in grilled seafood and local delicacies. Watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a picturesque backdrop for your evening meal. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sounds of the waves and the twinkling stars above.

Prepare for an adventure by having an early breakfast and gathering your hiking gear before heading to the nearby Bukit Bangkirai. The morning air is fresh as you begin your hike through lush tropical forests, where you can observe the diverse flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for unique bird species and playful monkeys that inhabit the area.

After reaching the summit, take a moment to admire the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape before enjoying a packed lunch amidst nature. Spend some time exploring the canopy walkway, where you can experience the treetops up close and personal. Capture photographs of the breathtaking scenery as you make your way back down the mountain.

Return to Balikpapan in the evening and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant specializing in traditional East Kalimantan cuisine. Reflect on your adventurous day, sharing stories with fellow hikers if you're part of a group. Wind down with a relaxing spa session to soothe your muscles after a day of exertion.

Start your day with a traditional breakfast featuring local delicacies, then set out to visit nearby villages to experience the rich culture of the Dayak people. Engage with community members as they demonstrate their crafts, such as weaving and wood carving. Take part in a cooking class where you’ll learn how to prepare authentic Dayak dishes using local ingredients.

After lunch, participate in cultural performances, including traditional dances and music, which offer insight into local customs and heritage. Visit a local longhouse, where you can interact with families and learn about their daily lives and traditions. Take time to explore the surrounding nature, perhaps joining a guided tour to understand the significance of the land to the Dayak people.

As the day winds down, enjoy a communal dinner with your hosts, sampling dishes you’ve helped prepare and sharing stories over the table. Experience the warmth of local hospitality as you listen to tales of the village’s history and traditions. End the evening with a bonfire, where you can enjoy music and storytelling under the stars.

After breakfast, embark on a guided trip to Kutai National Park, home to diverse wildlife including orangutans and proboscis monkeys. The morning is spent trekking through the lush rainforest, where your guide will point out various plants and animals unique to this ecosystem. Keep your camera ready for glimpses of the majestic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Break for lunch at a designated spot within the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your exploration, visiting hidden waterfalls and enjoying the serene beauty of the park. Participate in a nature conservation workshop to learn about the efforts being made to protect this vital ecosystem.

As the sun sets, return to your base and reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters of the day. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table options, emphasizing local produce. Wind down with an evening stroll through the local area, absorbing the peaceful ambiance of Balikpapan at night.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an island hopping tour starting from Balikpapan. Visit the nearby islands of Derawan and Maratua, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the scenic boat ride, taking in the stunning coastal views along the way.

Upon arrival, dive into the inviting waters for snorkeling, discovering vibrant coral reefs and a plethora of marine life. Enjoy a beach picnic with fresh seafood and tropical fruits while lounging on the soft sands. Take the opportunity to explore each island, capturing beautiful memories through photography.

As the day comes to a close, return to Balikpapan and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where the sound of the waves creates a relaxing atmosphere. Share stories of your island adventures with fellow travelers over delicious local fare. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, basking in the tranquil night air.

Begin your culinary adventure with breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional dishes like Bubur Ayam (chicken porridge). Afterward, join a guided food tour that takes you through the bustling markets of Balikpapan, where the sights and smells of local produce and spices awaken your senses. Engage with vendors and learn about the ingredients used in Indonesian cuisine.

During lunchtime, savor local delicacies at a well-known restaurant, perhaps trying the famous seafood dishes that Balikpapan is known for. Continue your food journey by visiting various stalls to taste street food favorites like risoles and pisang goreng (fried bananas). Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare a traditional Indonesian feast under the guidance of a local chef.

As evening falls, indulge in a multi-course dinner featuring the dishes you've learned to make throughout the day. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of a local night market, where you can sample a variety of snacks and desserts while mingling with locals. Conclude your culinary journey with a sweet treat, perhaps trying klepon, a delightful rice cake filled with palm sugar.

After a busy week of exploration, treat yourself to a slow morning with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Spend some time relaxing by the pool, soaking in the sun and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Consider trying a yoga session to center yourself and prepare for a day of pampering.

Indulge in a spa treatment at one of Balikpapan's renowned wellness centers, where you can choose from a variety of massages and beauty treatments. Enjoy a refreshing herbal bath that utilizes local ingredients known for their healing properties. After your treatment, take time to relax in the serene garden area, sipping on herbal tea.

Finish off your day with a light dinner at a wellness-focused restaurant, enjoying dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Reflect on your week of adventures as you unwind in a calming atmosphere. End your evening with a soothing walk along the beach, feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

On your final day, enjoy a farewell breakfast at your accommodation, savoring the flavors of the region one last time. Take a leisurely stroll through nearby parks or neighborhoods, absorbing the local vibe and taking in any last-minute sights. Capture any final photographs to remember your time in Balikpapan.

Spend your afternoon shopping for last-minute souvenirs at local craft shops and markets, ensuring you take a piece of Balikpapan home with you. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a favorite spot, reflecting on your memorable experiences and the people you've met during your stay. If time permits, visit a local gallery to appreciate the art and creativity of the region.

As your trip comes to an end, head to a scenic viewpoint for a final glance at the beautiful Balikpapan coastline. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant that offers panoramic views of the sunset over the sea. With your heart full of memories, bid farewell to Balikpapan, carrying the spirit of this vibrant city with you.