Things To Do
in Banjarbaru

Banjarbaru is a vibrant city located in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its lush green landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as an administrative and economic center for the region, offering a blend of modernity and tradition. The city is surrounded by scenic rivers and mountains, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its friendly locals and diverse attractions, Banjarbaru is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Banjarbaru
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Banjarbaru Traditional Market, where you can enjoy local breakfast delicacies and shop for handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lambung Mangkurat Museum to learn about the history and culture of South Kalimantan.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll around the picturesque city park, Taman Van Der Peijl.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the Bukit Batu Nature Reserve for a morning hike and experience the stunning views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Visit the Al-Mukarromah Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the region, and explore its beautiful architecture.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local café for some traditional coffee and desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$3
Cup of Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Ride (within the city)$2
🛍️Souvenir (local crafts)$5
🏨Budget Accommodation (per night)$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Banjarbaru

Visit one of these nice places.

Taman Van Der Peijl

A beautiful park with lush greenery, perfect for capturing sunset photos and enjoying nature.

Al-Mukarromah Mosque

An architectural marvel with intricate designs, providing a stunning backdrop for photography.

Bukit Batu

Offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes, ideal for panoramic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Banjarbaru

Banjarbaru offers a delightful culinary experience with its diverse food scene, showcasing traditional Indonesian flavors and local specialties.

Banjarbaru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soto Banjar

A fragrant soup made with chicken, vermicelli, and various spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Nasi Kuning

Yellow rice cooked with turmeric, served with a variety of side dishes, including fried chicken and tempeh.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Banjarbaru Night Market

A bustling market in the evening where you can sample various street foods, snacks, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Banjarbaru experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round. The rainy season lasts from November to March, with heavy showers and occasional storms, while the dry season from April to October is marked by sunnier and drier conditions, making it more suitable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Use the Right Hand

Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite.

Polite Greetings

A warm smile and a polite greeting in Bahasa Indonesia go a long way in establishing rapport with locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Banjarbaru is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious of scams. It's advisable to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Banjarbaru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Local ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. Carry an umbrella and be prepared for occasional flooding.

Dry Season (April - October)

This is the best time to visit with sunny weather and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

Festive Season (Eid and Christmas)

Cultural festivities with vibrant celebrations. It’s a great time to experience local traditions and cuisine.

School Holidays (June - July)

Expect more local tourists during this time. Popular attractions may be busier than usual.

Nightlife Guide

Banjarbaru at Night

Banjarbaru’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. Most locals prefer socializing in family-friendly venues or cafes. The Banjarbaru Night Market comes alive in the evenings, providing a vibrant atmosphere with street food and local crafts.

Hiking in Banjarbaru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trail at Bukit Batu

A scenic trail suitable for various skill levels, offering stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills.

Mount Meratus Hiking Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas and opportunities to see unique wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Banjarbaru by plane.

Syamsudin Noor International Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Banjarbaru, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing easy access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Banjarbaru is moderately walkable, especially in areas around the city center and local markets. Sidewalks are available, but they may be uneven in some locations. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic when walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dayak Ethnic Group

The indigenous Dayak people have a rich cultural heritage and play a significant role in the local traditions and practices of the region.

Javanese Community

A sizable population of Javanese people has settled in Banjarbaru, contributing to the city's diverse culture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Banjarbaru, with local teams and community matches regularly held.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played, both recreationally and competitively, with many courts available for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Banjarbaru can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include minivans and buses, but many locals prefer using motorbikes for quicker travel. It’s advisable to plan your travels accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Banjarbaru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Halal Food

Most local foods are halal, but always check for certification if you have dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Banjarbaru are adequate, with several clinics and hospitals available for routine care and emergencies. Major hospitals are equipped with basic medical services, but for more serious conditions, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Banjarmasin.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide