Things To Do
in Bontang

Bontang is a vibrant coastal city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its beautiful beaches and lush green landscapes. The city has a rich industrial heritage, primarily driven by oil and gas, but it also boasts a strong cultural scene and diverse wildlife. Bontang is home to the famous Bontang City Park, which features recreational facilities and scenic views of the sea.

Visitors can experience a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Bontang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Bontang City Park for a morning stroll and enjoy the fresh air and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Head to the Taman Nasional Kutai for wildlife spotting and a chance to see the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant along the waterfront and watch the sunset over the sea.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local market to explore traditional crafts and sample local snacks.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the city and its industrial heritage, including a visit to an oil refinery.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife by visiting a nearby bar or cafe for live music and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
Coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$2-4
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$20-30
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be scarce.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Maaf" - Excuse Me/Sorry
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Bontang

Visit one of these nice places.

Bontang Beach

A stunning beach known for its picturesque sunsets and clear waters, ideal for capturing beautiful coastal views.

Taman Nasional Kutai

A national park offering diverse wildlife and lush landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Bontang City Park

A well-maintained park with landscaped gardens and scenic spots, great for family and landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bontang

Bontang offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that showcase the region's rich flavors and fresh ingredients.

Bontang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soto Bontang

A traditional soup made with chicken or beef, spices, and served with rice.

Must-Try!

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish seasoned with spices and served with sambal.

Nasi Goreng

Fried rice mixed with vegetables, meat, and spices, a popular dish across Indonesia.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Bontang

The main market where you can find fresh produce, street food stalls, and local delicacies.

Warung Sederhana

A street food stall famous for its affordable and delicious local dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bontang has a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) year-round. The rainy season, from November to March, brings heavy showers, while the dry season, from April to October, sees less humidity and more sunshine. Overall, the climate is warm and humid, making it essential to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; using polite language and gestures is important.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites or rural areas, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Greeting

A common greeting is a smile and a nod; a handshake is also appropriate, especially among men.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bontang is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. It's also wise to keep valuables secured and be aware of your surroundings. In case of emergencies, local authorities are responsive, and hospitals are available for medical assistance.

Tipping in Bontang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some places accept credit cards; ATMs are available in major areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect frequent rain showers; it's best to carry an umbrella and wear waterproof clothing.

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beaches, with lower humidity and less rain.

Festive Season (Eid and Christmas)

Experience local celebrations and festivities; be aware of crowded places during these times.

Tourist Season (June - August)

Expect more tourists; it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.

Nightlife Guide

Bontang at Night

Bontang's nightlife consists of a mix of local cafes, bars, and live music venues. While not as vibrant as larger cities, there are several spots where locals gather to unwind, particularly on weekends. Bars often feature live music, and some restaurants stay open late, offering a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy the night. It's a great opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the community's friendly spirit.

Hiking in Bontang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kutai

A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest and is part of Taman Nasional Kutai.

Bontang Mangrove Forest

An easy hiking trail through mangrove ecosystems, ideal for birdwatching and exploring local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Bontang by plane.

Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman International Airport (BPN)

Located approximately 2 hours from Bontang, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing access to major cities in Indonesia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bontang is moderately walkable, especially in areas like Bontang City Park and the local market. Sidewalks are available, but some streets may lack proper pedestrian paths. However, the city is not overly large, making it feasible to explore on foot, especially for short distances. For longer trips, it’s advisable to use local transportation options.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Dayak People

The Dayak community has a rich cultural heritage and plays a significant role in the local population, known for their traditional customs and crafts.

Migrants from Other Parts of Indonesia

Many individuals from other regions have settled in Bontang for work, adding to the city's diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and followed in Bontang, with local matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Badminton

A popular sport among locals, badminton courts can be found in many neighborhoods, and community tournaments are common.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bontang is generally light compared to larger cities. Most roads are well-maintained, and rush hour congestion is minimal. Public transportation options include local buses and shared taxis, but many residents prefer to walk or use motorcycles for short distances. However, it's advisable to check local schedules for public transport as they may not be frequent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bontang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, but it's advisable to communicate your preferences to the staff.

Halal Food

Most restaurants cater to halal dietary restrictions, but always check for certification.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bontang includes several clinics and a general hospital that provide basic medical services. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in the nearby city of Samarinda may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare quality might vary, and some services may require out-of-pocket payments.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide