Things To Do
in Buntok
Buntok is a quiet river town in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, set along the Barito River. It serves as the administrative center of South Barito Regency and acts as a gateway to inland Kalimantan. The town blends Dayak heritage with Indonesian rural life, offering a relaxed pace, lush greenery, and markets that spill onto the riverside.
Visitors can explore local markets, sample Banjar-influenced dishes, and use Buntok as a base for nearby forest and longhouse villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh tropical fruits and traditional snacks. As you wander through the market, take note of the vibrant colors and local crafts that showcase the region's culture. The morning sun will warm the air as you mingle with friendly locals, experiencing the essence of Buntok.
After a tasty lunch at a local warung, explore the nearby Martapura River by renting a canoe. Paddle along the serene waters, letting the lush surroundings and gentle sounds of nature envelop you. You may spot unique wildlife and enjoy stunning views of the countryside from the river.
As the sun sets, head to a viewpoint overlooking Buntok for breathtaking panoramic views. With the sky painted in hues of orange and purple, take this moment to relax and reflect on your adventures. For dinner, indulge in delicious local cuisine at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors unique to this region.
Start your day by visiting the Buntok Cultural Museum, where you can learn about the indigenous Dayak culture through various exhibits and artifacts. Engage with local guides who share stories and traditions that have shaped this area for centuries. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people of Buntok.
Following the museum visit, participate in a traditional Batik-making workshop, learning the intricate techniques of this captivating art form. Allow your creativity to flow as you design your own piece to take home. This hands-on experience will deepen your connection to the local culture.
For dinner, join a local family for a culinary experience, where you can learn to cook traditional dishes. Sharing laughter and stories around the dinner table will create lasting memories and insights into everyday life in Buntok. As you finish your meal, enjoy the warmth of newfound friendships under the starry night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Local craft souvenirs | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🛏️1-night mid-range hotel | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- River scenery and nature close to town
- Affordable costs and easy to reach by road
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Sparse public transport within the town
- Healthcare facilities are basic in town
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya ingin makan nasi goreng" - I would like to eat fried rice
- "Apa rekomendasi makanan khas daerah ini?" - What local dish do you recommend?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Maaf" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Apakah bisa membayar dengan kartu?" - Can I pay with a card?
- "Apakah ada wifi?" - Is there wifi?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Buntok
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river vistas along the Barito with golden-hour light reflecting off the water and trees lining the banks.
A bustling morning market scene with vibrant stalls, tropical fruits, and locals in daily life—great for candid and colorful shots.
Traditional longhouses and rural life scenes offering cultural portraits and authentic community photography.
Food in Buntok
Buntok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant chicken or beef soup with herbs and generous spices, commonly found in Banjar households and markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled river fish marinated in a tangy spice paste, often served with sambal and steamed rice.
Turmeric-yellow rice served with fried chicken or tempeh, sometimes with sambal and vegetables.
A savory fish broth with tamarind, herbs, and a sour-salty flavor characteristic of river cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market for fresh tropical fruit, river fish, and everyday Indonesian dishes; a good place to sample local snacks.
Riverside stalls offering grilled fish, fried bananas, and refreshing local drinks with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light handshake or a verbal greeting such as 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) or 'Selamat siang' (good afternoon) is common.
Respectful clothing in markets and religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or certain sacred spaces if asked.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or private settings; be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Safety
Tipping in Buntok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most small eateries; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated. In larger hotels or nicer restaurants, 5–10% is common if service charge is not included.
Cash (IDR) is widely used. Some hotels and upscale restaurants accept cards or mobile wallets, but many warungs are cash-only. Carry small denominations for markets and short trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May–September brings brighter skies and more outdoor opportunities; days are sunny but can be hot at midday.
October–April features frequent rain and high humidity; landscapes turn lush and green, but plan for indoor activities during heavy showers.
Buntok at Night
Hiking in Buntok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails offering easy to moderate hikes with scenic river views.
Guided treks in nearby rainforest areas with opportunities to see flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Buntok by plane.
A small airstrip with limited domestic flights, primarily linking to larger hubs like Palangka Raya when available.
The main gateway to Central Kalimantan with regular flights to Jakarta and other cities.
Regional airport serving Sampit and surrounding areas; has domestic connections and services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups in Central Kalimantan with diverse languages and cultures, often living along rivers and in rural villages.
Ethnic groups from the wider Kalimantan region contributing to the town's work and commerce.
A minority community supporting services and markets in the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; local matches and informal games are common.
Popular among locals; many courts and clubs exist.
Common in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buntok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Indonesian dishes are vegetable-forward or can be prepared without meat. Seek tofu or tempeh-based options, and ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste if needed.