Things To Do
in Samarinda
Samarinda is the capital city of East Kalimantan in Indonesia, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant local markets. The city is situated on the banks of the Mahakam River, which plays a crucial role in its trade and transportation. As a gateway to the lush jungles of Borneo, Samarinda offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.
Visitors can explore traditional wooden houses, modern shopping centers, and experience the diverse local cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mahakam River and take a leisurely walk along the riverside. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit the Mulawarman Palace, the royal palace of the Sultanate of Kutai, and learn about the local history and culture. Explore the Samarinda Central Plaza for some shopping.
Head to the local night market to enjoy a variety of street foods and watch the sunset over the river.
Take a short trip to the Bukit Soeharto Forest Park for a morning hike surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Visit the Taman Cerdas, a beautiful park ideal for relaxation and picnicking, or explore the local art scene at galleries.
Experience the nightlife at a local bar or lounge, enjoying live music and local drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at a local restaurant | $2 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage
- Delicious local cuisine
- Access to natural beauty and outdoor activities
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Limited English spoken in some areas
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand
- "Tolong" - Please
Places to Visit in Samarinda
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture breathtaking views of the river, especially at sunset.
An iconic structure that showcases traditional architecture and offers great photo opportunities.
A natural setting perfect for landscape photography and wildlife shots.
Food in Samarinda
Samarinda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful chicken soup with spices, served with rice and boiled eggs.
Must-Try!
Yellow rice cooked with turmeric, often served with fried chicken and sambal.
Grilled fish marinated with local spices, usually served with rice and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can sample a wide variety of street foods and local snacks.
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet and show respect to elders; it's an important cultural norm.
When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees.
It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes or certain establishments.
Safety
Tipping in Samarinda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
Frequent rain showers can occur, so prepare for wet conditions and plan indoor activities.
During Eid and other local festivals, experience vibrant celebrations and traditional food.
Peak tourism occurs during the dry season; expect more crowds at popular attractions.
Samarinda at Night
Hiking in Samarinda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail located in Bukit Soeharto Forest Park, offering stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.
A challenging hike located a few hours from Samarinda, known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse flora.
Airports
How to reach Samarinda by plane.
Located approximately 30 minutes from the city center, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Dayak people are the indigenous inhabitants of Borneo, known for their rich cultural traditions and crafts.
Many Javanese have settled in Samarinda, bringing their culture and cuisine to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Samarinda, with many local teams and passionate fans.
Badminton is widely played at both casual and competitive levels, with local tournaments often taking place.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samarinda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be adapted to vegetarian requirements; just ask the vendor.
Most food in Samarinda is halal, but it's advisable to check for certification in restaurants.