Middle Mahakam Lakes Adventure 05 Days

Duration: 05 Days/04 Nights

Grade: Easy

The mighty Mahakam River is the second longest river in Indonesia and the largest river in the province of East Kalimatan. There are about 76 lakes spread in the Mahakam river basin and about 30 lakes are located in the middle Mahakam area including the three main lakes (Lake Jempang 15,000 Ha; Lake Semayang 13,000 Ha; Lake Melintang 11,000 Ha). The Middle Mahakam Area is home of exotic flora and fauna such as; Borneo orangutans, fresh water dolphin, proboscis monkeys, false gharial, species of birds, the rare black orchid, carnivorous pitcher plants, and many more. The area is not only interesting for the natural attraction but also the cultural side. It is where the indigenous Dayak people keep maintaining their ancient tradition and the colorful culture of Malay people who live alongside the basin.

Day 01 ARRIVAL IN SAMARINDA – KUYUNG – MUARA MUNTAI

Arrive at Samarinda airport with morning or noon flight and directly driving to Kuyung Village to catch the motorized canoe crossing the Mahakam River to reach Muara Muntai Village. On the way, we will have opportunity to spot wildlife and people activities on riverside. Arrive at the village and then proceed to check in to the homestay. (L,D)

Day 02 MUARA MUNTAI – OHONG RIVER – MANCONG – MELAK

After breakfast, we will explore the exotic of Muara Muntai village with the long wooden bridge which is made of iron wood linking all the roads and alleys of the hamlet. We will then proceed to Mancong by motorized canoe crossing the Jempang Lake of which we will have the opportunity to view plenty of water bird species and fishermen floating houses as well as the romantic Ohong River where proboscis monkeys, snakes, monitor lizards and other wild animals are hanging around at riverside. In Mancong, we will explore an exotic longhouse and Benuaq Dayak daily life. Afterwards, return to Muara Muntai to catch the public houseboat crossing upward the Mahakam River to reach Melak for staying overnight at local homestay. (B,L,D)

Day 03 MELAK – KERSIK LUWEY – EHENG – MAHAKAM RIVER

After breakfast at local hotel, we will proceed to Kersik Luwey reserve to see the rare black orchid and other flora on the zone. Next, driving to Eheng village for to explore an old and impressive longhouse while observing the Dayak daily life. We will then continue driving to Jantur Inar to explore the rainforest with its beautiful waterfall. Afterwards, return to Melak to catch the public houseboat crossing down the Mahakam River into Samarinda. The houseboat is public wooden boat with two decks, the first deck for carrying goods and economy class with capacity about 100 passengers and the second deck is for executive class with capacity of 75 passengers. At the back side, there are some Borneo style toilets and simple canteen providing Indonesian food, tea, coffee, etc on the first deck. Staying overnight at public houseboat. (B,L,D)

Day 04 MAHAKAM RIVER – SAMARINDA – BALIKPAPAN

Second day at houseboat started with breakfast at the canteen. We will cruise the lower Mahakam River while sightseeing people unique activities at riverside. Arrive in Samarinda port and then driving to Balikpapan for staying overnight at hotel. Free at your own leisure. Lunch and dinner will be served at local restaurants. (B,L,D)

Day 05 DEPARTURE

Breakfast at hotel and free at your own leisure till the proper time for transferring to airport for your flight to next destination. (B)

Included:

AC land transportation
Motorized boats
Public houseboat in Mahakam River
Accommodation based on twin share:
01 Night at homestay in Muara Muntai
01 Night at local hotel in Melak
01 Night at public houseboat in Mahakam River
01 Night at 3 stars hotel in Balikpapan
Entrance fee, donation & refreshments
English speaking guide
Meals as stated on program, indicated as (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: dinner)

Excluded: