Things To Do
in Balikpapan
Balikpapan is a coastal city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its strategic location as a major seaport. The city is also home to significant oil and mining industries, contributing to its status as an important economic hub in the region. Visitors to Balikpapan can enjoy its scenic beaches, such as Kemala Beach and Manggar Beach, as well as the nearby conservation areas like Sungai Wain Protection Forest.
With a mix of urban development and natural beauty, Balikpapan offers a unique experience for travelers looking to explore Borneo.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kemala Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise with the sound of waves. Grab a local breakfast at a nearby warung after soaking in the morning sun.
Head to the Balikpapan Botanical Garden to explore diverse flora. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
End your day at the Pentacity Balikpapan Mall, where you can shop and dine. Enjoy some local delicacies at one of the many restaurants.
Visit Manggar Beach in the morning and enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore. Don't forget to try some fresh coconut from local vendors.
Spend the afternoon at the Balikpapan Ocean Square, where you can relax and watch the boats. It's a great place for a casual lunch with a view.
In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants. The sunset views from here are absolutely breathtaking.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a gateway to East Indonesia and a hub for trade and industry.
- Rich natural resources, particularly coal and oil, contributing to the local economy.
- Growing infrastructure with improvements in transport, healthcare, and education.
- Cultural diversity with a mix of indigenous and migrant populations providing a unique cultural experience.
- Access to beautiful natural attractions, including beaches and national parks.
- Environmental issues, including deforestation and pollution related to industrial activities.
- Traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges in urban areas.
- Limited recreational and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living compared to other cities in Indonesia due to its economic activities.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, including flooding and earthquakes.
Best Activities in Balikpapan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque mangrove forests of Balikpapan through a guided boat tour, offering a unique opportunity to observe diverse wildlife and appreciate the area's natural beauty.
Relax and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery at Lamaru Beach, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Embark on an adventure in the rainforest by taking a canopy walk at Bukit Bangkirai, providing an exhilarating experience with spectacular views of the lush greenery and wildlife below.
Visit Crocodylus Park to witness an array of crocodile species and other exotic animals, as well as opportunities for a close encounter with these fascinating creatures.
Support conservation efforts and witness the rehabilitation of orangutans at Samboja Lestari Orangutan Sanctuary, offering a chance to observe these remarkable primates in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Balikpapan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Balikpapan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and the Mahakam River.
Beautiful beach area with clear blue water and stunning sunset views.
High-rise building providing a bird's-eye view of the city and coastline.
Food in Balikpapan
Balikpapan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy noodle dish topped with savory meat and served with a side of broth. Try it at Mie Balap Karunia or Mie Titi.
Must-Try!
A traditional Indonesian chicken soup with rice, vermicelli, and hard-boiled egg, flavored with local herbs and spices. Look for it at Warung Soto Banjar Haji Sadi.
Deep-fried catfish served with sambal, fresh vegetables, and rice. Visit Pecel Lele Lela for an authentic taste.
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of spices, often served with rice and sambal. Enjoy it at RM Batu Lintang or RM Makan Laut.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Balikpapan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular spot for fresh seafood dishes and local street food. Don't miss the grilled fish, satay, and seafood soups.
A bustling market offering a wide range of local snacks and street food, including various Indonesian desserts and fried delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet others with a smile and a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Use a friendly and polite tone in your interactions.
In Balikpapan, showing respect for older individuals is important. It is customary to address them with titles such as 'Pak' (for men) or 'Ibu' (for women) followed by their name as a sign of respect.
When visiting religious sites such as mosques or temples, it is important to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, and both men and women should remove their shoes before entering.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Balikpapan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Balikpapan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Balikpapan, Indonesia. It is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services. However, if exceptional service is provided, a small tip may be appreciated but is not obligatory.
In Balikpapan, Indonesia, cash is the most common form of payment for everyday transactions. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments such as hotels and restaurants, but it's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Balikpapan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Balikpapan is during the dry season, which typically lasts from April to September. During this time, you can expect sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration.
The wet season in Balikpapan occurs from October to March, bringing heavy rainfall and higher humidity. While this season may not be the optimal time for visiting, it offers lush green landscapes and opportunities to witness the region's natural beauty.
Balikpapan at Night
Hiking in Balikpapan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot featuring a canopy bridge and beautiful rainforest scenery, located approximately 60 km from Balikpapan.
A conservation area with various trails through lush greenery, around 20 km from Balikpapan, ideal for nature walks and hiking.
A moderate hiking trail that offers views of local flora and fauna, located within a small village, around 15 km from Balikpapan.
An excellent spot for experienced hikers looking for a challenge, with a peak offering panoramic views, situated about 40 km from Balikpapan.
While primarily a beach destination, it has surrounding trails along the coast and mangroves that provide enjoyable hikes, about 25 km from Balikpapan.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Balikpapan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Balikpapan by plane.
The main airport serving Balikpapan, Indonesia.
Located in Balikpapan, it serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Manado, it is one of the largest international airports in eastern Indonesia, approximately 850 km from Balikpapan.
Located in Surabaya, this airport is around 1,500 km from Balikpapan and serves a significant number of international flights.
Located in Bali, approximately 1,800 km from Balikpapan, it is one of the busiest international airports in Indonesia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Balikpapan, primarily migrants from Java.
Another significant ethnic group, also commonly found in Balikpapan, mainly originating from West Java.
An ethnic group from South Sulawesi, known for their maritime culture and trade.
People from Bali, who have migrated for work and business opportunities.
A small yet influential community, primarily engaged in commerce and trade.
Indigenous people of Kalimantan, representing the local ethnic heritage.
Ethnic group from West Sumatra, with a notable presence in the trade sector.
People from the Toraja region in Sulawesi, known for their unique culture and traditions.
The Soul of Balikpapan
Discover the essence of Balikpapan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Balikpapan, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Badminton is widely played in Balikpapan, with many tournaments held throughout the year.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Balikpapan, with several community courts available.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and community events, often played on both sand and indoor courts.
Motorsports, particularly motorcycle racing, draw significant attention and enthusiasts in the region.
Various forms of martial arts, including Pencak Silat, are practiced widely, reflecting local traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balikpapan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Indonesian cuisine often includes meat or fish, many restaurants in Balikpapan offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as Tahu and Tempe dishes, Sayur Lodeh, and Tahu Telor.
Gluten-free options may be limited in local eateries, but dishes like Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice), Grilled Fish, and fresh fruit can be good choices for those avoiding gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Balikpapan with these cultural adventures.
