Things To Do
in Bontang
Bontang is a coastal city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is known for its industrial activities, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The city is surrounded by lush tropical forests and is home to diverse wildlife.
Bontang's economy is driven by the natural resource industry, but it also boasts beautiful beaches and tourist attractions.
- "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): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by relaxing at Bontang Beach. Enjoy the soft sand and the sound of waves.
Visit the local market for lunch and try some fresh seafood. Engage with the locals and experience the vibrant culture.
Watch the sunset at the beach for a picturesque view. Grab dinner at a nearby café with local cuisine.
Take a guided nature walk through the Bontang Mangrove Forest. Observe the unique flora and fauna.
Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Don’t forget your camera to capture beautiful moments.
Return to your accommodation and unwind. Enjoy dinner while reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural resources, including coal and oil.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Cultural diversity with various ethnic groups contributing to a vibrant local culture.
- Growing tourism industry, attracting visitors to enjoy nature and local culture.
- Strategic location for trade and transportation within East Kalimantan.
- Environmental concerns related to mining and industrial activities.
- Limited infrastructure development in some areas may affect accessibility.
- Economic reliance on primary sectors might lead to vulnerability during market fluctuations.
- Healthcare and educational facilities may not be as advanced compared to larger cities.
- Potential for social tensions among different ethnic groups or communities.
Best Activities in Bontang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy camping on the white sand beach with beautiful views of the sea and surrounding nature.
Explore the lush rainforest and unique flora while hiking in the Bukit Bangkirai nature conservation area.
Discover the diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs in the crystal-clear waters of Maratua Island.
Places to Visit in Bontang
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular shopping center in Bontang with scenic views and photo opportunities from its upper floors.
A beautiful beach known for its stunning views and great photo opportunities especially during sunset.
A historical monument with a scenic location offering great photo opportunities.
Food in Bontang
Bontang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of Indonesian spices, typically served with sambal (chili paste) and rice. Look for it at local seafood restaurants along the coast like Pondok Ikan Bakar.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried water spinach seasoned with garlic, chili, and shrimp paste, often found at warungs (small local eateries) such as Warung Makan Bu Yanti.
A flavorful chicken or beef soup with vermicelli, potatoes, and local spices. Enjoy this dish at traditional Indonesian restaurants like RM Soto Banjar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling morning market offers a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat local snacks like lemang (glutinous rice cake) and onde-onde (sweet rice balls). Don't miss the aromatic Indonesian coffee stalls.
In the evenings, this area comes alive with street vendors selling an assortment of local bites such as martabak (stuffed pancake), satay, and nasi goreng (fried rice).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bontang, it is customary to greet others with a warm smile and a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time or entering a social setting.
Showing respect for elders is important in Bontang's culture. It is customary to address them with the appropriate titles and show deference in conversations and interactions.
When in public spaces in Bontang, it is respectful to be mindful of your manners and behavior. This includes speaking softly, using polite language, and being considerate of others around you.
Safety
Tipping in Bontang
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bontang, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for other services. However, for exceptional service, a small tip may be given as a token of appreciation, but it is not expected.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Bontang. Many businesses do not accept credit or debit cards, so it is advisable to carry enough cash when visiting. Some larger establishments may accept card payments, but it is always best to inquire beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Bontang is during the dry season, from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally clear and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Expect warm temperatures and lower humidity levels.
The wet season in Bontang occurs from October to April. During this time, expect frequent rainfall and higher humidity levels. Some outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, but this is also a great time to witness the lush, green landscapes that result from the rain.
Bontang at Night
Hiking in Bontang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque mountain area perfect for hiking with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The trails vary in difficulty, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A conservation area that provides a variety of hiking trails through lush forests. Great for wildlife observation and enjoying the natural beauty of East Kalimantan.
An accessible mountain with several trails that offer stunning panoramic views. It's a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts in the Bontang region.
An eco-park featuring several nature trails ideal for hiking, as well as opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
While primarily a coastal area, there are hiking trails that lead to scenic views along the coastline and through nearby forests.
Aiports
How to reach Bontang by plane.
Located in Balikpapan, approximately 129 km from Bontang. It serves domestic and international flights.
Located in Madura, this airport is about 220 km from Bontang and offers limited regional flights.
Located in Manado, around 570 km from Bontang. It provides both domestic and international services.
Located in Surabaya, approximately 634 km from Bontang, this is a major airport serving international and domestic flights.
Located in Pontianak, about 645 km from Bontang, it serves domestic and a few international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Bontang, primarily originating from the island of Java.
An ethnic group from the western part of Java, contributing to the cultural diversity of Bontang.
An ethnic group from Sulawesi, known for their maritime culture and significant presence in Bontang.
People from the Banjar region of South Kalimantan, they form another important demographic in Bontang.
A significant minority ethnic group involved mainly in trade and business activities.
Indigenous people of Kalimantan; while present in Bontang, they are fewer in number compared to other groups.
Includes various smaller ethnicities contributing to the rich cultural fabric of Bontang.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bontang, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans. The sport is played in various leagues and youth competitions throughout the city.
Badminton is widely played in Bontang, both recreationally and competitively. The sport has a strong following, with local tournaments and clubs promoting its practice.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Bontang, particularly among the youth. Local courts are frequently used for informal games as well as organized competitions.
Volleyball is another popular sport in Bontang, often played in schools and community events. Beach volleyball is also enjoyed due to the city's coastal location.
Various forms of martial arts, including Pencak Silat, are practiced in Bontang. Local schools and clubs offer training and participate in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bontang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Indonesian cuisine heavily features meat and fish, many establishments in Bontang offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like sayur lodeh (vegetable stew) and gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Kafe Taman Cinta and Warung Lesehan Pak Slamet are known for their diverse menu options.
Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice-based dishes like nasi goreng and tahu telur (tofu omelette) are typically safe choices. Communicating your dietary needs clearly to restaurant staff is recommended for a pleasant dining experience.