Things To Do
in Samarinda
Samarinda is the largest city in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is situated on the banks of the Mahakam River, providing picturesque waterfront views. Samarinda is a hub for the coal mining industry and has a growing economy driven by natural resource extraction.
Visitors can explore traditional Dayak villages, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community.
- "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 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Samarinda Cultural Center, where local art and crafts are showcased. Engaging with artists here can provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Head to the Samarinda Plaza for lunch and some shopping. Browse through local handicrafts, and maybe grab a unique souvenir to take home.
Enjoy a riverside dinner at a local restaurant while watching the sunset over the Mahakam River. It's a perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
Visit the Palaran Nature Reserve for a refreshing morning trek through beautiful landscapes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore the trails.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots. Enjoy the natural beauty around you and relax amidst the greenery.
Return to the city and enjoy a traditional Indonesian meal at a local eatery. Savor the flavors and reflect on your day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic groups and traditions
- Strategic location as a transportation hub in East Kalimantan
- Abundant natural resources, including forests and rivers
- Growing economy with opportunities in mining and agriculture
- Beautiful natural landscapes and access to outdoor activities
- Environmental concerns related to deforestation and mining pollution
- Traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges in urban areas
- Limited access to high-quality healthcare and education services
- Occasional natural disasters, such as floods and landslides
- Challenges with waste management and urban sanitation
Best Activities in Samarinda
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a scenic cruise along the Mahakam River to enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes and witness local communities along the river banks.
Visit Tanjung Gunung Park for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Relax and unwind at Lia Beach, a picturesque beach offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
Tours
Uncover the best of Samarinda with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Samarinda
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Samarinda city and the Mahakam River
Provides a scenic view of the Mahakam River and a picturesque sunset
A bridge over the Mahakam River with beautiful views of the river and surrounding area
Food in Samarinda
Samarinda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant yellow rice dish often served with fried chicken, beef rendang, fried noodles, and various side dishes. It is a popular dish for celebrations and can be found at local restaurants and warungs (eateries).
Must-Try!
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of sweet soy sauce, garlic, and chili, commonly served with rice and fresh vegetables. Look for this flavorful dish at seaside eateries and seafood restaurants along Mahakam River.
A spicy noodle soup made with vermicelli, shredded chicken, prawns, and a rich coconut milk-based broth, seasoned with local spices. This dish is a must-try at street food stalls and traditional eateries throughout Samarinda.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Samarinda better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market offering a diverse array of street food including grilled satay, traditional cakes, and fresh tropical fruits. Visitors can immerse in the vibrant atmosphere and savor authentic local flavors.
A bustling evening market known for its variety of street food stalls selling regional specialties like grilled fish, sate (skewered meat), and bubur ayam (chicken rice porridge). It's an ideal place to experience the local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Samarinda, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate language and gestures, and by deferring to their wisdom and experience.
It is respectful to participate in and observe traditional customs and ceremonies in Samarinda, showing appreciation for the local culture and traditions.
Hospitality and politeness are highly valued in Samarinda, with locals often offering warm and friendly gestures to guests and visitors. It is important to reciprocate this kindness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Samarinda with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Samarinda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Samarinda, Indonesia. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Samarinda, although larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry cash for most transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Samarinda.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Samarinda with sunny weather, lower humidity, and less rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. May experience flooding in low-lying areas. Not the best time for outdoor activities.
Samarinda at Night
Hiking in Samarinda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Samarinda, known for its lush landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Offers a challenging trek with beautiful natural scenery and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.
A significant mountain range in South Kalimantan, just a drive away, featuring various trails for adventure seekers.
A protected area with trails that allow for hiking amid rich biodiversity, including various wildlife species.
A coastal area that features easier walking trails and scenic views, perfect for family outings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Samarinda through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Samarinda by plane.
Located in Balikpapan, this major airport serves international flights and is approximately 120 km from Samarinda.
Also situated in Balikpapan, it is the main gateway for international flights in East Kalimantan and is around 120 km from Samarinda.
Located in Banjarmasin, it serves both domestic and limited international flights and is about 250 km from Samarinda.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Samarinda, primarily coming from Java Island, contributing significantly to the local culture and economy.
Another significant ethnic group in the region, known for their unique traditions and languages.
An indigenous ethnic group originally from South Kalimantan, with a notable presence in Samarinda.
The indigenous people of Borneo, including several subgroups, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
A minority ethnic group in Samarinda, involved primarily in trade and commerce, impacting the local economy.
An ethnic group from Sulawesi, known for their maritime culture and engagement in trade.
Includes various other ethnicities and immigrant communities, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Samarinda.
The Soul of Samarinda
Discover the essence of Samarinda through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Samarinda, attracting large crowds for local matches and supporting both amateur and professional teams.
A favorite pastime for many, with numerous courts available for play and local tournaments held regularly.
Widely played in homes and community centers, badminton enjoys popularity among all age groups in Samarinda.
A common sport in schools and communities, often played in both formal and informal settings.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced, with local dojos and competitions contributing to their popularity.
Running clubs and events are supported, promoting fitness and health among the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samarinda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Indonesian cuisine traditionally includes a lot of meat and fish, many local eateries and restaurants are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Look for restaurants that offer sayur lodeh (vegetable in coconut milk), gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and tempeh dishes.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional dishes due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-based products. However, some restaurants may offer rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood that are naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Samarinda with these cultural adventures.
