Cruise the waterways of East Kalimantan in search of elusive Irrawaddy dolphins while discovering river life, wetlands, and the wildlife of the Mahakam River. Journey deeper into Borneo to explore lush rainforests, encounter proboscis monkeys and diverse birdlife, and visit traditional Dayak communities where ancestral customs and cultural heritage remain part of everyday life. From tranquil river journeys and remote riverside villages to extraordinary wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural landscapes, East Kalimantan offers an authentic adventure into the wild heart of Borneo

3 Days & 2 Nights

Mahakam River

Dolphine Explorer

Need to Know

Pickup Point

Balikpapan Airport (Bpn)

Drop-off Point

Balikpapan Airport (Bpn)

Region

East Kalimantan

Challenge Level

Easy

Duration

3 Days & 2 Nights

Tour Code

ATB 104

Overview

Search for Irrawaddy Dolphins

The Mahakam River Dolphin Explorer offers more than a wildlife search. This journey through East Kalimantan reveals the unique wetlands of the

Mahakam River, traditional riverside communities, and the rich biodiversity of Borneo. Keep watch for the elusive Irrawaddy dolphins while enjoying the scenery and learning about the importance of protecting their fragile river habitat.

 

Discover Mahakam River Life

Mahakam River Dolphin Explorer is an exciting wildlife adventure in East Kalimantan, offering opportunities to search for rare Irrawaddy dolphins along the Mahakam River while discovering its wetlands, wildlife, and riverside communities.

Explorer offers an unforgettable river adventure in East Kalimantan, where visitors can search for the rare Irrawaddy dolphins while discovering the Mahakam River’s wetlands, wildlife, and riverside communities.

Experience the legendary Mahakam River and discover the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, locally known as Pesut Mahakam, in their natural habitat. Cruise along the legendary Mahakam River and experience the beauty of Borneo while searching for the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural habitat.

 

Explore Wetlands and Wildlife

This unique river adventure takes you deep into the heart of Borneo, cruising along the Mahakam River while searching for these fascinating freshwater dolphins. Along the way, enjoy beautiful river landscapes, traditional riverside villages, local wildlife, and the daily life of communities living along the river.

The journey is more than just dolphin watching—it is an opportunity to experience the river, wildlife, culture, and spirit of Borneo from a different perspective.

River • Wildlife • Culture • Adventure.

 

What's Included

Accomodation

2 nights stay at guest house in Kota Bangun. Twin shared / double room.

Meals

Meals as program, coffee, tea and mineral water

Tour Guide

Experienced English speaking guide.

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees for all listed visits are included.

Transport

Tours and transfers as mentioned by private vehicle & motor canoe

What's Excluded

Other meals than mentioned

Other services than mentioned

International and domestic Flights

Travel insurance

Telephone calls, Laundry services & Personal expenses

Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks.

Itinerary

DAY 01 : BALIKPAPAN ARRIVAL - KOTA BANGUN

Upon arrival at the Balikpapan Airport, meet and great with our guide then transfer by vehicle to Kota Bangun (approx. 5 hrs drive) Upon arrival embark into motor canoe to get Semayang Lake to spot Pesut Mahakam (fresh wate dolphin) Disembark the boat then transfer to simple guest house. 

Lunch & dinner

Lunch and dinner will be served at the local restaurant.

Overnight

Guest house or local house

Early morning exploration in search of the Irrawaddy dolphins (Pesut Mahakam). Cruise quietly through suitable dolphin habitats and observe their movements and behavior from a respectful distance. Continue exploring the river while looking for other wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, macaques, kingfishers and other river birds. 

Breakfast

Served at guest house

Lunch

at the local restaurant

Dinner

at local restaurant

Overnight

at the guest house

Continue the morning river exploration before returning downstream toward Samarinda. Experience the final views of the Mahakam River and its riverside communities. Disembark and transfer to Balikpapan for your onward journey.

Breakfast

at the guest house

Tour Highlights
  • 🐬 Search for Pesut Mahakam / Irrawaddy Dolphins
  • 🚤 Cruise in the middle Mahakam River
  • 🌿 Explore the natural landscapes of Borneo
  • 🏘️ See traditional riverside communities
  • 🐦 Observe birds and other wildlife
  • 🌅 Enjoy the beauty of the river at sunrise or sunset
  • 🤝 Experience local culture and everyday life