Kalimantan is one of the most remarkable destinations in Southeast Asia for travelers seeking nature, wildlife, adventure, and authentic experiences.
The Top 12 Nature Destinations in Kalimantan showcase the incredible natural beauty of Indonesian Borneo. From tropical rainforests and orangutan habitats to pristine national parks, spectacular mountains, beautiful islands, and winding rivers, these destinations offer unforgettable nature experiences.
Covering the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo, Kalimantan is home to vast tropical rainforests, winding rivers, peatlands, mountains, wetlands, coastal ecosystems, and extraordinary biodiversity.
Beyond its spectacular landscapes, Kalimantan offers something increasingly rare in the modern world: the opportunity to experience nature on a truly expansive scale. In many places, the rainforest stretches far beyond the horizon, rivers remain an important part of everyday life, and wildlife can still be encountered in its natural environment. From searching for orangutans deep in the rainforest to exploring remote rivers, walking beneath ancient trees, or discovering secluded islands, every region offers a different perspective on Borneo.
For this selection of the Top 12 Nature Destinations in Kalimantan, we look beyond popularity alone. Our choices are based on a combination of natural beauty, biodiversity, wildlife value, uniqueness, conservation importance, accessibility, and the quality of experiences available to travelers. We also consider the character of each destination and its ability to provide
meaningful encounters with the landscapes and ecosystems that make Kalimantan so special.
These destinations represent a diverse cross-section of Kalimantan’s natural heritage. Some are internationally recognized for their wildlife and rainforest ecosystems, while others remain relatively remote and less explored. Together, they showcase the remarkable variety of environments found across the island—from lowland tropical forests and peat-swamp ecosystems to mountain landscapes, great rivers, mangroves, and tropical seas.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature photographer, adventure seeker, birdwatcher, rainforest explorer, or simply a traveler looking for something beyond the usual tourist routes, these destinations offer unforgettable ways to experience the wild heart of Borneo.
Discover 12 Nature Destinations in Kalimantan.
Home to one of the world’s most iconic orangutan habitats, Tanjung Puting National Park offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Borneo’s tropical rainforest. Cruise along the Sekonyer River aboard a traditional klotok boat, encounter orangutans in their natural habitat, and discover the extraordinary wildlife and rich biodiversity of this remarkable national park.
Sebangau National Park is home to vast tropical peat-swamp forests, rich biodiversity, and endangered orangutans. Explore its tranquil waterways, discover unique wetland ecosystems, and experience the beauty of one of Borneo’s most important rainforest conservation areas.
Kutai National Park protects a rich tropical rainforest that is home to orangutans, gibbons, hornbills, and many other fascinating species. Explore its lush forest trails, discover remarkable biodiversity, and experience the natural beauty of East Kalimantan’s rainforest wilderness.
Kayan Mentarang National Park is home to vast pristine rainforests, rugged mountain landscapes, and remarkable biodiversity in the heart of North Kalimantan. Discover remote wilderness, rare wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Dayak communities living in and around the forest.
Betung Kerihun National Park is home to vast tropical rainforests, rugged mountains, and extraordinary biodiversity in the heart of West Kalimantan. Explore pristine river valleys, discover rare wildlife and unique plant species, and experience the untamed beauty of one of Borneo’s great wilderness areas.
Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park is home to lush tropical rainforests, rugged mountain landscapes, and rich biodiversity in the heart of Central Kalimantan and West Kalimantan. Discover rare wildlife, diverse plant species, and the natural beauty of Borneo’s interior, where forested peaks and remote wilderness create an unforgettable adventure.
Gunung Palung National Park is home to some of West Kalimantan’s richest tropical rainforests, from lowland forests to misty mountain slopes. Discover wild orangutans, diverse birdlife, and extraordinary plant species while exploring one of Borneo’s most important habitats for wildlife and rainforest conservation.
The Derawan Islands are home to crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and extraordinary marine biodiversity in East Kalimantan. Discover sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and fascinating underwater landscapes while snorkeling or diving in one of Indonesia’s most beautiful marine destinations.
The Meratus Mountains are home to lush tropical forests, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage of the Dayak Meratus people in South Kalimantan. Explore forest trails, discover diverse wildlife, and experience traditional village life in one of Kalimantan’s most remarkable natural landscapes.
Danau Sentarum National Park is home to a remarkable network of seasonal lakes, flooded forests, and wetlands in West Kalimantan. Discover diverse birdlife, freshwater fish, and unique aquatic ecosystems while exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Kapuas River basin and experiencing the traditional life of communities living along its waterways.
Bukit Bangkirai is home to lush tropical rainforest, towering dipterocarp trees, and rich biodiversity in East Kalimantan. Walk among the forest giants, cross the famous canopy bridge high above the ground, and experience the beauty of Borneo’s rainforest from a unique perspective.
The Mahakam River is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins known locally as Pesut Mahakam, as well as diverse freshwater wildlife and vibrant riverside communities in East Kalimantan. Cruise along the winding river, explore tranquil wetlands and traditional villages, and discover the unique natural and cultural heritage of Borneo’s iconic waterway.