Kalimantan With Family

Kalimantan Family Experience

Set out on a family journey to Kalimantan, particularly to the renowned Tanjung Puting National Park, provides an extraordinary opportunity to engage with nature and culture. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park is a sanctuary for orangutans and offers a unique riverine experience. Accessing this remote paradise begins with a flight to Iskandar Airport in Pangkalan Bun, followed by a short transfer to Kumai Port.

Orangutan Encounters at Camp Leakey

Established in 1971, Camp Leakey is the world’s oldest orangutan research centre. Here, families can observe these striking primates in their natural habitat. The park permits each visitor access to feeding platforms such as Tanjung Harapan, Pondok Tanggui, and Camp Leakey once per day during a two-hour window. While sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to see these creatures up close is a highlight of any visit.

River Cruising on the Sekonyer

The Sekonyer River, affectionately called the “Crocodile River,” is the main route through Tanjung Puting. Families can choose between traditional Klotok boats and more modern river cruisers for their journey. The Klotok, a wooden houseboat, accommodates 2-6 guests and offers an open-deck experience, while the River Cruiser hosts up to 10 guests in more conventional cabins.

Immerse in Dayak Culture

No visit to Kalimantan is complete without experiencing the lively Dayak culture. The cultural richness of the Dayak people can be explored through visits to their longhouses, where traditional architecture and lifestyle are on full display. Though these are located in the Derawan Islands to the east, they offer a fascinating insight into the indigenous heritage of the region.

Planning Your Itinerary

When planning your family’s adventure, consider the standard itineraries that promise a holistic experience of the park’s offerings. Options include a 3-night Tanjung Puting Klotok tour and a 5-night Borneo River + Culture tour. A minimum stay of 4 nights is recommended to fully appreciate the park’s wonders. For more details, visit our Borneo Expedition Trip page.

Charter Options and Pricing

Opting for a whole-yacht private charter offers unrivalled flexibility and comfort. These charters are priced per night, inclusive of a dedicated crew, chef, and dive guides, ensuring a seamless and luxurious journey. A 4-day Camp Leakey & Tanjung Puting tour starts at £825 per person, based on two sharing, excluding flights. Explore our Borneo Expedition Charter options for the ultimate family adventure.

2027 Note

As of 2027, Kalimantan continues to be a premier destination for eco-conscious families seeking unique wildlife experiences. The infrastructure has evolved to support sustainable tourism, ensuring the protection of its invaluable habitats.

Conclusion

Exploring the Biodiversity of Kalimantan

Kalimantan, with its expansive rainforests and intricate river systems, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The biodiversity here is unmatched, offering a unique opportunity to witness a range of species in their natural habitats. The liveaboard charter provides an exceptional way to explore this ecological wonderland.

The Tanjung Puting National Park is a highlight, renowned for its orangutan conservation efforts. Visitors can also encounter proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, and a plethora of bird species. Each river cruise unveils different facets of Kalimantan’s wildlife, making every journey distinct.

• Orangutan Viewing: Camp Leakey is the heart of orangutan research and rehabilitation. Guided tours allow for ethical wildlife observation.
• Bird Watching: Over 230 bird species can be spotted, including hornbills and kingfishers.
• Aquatic Life: The river systems are home to freshwater crocodiles and diverse fish species, visible from the comfortable decks of the river boats.

Culinary Delights on the High Seas

The culinary experience aboard the liveaboard charter is a journey in itself. Each meal is a celebration of local flavours, crafted from fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding regions. The onboard chef curates a menu that caters to both traditional Indonesian cuisine and international dishes.

Dining is an integral part of the journey, with meals served in a communal setting that fosters camaraderie among guests. The chef is adept at accommodating dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful gastronomic experience for all.

Engaging with Local Communities

A voyage through Kalimantan offers more than just natural beauty; it is an opportunity to engage with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visits to Dayak longhouses provide insight into the traditional lifestyle and customs of the indigenous people.

Guests are welcomed into the communities, where they can observe traditional craftsmanship, dance performances, and rituals. These interactions are arranged respectfully and sustainably, ensuring that the cultural integrity of the Dayak communities is preserved.

• Traditional Crafts: Learn about the weaving and woodcarving techniques that have been passed down through generations.
• Cultural Performances: Experience traditional Dayak music and dance, a reflection of their rich cultural tapestry.
• Sustainable Tourism: Efforts are made to ensure that tourism benefits the local communities economically and socially.

Customised Itineraries for Unique Experiences

For those seeking a bespoke adventure, our private crewed liveaboard charters offer the flexibility to tailor itineraries to suit your preferences. While popular routes cover the renowned sites of Tanjung Puting and the Sekonyer River, guests can choose to explore additional destinations such as the Derawan Islands in East Kalimantan. This flexibility allows for a personalised exploration of both renowned attractions and lesser-known locales.

Our expert crew and guides are on hand to assist in crafting an itinerary that balances relaxation with adventure. If you wish to focus on wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, or diving experiences, we ensure each journey is tailored to your desires. From serene river cruising to active exploration, the choice is entirely yours.

• Wildlife-focused itineraries: orangutan feeding sessions, river cruises, and birdwatching.
• Cultural immersion: visits to Dayak longhouses and local community interactions.
• Diving and snorkelling: discover lively marine life around the Derawan Islands.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

Our commitment to sustainability and responsible travel is at the heart of our operations in Kalimantan. We strive to minimise our environmental impact and ensure that our presence benefits local communities. By chartering a private liveaboard, guests can contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices.

Our vessels adhere to strict environmental standards, including waste management and energy-efficient operations. Additionally, we support local initiatives and collaborate with conservation organisations to protect the unique ecosystems of Kalimantan. Our guides are trained in eco-friendly practices, ensuring that wildlife encounters are conducted respectfully and safely.

By choosing a sustainable travel option, guests not only enjoy an extraordinary journey but also contribute to the preservation of Kalimantan’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage for future generations.

With its captivating landscapes and rich biodiversity, Kalimantan offers a family adventure of a lifetime. From observing orangutans at Camp Leakey to cruising the Sekonyer River, the memories forged here will last forever. Reach out today to plan your charter on WhatsApp and start your journey into the heart of Borneo.

Filed under: Charter Guides