Samarinda - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Samarinda

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Samarinda, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Samarinda and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Samarinda, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Samarinda for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Samarinda

Samarinda is a city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. It serves as the capital of the province and has a population of approximately 840,000 people. The city is situated on the banks of the Mahakam River and is known for its coal mining industry and as a center for trade and commerce in the region. Popular attractions in Samarinda include the Pampang Cultural Village, the Mulawarman Museum, and the Muara Pahu Botanical Garden. The climate in Samarinda is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity all year round.

What to visit in Samarinda

Sure, here are some of the main attractions in Samarinda, Indonesia: 1. Mahakam River - Samarinda is located on the banks of the Mahakam River, which is the longest river in East Kalimantan. Visitors can take a day trip along the river and check out the traditional villages, fishing communities, and markets along the way.
2. Tenggarong - This is the former capital of the Kutai Kingdom and there are some interesting historical sites here. The Museum Mulawarman is a popular attraction and features artifacts from the Kutai Kingdom, while the Sultan's Palace is a beautiful building with traditional architecture.
3. Pampang Cultural Village - This is a traditional village located just outside of Samarinda where visitors can learn about the Dayak culture. The Dayak people are the indigenous people of Kalimantan and have a rich cultural heritage.
4. Kebun Raya Forest Park - This park is a great place for nature lovers and features a variety of flora and fauna. There are walking trails through the forest and visitors can spot animals like monkeys, birds, and squirrels.
5. Bukit Bangkirai - This is a conservation area located about 38 kilometers from Samarinda. The main attraction here is the canopy bridge, which is suspended high above the rainforest canopy and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Kutai National Park - This national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and explore the jungle trails.
Overall, Samarinda offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions that are well worth a visit.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Samarinda

The best time to visit Samarinda, Indonesia is during the dry season from May to October. The dry season has less rainfall and the weather is generally sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as exploring the town and the surrounding areas. However, it's important to note that the weather in Samarinda can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Additionally, keep in mind that the peak tourist season can be from June to August, so expect higher prices and larger crowds during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Samarinda

To get to Samarinda, Indonesia, you can take a flight to Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport (SAM) which serves the city of Samarinda. There are several airlines that operate flights to SAM, including Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Lion Air and Sriwijaya Air. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive to Samarinda from other cities in Indonesia. There are several bus companies that operate services to Samarinda from cities such as Balikpapan, Banjarmasin, and Jakarta. The journey by bus can take several hours, depending on your starting point.
For more information, you may want to check with travel agencies or online booking websites such as Traveloka or Tiket.com. It's always best to plan ahead and make reservations in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles or delays.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Samarinda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Samarinda

Samarinda is a city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Here are some typical foods of Samarinda with a short description for each: 1. Soto Banjar: A traditional soup made with chicken or beef, rice noodles, vegetables, and spices.
2. Pempek: A special type of fish cake made from ground fish and tapioca starch, which is boiled, fried, or grilled and served with a spicy sauce.
3. Sate Banjar: Kebabs made of beef, chicken, pork, or fish, grilled over hot charcoals and topped with peanut sauce.
4. Nasi Kuning: A fragrant yellow rice dish, often served with fried chicken, boiled eggs, and other side dishes.
5. Gule Kambing: A spicy goat curry, cooked with coconut milk, herbs, and spices.
6. Sambal Leko: A spicy chili sauce made of chili peppers, tomato, garlic, and shrimp paste. It is usually served as a side dish with many local dishes.
7. Bubur Pedas: A spicy rice porridge, often served with shredded chicken, fried onions, and sliced green onions.
8. Kue Penganan: A traditional snack made of glutinous rice, coconut, and palm sugar, often wrapped in banana leaves.
9. Telur Asin: A traditional egg dish made by soaking boiled eggs in a salty solution made of water, salt, and clay for a few days.
10. Ayam Goreng Kalasan: Fried chicken marinated with coconut water and various spices, which makes it very juicy and flavorful.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Samarinda an expensive destination for tourists?

Samarinda, located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is not known to be an expensive destination for tourists. In fact, it is one of the more affordable destinations in Indonesia. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation are generally quite reasonable, especially when compared to more popular tourist destinations like Bali or Jakarta. However, the cost may vary depending on the type of accommodation or activities you choose. Overall, Samarinda is a great destination to explore for those on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Samarinda

The best areas to find accommodation in Samarinda, Indonesia, are: 1. Kampung Baru: This area is located in the city center and offers a range of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.
2. Sungai Kunjang: This area is situated on the bank of the Mahakam River and offers scenic views of the river. There are several mid-range and luxury hotels in this area.
3. Samarinda Seberang: This area is on the other side of the Mahakam River, offering a quieter atmosphere and luxurious hotels.
4. Palaran: This area is located on the outskirts of the city, and has several budget-friendly hotels and homestays.
5. Loa Janan: This area is best for budget travelers, with many affordable hotels available.
Before selecting your accomodation, make sure to research the area and its proximity to the attractions you want to visit.
You can check hotel prices at Samarinda here:
Booking.com

Is Samarinda a safe destination for tourists?

Samarinda is known to be a relatively safe place for tourists. However, as with any place in the world, it is always important to take basic safety precautions such as not wandering alone in unfamiliar areas, avoiding displaying expensive possessions and staying aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to do research on any potential safety concerns specific to the area you plan on visiting. Overall, by using common sense and being aware of your surroundings, you should be able to enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Samarinda.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Samarinda.

What type of travelers will enjoy Samarinda the most?

Samarinda, Indonesia offers a range of experiences that cater to various types of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mahakam River as well as the traditional floating markets which are unique to this region. The quaint cafes and restaurants serving local cuisines offer a perfect date night atmosphere.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the bustling nightlife, street food scene, and shopping malls. There are several nightclubs and bars popular among locals and tourists.
Families can indulge in various outdoor activities such as river cruising, bird watching, and visiting wildlife reserves. The friendly locals and child-friendly activities make it a great destination for family vacations.
Overall, Samarinda, Indonesia is a destination that can appeal to all types of travelers, and it offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

How to get around Samarinda

Samarinda is a relatively small and compact city, and the most convenient way to get around is by using public transportation such as taxis, minivans, or buses. Blue Bird Group and Express Group are the most reliable taxi companies in the city, and you can also find ride-hailing apps such as Gojek or Grab. Minivans or angkot are also available as a cheaper option, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. It's important to negotiate the price before getting on any form of transportation. Additionally, renting a motorcycle or car is a popular choice for more flexibility and convenience. However, be aware that traffic in Samarinda can be congested during peak hours.

What to see around Samarinda

Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Samarinda, Indonesia: 1. Bukit Bangkirai: This recreational forest is known for its canopy bridge that offers stunning views of the forest. You can also enjoy trekking and camping here.
2. Mahakam River: Take a boat tour of the Mahakam River, which is the second-longest river in Indonesia. You can see the local way of life, including floating markets and stilt houses.
3. Pampang Cultural Village: Learn about the Dayak culture at this traditional village, which features longhouses and a museum showcasing traditional artifacts.
4. Kutai National Park: This park is home to Borneo's orangutan population, as well as other wildlife such as monkeys, crocodiles, and hornbills. You can take a jungle trekking or canoeing tour.
5. Beras Basah Island: Located off the coast of East Kalimantan, this beautiful island features white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. You can go swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing here.
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