What To Eat in Borneo

Traditional Dishes, Snacks & Historical Food Establishments : 1.Mageli: a cherished street food from Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, offers a delightful glimpse into the region's vibrant culinary landscape. This beloved fried snack combines the humble green mung bean (kacang ijo) with a symphony of spices, creating a flavor that is both comforting and uniquely satisfying. 2.Mantau: A steamed bun, often filled with savory ingredients. In Balikpapan, it is commonly enjoyed with a variety of fillings and served as a snack or side dish. 3.Soto Banjar: A traditional soup from South Kalimantan, made with chicken, vermicelli, and various spices. It’s often enjoyed with rice and condiments. 4.The Delicacy of North Kalimantan: Soka Crab: Presented with an enticing array of vibrant colors and aromas, the crab is beautifully prepared, its shell a golden-brown hue that hints at the flavors within. The Soka Crab, also known as soft-shell crab, is a true marvel of nature, harvested during the brief period when it molts its old shell, leaving behind a tender and succulent new one. 5.Depot Namin: A 59-year-old establishment on wheels known for its authentic and nostalgic offerings like kopi susu (milk coffee) and freshly baked bread. It’s a perfect place to experience the culinary history of Balikpapan.

WoW Moment

1.Cultural Immersion: Food is a vital part of the local culture, and tasting traditional dishes provides insight into the region’s history and way of life. 2.Historical Context: Many culinary spots have historical significance, allowing visitors to learn about the region's past while enjoying its flavors. 3.Local Ingredients: The use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients ensures that the dishes are authentic and bursting with flavor. 4.Variety of Experiences: From high-end restaurants to bustling markets and street food stalls, East Kalimantan offers a wide range of dining experiences. Borneo's gastronomy tourism offers a delicious journey through its cultural and culinary heritage, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. 5.Amidst the delicious bites (on wheels) guide begins to recount the rich history of Balikpapan. Once a humble oil town, it has now evolved into the new gateway capital city of Indonesia. Listening to tales of its transformation, from the first oil drilling at Tugu Mathilda to its strategic importance during World War II, feel a profound connection to the city’s vibrant past and promising future.

Tour Package: Borneo's Culinary and Hidden Treasures in East Kalimantan!

Morning: Balikpapan Culinary and Historical Exploration

8:00 AM - Departure from Your Hotel

• Depart from your accommodation in Balikpapan.

8:30 AM - Visit to Tugu Australia at Lapangan Merdeka

• Explore the historical significance of Tugu Australia, a monument dedicated to the Australian soldiers who fought in World War II.

9:30 AM - Visit to Tugu Mathilda on Jalan Minyak

• Learn about the history of Balikpapan’s oil industry at Tugu Mathilda, marking the site of the first oil drilling in the city.

10:00 AM - Visit to Depot Namin

• Learn about the history of Balikpapan’s oil industry at Tugu Mathilda, marking the site of the first oil drilling in the city.

• Enjoy traditional snacks such as Mageli, Kopi Susu, and freshly baked bread from Depot Namin, a 59-year-old establishment.

• Listen to the history of Balikpapan while savoring your breakfast.

11:00 AM - Shopping at Pasar Inpres Kebun Sayur

• Browse and purchase unique souvenirs and handicrafts typical of Kalimantan at the bustling Kebun Sayur Market.

Afternoon: Historical Sites and Culinary Delights

12:00 PM - Visit Dahor Heritage

• Explore Dahor Heritage to learn about the historical struggle and development of Balikpapan.

1:00 PM - Lunch at Soto Quin Abdhu

• Enjoy a traditional Banjarmasin (South Kalimantan) dish, Soto, at Soto Quin Abdhu on Jl. Ahmad Yani.

What To See

Wow Moment

Tropical Rainforests at Samboja Lestari : A reforestation and orangutan rehabilitation project. Visitors can explore lush rainforests, see various plant species, and learn about conservation efforts. 1.Orangutan Islands: These semi-wild enclosures are home to orangutans in various stages of rehabilitation. You can observe them swinging from trees, socializing, and learning skills necessary for their eventual release back into the wild. 2.Reforestation Projects: Learn about the ongoing reforestation efforts and even participate in tree planting activities, contributing to the restoration of the orangutans' natural habitat. Visiting the BOS Foundation at Samboja Lestari provides a unique opportunity to witness the incredible efforts to save one of the world’s most endangered primates while immersing yourself in the beauty of Borneo's rainforest.

1. Trekking and Hiking: Explore various trails in the rainforests. 2.Observing Orangutans in Their Natural Habitat: Seeing orangutans swinging through the trees and interacting with one another in their semi-wild enclosures is an awe-inspiring sight. It provides a glimpse into their natural behavior and social dynamics. 3.Visiting the Sun Bear Sanctuary: In addition to orangutans, BOS Samboja Lestari is home to a sun bear sanctuary. Seeing these adorable bears and learning about their conservation adds another layer to the experience. These experiences not only offer a chance to connect with nature but also deepen your understanding of the critical conservation work being done to protect orangutans and their habitats. East Kalimantan offers a blend of natural beauty and exciting adventures, making it a must-visit destination for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts

Late Afternoon: Discover the Tropical Rain Forest

Samboja Lestari

2:45 PM - Arrive at Samboja Lestari

• Welcome and briefing about Samboja Lestari.

• Introduction to the reforestation efforts and the importance of tropical rainforests.

3:00 AM - Rainforest Trekking

• Guided tour through the tropical rainforest.

• Learn about the diverse flora and fauna native to Kalimantan.

4:00 AM - Orangutan Rehabilitation Center

• Visit the orangutan sanctuary.

• Observe orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about the rehabilitation efforts for these endangered animals.

5:00 PM - Break

• Enjoy a traditional Indonesian lunch at the Samboja Lestari visitor center.

Evening: Dining Experience

6:30 PM - Depart for Balikpapan

• Return to Balikpapan from Nusantara (approximately 1.5-hour drive).

7:00 PM - Dinner at Dandito Restaurant

• Enjoy a delicious meal of Soka Crab, a specialty of North Kalimantan, at the famous Dandito Restaurant.

9:00 PM - Return to Your Hotel (Drop-off)

End of Tour