Kalimantan is the correct name for the Indonesian portion of the island known generically as Borneo. The Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak and the famed country, Brunei Darussalam constitute the remaining portions. Kalimantan is divided into four regions: East, West, Central and South Kalimantan. In East Kalimantan, the Mahakam River is the main route of access into this land of mystery, lore and vast eco-tourism. The former headhunters, the Dayaks traditionally live in communal longhouses called Lamin or Umaq Daru.
Steeped in tradition, the interior of the longhouse is typically divided into separate family quarters with a communal area connecting each of the quarters and therefore each of the families. It is in these communal areas that village meetings are held and ceremonies performed, thereby reinforcing the strong tribal bonds that have kept the Dayaks alive in the face of rapidly advancing 20th century technology.
The more remote and traditional tribes-people have pierced earlobes, which over the years have become stretched by the weight of heavy gold or brass rings, and beautifully elaborate tattoos. Local jewelry and designs are intricate and powerful, often giving messages to be passed down from generation to generation. The former headhunters; the large, remote orchid forests; the villages with “streets of wood”; and the ecologically interesting terrain create a journey surpassing all imagination and expectations. This is a journey back in time designed for the hearty explorer and eco-tourist.
DAY 1 – BALIKPAPAN / LOA JANAN
Transfer from Balikpapan to Loa Janan to board your “house-boat” for the start of the journey up the Mahakam river. Traveling along the extensive Mahakam river system, which has carved its way through the jungles and flatlands constantly reshaping and nourishing the land, is a fascinating adventure. The people, once believed to be headhunters, live in remote areas and along the rivers maintaining their beliefs in the supernatural and ancestral worship. Overnight on board. (Dinner)
DAY 2 – MUARA MUNTAI / TANJUNG ISUY
Tea with the Dayaks, the renown, former head hunters of Borneo, awaits you today. Visit Muara Muntai and its local floating market. A festive celebration with the Dayak village at Tanjung Isuy will crown this day. Be ready – Everyone Participates. Overnight on board. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 3 – TANJUNG ISUY / TENGGARONG
Travel from Tanjung Isuy to Tenggarong. Visit traditional long houses and explore the life of the Dayak villager. Birds, scenery, sights, and sounds abound – enjoy your time with nature and creation. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
DAY 4 – TENGGARONG / BALIKPAPAN
Visit the former Palace of the Sultan of Kutai, now an excellent museum. Note the gifts, origins and art on display. Journey down-river at a pace much faster than before as you now travel with the river. Arrive in time for dinner in Balikpapan.(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Bid farewell to Kalimantan as you are transferred to the airport for your onward journey and continuing visit to Indonesia. (Breakfast).
