Get in

Looking to travel from Balikpapan to Samarinda? You have a few options to choose from. One option is to take a bus, which takes around 2 hours and costs 21,000 rupiahs. Another option is to take a bus directly from the airport to Samarinda, which costs approximately 350,000 rupiahs. If you prefer a more comfortable and private ride, you can also charter a private car for around 400,000 rupiahs. Just prepare yourself for a wavy ride! Locals often drink Tolak Angin or other herbal drinks to avoid car sickness. From Tarakan, the journey to Samarinda is a bit longer. First, you'll need to take a morning speedboat to Tanjung Selor, and then find a car near the jetty that will take you to Samarinda. There are usually plenty of drivers available to assist you. The cost is around 300,000 rupiahs per person. Keep in mind that the journey takes around 15 hours, and the road conditions may not be the best in some spots. If you are prone to motion sickness, make sure to bring some motion sickness pills along for the ride.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing