Formerly known as Borneo, Kalimantan is the
world's second largest island. The North and
North-western part of the island are the East
Malaysian state of Serawak and Sabah, with the
newly independent state of Brunei Darusalam
between them.
The rest of the island is part of Indonesia,
divided into four provinces - East Kalimantan,
West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South
Kalimantan.
The rest of the island is part of Indonesia,
divided into four provinces - East Kalimantan,
West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South
Kalimantan.
The tremendous outspread of jungles and
wilderness, which are so rich in natural
resources as timber, gas, oil and coal as well
as scenic beauty - are comparable to that of a
continent alone. Focal point for most visitors
is the mighty Mahakam river, which meanders
through thousands of kilometers through one of
the worlds largest tropical rainforests, from
its head water near the center of the
island.The twenty main Dayak tribes - once
feared as headhunters have their homes in this
river basin, A remarkable varieties of plants
and animals life including the famous fresh
water dolphins which often accompany boats
along the river make a visit to Kalimantan an
enthralling venture to a different world. In
year to come the Mahakam river trips are most
likely to have a more modern outlook with
modern crafts and all possible amenities.
Unfortunately under such circumstances the
Dayak village would have last their primitive
charm, and a cliche scene of souvenirs shops
would cluster along the riverside.
The time to take your Mahakam river trip is
now...!! we hesitate to say that this tours
are designed for the vigorous and adventurous
visitors, but those taking these tours should
be prepared for a degree of un-sophistication.
River crafts have usually only one toilet on
board, and sleeping accommodation is on the
thin mattress, with blankets provided. If you
are prepared to put up rith a little roughing
up for a few days you will be guaranteed the
adventure of your life time.
Tanjung Puting reserve, 415.050 hectares is
situated in an ecologically diverse area of
wetland, lowlands, swamp and hardwood rain
forest. Borneo and Sumatra are the only places
left in the world where Orang Utans (the man
of the forest) still survive in their natural
habitat |
