Bossku Tour & Travel

Kalimantan Utara

North Kalimantan is Indonesia’s youngest province, officially established on October 25, 2012 after separating from East Kalimantan. Its capital, Tanjung Selor, sits in the northern part of Borneo, directly bordering Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak regions. Covering around 71,827 km², the province features vast tropical rainforests, major rivers such as the Kayan River, highland areas, and coastal zones. Home to diverse ethnic communities including Tidung, Dayak, Bulungan, Banjar, Bugis, and Javanese, the region is known for cultural harmony and rich traditions. North Kalimantan is endowed with natural resources such as coal, oil, gas, forestry, and renewable energy potential. Its economic growth is supported by mining, plantations, fisheries, and national strategic projects like the Tanah Kuning–Mangkupadi Industrial Zone.

Travel Etiquette in North Kalimantan

• Respect and politely participate in Dayak and Tidung cultural ceremonies.
• Maintain cleanliness in forests, rivers, beaches, and cultural sites.
• Dress appropriately when entering traditional or religious areas.
• Show appreciation for local beliefs, including traditional Dayak and Tidung practices.
• Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts such as songket and rattan works.

Things to Avoid in North Kalimantan

• Do not take photos or videos during rituals without permission.
• Do not litter in sacred natural sites such as forests and rivers.
• Avoid rude or disrespectful behavior toward cultural traditions.
• Do not create disturbances or conflict in public spaces.
• Avoid touching sacred objects or entering restricted areas without guidance.

Travel Tips

• Dress modestly when visiting traditional houses, religious sites, or cultural ceremonies.
• Show respect when participating in Dayak and Tidung traditions or rituals.
• Keep the environment clean, especially forests, rivers, and sacred natural areas.
• Be mindful of local customs and avoid behavior that may be seen as disrespectful.
• Always ask for permission before taking photos during rituals or inside traditional buildings.

Popular Foods

• Ikan Asin Tidung — signature salted fish delicacy.
• Nasi Kuning — fragrant turmeric rice enjoyed across the region.
• Sambal Timpal — spicy local chili mix.
• Sayur Ares — vegetable dish made from young palm stems.
• Seafood dishes from Tarakan — fresh and flavorful coastal specialties.
• Traditional cakes and snacks from Tidung and Dayak communities.

Top Activities

• Exploring tropical forests and river routes by boat.
• Light trekking through highlands and protected nature areas.
• Relaxing at Sesayap Beach and Sebuku Beach.
• Enjoying cultural performances such as the Irau ceremony or traditional dances.
• Visiting local craft centers for songket weaving, rattan crafts, and Dayak beadwork.
• Tasting traditional foods from indigenous communities.
• Attending maritime cultural festivals in coastal towns.

Discover the Wonders of Indonesia’s Regions