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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 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.
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