Overview
Samarinda is East Kalimantan’s administrative capital, serving as the main gateway to the Mahakam River and its surrounding Dayak communities. The city is known for producing Sarung Samarinda, a traditional woven sarong crafted in villages like Baqa, and for amplang, the local fish crackers sold throughout markets.
Day Trips
Before you go
Activities
Mahakam River boat trips Rp70,000 on weekends only (17:00–20:00). Pampang Cultural Village Dayak show Sundays 2–4pm.
Food
Traditional markets for local food, amplang fish crackers at Surianata, Rp33,000 soto at RM Amado. Western coffee and WiFi at The Muster Station Cafe.
Transport
APT Pranoto International Airport handles flights from Java and Bali. Buses to Balikpapan and boats to Pare Pare available. Local transport by taxi or becak.
Weather
Tropical climate with temperatures of 24–32°C year-round. Rainfall highest April–June (up to 236mm), lowest in September (118mm).