Tips for getting around
Where once you would have to travel by river to cross most of Kalimantan, the island now has plenty of ways to get from end to end. There are several airports across the island which are reachable using cheap, domestic airliners. The road network is both expanding and improving (though still limited and in poor condition in places), which means public buses and private minibuses take travellers to most spots.
The Trans-Kalimantan highway extends from Batakan, south of Banjarmasin, to Balikpapan and then to Samarinda. It eventually connects to Bontang and Tarakan. Buses run from Banjarmasin to Balikpapan and Samarinda, as do ‘travel’ (pre-booked door-to-door minibuses or cars). Boats – taksi sungai (river taxi) or bis air (water bus) – are popular forms of transport for short hops, but have largely vanished as a form of long-haul transport.
By plane
Most major cities are connected by regional flights in less than an hour. Some flights will go via Jakarta. Cheap, regular and mainly hassle-free, it's a good way to get around. Smaller prop planes are still used in more remote destinations.
By bus or 'travel' (pre-booked minibuses)
Intercity buses in Kalimantan are generally comfortable, modern and ply routes across the country. However, 'travel' (pre-booked door-to-door minibuses or cars) are becoming an increasingly popular way to get around for many Indonesians. Around five times more expensive than long-distance buses, 'travel' are much more convenient and will pick you up from your hotel.
By boat
Aksi sungai (river taxi) and bis air (water bus) are two of a variety of watercraft that travel along rivers. For some river trips, it is possible to charter boats. Ask at your hotel.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kalimantan depends on what you're here to do. The wet season (November to January) means you're unlikely to be hiking, but you'll have a better chance of spotting orangutans as this is when forest fruits tend to grow. Peak season is July to September and it is usually dry with consistent tropical temperatures. This is the best time to go diving in Kalimantan as the visibility is usually better. Note that Kalimantan is largely Islamic and will celebrate Ramadan at some point in April or May (depending on the Islamic calendar) which can close restaurants during the day.
Find out more about the best time to visit Indonesia.