Complete Sangalaki, Derawan, Maratua, Kakaban 7-day Itinerary
Exploring the Derawan Islands, including Sangalaki, Maratua, and Kakaban, offers an unforgettable experience for divers and nature lovers alike. This one-week itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning underwater world, witness green turtle nesting, and snorkel amongst vibrant reefs. Below is a detailed 7-day plan to help you maximize your adventure in this breathtaking corner of East Kalimantan.
Day 1: Arrival in Berau
Your journey begins in Berau, East Kalimantan. Most travelers arrive by flight, with daily connections from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta and Balikpapan. The flight from Jakarta to Berau typically takes around 3 hours and costs approximately $70 to $150 (1,000,000 IDR to 2,200,000 IDR).
Upon arrival, settle into a budget-friendly guesthouse; options such as the Hotel Grand Surya offer rooms starting at $20 (300,000 IDR) per night. Spend the day exploring Berau, visiting local markets or enjoying a meal at a nearby restaurant, where you can savor traditional Indonesian dishes for around $5 (75,000 IDR).
Day 2: Berau to Sangalaki Island
Early on Day 2, take a traditional speedboat from Berau to Sangalaki Island. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around $30 (450,000 IDR) per person. Be sure to arrange your boat transfer beforehand, as services can be limited.
Once you arrive, check in at your accommodation. Options may include simple homestays or eco-lodges around the area. After settling in, spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or snorkeling in shallow waters. The coral reefs surrounding Sangalaki are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Day 3: Diving and Snorkeling at Sangalaki
Today is dedicated to exploring Sangalaki’s underwater treasures. Book a diving package with a local operator; typically, a full-day dive package costs about $100 (1,500,000 IDR) and includes two dives, equipment rental, and lunch. The dive sites here are famous for sightings of manta rays, especially at a site known as Manta Point where dives reach depths of 18-30 meters.
In the afternoon, you can take a guided snorkeling tour around the nearby reefs, which usually lasts about 2 hours and costs around $25 (375,000 IDR). Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic mantas and other pelagic species!
Day 4: Turtle Nesting and Relaxation
On Day 4, wake up early to join a guided turtle nesting tour. Sangalaki is recognized as a nesting site for green turtles, and guided tours are typically available between May and October. The tour costs around $15 (225,000 IDR) and offers a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
After the morning adventure, return to your accommodation for breakfast. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or engaging in water activities such as kayaking, which can be rented for around $10 (150,000 IDR) per hour.
Day 5: Sangalaki to Kakaban Island
On Day 5, take a boat to Kakaban Island, which is approximately 45 minutes away. The transfer can cost around $20 (300,000 IDR) per person. Kakaban is known for its unique jellyfish lake, where you can swim among non-stinging jellyfish — a surreal experience.
After checking into accommodation on Kakaban, head out to explore the famous lake. A guided tour costs about $10 (150,000 IDR) and includes access to the lake and snorkeling gear. Enjoy floating in the lake surrounded by thousands of jellyfish, an experience unlike any other.
Day 6: Explore Maratua Island
Today, take a day trip to Maratua Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and incredible diving spots. Boat transfers from Kakaban to Maratua typically take about 30 minutes and cost around $15 (225,000 IDR).
Once on Maratua, book a dive or snorkeling excursion. If diving, you can expect costs around $100 (1,500,000 IDR) for a full-day package. The dive sites here, such as the famous “Shark Point,” are known for vibrant coral reefs and large pelagic species, with dives reaching depths up to 40 meters.
In the late afternoon, unwind on the pristine beaches of Maratua, and savor a sunset dinner at one of the island’s beachside cafes, where meals cost around $10 (150,000 IDR).
Day 7: Return to Berau
On your final day, take the boat back to Berau, which will take about 2 hours and cost around $30 (450,000 IDR). Once you return to Berau, you can spend the rest of the day shopping for souvenirs or visiting local attractions, such as the stunning Derawan River.
If time allows, consider taking a half-day trip to visit the neighboring islands like Derawan Island or Maratua Island, with boat tours costing about $50 (750,000 IDR). Each provides a unique glimpse of the region’s culture and natural beauty.
Accommodations and Budgeting for Your Trip
Your budget will largely depend on your travel style, but here’s a rough breakdown for a week in the Derawan Islands:
- Flights to Berau: $70 – $150 (1,000,000 IDR – 2,200,000 IDR)
- Accommodation: $20 – $50 (300,000 IDR – 750,000 IDR) per night
- Boat Transfers: $20 – $30 (300,000 IDR – 450,000 IDR)
- Diving/Snorkeling: $100 (1,500,000 IDR) for full-day excursions
- Meals: $5 – $10 (75,000 IDR – 150,000 IDR) per meal
Overall, you can expect to budget around $600 to $1,000 (9,000,000 IDR – 15,000,000 IDR) for a week-long stay, depending on your preferences and activities.
Sample Itinerary and Tips
For those looking for a succinct view of your Sangalaki adventure, here’s a sample itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Berau |
| 2 | Transfer to Sangalaki |
| 3 | Diving and Snorkeling in Sangalaki |
| 4 | Turtle Nesting and Relaxation |
| 5 | Travel to Kakaban Island |
| 6 | Day trip to Maratua Island |
| 7 | Return to Berau |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many days should I spend in the Derawan Islands?
A week is ideal to explore Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Maratua, allowing time for diving, snorkeling, and relaxation. - What’s the best route to travel among Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki?
A recommended route is to travel from Berau to Sangalaki, then to Kakaban, and finally to Maratua before returning to Berau. - Should I choose a liveaboard or land-based itinerary?
A liveaboard can be great for a focused diving experience, while a land-based itinerary allows for more flexibility and exploration of local culture.
With its stunning marine life and beautiful landscapes, the Derawan Islands offer an incredible adventure for those willing to explore. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories in this remarkable destination!