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South Kalimantan - Travel destination image
South Kalimantan - Travel destination image

South Kalimantan

Indonesia, Asia

South Kalimantan is a STATE in Indonesia, Asia.

South Kalimantan, the land of a thousand rivers, unfolds as a water-world where life drifts along the Martapura River. In Banjarmasin, the city of rivers, you’ll wake before dawn to catch the Lok Baintan floating market — a flotilla of wooden boats trading fruits, vegetables, and steaming breakfasts under the soft tropical sky. Beyond the capital, the interior reveals diamond mines in Martapura, where you can watch craftsmen polish gemstones, and the misty Meratus Mountains beckon hikers with rugged trails and remote Dayak villages. Cruise the long canals on a klotok canoe, spot proboscis monkeys in Pulau Kaget Wildlife Reserve, or explore the stilt-house neighborhoods that change from bustling markets by day to lantern-lit waterways at dusk. The local cuisine is a highlight: don’t miss soto Banjar, a fragrant chicken soup with rice cakes, or the spicy grilled fish served at riverside warungs. South Kalimantan feels refreshingly untouristy — you’ll be greeted with genuine smiles and the hum of a province proud of its river culture. It’s a destination for travelers seeking authentic encounters, jungle adventures, and the soothing rhythm of Indonesia’s forgotten Kalimantan.

Best time to visit South Kalimantan

The best time to visit South Kalimantan is during the dry season from April to October, when lower rainfall makes river travel and outdoor activities most enjoyable. July and August are the peak months with school holidays bringing domestic tourists, so floating markets and hotels are busier. The wet season from November to March sees frequent downpours, raising river levels — while this can enhance the dramatic river scenery, some trails in the Meratus Mountains become muddy and leeches appear. The transitional months of April and October offer a sweet spot of manageable crowds and comfortable weather. If you don’t mind rain, the wet season brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Avoid late August to October if you’re sensitive to smoke haze from agricultural fires, though this varies year by year.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Transitional, 24-34°C, showers return

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Low

End of dry season; pleasant before rains intensify

Know before you go

Getting there

BDJ

Syamsudin Noor International Airport

International

0 km away

PKY

Tjilik Riwut Airport

Domestic

180 km away

BPN

Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport

International

400 km away

Getting around

"In Banjarmasin, the most iconic transport is the klotok, a wooden motorized canoe, perfect for navigating canals and reaching the floating markets. For land routes, shared minibuses (angkot) ply set routes cheaply but can be confusing; a more convenient option is to hire an ojek (motorcycle taxi) via app or street-hailing, or use ride-hail apps like Gojek and Grab which offer cars and bikes. Metered taxis are scarce — negotiate a price upfront. To reach remote Dayak villages or trekking areas, you’ll need a guide with a 4WD vehicle; public buses reach many district towns. For intercity travel, long-distance buses connect Banjarmasin to Balikpapan and beyond, though roads can be rough. Renting a car or motorbike is possible in Banjarmasin if you’re confident driving in chaotic traffic. Lastly, river ferries serve some inland routes; always confirm schedules locally."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels and cafes in Banjarmasin, but spotty in remote areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at BDJ airport from $3 (Telkomsel or XL)

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Few scams beyond occasional overcharging; traffic and boat safety require attention.

Night safety

7/10

Few scams beyond occasional overcharging; traffic and boat safety require attention.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

7/10

"South Kalimantan is a safe province with low rates of violent crime against tourists. The main concerns are petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded markets, floating markets, and public transport. Keep valuables secure, avoid flashing expensive items, and use hotel safes. Road safety can be a hazard: traffic in Banjarmasin is chaotic, motorcycle helmets are often not worn, and driving standards differ from Western norms. River travel is generally safe on public boats, but always wear a life jacket on small klotok canoes. Scams are rare but may include overcharging for taxi or tour services; negotiate fares in advance. Solo female travelers should dress modestly and be alert, particularly at night — stick to well-lit areas. Natural hazards include flooding during heavy rains and occasional forest fires causing haze (typically August-October), which can affect breathing. Monitor local news and follow any smoke-related health advisories. Overall, with common-sense precautions, it’s a welcoming and manageable destination."
Police

110

Ambulance

118

Fire

113

Tourist Police

+62 511 335 5555

Entry and health

Health information

"Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for advice on vaccinations: hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are commonly recommended; malaria prophylaxis may be advised for rural areas, especially the Meratus Mountains. Dengue and chikungunya are present — use mosquito repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves at dusk and dawn, and sleep under nets where needed. Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in street drinks. Food hygiene is generally good in larger restaurants, but be cautious with raw vegetables and peel fruit yourself. The tropical sun is intense: wear high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. Health facilities are limited in remote areas; Banjarmasin has several hospitals with decent care, but serious emergencies may require medical evacuation to Jakarta or Singapore. Ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation and hospital stays."

Culture

Local customs

"South Kalimantan is predominantly Muslim, with a mix of Banjarese and Dayak communities. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting mosques: cover shoulders and knees; women may wear a headscarf out of respect but it’s not required. Remove shoes before entering homes or places of worship. Greeting with a handshake and a slight bow is polite; use the right hand for eating, giving, and receiving, as the left is considered impolite. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. When visiting floating markets or traditional ceremonies, ask permission before photographing people. The Dayak have distinct customs — if invited to a longhouse, bring a small gift like sugar or coffee and follow your host’s lead. During Ramadan, be discreet about eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so with a smile and good humor."
Bahasa Indonesia (official)JavaneseSundaneseMadureseMinangkabauIndonesianBalineseEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-3 | a cheap local meal costs around $2-3

Hotels

$15-30 | budget hotels range $15-30/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local angkot ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

One of the most affordable Indonesian provinces; luxury options are limited.

Timezone

Asia/Makassar
Local time 07:15

More facts

Population

4,200,000

ISO code

ID-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: TJG, Tandjoeng, Tandjung, Tanjong, Tanjung, KS-33, Kalimantan Selatan, كليمنتان الجنوبية, Su Kalimantan, Jižní Kalimantan, Süd-Kalimantan, Kalimantan du Sud, 南カリマンタン, 남칼리만탄주, Zuid-Kalimantan, Borneo Południowe, Южный Калимантан, ᮊᮜᮤᮙᮔ᮪ᮒᮔ᮪ ᮊᮤᮓᮥᮜ᮪, Південний Калімантан, 南加里曼丹省, Provinsi Kalimantan Selatan, ID-KS, Kalsel, كاليمنتان الجنوبية;كاليمانتان الجنوبية;كليمنتن الجنوبية, Kalimantan Kidul, Калсел, Suda Kalimantano, Dél-Kalimantan

Major HubRiver CultureFloating MarketRainforestAdventureCulturalOff the Beaten Path