Spanning over 1.36 million hectares, Kayan Mentarang National Park is Southeast Asia’s largest intact rainforest and home to more than 300 bird species and 1,500+ plant varieties. This pristine wilderness in North Kalimantan represents one of the last untouched frontiers of Borneo, where clouded leopards roam freely and ancient Dayak tribes maintain centuries-old traditions in harmony with the forest.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching the heart of Borneo requires careful planning and patience. The remote location of Kayan Mentarang National Park is both its greatest challenge and its most precious asset, keeping mass tourism at bay while preserving its natural wonders.
By Air
The most practical approach begins with flying to Tarakan in North Kalimantan. From there, take a small Cessna plane to either Long Bawan or Malinau, the main gateway towns to the park. These flights operate only a few times per week and have strict weight limitations, so advance booking is essential.
By River
For the truly adventurous, river travel offers an immersive alternative. From Tanjung Selor, journey upstream along the Kayan River toward Long Pujungan. This boat trip takes 10-12 hours and provides spectacular views of riverside communities and jungle landscapes, though comfort is basic at best.
Important: All visitors require permits to enter Kayan Mentarang National Park. These can be arranged through tour operators or by contacting the park office in Malinau at least two weeks in advance. A local guide is mandatory for all visitors.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Kayan Mentarang National Park experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and frequent rainfall throughout the year. However, some months offer more favorable conditions for exploration than others.
| Season | Months | Conditions | Recommendation |
| Drier Season | March to October | Less rainfall, more accessible trails | Ideal for trekking and wildlife spotting |
| Wettest Period | November to February | Heavy rainfall, challenging river conditions | Not recommended for first-time visitors |
| Peak Dry Months | July to August | Best weather, clearer skies | Prime time, but book well in advance |
Even during the ‘dry’ season, expect daily rain showers in the late afternoon. This is a rainforest after all, and that regular precipitation is what keeps Kayan Mentarang so lush and vibrant.
Where to Stay in Kayan Mentarang
Accommodation within and around Kayan Mentarang National Park is basic but authentic, offering a genuine immersion into local life. Forget luxury amenities – the real luxury here is the pristine environment and cultural experiences.
Dayak Homestays
Experience authentic village life by staying with Dayak families in traditional longhouses. These community-based accommodations offer basic sleeping arrangements, home-cooked meals, and invaluable cultural exchange. Available in villages like Long Pujungan and Long Alango.
Jungle Camps
For multi-day treks, temporary camps are established in the forest. Tour operators provide tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. These basic accommodations offer the most immersive wilderness experience, falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
Gateway Town Guesthouses
In towns like Malinau, Long Bawan, and Tanjung Selor, simple guesthouses provide a comfortable base before and after your park adventure. Expect clean rooms with fans, shared bathrooms, and basic amenities – perfect for acclimatizing before heading into the wilderness.
Pro Tip: Pack a lightweight sleeping bag liner even when staying in homestays or guesthouses. It provides extra comfort and hygiene for basic sleeping arrangements.
Top Things to Do in Kayan Mentarang National Park
The heart of Borneo offers extraordinary experiences for adventurous travelers willing to venture off the beaten path. From challenging jungle treks to cultural immersion, these are the most rewarding activities in Kayan Mentarang National Park.
Jungle Trekking
Multi-day treks through pristine rainforest are the highlight of any visit to Kayan Mentarang. Trails range from moderate to challenging, with routes connecting remote Dayak villages or penetrating deep into untouched wilderness. Expert local guides lead the way, sharing their intimate knowledge of the forest’s medicinal plants, wildlife habitats, and survival techniques.
River Expeditions
The park’s extensive river network offers thrilling adventures by traditional longboat or kayak. Navigate the Kayan, Bahau, or Mentarang rivers, encountering challenging rapids, serene stretches, and abundant wildlife along the banks. River journeys can be combined with trekking for a comprehensive exploration of different ecosystems.
Wildlife Observation
Kayan Mentarang harbors some of Borneo’s most elusive wildlife. While sightings require patience and luck, the park offers opportunities to spot clouded leopards, sun bears, white-fronted langurs, hornbills, and countless other species. Dawn and dusk provide the best viewing times, especially near rivers and natural salt licks.
Cultural Immersion
The indigenous Dayak communities within and around the park maintain rich cultural traditions. Visitors can participate in daily activities like rice harvesting, traditional crafts, and food preparation. Some villages also perform traditional dances and music upon request, offering insight into their spiritual connection with the forest.
Highlights of Kayan Mentarang
- Pristine primary rainforest with ancient trees
- Authentic cultural experiences with Dayak tribes
- Diverse wildlife including rare and endemic species
- Spectacular river systems with challenging rapids
- Mountain salt production sites unique to this region
Challenges to Consider
- Remote location requiring complex travel arrangements
- Basic accommodations with limited amenities
- High humidity and frequent rainfall
- Limited communication infrastructure
- Physical demands of jungle trekking
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Packing List
- Quick-dry clothing (long sleeves and pants for protection)
- Sturdy hiking boots (already broken in)
- High-quality rain gear
- Dry bags for electronics and documents
- Insect repellent and antimalarial medication
- Basic first aid kit with antibiotics
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Lightweight sleeping bag or liner
Health & Safety
Consult a travel doctor at least 6-8 weeks before your trip for recommended vaccinations, which typically include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised. The park’s remoteness means medical facilities are extremely limited, so comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential.
Important: There is virtually no cell phone coverage within the park. Consider renting a satellite phone for emergencies if traveling independently.
Transportation Options
Within the park, transportation is limited to hiking trails, rivers, and occasionally, local motorbikes on rudimentary paths between villages. For accessing the park, consider these options:
Private Guide & Transport
The most reliable option is hiring a local guide who can arrange all transportation needs, from airport pickups to river boats and porters for trekking.
Rental Vehicles
In gateway towns like Malinau or Tanjung Selor, basic 4WD vehicles can be rented for accessing trailheads, though road conditions are challenging.
Local Transport
Public longboats operate on major rivers but run on irregular schedules. These provide an authentic experience but require flexibility with timing.
Experience the Heart of Borneo
Kayan Mentarang National Park represents one of the last truly wild places on our planet. Its challenging accessibility has preserved both its natural wonders and cultural treasures, offering intrepid travelers an experience that harkens back to the golden age of exploration.
Whether you’re trekking through ancient rainforest, navigating rushing rivers, or sharing stories with Dayak elders around a village fire, Kayan Mentarang promises the kind of transformative journey that becomes a defining life experience. This is not merely a destination; it’s an adventure into the heart of what makes our planet so precious and worth protecting.
