4 DaysIndonesiaprovince
Kalimantan Selatan
Your 4-day travel guide
The best time to visit Kalimantan Selatan is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During t...
Kalimantan Selatan•4D•All
Kalimantan Selatan, Indonesia
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
River Kingdoms and Spice Markets
Kalimantan Selatan, the southern province of Indonesian Borneo, is a region defined by its mighty rivers and rich Banjar culture. The capital, Banjarmasin, is a floating city where life revolves around its waterways, while towns like Martapura reveal a heritage of diamond trading and Islamic scholarship. This itinerary for couples focuses on cultural immersion and culinary discovery, moving from urban river markets to serene countryside, offering a genuine experience of local life, architecture, and some of Indonesia's most distinctive regional cuisine away from the typical tourist trail.
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1
River City Introduction & Floating Markets
Day 1 of your journey
Experience the authentic floating market on the Martapura River, where vendors in small boats trade fresh produce, snacks, and local goods directly from vessel to vessel. Visitors typically hire a klotok (traditional wooden boat) for a 1-2 hour tour to weave through the market activity. The best time is early morning when the market is most active. It's a living cultural spectacle and a photographer's dream, showcasing a traditional way of commerce that has persisted for generations.
Lok Baintan Floating Market
Why Visit
This is one of the last authentic floating markets in Indonesia, offering a direct window into the river-based culture of South Kalimantan. For couples, it's a uniquely romantic and atmospheric way to start the day, sharing a quiet boat ride as the sun rises over the water and the market comes to life. The vibrant colors and sounds create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Hire a klotok from the nearby dock before 5:30 AM to secure a boat and beat the crowds. Bring small change (Indonesian Rupiah) if you wish to buy snacks like lemang (sticky rice in bamboo) or fresh fruit directly from the boats. Address: Lok Baintan, Sungai Tabuk, Banjar Regency.
2
Diamonds, History, and Riverside Evening
Day 2 of your journey
3
Countryside Escape to Loksado
Day 3 of your journey
4
Bamboo Rafting and Return Journey
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Carry cash, especially outside Banjarmasin, as credit cards are not widely accepted.
Basic Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is essential. Learn phrases like 'terima kasih' (thank you) and 'berapa harganya?' (how much?). English is not widely spoken.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural villages. Cover shoulders and knees.
Travel between cities is best done by hired car with a driver. Public buses exist but are less comfortable for tourists and slower.
Drink only bottled or filtered water. Be cautious with street food; choose stalls that are busy with locals.
Bargaining is expected in markets, but do so politely. Fixed prices are used in most shops and restaurants.
Internet connectivity can be slow or unavailable in rural areas like Loksado. Plan accordingly.
Respect local customs. Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items, including money.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kalimantan Selatan is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During these months, rainfall is lower, making outdoor activities like river tours, market visits, and the drive to Loksado more pleasant and reliable. The wet season (October to April) can bring heavy rains that cause flooding in lowland areas like Banjarmasin and make mountain roads more difficult. Humidity is high year-round. There are no major tourist seasons that drastically affect crowds or prices.
Local Insights & Tips
Kalimantan Selatan is culturally dominated by the Banjar people, who are predominantly Muslim and have a strong river-based heritage. Respect for religion is important; you will hear the call to prayer five times daily. The social culture is generally polite and reserved. In rural areas, you may encounter Dayak communities, the indigenous peoples of Borneo, who have distinct traditions. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service. When invited into a home, it is polite to remove your shoes. The pace of life is slower than in Java or Bali, so embrace a relaxed itinerary. Food is a point of pride; be adventurous and try local specialties like soto banjar, ketupat kandangan (rice cakes with fish in yellow broth), and various river fish dishes.