Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE HOT ROD OF THE MAHAKAM
Need a ces (motorised canoe with long propellor shaft) to explore the waters beyond Kota Bangun? Cheerful Ud-
in ( 0812 5311 1357) has the perfect ride. Powerful, gaily painted and comfortable, with a cushion seat below
and a canopy overhead, this colourful canoe is as cool as river travel gets. Udin also knows how to slow down for
wildlife, navigate the narrowest paths and keep you dry. A full day's itinerary - Kota Bangun, Muara Muntai, Jan-
tur, Tanjung Isuy, Mancong, and back to Tanjung Isuy - is 1,500,000Rp for the entire boat, drinks included. Seats
six comfortably.
GUIDES
If you do not speak Bahasa, you will need a guide, as English becomes harder to find the
further upriver you go. You can get by on the kapal biasa without it, but step ashore and
you're lost. If you buy a tour package a guide will be provided, and costs defined ahead of
time. If not, you'll have to hire a guide yourself. Some travellers do so as they move along
the lower river, but it is better to take the time to find a suitable guide in Samarinda, where
they are relatively plentiful, rather than having this requirement hanging over your head.
A short interview is essential to confirm any guide's language skills.
Guide fees generally range from 150,000Rp to 200,000Rp per day, with the best getting
250,000Rp. The client is responsible for a guide's expenses as well, but be clear about
what this entails ahead of time. Usually the client picks up the guide's meals, which are
inexpensive. Guides can generally arrange their own local accommodation, too, which is
relatively cheap or even free. Transport can be very expensive, especially beyond Long
Bagun, but guides can often get the price of their own ticket reduced. In general, the best
guides will look out for their client's financial interests, leading to savings that actually
defray their fee. But be aware that, while you are with them for one journey, they deal
with the same locals all the time.
The following recommended guides speak English:
Ahmad
( 0821 5180 8818; ahmad_tour74@yahoo.com) An experienced cross-Borneo guide
with excellent organisational skills.
GUIDE
Abdullah
( 0813 4727-2817; doe21@yahoo.com) Friendly and resourceful.
GUIDE
Search WWH ::




Custom Search