Tarakan is a colourful city located on the island of the same name in the province of North Kalimantan. Known as the "Land of Paguntaka", this corner of Indonesia plays a vital role in the region, harmoniously combining the features of a dynamic trading centre and a cosy tropical resort. Travellers are drawn here not only by the rich historical heritage associated with World War II events and the development of the oil industry but also by its unique ecosystem.
The city's main natural jewel is considered to be its vast mangrove forests, which have become home to the rare proboscis monkeys — endemics of the island of Borneo. A walk through Tarakan offers a wealth of impressions: from exploring local culture and architectural monuments to tasting the freshest seafood, for which this coastal region is famous. It is an excellent destination for those seeking a balance between educational tourism and immersion in the atmosphere of authentic island life.
By Plane
The main and most convenient way to get to Tarakan remains by air. The city is served by Juwata International Airport (TRK), which acts as the primary air gateway for the entire North Kalimantan province. Flights arrive here regularly from various corners of Indonesia, connecting the island with the archipelago's key transport hubs.
The airport is located in immediate proximity to the urban area, so the transfer to the centre takes minimal time. A direct flight to Juwata is the fastest and most comfortable option for travellers wishing to immediately immerse themselves in the island's atmosphere without spending time on long journeys from neighbouring regions.
It is impossible to reach Tarakan by train, as there is a complete lack of railway infrastructure in the city and its surroundings. The complex landscape features of the island of Kalimantan have not yet allowed for the development of a passenger railway network here, so tourists must rely on aviation or maritime transport.
Even the cities closest to the resort, such as Tawau or Berau, do not have railway stations and are not connected by tracks to other regions. When planning a trip through this part of Indonesia, it is worth excluding trains from your itinerary and checking the schedules of ferries or domestic flights in advance.
The city has no major railway stations. Nearest cities with rail connections:
Since Tarakan is located on an island, a bus trip represents an exciting combined route requiring a transfer to maritime transport. Travellers from the Malaysian state of Sabah often start their journey in Lahad Datu, heading to Tawau: covering 150 kilometres along picturesque roads takes about three hours, followed by a crossing on an international ferry.
From the Indonesian side, a popular option is the trip from Berau. Land transport, including minibuses, delivers tourists to the transit jetty in Tanjung Selor in approximately 2.5–3 hours, covering a distance of about 130 kilometres. This path allows you to enjoy views of the dense tropical rainforests of Kalimantan before transferring to a speedboat that completes the journey to the city port.
When planning a trip to Tarakan by private or rented car, it is worth remembering a key geographical feature: the city is located on an island separated from the main part of Kalimantan. There is no direct land connection to the mainland via bridges, so any car route inevitably includes a sea crossing. This makes the journey a combined one and requires careful planning of connections.
The main logistics for car travellers are built through the nearest port cities on the mainland. Most often, tourists drive along the roads of North Kalimantan province to the city of Tanjung Selor. The land part of the journey ends here: further on, it is necessary to use water transport services. Speedboats and cargo-passenger ferries regularly ply between the mainland jetty and the port of Tarakan.
Such a route allows you to combine a car trip with a short sea voyage. As you move along the mainland, landscapes of dense tropical forests and local villages will alternate outside your window. It is important to check the ferry schedule and the possibility of transporting the vehicle itself in advance, as many trips are operated by small speedboats intended only for passengers.
Preparing for a trip to Tarakan requires knowledge of some local peculiarities to ensure the journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions. To make your holiday in Indonesia as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you.
Clothing and Belongings: Opt for light, loose clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen), as the climate here is hot and humid year-round. Given the conservative traditions of the region, it is better to avoid outfits that are too revealing outside of beach zones, and always carry a raincoat in case of sudden tropical downpours.
Transport: The most convenient way to get around the city is by taxi or motorcycle taxi (ojek), which can be easily ordered via mobile apps popular in Southeast Asia. Route minibuses ("angkot") are cheaper, but their route system can be confusing for a tourist who does not speak the language.
Finances: The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. Major hotels and shopping centres accept cards, but you will definitely need cash to pay for fares and purchases at markets and small cafes ("warungs"). It is better to withdraw money from an ATM or exchange currency immediately upon arrival.
Health and Safety: It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water; use only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. It is also worth taking care of protection against insects: use repellents, especially in the evening and when visiting nature parks.
Communication: English is not as widely spoken in Tarakan as it is in Bali. We recommend learning a few basic phrases in Indonesian ("terima kasih" - thank you, "halo" - hello, "berapa harganya" - how much is this) or downloading an offline translator on your phone — this will significantly facilitate communication with locals.
Local Etiquette: Indonesians are very polite and value respect. When handing over money, business cards, or any objects, use only your right hand, as the left is considered "impure". When entering a private home or a mosque, be sure to remove your shoes.
What to Avoid: Never touch an Indonesian's head, even if it is a child, as the head is considered a sacred part of the body. Also, try not to raise your voice or show aggression in public — here, this is perceived as rudeness and a loss of face.
Caution with Animals: When visiting the main attraction — the mangrove forest reserve — watch your belongings closely. The local macaques, living alongside the proboscis monkeys, can be very agile and brazen, attempting to snatch food, glasses, or shiny objects from distracted tourists.
Following these simple rules will help you avoid everyday difficulties and misunderstandings. Be friendly, smile, and Tarakan will reveal itself to you as a hospitable and interesting city with a distinctive culture.