Melak is a busy town on the Mahakam River. It lies beyond the river town of Muara Pahu on the middle section of the Mahakam and is the ideal place for exploring the river and rainforest from.

Only serious travelers really head out this far from Samarinda as the journey generally involves a couple of days boating from the East Kalimantan capital. It is in excess of 250kms from Samarinda and is the point where the trip up Middle Mahakam to the Upper Mahakam gets really interesting.

The Dayaks are the main inhabitants of this part of East Kalimantan, easily picked out for their weird customs and friendly disposition. There are plenty of places to pick up local handicrafts souvenirs, as well as decent lodgings in old longhouse accommodation (betang).

Getting There & Away

Melak is 450kms from Balikpapan’s airport, the main airport in East Kalimantan. The best way in is via Samarinda (to the east) where there is an airport with connections to Jakarta in 2 hours. Ferries then run up to Melak in a couple of days by motorboat.

Things to Do

Melak Attractions

Melak boating

The main attraction is the middle mahakam river where you can do boat tours using melak as a base.

Side trips from Melak

Kersik Luwai Reserve

Located 25kms from melak, this reserve is known for its striking black orchids.

Events

Canoe Race Festival

Takes place every year in august and features racing among the dayak tunjung tribe.