Kumai

A small port town serving as the main gateway to Tanjung Puting National Park, located at the mouth of the Sekonyer River. Most travelers stay here briefly before heading into the park for wildlife expeditions.

Things to do

• Tanjung Puting National Park boat tours — Multi-day klotok (traditional wooden boat) expeditions departing from Kumai to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and gibbons in their natural habitat.
• Sekonyer River sunset cruise — Evening boat ride along the mangrove-lined river where you can observe wildlife activity and local fishing practices during golden hour.
• Kumai fish market visit — Early morning exploration of the bustling waterfront market where local fishermen sell fresh catch and you can observe traditional trading practices.
• Homestay river walks — Short guided walks through the village and along the riverbanks to see local life, traditional pile-built houses, and small-scale fishing operations.
• Orangutan rehabilitation center tours — Visit the Camp Leakey research station or similar facilities within accessible distance to learn about orangutan rescue and conservation efforts.
• Local fishing boat experience — Join fishermen on traditional boats to learn their methods and understand the relationship between the port community and the river.
• Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park day trip — Venture inland from Kumai to explore this lesser-visited park featuring forest trails, endemic wildlife, and pristine rainforest ecosystems.

Food to try

• Ikan bakar Sekonyer — Freshly caught river fish grilled over charcoal with lime, chilies, and local spices, reflecting the day's catch from nearby waters.
• Bubur ikan — A comforting rice porridge with shredded fish, traditionally eaten for breakfast and prepared with turmeric and garlic.
• Udang goreng terasi — River prawns fried with shrimp paste and served with steamed rice, a signature dish showcasing Kumai's fresh seafood.
• Soto banjar — A fragrant spiced soup from South Kalimantan featuring turmeric, lemongrass, and often served with rice cakes or potatoes.
• Ketam goreng kuning — Mud crabs fried in yellow turmeric paste, a coastal specialty available in local warungs during crab season.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for indigenous Dayak customs — The region is home to Dayak communities, so visitors should ask permission before photographing people and show respect for local spiritual beliefs tied to the forest.
• River-based transportation etiquette — Boats and rivers are the primary transport; wear life jackets when requested by boat operators and understand that river schedules depend on tides and weather.
• Early morning departures for park tours — Most klotok expeditions depart before sunrise to maximize wildlife sightings, so expect very early wake-up calls if you book multi-day trips.
• Cash-based economy — Kumai has limited ATM access and many local establishments only accept cash in Indonesian Rupiah, so bring sufficient funds before arriving.