je précise que j'ai quelques bases en indonésiens, et déjà quelques trecks en forêt tropical malaisie et thailande, mais sur plus courte durée et terrain moins difficiles... merci pour vos infos
Faire une "transbornéo" de deux/trois semaines du côté de Kalimantan
by Niko1
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour!!!
je cherche des infos pour faire une "transbornéo" côté kalimantan (en gros remonter la "sungai kuapas" puis passer les "muller range" et redescendre par "sungai mahakam"
quelqu'un à déjà tenté??
à savoir la durée (2 à 3 semaines assez??)
le prix indicatif,
comment trouver un bon guide?
et l'équipement particulier nécessaire??
je précise que j'ai quelques bases en indonésiens, et déjà quelques trecks en forêt tropical malaisie et thailande, mais sur plus courte durée et terrain moins difficiles... merci pour vos infos
je précise que j'ai quelques bases en indonésiens, et déjà quelques trecks en forêt tropical malaisie et thailande, mais sur plus courte durée et terrain moins difficiles... merci pour vos infos
Salut,
je n'ai pas essayé cette traversée mais j'ai entendu dire qu'elle ne valait pas vraiment le coup. Pourquoi?
Bien, la ballade dure une petite vingtaine de jours. La plus grosse partie du trajet se fait sur le Kapuas et le Mahakam. J'ai remonté le Kapuas jusqu'à Selimbau en 2001 (en bateau), et sincèrement, la forêt est presque complètement détruite. On m'a dit que du côté Est, sur la Mahakam, c'était la même chose. Du coup, seul l'hyper-centre de Bornéo, du côté des monts Muller, est encore préservé et très inaccessible (rapides, pas de sentiers...). Mais dans le cadre de cette traversée tu n'y passeras que 5 - 6 jours qui plus est à crapahuter dans les torrents. Plutôt léger.
Donc, si tu veux vraiment aller à Bornéo pour voir les Dayaks, je ne saurais trop que te conseiller de remonter le Kapuas, ou de te rendre à Putussibau en avion, puis de "rayonner" dans les alentours... il y a encore des longues maisons et des coins sans touristes... et pas loin, 3 parcs naturels pour un total de 1 million d'hectares répartis entre 2 pays et 3 provinces... Evidemment, c'est la grande aventure: aucune infrastructure, pas d'anglophones, flics méfiants...
A +
Plus concret:
The Cross Borneo trip is a special trekking programs which have been admitted by our past guests who did this trip before, as the most challenging and the most enjoyable trekking trip they ever had: Trekking cross Borneo Island from West to East. The ultimate challenge - crossing one of the most rugged islands on earth from East to West. Using roads, rivers and feet we traverse the jungle of Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). You must have a good level of fitness and adventurous spirit and a strong sense of determination, as conditions and accommodations are challenging. We will use busses, public house boat, chartered motorized canoes to access the jungle for a rugged days of trekking. We sleep in the simple houses of the villager with basic facilities and on the house boats. The trekking is tough and often wet, the only way to appreciate the primeveral jungle of Kalimantan and the most traditional Dayak Tribes settlements as well as the wildlife. The rough and uncharted terrain and has made this Borneo traverse trip is one of the toughest and the most challenging trekking programs in the world.. The unpredictable weather and river conditions made this trip an exploratory adventures "
To enjoy this trip, you need to be prepared to accept whatever the jungles and rivers serve up! A good fitness level, a strong sense of determination and a flexible attitude are essential. The rewards are the romance of the journey itself, the mix of river travel including long stretches of rapids, the experience of jungle trekking and contact with the local Dayak peoples. Descriptive day to day itinerary: DAY 01. JAKARTA ARRIVAL Upon arrival in Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Internatinal Airport, we will transfer you to hotel at down town in Jakarta. Free program all meals on your personal leisure.
DAY 02. JAKARTA PONTIANAK Transfer to Cengkareng Airport to catch your flight to Pontianak. Upon arrival in Pontianak . Accomodation at hotel Santika Pontianak. There are a lot of things to do while we are there. We can explore the riverbank area of Pontianak by the wooden boat, from where we can observe the old and the new Pontianak from the different perspective. We can do Pontianak sight seeing with this way. Among the highlights of the sightseeing trip is Pontianak harbor, Beting Permai water village, and the huge Kapuas bridge. We can do this for about 2 or 3 hours.
DAY 03. PONTIANAK - PUTUSSIBAU (AVAILABLE ON Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday. ) Departure by DAS (Dirgantara Air Service) at 09.00 arrival Putussibau at 11.00 (please recheck again the flight schedule). This flight use small plane with capassity of 24 passenger but only possible for 22 seat only as they have to refill the gasoline. This flight use propeller and little bit noisy. Ear plugs is recommended. They allow extra luggage for 10 kg maximum so please only bring the very important things when you start this expedition . They provide a glass of mineral water with snack. They have no luggage cabin and all the stuffs will put on the back. Stay at simple hotel in Putussibau.
DAY 04. PUTUSSIBAU - KAPUAS RIVER You will start your adventure expedition from here. After breakfast at hotel in Putussibau towards to the headwaters of the Kapuas by long boat. The long boat is about 1 ½ - 2 meter wide and 6 - 8 meter long with capacity for 4 - 5 passengers. The long boat without any roofs so it will be hot and also little noisy. Needed all necessary supplies, estimate day, as far upstream as possible. It is recommended to wear your water sport sandals (TeVa) or rubber shoes and bring ear plugs, hat, long sleeve, short pants, extra snacks & drinks and dry bags. You will take this journey with our porters as well as our guide's team. On the way may be the boat will be stop for toilet, cleaning the propeller, refill gasoline or fix the engine. You will pass some Dayak Village in the river side and their unique daily river life as well as some birds such as Eagle, King Fisher, Long Tailed Parakeet etc. Lunch on the way. Dinner and overnight at the riverside at tents or local house (B, L, D).
DAY 05. KAPUAS RIVER - BUNGAN RIVER After breakfast, continue our journey by long boats as far as up stream. On the way we may stop at the Dayak village to see the long house . We will also pass some rapids, slash and burn agriculture (shifting cultivation) as well as the local people looking for gold, some by traditional way and some by machine along the river side. In certain places we have to go down to the river to push the boat as the level of the water in the dry season s is too shallow. Here you will experience how amazing the boat man and what we call "the Stone Man" the boat crew who knows exactly where is the rock and how to get away from the rapids. It's a great challenge of adventure you will experience. If the rapids too challenging we have to walk along the rock, slash and burns trash barrier in the river side and the boat will pick us up. It's tough here. Lunch on the way. Dinner and overnight in the river side at tents or temporary house or local house. (B, L, D).
DAY 06. BUNGAN RIVER - TANJUNG LOKANG Continue our journey after breakfast. It's more and more challenging here with rapids. Go down boat, push the boat, walk on the rocks, or slash and burn trash barrier in the river side while the boat passing the rapids will give you more challenging experience. On the way you will see the tropical rain forest of Kalimantan, shifting cultivation, traditional gold mining in the river, temporary huts, till you reach Tanjung Lokan. Tanjung Lokan is small villages located inside Betung Kerihun National Park. If you are a handy craft collector you may find some nice basket, "Mandau" traditional machete, "Sumpit" blow gun, "Tangguy" traditional farmer hat etc. Lunch on the way, dinner and overnight at the local house. The guide teams will packing the stuffs to bring alng the expedition and divided between them so they will have the same weight to carry (B, L, D)
PS : The duration of the long boat journey is depend on what happen in the fields. Normally the journey started after breakfast till in the mid day for lunch. Then the long boat will stop before dark to set the tents and prepare meals. Sometimes we have to continue the journey longer to catch the best places to stay overnight. Here we need your flexibility so you will enjoy the journey more.
DAY 07. TANJUNG LOKAN - BOBO/SEI BULIT (SUNGAI BULET) After breakfast, start the trek across up Land Ladang "slash and burn, long fellow dry rice field through the forest. The first 2 hours we will high up the hill then another about 2 ½ hours passing the jungle and dry small river. After lunch on the way close to the river side, the trek will be high up and down again crossing the dry small river, and Nyinyit Cave (the local people collect the swallow nest that cost so expensive and very good to support their life inside the cave). Before dark we set the tent in the river side of Sei Bulit for dinner and overnight. The guides team will cook for you. Ultimate/rubber shoes is recommended. (B, L, D)
DAY 08. SEI BULIT - BUNGAN RIVER After breakfast, crossing the river, up and down passing the jungle, crossing small rivers, and cave. You may see exotic flora and fauna of Borneo. After lunch on the way in the river side, then crossing jungle, up and down passing the dry river, cave and temporary huts that the local people using it while they do shifting cultivation or hunting deer, wild pig, birds, and even sometimes clouded leopard. Before dark, set the tent close to Bungan River for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D)
DAY 09. BUNGAN RIVER - BUNGAN LEA RIVER
Now you need to prepare for the challenging trek. The trek is also varied but tougher. After breakfast crossing the big river about ½ - 1 meter deep. Wee will have lots of deal with water, walk on the cliff of the river side and rock. After lunch on the way in the river side, continue the trek up and down the cliff of the river. Overnight and dinner in the river side of Bungan Lea River. (B, L, D)
DAY 10. BUNGAN LEA RIVER - PIANG LO'ONG This is the longest and the toughest trek. After breakfast, crossing up and down passing the rivers, cliff of the rivers and the river side. After lunch continue the trek then started to trek almost the same like before lunch. The trek is so challenging and need more of adventure spirit and energy. Set a campsite close to the river for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D) DAY 11. PIANG LO'ONG - MULLER RANGE This is what the traveler will feel so different crossing the border of West & Esat Kalimantan! After breakfast, walked about two hours up and down river till reach the foot of Muller Range. It started from the altitude of 500 M ASL till reach the border of West and East Kalimantan at 1000 M ASL. The path is not so difficult only high up hill passing the jungle. It takes about 1 - 1 ½ hours depend on your ability. No need to rush as the jungle view is fantastic. After reaching the"TUGU PERBATASAN" (BORDER MONUMENT), you need to put one of some your belonging you wear for this expedition such as shocks, cloth or else in the stick around the border for offering to the spirit. After lunch on the way, the trek is easier down the hill until you reach the campsite in the river side. Dinner and overnight at the Muller Range. (B, L, D)
DAY 12. MULLER RANGE - MUARA CUTING. After breakfast the trek is almost the same before and after lunch passing the rivers - jungle - and rivers. On the way the Dayak will show you how to survive the jungle, collecting the rotan, hunting, catching the fish, set a trap and you may involved with them. Lunch on the way, overnight at tent in the river side of Muara Cuting. (B, L, D)
DAY 13. MUARA CUTING - SAITE This is the shortest trek. You will trek about only 3 hours to reach Saite so you will have lots of time for relaxing, swimming, take a break or else after hard trek. The trek passing the jungle and river. Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the river side. Overnight at Saite. (B, L, D)
DAY 14. MUARA SAITE - TIONG OHANG After breakfast then trek crossing the river and jungle to reach the mouth of the Mahakam River for 3 hours walk. You will pass slash and burn agriculture before reaching the river side. Upon arrival, the long boat or locally call Cest then take you to Tiong Ohang Village for about 6 - 7 hours journey. Lunch on the way. You will pass some temporary hut as well as slash and burn agriculture and jungle. Dinner at the local simple restaurant and overnight at the local simple house at Tiong Ohang. This is the first village you encounter after long days in the jungles. You may also find more handy craft from Kalimantan with the best quality. (B, L, D) DAY 15. TIONG OHANG - LONG BAGUN After breakfast at the local restaurant, continue the journey by long boat for 8 - 10 hours. On the way stop at the local restaurant for lunch. You will pass some big rapids, so you need to walk on the rock but it's not so difficult and the boat will pick you up. The views along the rivers so fantastic and you can walk around to see the long house and their unique daily life. Dinner and overnight at the local simple house. (B, L, D)
DAY 16. LONG BAGUN FOR CULTURAL PERFORMENCES/BOARDING THE BOAT As the Mahakam River has a unique characteristic river so you have to be aware about the tide of the river. In the dry season the level of the water could be so shallow so sometimes you have to leave Long Bagun earlier or otherwise you could not get the house boat when the level of the water is not reliable. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at the boat or Long Bagun. Overnight on boat or Long Bagun (B, L, D)
DAY 17. LONG BAGUN - SAIL ON THE HOUSE BOAT The boat will start normally at 10.00 but could be change without prior notice. Am. Both sail one day before or this day you will arrive at the same day as the boat has to stay overnight. But better leave earlier if the water is not reliable. The house boat is public traditional wooden boat with two deck, the first deck for carry the stuffs and economy class with capacity more about 100 passengers and the second deck is for executive with capacity 75 passengers. The economy room is more open both sides and no mattress while the others served mattress, luggage room below the bed but all is open no private room and no AC. There is Indonesia style toilet and simple restaurant that provide Indonesian meals, tea, coffee, and snacks in the first deck. The boat will stop sometimes for passengers and loading the stuffs. During the sailing trip you will explore and learn the local way of life "river side civilization" which is much different from what we have normally in the dry land area. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and overnight on the house boat (B, L, D)
DAY 18. HOUSE BOAT - SAMARINDA Arrival at the house boat I the afternoon about 10.00 Am - 12.00 Pm depend on the schedule. Upon arrival transfer by car to your hotel in Samarinda that takes about 20 - 30 minutes away. The rest of the day is free for your own activity and dinner will be served on your personal account. (B, L)
DAY 19. ONE EXTRA DAY This is an extra day. We shall use it at place during the trek where we may need it or just because we want to spend the time there. But it will be during the trek only.
DAY 20. SAMARINDA - BALIKPAPAN Breakfast at hotel then transfer to the appropriate time drive to Balikapapan Airport to catch your flight to the next destination. It takes about 3 hours from Samarinda to Balikpapan Airport (120 km ) depend on the traffic. Tours End. (B)
Ce qui fait 9 jours sur 20 dans la forêt...
Et sinon, je te parle de ce parc là: BETUNG KERIHUN Description Physical features
Betung Kerihun National Park located in Sub district of Embaloh Hulu, Embaloh Hilir and Putussibau, District of Kapuas Hulu, Province of West Kalimantan. BKNP covers an area of 800, 000 Ha. The Park is approximately 27.60% of the total area of Kapuas Hulu District,
around 40% of the total protected area in the district, or 5.5% of the total area of Kalimantan Barat Province (14, 807, 700 Ha).
In general, the climate in BKNP exhibits a very high rainfall, being the typical of wet inland Kalimantan. The average annual rainfall is around 2, 863 to 5, 517 mm, and the number of rainy days is between 120 and 309 per year. Drier months occur between June and September with approximately 100 mm rainfall per month. The driest year happened in 1976 with annual rainfall of 2, 863 mm and 120 rainy days during the year, while the wettest year occurred in 1988 with up to 5, 517 mm rainfall and 184 rainy days during the year. On the whole, the Park belongs to type A (wet) in Schmidt and Ferguson classification, with Q=2.6%.
The topography of BKNP is mainly hilly and mountainous, with altitude ranging from 150 to 2, 000 m asl. The largest part of the Park is located at altitude between 200 and 500 m asl (38%). followed by altitude between 500 and 700 m asl (28.14%), between 700 and 1, 000 m asl (15.90), between 1, 000 and 1, 500 m (11.19%), less than 200 m asl (5.34%), and up than
1, 500 m asl (0.92%). With its mountains and hills, the Park is characterized by steep slopes (45% and up) in up to 61.15% of its area. Moderate slopes (25-45%) occur in around 33.08% of the Park area, while slopes of less than 25% occur in 5.77% of the Park area.
BKNP area has at least 179 peaks, consisting of 65 peaks in the Embaloh watershed, 36 in the Sibau-Menjakan watershed, 26 in the Mendalam watershed, and 52 in the Hulu Kapuas/Koheng/Bungan watershed. Prominent peaks in the Embaloh watershed are Mt. Betting (1, 150 m asl) and Mt. Condong (1, 240 m asl); in the Sibau-Menjakan watershed, Mt. Lawit (1, 770 m asl); in the Kapuas/Koheng, Mt. Jemuki (1, 375 m asl) and Mt. Cemaru (1, 118 m asl); in the Bungan watershed, Mt. Kerihun (1, 790 m asl) and Mt. Dayang (1, 645 m asl).
The hydrology of BKNP is characterized by hundreds of streams and big rivers which form the Kapuas watersheds. Kapuas watersheds cover 9, 874, 910 Ha or around 67% of Kalimantan Barat Province area (14, 680, 700 Ha). On the whole, Kapuas watershed can be divided into five smaller sub-watersheds, namely Embaloh in the west area of the Park, Sibau-Menjakan and Mendalarn in the middle area, and Hulu Kapuas/Koheng and Bungan in the eastern area. Key rivers are Embaloh River (95 km long), Sibau River (25 km), Menjakan River (65 km), Mendalam River (30 Km), Hulu Kapuas/Koheng (100 km), and Bungan River (50 km)
The soil types of BKNP are varied. Organosol and decomposed Glei soils are dispersed in the Embaloh upriver sub-district. Alluvial soils occur in the Mendalam River areas, Sibau and Embaloh Rivers, while podzolic yellow-red, and complex podzolic yellow-red and latosol, which dominate the Park areas are identified are found in Puttusibau and in the Embaloh upriver sub-district.
b. Biological features b.1. Flora
Borneo, the richest of the Sunda islands floristically both in terms of total species richness and diversity (MacKinnon et al., 1996), has a flora richness which includes both Asian and Australian elements. In BKNP, the Asian element is generally seen in the lowland forest up to the lower montane forest. Meanwhile, the upper montane is generally inhabited by species of Australasian families, such as Leptospermum, Phyllocladus and Styphelia (Steenis, 1972).
The vegetation and floristic composition in BKNP can generally be divided into the following types:
1) Lowland dipterocarp forest
2) Alluvial forest
3) Swamp forest.
4) Old secondary forest
5) Hill dipterocarp forest
6) Limestone forest
7) Sub-montane forest 8) Montane forest
On the whole, the 8 forest ecosystems of BKNP harbor at least 1, 254 flora species. The family of Dipterocarpaceae has the most species of all flora families of BKNP (120 of a total 267 dipterocarp species found in Borneo). Other families having many species in BKNP include Euphorbiaceae (99 species), Myrtaceae (66), Annonaceae (38), Myristicaceae (31), and Burseraceae (21). Flora richness of BKNP also includes a large variety of orchid species. At ]least 97 species have been identified in the Park. Another flora richness of BKNP is its palm species. At least 49 species of palm have been identified in the Park area. Meanwhile, 133 species of bryophyte under 3 classes have been identified in BKNP (Sujadmiko, 1999). Nineteen families and 65 species of bryophyte belong to Hepaticopsidae, 1 family and 2 species belong to Anthocerotopsidae, whereas 19 families and 66 species belong to Bryopsidae.
2. Fauna
Like Borneo' fauna in general, BKNP's rich fauna is characteristically Asian in origin. It shares most of its fauna with the Asian mainland and the other Sunda islands, but shares few species with Sulawesi and the eastern islands which have a somewhat different faunal composition.
The Park harbors not least than 652 fauna species. Of them, at least 54 are mammal species. Mammal species of BKNP also includes 8 primate species, namely Pongo pygmaeus, Hylobates muelleri, Presbytis frontata, P. rubicunda, Macaca nemestrina, M. fascicularis, Nycticebus coucang and Tarsius bancanus. The distribution of Pongo pygmaeus, one of the two species of orangutan found in Indonesia is interestingly concentrated in the western part of BKNP area, especially in Embaloh Watershed, which border Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary (LEWS) of Sarawak, Malaysia. Therefore, the establishment of BKNP-LEWS Biodiversity Conservation Area is considered very relevant for the conservation of Orangutan. Seventeen species of bats and 17 species of rodent, including Cheiromeles torquatus, which has been declared extinct in Java, are also members of the mammal diversity of the Park.
The Park harbors high herpetofauna diversity. At least 112 species, comprising 59 species of amphibian, 25 species of reptilia, 24 species of squamata, and 4 species of testudinata, have been identified in BKNP. Meanwhile, the Park provides habitats for 300 species of bird. The dominant species belong to family names of Muscicapidae, Pycnonotidae, and Timaliidae. Twenty five species are Bornean endemics and 6 species are newly found species to Indonesia. The fish diversity of BKNP is also high. At least 186 species of fresh¬water fish have been identified. Thirteen fish species have been identified endemic to Borneo. Finally, insect diversity of BKNP is interesting. At least 170 insects have been identified in the Park.
Justification of Outstanding Universal Values
Betung Kerihun National Park (BKNP) is located at the headwaters of the Kapuas River in the far interior of Kalimantan Barat (;Western Kalimantan) Province. The site covers an area of 800, 000 Ha and borders the 200, 000 Ha Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary (LEWS) in Sarawak, Malaysia. Together the two protected areas form one of the first trans-border parks in Southeast Asia.
The topography of BKNP area ranges from lowland elevations at about 200 m asl to mountains almost 2, 000 m asl high. At such the site serves as an important water catchments area. Three out of Borneo's great rivers, the Rejang and Lupar River in Sarawak, Malaysia, and the Kapuas River in Kalimantan, Indonesia, have their origins here. Meanwhile, the Park's eight types of forest ecosystems, ranging from lowland dipterocarp forest, alluvial forest, swamp forest, old secondary forest, hill dipterocarp forest, limestone forest, sub-montane forest, to montane forest, provide habitats for the valuable Bornean biodiversity.
Initial surveys have discovered thousands of species of flora and fauna, including 67 threatened flora species and 81 threatened fauna species under the 2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Threatened flora species under the list include Dipterocarpus cornutus (CR), Dipterocarpus gracilis (CR), and Dipterocarpus grandiflorus (CR), and threatened fauna species include the orangutan Pongo pygmaeus (EN) and False Gavial Tomistoma schlegelii (EN). The surveys also reveal Bornean endemic species, such as Muntiacus atherodes, Presbytis frontata, Presbytis rubicunda and Reithrosciurus macrotis.
Forests of BKNP are also important for indigenous inhabitants of the region, a variety of Dayak tribes who live from hunting, collecting non-timber forest products and subsistence farming based on a pattern of shifting cultivation.
The Cross Borneo trip is a special trekking programs which have been admitted by our past guests who did this trip before, as the most challenging and the most enjoyable trekking trip they ever had: Trekking cross Borneo Island from West to East. The ultimate challenge - crossing one of the most rugged islands on earth from East to West. Using roads, rivers and feet we traverse the jungle of Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). You must have a good level of fitness and adventurous spirit and a strong sense of determination, as conditions and accommodations are challenging. We will use busses, public house boat, chartered motorized canoes to access the jungle for a rugged days of trekking. We sleep in the simple houses of the villager with basic facilities and on the house boats. The trekking is tough and often wet, the only way to appreciate the primeveral jungle of Kalimantan and the most traditional Dayak Tribes settlements as well as the wildlife. The rough and uncharted terrain and has made this Borneo traverse trip is one of the toughest and the most challenging trekking programs in the world.. The unpredictable weather and river conditions made this trip an exploratory adventures "
To enjoy this trip, you need to be prepared to accept whatever the jungles and rivers serve up! A good fitness level, a strong sense of determination and a flexible attitude are essential. The rewards are the romance of the journey itself, the mix of river travel including long stretches of rapids, the experience of jungle trekking and contact with the local Dayak peoples. Descriptive day to day itinerary: DAY 01. JAKARTA ARRIVAL Upon arrival in Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Internatinal Airport, we will transfer you to hotel at down town in Jakarta. Free program all meals on your personal leisure.
DAY 02. JAKARTA PONTIANAK Transfer to Cengkareng Airport to catch your flight to Pontianak. Upon arrival in Pontianak . Accomodation at hotel Santika Pontianak. There are a lot of things to do while we are there. We can explore the riverbank area of Pontianak by the wooden boat, from where we can observe the old and the new Pontianak from the different perspective. We can do Pontianak sight seeing with this way. Among the highlights of the sightseeing trip is Pontianak harbor, Beting Permai water village, and the huge Kapuas bridge. We can do this for about 2 or 3 hours.
DAY 03. PONTIANAK - PUTUSSIBAU (AVAILABLE ON Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday. ) Departure by DAS (Dirgantara Air Service) at 09.00 arrival Putussibau at 11.00 (please recheck again the flight schedule). This flight use small plane with capassity of 24 passenger but only possible for 22 seat only as they have to refill the gasoline. This flight use propeller and little bit noisy. Ear plugs is recommended. They allow extra luggage for 10 kg maximum so please only bring the very important things when you start this expedition . They provide a glass of mineral water with snack. They have no luggage cabin and all the stuffs will put on the back. Stay at simple hotel in Putussibau.
DAY 04. PUTUSSIBAU - KAPUAS RIVER You will start your adventure expedition from here. After breakfast at hotel in Putussibau towards to the headwaters of the Kapuas by long boat. The long boat is about 1 ½ - 2 meter wide and 6 - 8 meter long with capacity for 4 - 5 passengers. The long boat without any roofs so it will be hot and also little noisy. Needed all necessary supplies, estimate day, as far upstream as possible. It is recommended to wear your water sport sandals (TeVa) or rubber shoes and bring ear plugs, hat, long sleeve, short pants, extra snacks & drinks and dry bags. You will take this journey with our porters as well as our guide's team. On the way may be the boat will be stop for toilet, cleaning the propeller, refill gasoline or fix the engine. You will pass some Dayak Village in the river side and their unique daily river life as well as some birds such as Eagle, King Fisher, Long Tailed Parakeet etc. Lunch on the way. Dinner and overnight at the riverside at tents or local house (B, L, D).
DAY 05. KAPUAS RIVER - BUNGAN RIVER After breakfast, continue our journey by long boats as far as up stream. On the way we may stop at the Dayak village to see the long house . We will also pass some rapids, slash and burn agriculture (shifting cultivation) as well as the local people looking for gold, some by traditional way and some by machine along the river side. In certain places we have to go down to the river to push the boat as the level of the water in the dry season s is too shallow. Here you will experience how amazing the boat man and what we call "the Stone Man" the boat crew who knows exactly where is the rock and how to get away from the rapids. It's a great challenge of adventure you will experience. If the rapids too challenging we have to walk along the rock, slash and burns trash barrier in the river side and the boat will pick us up. It's tough here. Lunch on the way. Dinner and overnight in the river side at tents or temporary house or local house. (B, L, D).
DAY 06. BUNGAN RIVER - TANJUNG LOKANG Continue our journey after breakfast. It's more and more challenging here with rapids. Go down boat, push the boat, walk on the rocks, or slash and burn trash barrier in the river side while the boat passing the rapids will give you more challenging experience. On the way you will see the tropical rain forest of Kalimantan, shifting cultivation, traditional gold mining in the river, temporary huts, till you reach Tanjung Lokan. Tanjung Lokan is small villages located inside Betung Kerihun National Park. If you are a handy craft collector you may find some nice basket, "Mandau" traditional machete, "Sumpit" blow gun, "Tangguy" traditional farmer hat etc. Lunch on the way, dinner and overnight at the local house. The guide teams will packing the stuffs to bring alng the expedition and divided between them so they will have the same weight to carry (B, L, D)
PS : The duration of the long boat journey is depend on what happen in the fields. Normally the journey started after breakfast till in the mid day for lunch. Then the long boat will stop before dark to set the tents and prepare meals. Sometimes we have to continue the journey longer to catch the best places to stay overnight. Here we need your flexibility so you will enjoy the journey more.
DAY 07. TANJUNG LOKAN - BOBO/SEI BULIT (SUNGAI BULET) After breakfast, start the trek across up Land Ladang "slash and burn, long fellow dry rice field through the forest. The first 2 hours we will high up the hill then another about 2 ½ hours passing the jungle and dry small river. After lunch on the way close to the river side, the trek will be high up and down again crossing the dry small river, and Nyinyit Cave (the local people collect the swallow nest that cost so expensive and very good to support their life inside the cave). Before dark we set the tent in the river side of Sei Bulit for dinner and overnight. The guides team will cook for you. Ultimate/rubber shoes is recommended. (B, L, D)
DAY 08. SEI BULIT - BUNGAN RIVER After breakfast, crossing the river, up and down passing the jungle, crossing small rivers, and cave. You may see exotic flora and fauna of Borneo. After lunch on the way in the river side, then crossing jungle, up and down passing the dry river, cave and temporary huts that the local people using it while they do shifting cultivation or hunting deer, wild pig, birds, and even sometimes clouded leopard. Before dark, set the tent close to Bungan River for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D)
DAY 09. BUNGAN RIVER - BUNGAN LEA RIVER
Now you need to prepare for the challenging trek. The trek is also varied but tougher. After breakfast crossing the big river about ½ - 1 meter deep. Wee will have lots of deal with water, walk on the cliff of the river side and rock. After lunch on the way in the river side, continue the trek up and down the cliff of the river. Overnight and dinner in the river side of Bungan Lea River. (B, L, D)DAY 10. BUNGAN LEA RIVER - PIANG LO'ONG This is the longest and the toughest trek. After breakfast, crossing up and down passing the rivers, cliff of the rivers and the river side. After lunch continue the trek then started to trek almost the same like before lunch. The trek is so challenging and need more of adventure spirit and energy. Set a campsite close to the river for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D) DAY 11. PIANG LO'ONG - MULLER RANGE This is what the traveler will feel so different crossing the border of West & Esat Kalimantan! After breakfast, walked about two hours up and down river till reach the foot of Muller Range. It started from the altitude of 500 M ASL till reach the border of West and East Kalimantan at 1000 M ASL. The path is not so difficult only high up hill passing the jungle. It takes about 1 - 1 ½ hours depend on your ability. No need to rush as the jungle view is fantastic. After reaching the"TUGU PERBATASAN" (BORDER MONUMENT), you need to put one of some your belonging you wear for this expedition such as shocks, cloth or else in the stick around the border for offering to the spirit. After lunch on the way, the trek is easier down the hill until you reach the campsite in the river side. Dinner and overnight at the Muller Range. (B, L, D)
DAY 12. MULLER RANGE - MUARA CUTING. After breakfast the trek is almost the same before and after lunch passing the rivers - jungle - and rivers. On the way the Dayak will show you how to survive the jungle, collecting the rotan, hunting, catching the fish, set a trap and you may involved with them. Lunch on the way, overnight at tent in the river side of Muara Cuting. (B, L, D)
DAY 13. MUARA CUTING - SAITE This is the shortest trek. You will trek about only 3 hours to reach Saite so you will have lots of time for relaxing, swimming, take a break or else after hard trek. The trek passing the jungle and river. Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the river side. Overnight at Saite. (B, L, D)
DAY 14. MUARA SAITE - TIONG OHANG After breakfast then trek crossing the river and jungle to reach the mouth of the Mahakam River for 3 hours walk. You will pass slash and burn agriculture before reaching the river side. Upon arrival, the long boat or locally call Cest then take you to Tiong Ohang Village for about 6 - 7 hours journey. Lunch on the way. You will pass some temporary hut as well as slash and burn agriculture and jungle. Dinner at the local simple restaurant and overnight at the local simple house at Tiong Ohang. This is the first village you encounter after long days in the jungles. You may also find more handy craft from Kalimantan with the best quality. (B, L, D) DAY 15. TIONG OHANG - LONG BAGUN After breakfast at the local restaurant, continue the journey by long boat for 8 - 10 hours. On the way stop at the local restaurant for lunch. You will pass some big rapids, so you need to walk on the rock but it's not so difficult and the boat will pick you up. The views along the rivers so fantastic and you can walk around to see the long house and their unique daily life. Dinner and overnight at the local simple house. (B, L, D)
DAY 16. LONG BAGUN FOR CULTURAL PERFORMENCES/BOARDING THE BOAT As the Mahakam River has a unique characteristic river so you have to be aware about the tide of the river. In the dry season the level of the water could be so shallow so sometimes you have to leave Long Bagun earlier or otherwise you could not get the house boat when the level of the water is not reliable. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at the boat or Long Bagun. Overnight on boat or Long Bagun (B, L, D)
DAY 17. LONG BAGUN - SAIL ON THE HOUSE BOAT The boat will start normally at 10.00 but could be change without prior notice. Am. Both sail one day before or this day you will arrive at the same day as the boat has to stay overnight. But better leave earlier if the water is not reliable. The house boat is public traditional wooden boat with two deck, the first deck for carry the stuffs and economy class with capacity more about 100 passengers and the second deck is for executive with capacity 75 passengers. The economy room is more open both sides and no mattress while the others served mattress, luggage room below the bed but all is open no private room and no AC. There is Indonesia style toilet and simple restaurant that provide Indonesian meals, tea, coffee, and snacks in the first deck. The boat will stop sometimes for passengers and loading the stuffs. During the sailing trip you will explore and learn the local way of life "river side civilization" which is much different from what we have normally in the dry land area. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and overnight on the house boat (B, L, D)
DAY 18. HOUSE BOAT - SAMARINDA Arrival at the house boat I the afternoon about 10.00 Am - 12.00 Pm depend on the schedule. Upon arrival transfer by car to your hotel in Samarinda that takes about 20 - 30 minutes away. The rest of the day is free for your own activity and dinner will be served on your personal account. (B, L)
DAY 19. ONE EXTRA DAY This is an extra day. We shall use it at place during the trek where we may need it or just because we want to spend the time there. But it will be during the trek only.
DAY 20. SAMARINDA - BALIKPAPAN Breakfast at hotel then transfer to the appropriate time drive to Balikapapan Airport to catch your flight to the next destination. It takes about 3 hours from Samarinda to Balikpapan Airport (120 km ) depend on the traffic. Tours End. (B)
Ce qui fait 9 jours sur 20 dans la forêt...
Et sinon, je te parle de ce parc là: BETUNG KERIHUN Description Physical features
Betung Kerihun National Park located in Sub district of Embaloh Hulu, Embaloh Hilir and Putussibau, District of Kapuas Hulu, Province of West Kalimantan. BKNP covers an area of 800, 000 Ha. The Park is approximately 27.60% of the total area of Kapuas Hulu District,
around 40% of the total protected area in the district, or 5.5% of the total area of Kalimantan Barat Province (14, 807, 700 Ha).
In general, the climate in BKNP exhibits a very high rainfall, being the typical of wet inland Kalimantan. The average annual rainfall is around 2, 863 to 5, 517 mm, and the number of rainy days is between 120 and 309 per year. Drier months occur between June and September with approximately 100 mm rainfall per month. The driest year happened in 1976 with annual rainfall of 2, 863 mm and 120 rainy days during the year, while the wettest year occurred in 1988 with up to 5, 517 mm rainfall and 184 rainy days during the year. On the whole, the Park belongs to type A (wet) in Schmidt and Ferguson classification, with Q=2.6%.
The topography of BKNP is mainly hilly and mountainous, with altitude ranging from 150 to 2, 000 m asl. The largest part of the Park is located at altitude between 200 and 500 m asl (38%). followed by altitude between 500 and 700 m asl (28.14%), between 700 and 1, 000 m asl (15.90), between 1, 000 and 1, 500 m (11.19%), less than 200 m asl (5.34%), and up than
1, 500 m asl (0.92%). With its mountains and hills, the Park is characterized by steep slopes (45% and up) in up to 61.15% of its area. Moderate slopes (25-45%) occur in around 33.08% of the Park area, while slopes of less than 25% occur in 5.77% of the Park area.
BKNP area has at least 179 peaks, consisting of 65 peaks in the Embaloh watershed, 36 in the Sibau-Menjakan watershed, 26 in the Mendalam watershed, and 52 in the Hulu Kapuas/Koheng/Bungan watershed. Prominent peaks in the Embaloh watershed are Mt. Betting (1, 150 m asl) and Mt. Condong (1, 240 m asl); in the Sibau-Menjakan watershed, Mt. Lawit (1, 770 m asl); in the Kapuas/Koheng, Mt. Jemuki (1, 375 m asl) and Mt. Cemaru (1, 118 m asl); in the Bungan watershed, Mt. Kerihun (1, 790 m asl) and Mt. Dayang (1, 645 m asl).
The hydrology of BKNP is characterized by hundreds of streams and big rivers which form the Kapuas watersheds. Kapuas watersheds cover 9, 874, 910 Ha or around 67% of Kalimantan Barat Province area (14, 680, 700 Ha). On the whole, Kapuas watershed can be divided into five smaller sub-watersheds, namely Embaloh in the west area of the Park, Sibau-Menjakan and Mendalarn in the middle area, and Hulu Kapuas/Koheng and Bungan in the eastern area. Key rivers are Embaloh River (95 km long), Sibau River (25 km), Menjakan River (65 km), Mendalam River (30 Km), Hulu Kapuas/Koheng (100 km), and Bungan River (50 km)
The soil types of BKNP are varied. Organosol and decomposed Glei soils are dispersed in the Embaloh upriver sub-district. Alluvial soils occur in the Mendalam River areas, Sibau and Embaloh Rivers, while podzolic yellow-red, and complex podzolic yellow-red and latosol, which dominate the Park areas are identified are found in Puttusibau and in the Embaloh upriver sub-district.
b. Biological features b.1. Flora
Borneo, the richest of the Sunda islands floristically both in terms of total species richness and diversity (MacKinnon et al., 1996), has a flora richness which includes both Asian and Australian elements. In BKNP, the Asian element is generally seen in the lowland forest up to the lower montane forest. Meanwhile, the upper montane is generally inhabited by species of Australasian families, such as Leptospermum, Phyllocladus and Styphelia (Steenis, 1972).
The vegetation and floristic composition in BKNP can generally be divided into the following types:
1) Lowland dipterocarp forest
2) Alluvial forest
3) Swamp forest.
4) Old secondary forest
5) Hill dipterocarp forest
6) Limestone forest
7) Sub-montane forest 8) Montane forest
On the whole, the 8 forest ecosystems of BKNP harbor at least 1, 254 flora species. The family of Dipterocarpaceae has the most species of all flora families of BKNP (120 of a total 267 dipterocarp species found in Borneo). Other families having many species in BKNP include Euphorbiaceae (99 species), Myrtaceae (66), Annonaceae (38), Myristicaceae (31), and Burseraceae (21). Flora richness of BKNP also includes a large variety of orchid species. At ]least 97 species have been identified in the Park. Another flora richness of BKNP is its palm species. At least 49 species of palm have been identified in the Park area. Meanwhile, 133 species of bryophyte under 3 classes have been identified in BKNP (Sujadmiko, 1999). Nineteen families and 65 species of bryophyte belong to Hepaticopsidae, 1 family and 2 species belong to Anthocerotopsidae, whereas 19 families and 66 species belong to Bryopsidae.
2. Fauna
Like Borneo' fauna in general, BKNP's rich fauna is characteristically Asian in origin. It shares most of its fauna with the Asian mainland and the other Sunda islands, but shares few species with Sulawesi and the eastern islands which have a somewhat different faunal composition.
The Park harbors not least than 652 fauna species. Of them, at least 54 are mammal species. Mammal species of BKNP also includes 8 primate species, namely Pongo pygmaeus, Hylobates muelleri, Presbytis frontata, P. rubicunda, Macaca nemestrina, M. fascicularis, Nycticebus coucang and Tarsius bancanus. The distribution of Pongo pygmaeus, one of the two species of orangutan found in Indonesia is interestingly concentrated in the western part of BKNP area, especially in Embaloh Watershed, which border Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary (LEWS) of Sarawak, Malaysia. Therefore, the establishment of BKNP-LEWS Biodiversity Conservation Area is considered very relevant for the conservation of Orangutan. Seventeen species of bats and 17 species of rodent, including Cheiromeles torquatus, which has been declared extinct in Java, are also members of the mammal diversity of the Park.
The Park harbors high herpetofauna diversity. At least 112 species, comprising 59 species of amphibian, 25 species of reptilia, 24 species of squamata, and 4 species of testudinata, have been identified in BKNP. Meanwhile, the Park provides habitats for 300 species of bird. The dominant species belong to family names of Muscicapidae, Pycnonotidae, and Timaliidae. Twenty five species are Bornean endemics and 6 species are newly found species to Indonesia. The fish diversity of BKNP is also high. At least 186 species of fresh¬water fish have been identified. Thirteen fish species have been identified endemic to Borneo. Finally, insect diversity of BKNP is interesting. At least 170 insects have been identified in the Park.
Justification of Outstanding Universal Values
Betung Kerihun National Park (BKNP) is located at the headwaters of the Kapuas River in the far interior of Kalimantan Barat (;Western Kalimantan) Province. The site covers an area of 800, 000 Ha and borders the 200, 000 Ha Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary (LEWS) in Sarawak, Malaysia. Together the two protected areas form one of the first trans-border parks in Southeast Asia.
The topography of BKNP area ranges from lowland elevations at about 200 m asl to mountains almost 2, 000 m asl high. At such the site serves as an important water catchments area. Three out of Borneo's great rivers, the Rejang and Lupar River in Sarawak, Malaysia, and the Kapuas River in Kalimantan, Indonesia, have their origins here. Meanwhile, the Park's eight types of forest ecosystems, ranging from lowland dipterocarp forest, alluvial forest, swamp forest, old secondary forest, hill dipterocarp forest, limestone forest, sub-montane forest, to montane forest, provide habitats for the valuable Bornean biodiversity.
Initial surveys have discovered thousands of species of flora and fauna, including 67 threatened flora species and 81 threatened fauna species under the 2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Threatened flora species under the list include Dipterocarpus cornutus (CR), Dipterocarpus gracilis (CR), and Dipterocarpus grandiflorus (CR), and threatened fauna species include the orangutan Pongo pygmaeus (EN) and False Gavial Tomistoma schlegelii (EN). The surveys also reveal Bornean endemic species, such as Muntiacus atherodes, Presbytis frontata, Presbytis rubicunda and Reithrosciurus macrotis.
Forests of BKNP are also important for indigenous inhabitants of the region, a variety of Dayak tribes who live from hunting, collecting non-timber forest products and subsistence farming based on a pattern of shifting cultivation.
c'est vraiment dommage que la forêt soit autant détruite...
Mais merci bcp pour l'info! Au moins ca pourra m'éviter une déception par rapport à l'image que je m'en faisait...
Je vais peut être me contenter de "petites ballades " dans certains parks nationaux de qq jours...
Je vais probablemnet suivre tes conseils... pas de pb pour les flics méfiant (en asie centrale et au caucase j'ai l'habitude) quand au peu d'anglophones : mon indonésien et un petit peu "rouillé", mais ca suffira pour me débrouiller
Je prend un peu de tps pour lire dans le détail ton second message...
@+
Salut,
Si tu souhaites vraiment aller à Bornéo, cette carte t'aidera à te rendre compte de la végétation des lieux:
http://images.google.fr/imgres?imgurl=http://www.dephut.go.id/Halaman/Peta%2520Tematik/Perbatasan/kalbar.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.dephut.go.id/index.php%3Fq%3Dnode/73&usg=__qBAboLssSJ9N5_ujwbjxFSLK5RM=&h=1499&w=2277&sz=781&hl=fr&start=2&um=1&tbnid=Et67D_-aRuERqM:&tbnh=99&tbnw=150&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddepartmen%2Bkehutanan%2Bindonesia%2Bkalimantan%2Bbarat%26hl%3Dfr%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1
ou http://www.dephut.go.id/index.php?q=node/73
Tu as plusieurs liens vers des cartes (peta) du kalimantan barat (kalimantan occidental) qui à défaut d'être précises te permettent de localiser les coins où il y a encore de la forêt primaire... C'est celle qui est en vert foncé. Regarde bien, sur certaines cartes il n'y a plus de forêt primaire du tout... (site du mistère des forêts Indonésie)
Il faut vraiment aller vers le centre. Sinon, il y a un chouette parc du côté de Sanggauledo, à 4 h de Pontianak... mais les conditions sont rudes: sangsues, relief difficile...
Dis-moi si tu as besoin de plus d'infos... mais tu peux aussi t'orienter vers un parc naturel ailleurs en Indonésie...
Salut
merci pour les infos,
j'ai regardé un peu les cartes : effectivement il ne reste plus beaucoup de forêt primaire, sauf dans les zones montagneuses vers le centre...
Il est censé y a avoir une dizaine de parcs naturels nationaux a kalimantan, mais je me demande si ces parcs n'existent que sur le papier, ou si ceux sont vraiment des zones mieux préserver, avec des park rangers qui surveillent, ou guident etc...
Les sangsues, et autres bestiolles, le confort rustique ou des chemins un peu difficiles ce n'est pas trop un pb pour moi...
Non, ce sont vraiment des zones avec un statut particulier mais qui sont la proie de multiples agressions (trafiquants, illegal logging...). Les 2 réserves naturelles / parcs que je connais sont assez bien protégées... la réserve parce qu'elle est assez montagneuse et parce que les locaux tiennent à leur forêt pour diverses raisons d'ordre sacré / pratique, mais ce n'est pas un sanctuaire, la chasse y est autorisée et les coupes de bois à titre personnel et non lucratif, quant au parc, visité avec Naps (si tu connais) cet été, parce que les gouvernements locaux et nationaux incitent fortement (et notamment financièrement) les villageois à veiller à leur forêt... mais la superficie de celle-ci (20 km sur 30 km) et la proximité avec la frontière malaise rendent l'entreprise périlleuse... Et là aussi, la chasse est pratiquée bien qu'interdite... mais on trouve encore des orang outans, de très gros serpents, des animaux bizarres etc En tout cas, la forêt est dense et magnifique... et les gens du coin sont très très rudes et pour certains très "traditionnels".
Dans les deux cas, pas de rangers, mais des guides potentiels parmi les hommes des villages: des marcheurs incroyables (capables d'étapes de 8 - 10 H au pas de charge) et doués d'une connaissance pratique sans faille de ce milieu...
Ailleurs, en dehors des parcs et partout où il y a des voies d'eau et des routes, c'est un MASSACRE!!! Mes proches qui vivent là-bas ont grandi dans la jungle, aujourd'hui, il ne reste même plus UNE POCHE de forêt primaire dans tout leur département, 25 ans plus tard seulement!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A une époque, les gens vendaient 50 000 RP (3, 5 E) leurs arbres à durians centenaires pour picoler et jouer aux cartes! Et même les forêts secondaires disparaîssent aujourd'hui du fait de la culture de l'huile de palme... A pleurer....🏴☠️
Bonjour Muhammad,
Je lis tes messages sur Borneo, partagé entre l'envie de partir et la tristesse. Je me demande finalement si j'ai envie de voir ce désastre de mes propres yeux, sachant que nous sommes impuissants. Arretez de faire bruler des bougies de cire ne changera rien au phénomène. J'ai vécu une expérience similaire l'été dernier dans la vallée de Lore Lindu au Sulawesi. QUID la situation dans l'ouest Kalimantan 2 ans après ton post ci-dessous ? A+ Nicolas
Je lis tes messages sur Borneo, partagé entre l'envie de partir et la tristesse. Je me demande finalement si j'ai envie de voir ce désastre de mes propres yeux, sachant que nous sommes impuissants. Arretez de faire bruler des bougies de cire ne changera rien au phénomène. J'ai vécu une expérience similaire l'été dernier dans la vallée de Lore Lindu au Sulawesi. QUID la situation dans l'ouest Kalimantan 2 ans après ton post ci-dessous ? A+ Nicolas
Bonjour,
Evidemment, plus le temps passe, plus la situation empire. Les vieux Dayaks meurent laissant derriere eux une generation qui ne sait plus vraiment d ou elle vient (ou plutot qui croit le savoir, mais se trompe), les dernieres poches de foret reculent etc...
Cependant, si tu souhaites "faire de la jungle" tu trouveras encore de sacres terrains de jeux. Je reviens de 10 jours en amont du Kahayan au Kalimantan Centre. Je suis monte au dernier village sur le fleuve. 3 jours de trajet depuis Palangkaraya dont une journee de pirogue. Depuis ce village perdu tu pouvais passer au Kalimantan Ouest a pied, par les monts Schwaner. 2 jours de remontee des rapides, 5 jours de marche, 1 journee de descente pour arriver en pirogue (ou radeau) au premier village du haut Melawi. Tout autour du Kahayan, dans ces montagnes, des millions d hectares de jungle ...
Evidemment, se rendre la bas a un prix. Une traversee pouvant s averer tres onereuse a moins d avoir un coup de bol formidable et de pouvoir se joindre a des gens. La, les prix baissent. A titre d exemple. La journee de pirogue m est revenue a 100 000 rp (8 E) car j ai juste aide un gars a payer l essence qu il allait de toute facon depenser. Si j avais loue une pirogue expres, on m aurait compte minimum 80 E ! Plus modestement on peut, depuis ce genre de village, se contenter d une ballade dans la jungle a partir d un camp de base.
Cote Dayaks ??? Des gens charmants, tres hospitaliers, encore quelques sacres phenomenes dans les villages, d authentiques hommes des forets, des chasseurs professionnels. Religion animiste encore tres presente, nombreux rituels. Mais aussi des gros gros problemes sociaux, d alcoolisme notamment (comas ethyliques, maladies du foie, meurtres). Et un avenir pas tres rose puisque d ici 2016 une route rejoindra ce bled... une route ou plutot une piste tracee le long du fleuve par ... une compagnie forestiere !
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Bonjour,
Je prépare un circuit au Cambodge et j'étais décidée à visiter la région du Ratanakiri qui semblait correspondre en terme de paysages à ce que nous aimons le plus : la forêt, la jungle, la verdure...
Toutefois en commençant à étudier la région, j'ai lu que la déforestation y était massive et les infos sur ce sujet datent parfois de plusieurs années et la situation n'a malheureusement pas dû s'arranger depuis.
Ma question est donc de savoir si le Ratanakiri est encore intéressant à visiter et justifie encore l'éloignement et les temps de trajet pour y accéder?
J'ai vu que des treks étaient possibles dans la jungle mais, d'expérience, je sais que les guides rechignent parfois à s'enfoncer dans la forêt et se limitent à des marches assez courtes en bordure des parcs.
Par avance merci pour vos retours.
Je prépare un circuit au Cambodge et j'étais décidée à visiter la région du Ratanakiri qui semblait correspondre en terme de paysages à ce que nous aimons le plus : la forêt, la jungle, la verdure...
Toutefois en commençant à étudier la région, j'ai lu que la déforestation y était massive et les infos sur ce sujet datent parfois de plusieurs années et la situation n'a malheureusement pas dû s'arranger depuis.
Ma question est donc de savoir si le Ratanakiri est encore intéressant à visiter et justifie encore l'éloignement et les temps de trajet pour y accéder?
J'ai vu que des treks étaient possibles dans la jungle mais, d'expérience, je sais que les guides rechignent parfois à s'enfoncer dans la forêt et se limitent à des marches assez courtes en bordure des parcs.
Par avance merci pour vos retours.
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight) · Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok) · Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x") · Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight) · Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok) · Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x") · Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
hi everyone,
I want to travel in the north for 3 weeks in September-October 2026 to meet ethnic minorities, photograph mountain rice terraces and their harvest, and revisit Halong Bay—but maybe Lan Ha Bay instead. Can you recommend one or more local agencies?
Thanks, and happy holidays!
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
Hi there,
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
Hi! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hey everyone,
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Hi there,
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
Hi there
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!






