Mahakam River & Mancong Longhouse Waterway
Travel up the Mahakam River from Samarinda, passing stilt water villages and crossing Lake Jempang to visit Dayak longhouses.
Follow the classic overland-plus-boat route used by many travel agencies: explore mosques and the riverfront in Samarinda, travel via Tenggarong Museum to Kota Bangun to transfer to a boat, stay in the stilt water village of Muara Muntai, cross Lake Jempang to the Benuaq Dayak longhouse in Mancong, and visit Pampang on the return journey. This route does not go further upstream to Melak, nor does it use houseboat accommodation. Accommodations are basic, making it suitable for travelers interested in river life and Dayak culture.
During the dry season, Lake Jempang can become very shallow, and small rivers may be impassable; haze can also occur from July to September.
Day by day
Day 1 · Balikpapan to Samarinda
Samarinda（Islamic Center Mosque Samarinda、Citra Niaga、Tepian Mahakam Riverfront）
Charter a car from the airport via the highway to Samarinda (approx. 2–3 hrs), then use a car within the city.
If time permits, you can visit the Mahakam Riverfront in the evening.
Stay: Mahakam Riverfront and City Centre
Day 2 · Tenggarong to Water Village via Waterway
Charter a car to Tenggarong (approx. 1 hr), then to Kota Bangun (approx. 2–3 hrs), and transfer to a small boat to Muara Muntai (approx. 2 hrs).
Confirm the opening days of the Mulawarman Museum before departing.
Stay: Muara Muntai
Day 3 · Cross Lake Jempang to Mancong Longhouse
Mancong Longhouse
Charter a small motorized boat from Muara Muntai for a round trip via Lake Jempang and the Ohong River, taking about a full day.
When water levels are low, change to the overland route via Tanjung Isuy to enter the village.
Stay: Muara Muntai
Day 4 · Return to Samarinda & Visit Pampang Village
Samarinda（Pampang Dayak Cultural Village）
Take a small boat back to Kota Bangun (approx. 2 hrs), then charter a car via Pampang to Samarinda (approx. 4 hrs).
Traditional performances in Pampang do not happen every day; confirm the schedule beforehand.
Stay: Mahakam Riverfront and City Centre
Day 5 · Old Mosque, Weaving Village & Departure
Samarinda（Shiratal Mustaqiem Mosque、Samarinda Weaving Village）
Explore the city by car in the morning, then charter a car to Balikpapan Airport (approx. 2–3 hrs).
It is recommended to book an afternoon or evening flight.