Borneo is one of the biggest island in Indonesia and the third biggest island in the world which is full of wonder like Narnia of Indonesia. Borneo is so rich, not only the flora and fauna but also races, customs, cultures, languages and some hidden paradises that are worth it to explore. Compared to some other islands in Indonesia like Bali, Lombok and Papua, the popularity of Borneo as tourism island is still so far behind with exception the Derawan Island which recently getting popular but the rest of hidden paradises of Borneo are ready to be explored.
- Sawi Island, Ketapang – West Borneo
Sawi Island is a small island hidden in the heart of Ketapang, still virgin with no local stays in the island though some guest houses were available but in a bad condition. A perfect destination for diving, snorkeling and fishing like you have your own island.
- Karimata Island, Kayong Utara – West Borneo
Exotic island, far from anywhere and then Karimata Island is in the top of the list. The eight hours by boat to reach the island is totally worth it especially for you who love seafood, Karimata is the heaven of seafood.
- Sentarum Lake, Kapuas Hulu – West Borneo
The unique thing about Sentarum lake is you will find it a lake only if you visit it in rainy season, while in drought season, you will find no lake at all and as the replacement a green forest for you to explore.
- Tanjung Puting National Park, Kotawaringin – Central Borneo
The best thing about Borneo is there is at least one National Park in each province and the most recommended national park is Tanjung Puting where you could directly interact with Orangutan and other wildlife.
- Ongkong Babuat Waterfall – Central Borneo
One of the places you should visit in Central Borneo is Ongkong Babuat waterfall.
- Derawan Island, Berau – East Borneo
You must have known that Derawan Island is recently becoming popular among traveler, so it’s not so hidden paradise of Borneo anymore but it’s still worth it to visit for those who love exotic island with clear blue sea. But if you thing this island is too crowded, find other islands with less tourist like Kaniungan island which is not so far from Derawan.
- Maratua Island, Berau – East Borneo
Why Maratua Island is so important to visit? Well, it is the outer island of Indonesia. If you visit Derawan Island, making sure to put Maratua Island to your itinerary.
- Biduk Biduk – East Borneo
Biduk biduk is located also in Berau, so extend your itinerary to enjoy the beauty by visiting the Labuan Cermin Lake, a lake which as clear as mirror.
- Beras Basah Island, Bontang – East Borneo
Bontang is also having one hidden paradise which name represents the actual view, Beras Basah island with its white sand beach is a sweet escape for whoever looking for a perfect gateway.
- Langara Hill, Hulu Sungai Selatan – South Borneo
South Borneo is probably the less famous but its magical paradise is recommended to visit. Though this place is only for those who love hiking but once you reach the peak, the snake-like river view looks like you are in Amazon.
- Samber Gelap Island, Kotabaru – South Borneo
Just like each province of Borneo has at least one National Park, each province of Borneo also has at least one exotic island with spectacular view both under and above water.
- Biru Nes 12 Lake, Binuang – South Borneo
One more lake which is worth it to visit in South Borneo, it is Biru Nes 12. The color of the lake is quite unusual because instead of dark green like most of lake color, the color is bright blue like ocean color.
If you are looking for an exotic escape but at the same time searching for rare experience in magical places perhaps some hidden paradises of Borneo mentioned above could be your next destination.
