Kakaban Island in East Kalimantan offers a unique experience of swimming with stingless jellyfish, pristine tropical forests, and stunning marine tourism.
Kakaban Island, one of the hidden gems in the Derawan Islands, East Kalimantan, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
With a brackish water lake in its center, the island is home to thousands of unique—non-stinging—jellyfish.
This island also holds the beauty of tropical forests, typical cuisine, and a calm atmosphere that captivates the heart. Let’s explore the history, attractions, and activities that can be enjoyed on Kakaban Island.
History of Kakaban Island
Kakaban Island was formed from a geological process over millions of years. The shifting of tectonic plates between the Mangkalihat Peninsula (Berau, Indonesia) and the Simpurna Peninsula (Sabah, Malaysia) lifted coral deposits from the seabed to the surface.
This process continued for about 2 million years, creating the unique shape of Kakaban Island which resembles the number 9 when viewed from above.
In the center of the island is a lagoon isolated from the sea, forming a brackish water lake. The water comes from seawater that has been trapped and mixed with rainwater for thousands of years, creating a unique ecosystem. This phenomenon makes Kakaban Island one of the most interesting atoll islands in the world.
Main Attractions of Kakaban Island
1. Non-Stinging Jellyfish Lake
Kakaban Lake is the main attraction of this island. The jellyfish in this lake have adapted to an environment without predators, so they have lost their ability to sting. Tourists can swim and interact directly with thousands of these jellyfish, creating a truly unique experience.
However, there are strict rules that must be followed to protect this ecosystem:
- Do not use sunblock or chemicals that can pollute the water.
- Do not bring swimming aids such as fins to avoid injuring jellyfish.
- Do not lift jellyfish out of the water as it can disrupt their body balance.
2. Beautiful Tropical Forests and Mangroves
To reach Lake Kakaban, tourists must pass through dense tropical forest. This forest is filled with typical trees such as Bakung, Ligayan, and Bullung-Bullung.
Around the island, mangrove forests add natural beauty while maintaining the balance of the coastal ecosystem. The available footpaths allow tourists to enjoy the beauty of local flora while taking a leisurely walk.
3. Typical culinary delights that tempt your taste buds
Kakaban Island also has a wealth of culinary specialties that should not be missed. One of them is tehe-tehe, a dish made from sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and wrapped in a sea urchin shell. It tastes similar to ketupat with the distinctive aroma of pandan leaves.
In addition, there are kima-kima, processed dried sea shells like salted fish. This dish is a favorite of tourists who want to taste local flavors.
How to Get to Kakaban Island
The journey begins by heading to Berau Regency in East Kalimantan. Travelers can choose:
- Air Route: From Balikpapan or Samarinda, you can take a plane to Kalimarau Airport in Berau (about 1 hour).
- Land Route: Another alternative is a land trip from Balikpapan or Samarinda using a travel car, with a travel time of around 12-15 hours.
From Berau, the journey continues by speedboat to Derawan Islands. The travel time is about 3 hours, where you will be treated to stunning sea views. After arriving at Kakaban Island, you can start exploring its natural charm.
Things to Do on Kakaban Island
1. Snorkeling and Diving in Kakaban Lake
The main activities in Kakaban Lake are snorkeling and diving. The clear water of the lake allows you to see jellyfish swimming freely around you. In addition, the unique ecosystem under the surface of the lake creates an extraordinary diving experience.
2. Enjoy the Beauty and Tranquility of the Island
Kakaban Island is uninhabited, so the atmosphere is very calm. You can take a walk around the lake, enjoy the sea breeze, or sit back and enjoy the view. This natural atmosphere is suitable for tourists seeking tranquility and relaxation.
3. Hunting for Natural Photography Spots
For photography lovers, Kakaban Island offers many interesting spots. From lake views with exotic jellyfish to beautiful coastlines, every corner is worth capturing. Underwater photography is also a favorite activity to capture the beauty of jellyfish up close.
Tips for Visiting Kakaban Island
- Follow Conservation Rules : Maintain the authenticity of the ecosystem by not using sunblock, sharp swimming aids, or touching jellyfish carelessly.
- Bring a Waterproof Camera : Make sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the moment of swimming with jellyfish.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing : Wear light clothing and bring protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses for traveling in the hot sun.
- Prepare Your Trip Well : Because the trip to Kakaban Island is quite long, plan it carefully, including transportation and accommodation.
Kakaban Island is a hidden paradise in East Kalimantan that offers a unique and unforgettable tourism experience.
With the wonders of Kakaban Lake filled with non-stinging jellyfish, enchanting tropical forests, and a serene natural setting, this place is perfect for a vacation that combines nature exploration and relaxation.
If you want to experience authentic and different natural beauty, Batakan Baru Beach is a must-visit destination. Add it to your travel list now!
