Welcome, explorers! Get ready to experience the incredible wonders of nature at Kakaban Lake, a hidden paradise in east kalimantan. Located in the Derawan Islands group, the lake offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Imagine yourself immersed in crystal clear waters dotted with colorful coral reefs and free-swimming exotic fish. Experience the unique sensation of diving in a saltwater lake inhabited by thousands of stingless jellyfish. Here, you'll have an experience like no other, connecting with nature and feeling a sense of serenity that soothes the soul.
This lake is not just another tourist destination. It's a place where nature creates unexpected wonders. Prepare yourself to be mesmerized by its captivating natural beauty, and discover the hidden charms that make it one of the most unique destinations in Indonesia.
Uncovering the Mystery of Kakaban Lake: A Geological Wonder

The lake has a long and mysterious history, formed by unique geological processes. The lake was once part of the open sea, but was separated by the movement of the earth's plates. Seawater was trapped in the basin that formed, forming the saltwater lake we know today.
The Story of Lake Kakaban: The Legend of the Stingless Jellyfish
Behind its natural charm, the lake holds an interesting legend about stingless jellyfish. It is said that the jellyfish in this lake lost their sting due to evolution and environmental adaptation. They lost their natural predators in this isolated lake, so their sting slowly weakened and disappeared.
Unique Facts about Kakaban Lake
The lake holds a myriad of interesting facts that make this place even more special:
- Saltwater Lake: The lake is an isolated saltwater lake, formed from trapped seawater due to the movement of the earth's plates.
- Stingless Jellyfish: The lake is inhabited by four species of stingless jellyfish, namely moon jellyfish, box jellyfish, inverted jellyfish and umbrella jellyfish.
- Unique Ecosystems: The lake has a unique ecosystem that is home to various species of fish, mollusks and crustaceans.
- Coral Reefs: The lake also has a well-preserved coral reef, despite being isolated from the open sea.
- Beauty of Nature: The lake also offers stunning natural beauty, with clear water and colorful coral reefs.
Discovering Kakaban Lake: A Clue to Heaven

The lake is located on Kakaban Island, one of the islands in the Derawan Islands group, East Kalimantan. To reach the island, you need to travel by sea from Berau or Tarakan, which have both domestic and international airports.
Towards Kakaban Lake: A Journey to Heaven
- From Berau: You can reach Kakaban Island by speedboat from Derawan, which takes about 30 minutes.
- From Tarakan: You can take a speedboat from Tanjung Selor, which takes about 2 hours.
- Other Transportation: There are other transportation options, such as traditional boats or ferries, but the travel time will be longer.
Exploring Kakaban Lake: Best Time for Adventure

The best time to visit the lake is during the dry season, from April to October. During this period, the weather is sunny and the ocean waves are calm, making it suitable for snorkeling and diving activities.
Exploring the Magic of Kakaban Lake
- Dry Season (April - October): Sunny weather, calm waves, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
- Rainy Season (November - March): Unfavorable weather, strong winds and high waves can jeopardize water activities.
Kakaban Lake: An Amazing Natural Wonder
The lake has a main attraction that makes this place special:
A paradise of stingless jellyfish
One of the main attractions of this lake is the stingless jellyfish. You can swim and dive with thousands of jellyfish that swim freely in the lake, without worrying about getting stung.
Mesmerizing Underwater Beauty
The lake also has a well-preserved coral reef, with various types of fish and marine life living in it. You can enjoy the underwater beauty by snorkeling or diving.
Adventuring in Kakaban Lake: Exciting Activities that Wait
In this lake, you can do various exciting activities, including:
Snorkeling and Diving
Of course, the main activities at the Lake are snorkeling and diving. You can swim with thousands of stingless jellyfish, enjoy the beauty of coral reefs, and see various types of fish.
Take a walk on Kakaban Island
Apart from the lake, Kakaban Island also has a well-preserved tropical rainforest. You can take a walk in the forest, enjoy its natural beauty, and see various types of birds and wild animals.
Enjoying Sunset on Kakaban Island
Kakaban Island also offers beautiful sunset views. You can enjoy the beauty of the sunset on the edge of the lake or on the beach, while enjoying the calm and cool atmosphere.
Tasting Local Culinary around Kakaban Lake
Around the lake, you can find a variety of local culinary delights.
Recommended Places to Eat Around Kakaban Lake:
- Seafood Stall: Offering hydrantsgan fresh seafood with various preparations.
- Local Restaurant: It offers East Kalimantan specialties, such as yellow rice, oxtail soup, and chicken satay.
Stay on Kakaban Island: Attractive Accommodation Options
To stay around Kakaban Lake, you have several accommodation options, ranging from homestays to hotels:
Accommodation Options on Kakaban Island:
- Homestay: It offers a cozy atmosphere and affordable prices, ideal for travelers who want to experience local hospitality.
- Hotel: Offering complete facilities, ideal for travelers who want comfort and luxury.
Exploring the Rich Nature Around Kakaban Lake
In addition to Lake Kakaban, there are also several other interesting tourist attractions around the island that are worth visiting:
Natural Enchantment Around Lake Kakaban:
- Derawan Island: The island is famous for its beautiful white beaches, clear sea water, and beautiful coral reefs.
- Maratua Island: The island is a diver's paradise, with a wide variety of fish and beautiful coral reefs.
- Sangalaki Island: The island is a turtle nesting ground, with beautiful quiet beaches and soft white sand.
Tips and Preparations Before Visiting:
- Bring Snorkeling Gear: If you want to snorkel, make sure to bring complete snorkeling equipment, such as masks, snorkels, and fins.
- Bring a Waterproof Camera: Bring a waterproof camera to capture beautiful moments at Kakaban Lake.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen.
- Bring Medicines: Prepare your usual medicinessi, especially in anticipation of headaches, nausea, and diarrhea.
Unique Facts and Myths About Kakaban Lake:

- Jellyfish Partners: The stingless jellyfish of Lake Kakaban coexist with several species of small fish, which act as their partners.
- The Forgotten Lake: Kakaban Lake used to be part of the open sea, but was isolated due to the movement of the earth's plates.
Recommended Itinerary for 1-3 Days at Lake Kakaban:
1-Day Itinerary:
- Morning: Arrive at Kakaban Island, check-in at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Snorkeling at Kakaban Lake, swimming with stingless jellyfish.
- Afternoon: Take a walk in the tropical rainforest, enjoying the beauty of nature.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset by the lake.
2-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive at Kakaban Island, check-in at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Snorkeling at Kakaban Lake, swimming with stingless jellyfish.
- Afternoon: Take a walk in the tropical rainforest, enjoying the beauty of nature.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset by the lake.
- Day 2:
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit Derawan Island, enjoy the beauty of the beach and coral reefs.
- Afternoon: Return to Kakaban Island.
3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive at Kakaban Island, check-in at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Snorkeling at Kakaban Lake, swimming with stingless jellyfish.
- Afternoon: Take a walk in the tropical rainforest, enjoying the beauty of nature.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset by the lake.
- Day 2:
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit Maratua Island, dive in the beautiful coral reefs.
- Afternoon: Return to Kakaban Island.
- Day 3:
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your chosen accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit Sangalaki Island, see turtle nesting and enjoy the beauty of the beach.
- Afternoon: Pack up and prepare to head back.
Sustainability and Tourism Ethics in Kakaban Lake:
- Keep it Clean: Dispose of trash in its proper place and avoid throwing plastic waste into the sea.
- Support Local Communities: Buy souvenirs and food from local people to help their economy.
- Protect Nature: Don't destroy coral reefs, don't take marine life, and avoid using sunscreen that contains harmful chemicals.
Instagramable spots at Kakaban Lake:
- Kakaban Lake: You can take photos of the stingless jellyfish swimming freely in the lake.
- Tropical Rainforest: You can take photos of the beauty of the preserved tropical rainforest.
- Kakaban Island Beach: You can take beautiful sunset photos by the beach.
Cost and Budget at Kakaban Lake:
- Transportation: Transportation costs from Berau or Tarakan to Kakaban Island range from Rp. 200,000 - Rp. 500,000 per person.
- Admission: The entrance ticket to the lake is around IDR 50,000 per person.
- Accommodation: The cost of accommodation on Kakaban Island ranges from Rp. 200,000 - Rp. 1,000,000 per night.
- Food: Food costs range from IDR 50,000 - IDR 150,000 per day.
Get Ready for Adventure:
The lake is a tourist destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Prepare yourself to be mesmerized by its natural beauty, dive in a paradise of stingless jellyfish, and enjoy a memorable adventure in East Kalimantan.
Don't miss this golden opportunity. Come, explore the wonders of Kakaban Lake!
