Pygmy Elephant is native to Borneo which is originated from North Eastern Kalimantan Island. The elephant can be found in Sabah as well, which is part of Malaysia. As other elephants in Asia , they are smaller is size than African elephant.
Sembakung is situated at the North part of Indonesian Borneo, Kalimantan Island and is at the border between Indonesia and malaysian Sabah. It is rich of flora and fauna from Oranutans, Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Black orchid, pitcher plants species. The region consists of swamp area, limestone and montane area and the cloudy rainforest and the indigenous tribe here is Dayak Tidung Tribe. The primary forest has gigantic old trees and rivers. The rivers can be massive and very fast for transportation that it is best to explore the area by jungle trekking.
Day 1 : ARRIVAL TARAKAN (D)
We will pick you up at Tarakan Aiport and then transfer to hotel. Free program and might enjoy sightseeing at Tarakan. Overnight: TARAKAN
Day 2 : TARAKAN, MALINAU, BALATIKON (B,L,D)
After breakfast and then drive to harbor and sail for 3 hours by speedboat to Malinau, if you are lucky enroute you will be seeing fresh water dolphin and long nose mnkeys aling Sesayap River. Upon arrival at Malinau and then drive to Balatikon Village and proceed with upstream motorized canoe cruise through Agiston River deeper into the dense Kalimantan Jungle. Later afternoon camping at river bank.
Day 3- Day 5: JUNGLE TREK (B,L,D)
Simple breakfast and then start Jungle trekking through Kalimantan Jungle to search for Borneo Pygmy Elephant by following foot prints that will lead you to the nearby community of the elephant. The trek can be challenging, you will be crossing river, passing by hilly jungle, as well hunting and fishing. And you can also see the biodiversity of Sembakung Mangrove at Swamp forest and also misty forest, and you will spot wildlife there such as orangutans, leopards, and proboscis monkeys. Overnight : Camping
Day 6: BALATIKON- MALINAU (B,L,D)
On Day 6, after breakfast and then drive to malinau and overnight at guesthouse.
Day 7 : MALINAU, TARAKAN (B,L)
After breakfast and then sail by speedboat to Tarakan Harbor and drop you to restaurant of hotel. End of service.
ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION: SEMBAKUNG
During this trip you will be staying in Dayak House. And also staying in the jungle during the expedition. You will have basic facilities.
WHAT TO BRING
Walking shoes
Long sleeves and long pants
Dry bag
Tower, soap and other personal hygiene
TRAVEL DURATION
Tarakan – Malinau : 3 hours sailing by speedboat
Malinau – Sembakung : 6 hours drive
Jungle Trekking : 5-7 Hours a day