Sangalaki Manta Paradise in Derawan Islands, East Kalimantan Province


Both local and foreign tourists have recognized the beauty of Derawan Archipelago. One of the best islands is called Sangalaki and it is considered famous for its Manta Ray. That means tourists are able to get in the sea and swim with such majestic creature. Apart from enjoying snorkeling, Sangalaki is also suitable for a family recreation and photography. With all those attractions, it is likely tourists won’t miss the chance to explore both the land and sea, residing in such region. They even have the chance conduct island hopping to nearby islands!

The Nuance
For those who want to enjoy snorkeling with Manta Ray, their destination should be the Manta Point. The location is near to the resort, so tourists can reach it without hassles. The color of the sea is dark blue, indicating a deep ocean. Once tourists get in the water, they are able to see some beautiful mantas swimming underwater. Apart from such creatures, there are also colorful small fishes swimming near to the corals. All of them are seen clearly, as the visibility of the water is quite excellent. Not to mention the water is warm and comfortable.

Exploring Manta Point
Here is the fact. Mantas that live in Sangalaki Manta Point have a smaller body than those of other islands. Despite the small size, tourists should not be careless when getting near those creatures. In fact, the boat that they ride should not cause havoc or big waves in the location. That means the boat should come slowly, so it doesn’t disturb any manta rays. According to the locals, the most recommended speed when entering Sangalaki Manta Point is 5 knots! This explains why tourists must come with a professional boat service.

Now, it is time to get in the water. Instead of coming alone, it is better to hire an instructor. That person will be the guide when exploring Manta Point, after all. He also gives some safety tips to clients regarding how to approach the creatures. For example, he may tell the best distance between divers and mantas, which is about 3 meters. The next tip is related to the characteristic of manta rays. The fact is that the creature is quite sensitive to strangers. It is not recommended to approach them from behind. Instead, it is safer to come slowly from its sides.

Any wild animals can smell fear and panic, actually. That means divers should not make any sudden moves, as these may cause discomfort to them. Being playful is not recommended either. What tourists should do is to remain calm when getting near mantas. As an alternative, they are allowed to take some pictures of the creatures. They must not use the flash feature, though. Also, it is better to use a good camera, as it has a significant impact on the result.

Nearby Attractions

  • Barracuda Point
  • Coral Garden Diving Spot
  • Sangalaki Beach

How to Get There
From Balikpapan City, travelers can take a minibus to Berau District. To be exact, their destination is Tanjung Batu Port, which takes about 3 hours. Once they reach the port, it is time to rent a speedboat to Sangalaki Island, which takes roughly 1 hour. Sangalaki Manta Paradise is situated near to the nearby beach or pier, actually.

Where to Stay

  • Sangalaki Dive Lodge Resort

Latest News

Another Famous Derawan: Sangalaki Island

Sangalaki Island is a small island covering an area of 15.9 hectares. This island is one of the islands that are part of Derawan Archipelago. Derawan Islands is a group of islands famous in the world. Aside from Sangalaki Island, another famous island of Derawan Islands are Kakaban and Derawan Island. Sangalaki Island located in the waters of the northern peninsula of Berau. Administratively, Sangalaki Island located in Berau Regency of East Kalimantan Province. Most sea turtles in the world are an endangered species. That includes species hawksbill and green…


Maratua Island, Berau – East Kalimantan

  Maratua island is one of the outer islands in Indonesia that located in Sulawesi Ocean and it bordered with Malaysia. Maratua island is administratively located on Berau regency, East Kalimantan. Maratua is a small and long island, and it has sharply curve at the edge and it located at the south side of Tarakan city. Maratua Island is also part of Derawan Islands.   By the strategic location and the richness of its marine, Maratua island is now popular by the Travelers from many countries. The tourists who give…


Bangkirai Hill, Balikpapan – East Borneo

Bangkirai Hill Bukit Bangkirai is a natural tourism area which is managed by PT. Inhutani I Unit I Balikpapan. This tourist area is located in Samboja District, Kutai regency, East Kalimantan. Bangkirai hill can be reached by traveling overland for 1.5 hours from the city of Balikpapan. This tour offers the charm of a tropical rain forest that is still natural, and facilitated with some infrastructures like restaurants, hall for meetings, a swimming pool and jungle cottage or cabin. In this area there is a canopy bridge along 64 m…


Bontang, Another Rich City

Bontang Bontang is a city in East Kalimantan province, Indonesia. The city is located about 120 kilometers from Samarinda, directly have border to the East Kutai regency in the north and west, Kutai Kartanegara regency in the south and Regency Makassar Strait in the east. In this city stand three large companies in different fields, Badak NGL (natural gas), East Kalimantan Fertilizer (fertilizer and ammonia), and Indominco Mandiri (Coal) and has a petrochemical industrial area called the Kaltim Industrial Estate. Bontang city itself is oriented in the industrial, services and…


Hotel Deals of the Day
Interesting Links
Indonesia Map HD
DiveWonderfulIndonesia.com
javatours.com
bali-hotel.com
Bromo
borneoecotour.com
Find Us on :
Find Us on :