Pulau Kembang (Flower Island)
A river island in Banjarmasin, home to hundreds of playful, yet sometimes bold, long-tailed macaques.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Monkeys are more active
Pulau Kembang (Flower Island)
Best Time
Monkeys are more active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A river island in Banjarmasin, home to hundreds of playful, yet sometimes bold, long-tailed macaques.
"The monkeys are naughty and can chase me, making me feel scared."
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are notorious for snatching items! Keep bags zipped and avoid dangling accessories.
🍌 Do Not Feed Monkeys
While tempting, feeding the monkeys can make them aggressive. Let them forage naturally.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Macaque Colony
Throughout the island
Witness hundreds of long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat. They are known for their playful and sometimes mischievous nature.
River Delta Scenery
Barito River
Enjoy the lush greenery and tranquil waters of the Barito River delta as you approach and depart the island.
Local Folklore
Island lore
Learn about the island's origins, rumored to be from the wreckage of an English ship, now a habitat for monkeys.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Monkey Encounters: Be Prepared!
Getting to Pulau Kembang
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are notorious for snatching items! Keep bags zipped and avoid dangling accessories.
🍌 Do Not Feed Monkeys
While tempting, feeding the monkeys can make them aggressive. Let them forage naturally.
🚤 Boat Trip Views
The boat ride to Pulau Kembang offers beautiful river scenery. Enjoy the journey! +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking on natural terrain, so wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are notorious for snatching items! Keep bags zipped and avoid dangling accessories.
🍌 Do Not Feed Monkeys
While tempting, feeding the monkeys can make them aggressive. Let them forage naturally.
🚤 Boat Trip Views
The boat ride to Pulau Kembang offers beautiful river scenery. Enjoy the journey! +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking on natural terrain, so wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm and humid. Bring plenty of water for your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pulau Kembang offers a unique wildlife encounter with its large monkey population, set against the backdrop of the scenic Barito River. While many enjoy the novelty of interacting with the macaques, a significant number of visitors express fear and dissatisfaction due to the monkeys' aggressive behavior and tendency to steal belongings. The island's cleanliness is also a point of concern for some.
"I don't like Kambang Island because there are lots of proboscis monkeys and the proboscis monkeys are naughty and can chase me."
Fadlina Azzahra
"I love nature but I don't really like to come here anymore. Too lots monkeys make me feel so scared. There are two monkeys jump up to my shoulder. I hate this incident."
Pearl Shinee
"I am very unhappy because there are many aggressive monkeys and they can attack visitors and then the monkeys steal tourist goods"
Zxsesa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Pulau Kembang is by hiring a boat from Banjarmasin. You can find boat services along the riverbanks or at designated piers. The journey takes you along the Barito River and offers scenic views. +2
Hiring a local boat is the recommended and most convenient way to access Pulau Kembang. This allows for flexibility and a more personalized experience of the river.
Public transport directly to the island is not available. You will need to arrange private boat hire from Banjarmasin.
The boat trip to Pulau Kembang typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on the starting point in Banjarmasin and river conditions.
Yes, many local tour operators in Banjarmasin offer packages that include a visit to Pulau Kembang, often combined with other attractions like the floating market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a formal entrance fee for the island itself, you will need to pay for the boat hire to get there. Prices can vary, so it's good to negotiate.
Pulau Kembang is a natural habitat and doesn't have set opening hours. Visitors typically go during daylight hours, with mornings being popular.
No, advance booking is not typically required for Pulau Kembang. You can arrange your boat hire on the spot.
The main consideration is respecting the wildlife. Avoid feeding the monkeys and keep your belongings secure.
Boat hire usually covers the round trip to the island. Some boatmen might offer to wait for you while you explore.
🎫 🐒 Wildlife & Nature
Pulau Kembang is primarily known for its large population of long-tailed macaques (monkeys). You might also spot various bird species. +1
The monkeys can be aggressive, especially if they perceive you have food. They have been known to snatch items from visitors. It's crucial to be cautious and avoid direct interaction.
It is strongly advised not to feed the monkeys. This can lead to aggressive behavior and dependency.
The safest way to 'interact' is to observe them from a distance. If you choose to bring food for them (not recommended), do so with extreme caution and follow local guidance.
Yes, Pulau Kembang is a natural attraction and a habitat for wildlife, located within a forest area. It's important to respect its natural state.
📸 📸 Photography
The main draw for photography is the abundance of monkeys. Capturing their interactions and expressions can yield great shots. The river scenery during the boat trip is also picturesque. +1
While tempting, getting too close for photos with monkeys can be risky. They might try to grab your camera or phone. Maintain a safe distance.
A zoom lens can be useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens is good for the river views. Protect your gear from humidity and potential splashes.
The entire island offers opportunities, but the riverbanks and clearings where monkeys gather are prime spots. The boat journey itself provides excellent vantage points.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Macaque Phenomenon
Local lore suggests that the island's monkey population has a unique origin story, possibly linked to the wreckage of an old English ship.
When planning your visit, be prepared for these close encounters. Secure all your belongings, avoid wearing flashy jewelry, and keep food items out of sight. The experience of seeing so many monkeys in one place is unforgettable, but it requires a mindful approach to ensure it remains a positive one.
Navigating the Barito River
Arranging boat hire is straightforward, with options available from various points in Banjarmasin. While prices can vary, negotiating with boatmen is common.
Beyond just transportation, the river journey offers a unique perspective on the region. It's an opportunity to see local life along the riverbanks and appreciate the natural beauty of the Kalimantan landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit