Samarinda, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Samarinda, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Samarinda, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Samarinda, Indonesia

Based on the climate and weather in Samarinda, Indonesia, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Samarinda, Indonesia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Samarinda, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Samarinda, Indonesia by month

January

If you are traveling to Samarinda in January, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

February

February for Samarinda can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

March

If you go to Samarinda in March, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

April

If you are traveling to Samarinda in April, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

May

May in this region is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

June

If you go to Samarinda in June, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

July

If you go to Samarinda in July, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

August

If you are traveling to Samarinda in August, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

September

September in Samarinda can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

October

If you are traveling to Samarinda in October, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

November

November for Samarinda can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

December

December is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samarinda. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the must-see Islamic Center Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Samarinda tourism authority.

What to do in Samarinda, Indonesia

Samarinda is a bustling city located on the banks of the Mahakam River in the East Kalimantan province of Indonesia. Known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a wide range of natural wonders, this city has a lot to offer to both international and domestic tourists. In this article, we've rounded up the top tourist attractions in Samarinda that are worth visiting.

1. Mahakam River

As one of the longest rivers in Indonesia, the Mahakam River is a quintessential attraction of Samarinda. This river serves as the center of life and livelihood for the people of Samarinda, and a river cruise is a great way to experience it up close. While cruising through the Mahakam River, you'll get to see several unique landscapes that include the famous floating market, local fishing villages, exotic wildlife, and traditional dayak houses.

2. Sangatta Beach

Sangatta Beach is a natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. The white sands of the beach and crystal clear water make it a perfect place for a relaxing vacation. The beach is also a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving as it is home to beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish.

3. Bukit Bangkirai

Bukit Bangkirai is a beautiful natural park that is located about 35 km from Samarinda. The park is home to several species of flora and fauna, including the towering Bangkirai trees. The park itself offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking or trekking, canopy walks, and enjoying the beautiful rainforest.

4. Tenggarong Palace Museum

Tenggarong Palace Museum is a historical destination that showcases the rich culture and history of the Kutai Kingdom. It is located about 25 km from Samarinda and was once the palace of the Kutai kings. The museum houses several artifacts, including ancient jewelry, sculptures, historical documents, and photographs.

5. Islamic Center

The Islamic Center of Samarinda is a sacred place that portrays the Islamic heritage of Indonesia. The center is an excellent example of modern Islamic architecture and boasts a beautiful mosque that can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. The center also serves as a hub for Islamic cultural events and social assistance initiatives.

In conclusion, Samarinda is a city full of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks. The above-mentioned are just a few top tourist attractions in Samarinda that you should visit on your next trip to Indonesia. In addition to these, there are several other attractions worth exploring in this vibrant city that will surely leave you awe-inspired.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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