Joanna James
Bintan has always been the go-to location for a quick weekend getaway. Lately, it has been growing in the family-adventure category, too. These are the top family-friendly things to do in Bintan.
Does Bintan have a desert? You bet! When you think of Bintan, the first thing you think of is resorts and beaches, but the island has a beautiful desert tract you would not want to miss. Surrounded by a lake with the most gorgeous glacial blue, the Busung Desert features sand dunes. Formerly a bauxite mine, it was only recently that the Busung Desert became a top pick for fun and adventure.
Glide down the Sebung River on a boat with your family, admiring the mangroves that populate the riverbanks; a crucial part of the riverside ecosystem. You’ll be paddling through the thick coastal vegetation where monitor lizards and snakes peek out every now and then, so keep an eye out. Common marine encounters include clams and skippers fish.
Guided tours are available and conducted at different times of the day. If you book a tour later in the day, you’ll see the riverbanks light up with fireflies; just find friendly tour operators who’ll be more than happy to organise a guided tour for you. Alternatively, resorts like The Residence Bintan by Cenizaro, which is a popular Bintan 5 star resort, offer mangrove adventures too.
For families that never tire of adventure, an ATV adventure is ideal. Go fast or slow – it's completely up to you. You’ll be exploring the beaches and the rough terrain of jungles, running into rare wildlife species. An ATV adventure isn’t something you can enjoy without getting a speck of dust, so wear something you don’t mind getting dirty.
If you’ve been indulging in your resort’s many comforts, it’s easy to forget that Bintan is an island with a gorgeous coastline serving up stunning white beaches. They’re worth your time, so make sure to include them in your itinerary. Trikora Beach, with its soft white sand, is ideal for sunbathing, attracting crowds both local and foreign. Then, 15 minutes away, you have Whit Sands Island, a private island often featured in island-hopping adventures offered by resorts – the island is one of the best spots for kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
Parents wishing to teach their kids about the importance of treating other living beings with love and compassion should visit Safari Lagoi. It’s an animal rescue centre that’s home to a number of wild animals, including elephants and crocodiles – all these animals have been rescued from the illegal pet trade and the horrid exotic meat markets. Safari Lagoi also features an eco-farm where fruits and veggies are produced ethically.
For wannabe chefs, Bintan Island offers various cooking classes. You can learn to make a variety of local dishes and then enjoy them right then and there. Some five-star resorts offer cooking classes as part of the guest experience. Farm-to-table culinary experiences are a particular favourite with tourists. You’ll pick the ingredients from the hotel’s gardens and create a few authentic Indonesian culinary masterpieces. Some classes even offer certificates.
Here’s a valuable opportunity to learn the art of batik dyeing, a charming part of Indonesian culture. Some resorts offer the activity, and the duration is typically an hour. Fabric, tools, and paint will all be provided.
Enjoy a soothing, rejuvenating spa treatment during your time here. There’s a range of treatments to choose from. Rice and spice spa treatments are a top choice. Some of these treatments also include a preceding yoga session.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
