Kakaban is one of thousand beautiful islands in Indonesia, lies on the East of Kalimantan. It’s 774.2 hectare large and located in the coast of Derawan small archipelago. The shape of the land is hugging a lake in the middle. The lake contains sea water which is trapped within 50 meters, turning the area into a landlocked marine. This big pond holds biodiversity inside of it. Some strange species and other typical ones live in there. The lake’s twin was found in Palau, Micronesia, with the distance 1000 kilometers from Philippine. It’s two only in the world.

This brackish water environment contains the world’s largest and most diverse jellyfish. Marine expert commented there are famous four species of stingless as well as one of an upside-down species Cassiopea or possibly called as Cassiopea Xamachana. A scientist from Canada convinced this amazing place as the Biological Paradise. There are three types of Halimeda green algae covering the bottom, mangrove roots live around with the tunicates, sponges, tube worms, crustacean, anemones, sea cucumbers, sea snakes and at least five known species of gobies. Many other varieties are in large quantity.

Tourists from all over the world are keen to visit the place, especially for diving and science purposes. Recently, Derawan Islands which is being considered for nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site included Kakaban.

Everybody who explore the lake with diving or snorkeling tools or even only watch the documenter film of Kakaban's under water will see it as a precious source. Divers have recognized well some points here, such as Barracuda Point, The Drift, Cabbage Patch, The Wall, Blue Light Cave, The Plateau, Rainbow Run, Diver’s Delight and The North Face. Those several of location types are very favorable for experienced divers.

The best time to visit during April to December.

How to get there

Fly from Balikpapan to Tanjung Redep, the capital of Berau district, East Kalimantan. Then take a speedboat to reach Kakaban through Derawan and Sangkali Islands in 20 to 30 minutes (costs around three thousand rupiahs by traditional boat, 3 x traditional boat price for speed boat).

More information about the Island please click here and for flight schedule please click here

Happy Traveling!

Photo Credits: indo-spot.blogspot.com