Derawan Island Trip Cost and Package Prices
Updated: August 2026
Understanding the Cost of a Trip to Derawan Island
Derawan Island, a serene paradise in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, making it a hotspot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The trip costs vary based on your choices, including accommodation, activities, and travel arrangements, but it’s feasible to tailor a visit to suit your budget.
Overview of Costs Associated with a Derawan Island Trip
Planning a trip to Derawan Island involves multiple elements, each contributing to your overall expenses. Here, we’ll break down the potential costs to help you create a comprehensive budget.
1. Travel to Derawan Island
- Flights: The entry point is Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau. You book your own flights; they are not included in our trips.
- Transfers: From Kalimarau Airport it is about 2.5 to 3 hours by road to Tanjung Batu, then about 40 minutes by speedboat to Derawan Island. The car and speedboat transfers are included in our trips.
2. Accommodation Options and Costs
Accommodations on Derawan Island cater to a range of budgets, from budget homestays to luxurious water cottages.
- Water Cottages: For a unique experience, stay in a water cottage such as Reza Derawan Resort or Water Cottage Alfit VIP Derawan; a private 3D2N trip staying there starts from USD 1,290 in total for 2 guests.
3. Diving Packages on Derawan Island
Diving is one of the main attractions at Derawan Island, with numerous sites featuring stunning underwater scenery and diverse marine life.
- Diving: Our Derawan trips are snorkel-based; scuba diving is not included. Most dive sites range from 10 to 30 meters in depth.
4. Snorkeling Tours and Costs
If diving isn’t your thing, snorkeling is a fantastic alternative, allowing you to experience the vibrant marine life just below the surface.
- Open Trip: Our 4D3N open trip costs USD 280 per person (VIP USD 300), with a minimum of 7 guests. This includes the snorkel kit (mask, snorkel and life jacket) and guides.
- Private Trips: For a more personalized experience, a private 3D2N trip starts from USD 1,290 in total for 2 guests (Standard; Premium USD 1,390), and a private 4D3N from USD 2,190 in total for 2 guests.
5. Island Hopping Costs
Exploring the nearby islands is a must while visiting Derawan. Island hopping allows you to discover stunning locations like Sangalaki and Kakaban, famous for their jellyfish lake.
- Island Hopping Tours: Island hopping to Maratua, Kakaban and Sangalaki, with meals and snorkeling gear, is included in our trips.
6. Daily Budget on Derawan Island
What you pay depends on the trip and the stay you choose. Here’s how our trips compare:
| Expense Type | Open Trip 4D3N | Private 3D2N Standard | Private 3D2N Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Included (Water Cottage Standard) | Included (the stay you choose) | Included (the stay you choose) |
| Food | Included (9 meals) | Included (6 meals) | Included (6 meals) |
| Activities | Included | Included | Included |
| Total | USD 280 per person | From USD 1,290 total for 2 | From USD 1,390 total for 2 |
7. Special Considerations and Tips
When planning your trip to Derawan Island, keep the following points in mind:
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is included in our trips, along with entrance fees.
- Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit are generally from April to November when the weather is drier and visibility underwater is optimal.
- Cash Payments: Many local places do not accept credit cards, so ensure to bring enough cash (IDR) for your entire stay.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about the costs associated with a trip to Derawan Island:
- What is the average cost of a Derawan Island tour?
Our private 3D2N trip starts from USD 1,290 in total for 2 guests, the private 4D3N from USD 2,190 in total for 2 guests, and the 4D3N open trip is USD 280 per person (VIP USD 300). - How much should I budget per day?
Stay, meals, transfers, guides, snorkel kit, entrance fees and travel insurance are included in our trips, so you mainly budget for flights, fins, tips and personal expenses. - Are there any package deals available?
Yes, our trips are packages that cover accommodation, meals, and activities: the 4D3N open trip is USD 280 per person, and a private 4D3N starts from USD 2,190 in total for 2 guests.
, visiting Derawan Island can fit a variety of budgets. With careful planning, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty and vibrant marine life of this hidden gem without breaking the bank. Consider your preferences and make arrangements ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Start planning your adventure to Derawan Island today!
h3>2. Accommodation Options and Costs
Accommodations on Derawan Island cater to a range of budgets, from budget homestays to luxurious water cottages.
- Our Stays: The stays we offer run from water cottages on Derawan (Reza Derawan Resort, Water Cottage Alfit VIP Derawan) to Sienna Resort, Pratasaba Seheku Lodge and Maratua resorts such as Maratua Paradise Resort, Borneo Cottage Maratua and Arasatu Resort’s Floating Villa. The price of your trip depends on the stay you choose.
3. Activity Costs on Derawan Island
Engaging in various activities can significantly impact your overall budget. Here are the common activities and associated costs you should consider:
- Diving: Our Derawan trips are snorkel-based; scuba diving is not included. Popular dive sites like Maratua and Kakaban are must-visits for their vibrant marine life.
- Snorkeling Tours: If you prefer staying above water, snorkeling is included in our trips, with a snorkel kit (mask, snorkel and life jacket). These tours often cover multiple sites, such as the famous jellyfish lake on Kakaban Island.
- Island Hopping: Island hopping is included in our trips. These tours offer a chance to explore neighboring islands like Sangalaki, known for its manta ray sightings.
4. Food and Dining Expenses
Dining on Derawan Island can be as economical or luxurious as you prefer, depending on the type of experience you seek.
- Local Warungs: Affordable meal options can be found in local warungs (small eateries), where dishes often feature fresh seafood, rice, and local vegetables.
- Meals on Our Trips: Meals are included in our trips (6 meals on a 3D2N, 9 on a 4D3N); lunch in Berau on the last day is at your own expense.
5. Practical Tips for Budgeting Your Trip
To make the most of your budget while visiting Derawan Island, consider the following practical tips:
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid the peak holiday months from June to September when flight prices are at their highest. Visiting in April or late October can help you save on flights, which you book yourself.
- Book Activities in Advance: Secure your trip in advance to ensure availability.
- Bring Cash: ATMs are limited on the island, so it’s advisable to bring enough cash for your expenses. Ensure you have Indonesian Rupiah as USD may not be accepted.
- Pack Meals or Snacks: Consider bringing snacks or energy bars, especially if you’re planning a full day of activities. This can help save money on food costs while you’re out exploring.
