West Kalimantan is an Indonesian province known for its diverse cultures, quiet rainforest interiors, and remote natural attractions.
One destination that is slowly gaining attention among adventure-minded travellers is Terinting Waterfall, also known locally as Riam Terinting or Air Terjun Terinting in Indonesian language.
Terinting Waterfall: A Hidden Jurassic-Style Adventure in West Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia
Surrounded by dense forests and steep hills, this area offers an atmosphere that resembles scenes from Jurassic Park, untouched nature, tall cliffs, and a landscape shaped by ancient geological activity.
Unlike mainstream tourist sites in Bali or Lombok, Terinting Waterfall remains relatively unknown and requires effort to reach.
However, for foreign visitors seeking an authentic outdoor experience in Indonesian Borneo, this waterfall offers a rare journey through forests, valleys, and highland terrain dominated by local Dayak communities.
Why Terinting Waterfall Feels Like a Jurassic-Style Landscape
There’s a viral video circulated in social media that show the beauty of Terinting Waterfall. Netizen even called the place like a Jurassic Movie come to live. But, there’s more than this beauty.
Terinting Waterfall or Rambo Terinting Waterfall is a waterfall located in Engkangin Village, Air Besar Subdistrict, Landak Regency, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia. A not so familiar place like other tourist destination like Bali and Lombok.
A Remote Paradise in the Land of West Kalimantan
Terinting Waterfall sits deep inside the Landak Regency, in the Air Besar District. The surrounding environment consists of primary rainforest, narrow ridges, and steep riverbanks. The area has limited road access and no commercial tourism development. Wildlife calls echo across the valley, while rivers cut through large rock formations shaped by natural fault lines.
For travellers familiar with Borneo’s reputation for thick jungle landscapes, this location captures that image completely. The long approach, the dense tree canopy, and the sound of water hitting the cliff contribute to an atmosphere that feels far from urban life.
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A Waterfall Formed by an Ancient Fault Line
The waterfall is approximately 50 metres high and part of the Ensiang River system. The water drops over a cliff formed by a major geological fault, resulting in a tall, narrow cascade framed by rugged rock walls. Mist rises from the base of the waterfall, creating soft moisture in the air and giving the area a calm and cool atmosphere.
The waterfall sits at an elevation of 400–600 metres above sea level, offering a naturally higher vantage point than many other waterfalls in West Kalimantan. On clear mornings, clouds often settle in the surrounding hills, creating a view that looks like a field of mist below the treeline.
Things to Do in Terinting Waterfall
Trekking Through Forest and Valley Routes
Reaching Terinting Waterfall requires a 6–7 hour trek from the final rest post in Serimbu. The route passes through bamboo groves, river crossings, narrow ridges, and stretches of rainforest. Hikers must be physically fit, as the terrain is uneven and often slippery after rain.
Local guides assist with navigation and ensure safe movement through forest paths that are not marked or maintained. For foreign visitors, hiring a guide is essential, not only for safety but also for cultural insight along the way.
River Exploration and Highland Views
Along the hiking route, travellers encounter the Ensiang River and its smaller tributaries. These freshwater streams offer rest points for cooling off. The terrain gradually rises toward higher hills, giving visitors occasional viewpoints where clouds drift below the horizon. The feeling of walking along the hillside above the mist resembles stepping into a prehistoric landscape.
Entrance Fee and Local Services
There is no official entrance fee to visit Terinting Waterfall. The only mandatory cost is the local guide fee, agreed upon directly with villagers in Serimbu or Engkangin. Guides usually accompany visitors for the full trekking and camping period.
Some villagers may offer motorbike taxis (ojek) for the Ngabang–Serimbu stretch during dry seasons, but availability varies.
How to Get to Terinting Waterfall
Most travellers begin their journey from Pontianak. The route is as follows:
Pontianak – Ngabang (4–5 hours by car or motorbike)
Ngabang is the capital of Landak Regency and the last urban area before entering the highlands.
Ngabang – Serimbu Rest Post (approx. 2 hours): Roads narrow as the landscape changes into hills and dense forest. The rest post is the final point accessible by vehicle.
Serimbu – Terinting Waterfall (6–7 hours on foot): This section requires a guide. The path includes river crossings and steep ascents.
