2 Day 1 Night / Trip to Bintan desert and blue lake

Bintan’s 2-Day, 1-Night Desert and Blue Lake Adventure is a surprisingly comprehensive experience that balances nature, culture, and relaxation. For just under $100 per person, this private tour takes you from the Bandar Bentan Telani ferry terminal directly to some of Bintan’s most photogenic sites, including the stunning Blue Lake, the vast Bintan Desert, and cultural stops like Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha monastery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Bintan’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail.

What we love most about this tour is how seamless the logistics are—private transfers make arriving and departing stress-free, and the inclusion of meals at a local seafood restaurant adds a delicious local flavor. We also appreciate the flexibility; you get to see both the desert and Blue Lake, which are quite different but equally captivating. However, potential travelers should be aware that the tour is quite packed, so if you’re seeking a slow, leisurely pace or a deep dive into each site, this might feel rushed.

This tour suits those who are eager to see Bintan’s highlights in a short amount of time—families, couples, or solo travelers wanting an efficient yet memorable escape. It’s especially recommended if you value authentic experiences, like sampling local seafood or exploring cultural temples, combined with stunning natural scenery.

Key Points

• Convenience Matters: Private transfers from ferry terminals or resorts make this hassle-free.
• Diverse Sights: From the wide desert landscape to the tranquil Blue Lake, the tour offers a good variety.
• Cultural Stops: Monasteries and temples provide insight into local Buddhist heritage.
• Authentic Food: Tucking into fresh seafood at Kelong Bintan Brother adds a local touch.
• Flexible & Private: Tailored to your group, without the rush of large tour groups.
• Value for Money: At less than $100, it covers transportation, meals, and multiple attractions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: An Introduction to Bintan’s Natural and Cultural Beauty

The tour kicks off around 8:30 am, with private pickup straight from the ferry terminal or your resort, which already sets a relaxed tone. The first stop is Bintan Island’s coastline, where we get a quick glimpse of the island’s reputation for luxury resorts and lush beaches. While not the main focus of this tour, it’s a nice warm-up to the scenic beauty here.

Next, you visit the Bintan Mangrove Cottage for about an hour. This is where the tour shines—many reviews highlight the Mangrove and Fireflies Discovery Tour‘s appeal. The guides are knowledgeable, making the mangrove ecosystem come alive. As one reviewer put it, “the mangrove tour was very satisfying, and the dense mangroves were a highlight.” Expect to see vibrant mangroves, and if you’re lucky, fireflies flickering at dusk. It’s a peaceful, authentic nature experience, especially appreciated for the chance to learn about local ecosystems.

A highlight for many is the lunch at Kelong Bintan Brother Seafood, the only restaurant built on stilts over the sea. Here, you’ll indulge in fresh seafood—think Gong-Gong snails, Black Pepper Crab, and Stir Fried Butter Prawns—prepared in a blend of Asian and local flavors. The open-air setting offers cooling breezes and panoramic views, making it more than just a meal; it’s a sensory experience. Reviews rave about the reasonably priced, high-quality food, and many say it’s worth the visit for the views alone.

In the afternoon, the tour visits the Blue Lake and Desert. The Blue Lake is a mesmerizing sight—crystal-clear waters surrounded by volcanic rock formations—and it’s a photographer’s paradise. The desert landscape offers sweeping dunes and a sense of otherworldliness. Many reviewers emphasize that these sights are truly Instagram-worthy and provide a nice contrast to Bintan’s more lush scenes. The entire visit lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Day 2: Cultural and Relaxing Highlights

The second day begins with a visit to Plaza Lagoi, a resort area with a relaxed vibe. While primarily a shopping and leisure spot, it offers a peaceful morning before heading back. You’ll spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps picking up souvenirs.

Throughout the trip, private 2-way transfers ensure smooth transitions between sites, allowing you to relax rather than stress over logistics. The entire experience ends around mid-afternoon, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the natural wonders and cultural insights gained.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

One of the strengths of this tour is the balance between nature, culture, and food. The cultural stops like the Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha monastery and the 500 Lohan Temple provide a peaceful glimpse into Buddhist heritage. While not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, reviews suggest that guides often recommend local temples, which enrich the day’s experience.

The ** seafood lunch** at Kelong Bintan Brother is praised for being both delicious and reasonably priced. Many travelers highlight that the seafood is fresh and prepared with care, making it a memorable part of the trip. The open-air setting on stilts over the sea adds to the charm, allowing you to enjoy your meal immersed in natural beauty.

Another highlight is the Blue Lake, which is frequently described as “truly extraordinary,” with clear waters perfect for photos or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. The desert provides an unusual landscape for Bintan, giving a feeling of vastness and a break from the lush greenery common elsewhere on the island.

Transportation and Practicalities

Transportation is a key part of this tour’s appeal. The private transfers mean you won’t have to worry about navigating or sharing space with strangers. The convenience of pickup from the Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) ferry terminal or your resort is a major plus, especially if you’re arriving tired from a boat ride.

The tour is designed for most travelers—it’s accessible, and reviews suggest the guides are helpful and accommodating. The duration of about two days makes it manageable even for those with limited time, and the price—$97.44 per person—offers good value considering the included attractions, meals, and private transportation.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity. You’re not just ticking boxes for touristy sights but are experiencing real Bintan—from its coastal seafood markets to its cultural temples and pristine lakes. Several reviewers mention that the sites are beautiful, clean, and peaceful, perfect for those looking to relax and recharge.

The value is particularly noticeable when you consider that the tour covers meals, transfers, and admission tickets at key sites. For under $100, you get a well-rounded glimpse into Bintan’s natural and cultural environment, especially appreciated if you’re on a budget but still want meaningful experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a condensed, authentic taste of Bintan without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you appreciate nature and cultural sites and want to enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed setting. However, if you’re seeking a slow pace or in-depth exploration, you might find this tour a bit rushed—there’s a lot packed into two days.

If you’re interested in photography, the Blue Lake and desert landscapes offer fantastic opportunities. For those who enjoy learning about local culture, the temples and monasteries make the experience richer. And if seafood is your thing, the lunch at Kelong Bintan Brother will not disappoint.

The Sum Up

In sum, this 2-day, 1-night Bintan tour offers a compelling balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and authentic local food. Its private transfers and inclusive features make it a highly convenient choice for travelers short on time but eager to experience the best of Bintan. The beautifully diverse scenery—from lush mangroves and serene lakes to vast deserts—adds variety and keeps the itinerary engaging.

While it’s not a slow, meditative experience, it’s perfect for those wanting a well-organized, value-packed escape that maximizes sights without feeling rushed. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, delicious seafood, and stunning views, confirming that this tour delivers on its promises.

If you’re after an authentic, hassle-free way to see Bintan’s highlights—especially if you appreciate nature, culture, and good food—this is a tour worth considering. It’s a great introduction for first-timers and a handy escape for seasoned visitors wanting a quick, fulfilling getaway.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private 2-way transfers from the ferry terminal or other resorts are included, making arrivals and departures very smooth.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy two meals, including a seafood lunch at Kelong Bintan Brother, which is praised for its freshness and flavor.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Canceling less than 24 hours in advance means no refund.

What attractions will I see?
You’ll visit the Bintan Desert, Blue Lake, mangroves, and cultural sites like temples and monasteries, plus enjoy some time in Tanjung Pinang.

How long is each stop?
Most stops are around 1 to 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely, reviews mention the experience is family-friendly, with safe, engaging sites and comfortable transportation.

What is the price for this tour?
The cost is approximately $97.44 per person, including all transportation, meals, and entrance fees, offering good value for a full two-day experience.

In short, this tour is a practical, enjoyable way to explore Bintan’s highlights with minimal fuss. It’s especially great for those wanting a balanced mix of nature, culture, and local cuisine wrapped into a private, worry-free package.