Bintan Blue lake and desert — Local services in Bintan Island

Bintan Desert and Blue Lake

To get there, whether you're coming from Tanjung Uban or Tanjung Pinang, it’s quite a distance. We rented a car, which in my opinion is much cheaper (saved us a ton of money) than hiring a car with a driver. However, do keep in mind: the driving style and local motorists can be wild, so drive cautiously. You don’t want to cause an “international accident”!

Entrance Fees: As a foreigner, I was charged 30,000 IDR per adult. My child was 6 years old and got in for free – no charge.

The Heat: The heat was extreme. I used the strongest sunscreen (bought specifically for this trip), but still felt like I was drying out. Make sure to bring your own drinking water. Umbrella rentals are available for 5,000 IDR from many warungs in the area. Cold drinks are easy to find – I had a fresh coconut, which was perfect.

Getting to the Blue Lake: There’s a short walk to the famous Blue Lake, but under the blazing sun, it feels much longer. Transport is available for 20,000 IDR per person, but in my opinion, it's not worth it since the distance is short and the lake is visible from afar.

The Desert Area: While walking toward the Blue Lake, there was a strong urine smell in a small area. I assume it came from horses nearby.

Blue Lake: Take your time to capture photos – it's worth it.

Photography Tip: Visit between 10 AM and 4 PM (we arrived around 2 PM). I recommend 12 PM to 2 PM for the best lighting. When the sun is directly above, photos come out naturally bright – no need for editing or filters. Earlier or later in the day, shadows might affect your shots.

There are two people offering photo services:

A professional photographer using a DSLR camera is available near the lake. The fee is 50,000 IDR. I didn't take this offer.

The owl handler offers photo sessions with a live owl for 30,000 IDR per person. He took photos and videos using my phone, and did a fantastic job. I’d rate the owl photo experience 10/10 – especially for the handler’s creativity and angles.

In Conclusion: If you're going for photos and a unique experience, it’s definitely worth a visit. But if you're only making the trip just for pictures without exploring more of Bintan, then it might not be worth it.

I stayed 2 nights in Bintan. It’s a great spot for nature and adventure, but not ideal for shopping –...

I recently visited Blue Lake Bintan, surrounded by breathtaking sand dunes, and had an absolute blast! The giant sand dunes looked incredibly natural, making our photos truly unforgettable 🙌. The blue lake itself is stunning, with picturestiq ue views that made our experience truly special. Although it's a medium-sized lake, its beauty and serenity left us in awe.

Kudos to our excellent tour guide, who provided seamless transportation from our hotel room and took us to a lovely souvenir shop. Special thanks to Mr. Ben, our courteous and knowledgeable driver, who ensured our trip was smooth and enjoyable. His expertise helped us navigate unfamiliar areas with ease. Overall, our visit to Blue Lake Bintan was an unforgettable adventure, and we're grateful for the amazing service and...

Blue Lake and the Sand Dunes on Bintan Island offer a serene, otherworldly experience with landscapes that are truly Instagram-worthy. The crystal-clear turquoise water of Blue Lake reflects the sky beautifully, creating a stunning and photogenic scene. The vast golden sand dunes enhance the picturesque setting, making it perfect for capturing breathtaking shots.

While the walk from the parking area is a bit long, the peaceful surroundings are well worth it. The location can get very hot, especially on clear days, so it’s best to prepare accordingly. Bring your hats, umbrella, sunblock etc. For added fun, visitors can enjoy ATV rides across the dunes. There are also designated photo spots and a photographer stall for professional shoots, making this an unforgettable, scenic...