Mamake Hill and Papake Hill

Exploring the Charm of Mamake Hill and Papake Hill: Aviation Tourism Gems in Kotabaru

Kotabaru Regency, South Kalimantan, continuously offers stunning natural beauty. Among its exotic coastlines and archipelagos, there are two twin peaks that have now become very popular new tourist icons: Mamake Hill and Papake Hill. Located in Sarang Tiung Village, Pulau Laut Sigam District, these two hills offer a unique combination of sea panoramas, green hills, and an aviation tourism sensation rarely found elsewhere in Indonesia.

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Traces of History and Development Evolution

Mamake Hill and Papake Hill are not just newly discovered high mounds of earth. Historically, this area was part of a protected natural landscape that preserved the ecosystem of Pulau Laut. However, its major transformation began around 2020 through the initiative of the Kotabaru Regency Government under the leadership of Regent H. Sayed Jafar.

The development of smooth access roads to the summit became a major turning point. Previously, this area was only accessible to local hikers or wood hunters. With the vision of making Kotabaru an international tourist destination, supporting facilities such as gazebos, viewing decks, and airstrips for aviation sports began to be built massively. This evolution transformed the face of the "silent hills" into a modern recreational center that still maintains its natural authenticity.

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Tourism Experience: Between Adrenaline and Serenity

The main attraction of Mamake Hill is the 360-degree view it offers. From a height of approximately 200 meters above sea level, visitors can witness the magical blend of the blue Laut Strait, passing ships, and the expanse of lush tropical forests.

For adrenaline junkies, Mamake Hill has been designated as a location for paragliding and hang gliding. The stable winds and the right contour of the hill make this place one of the best spots in Kalimantan for flying. Experiencing the sensation of soaring over the sea while gazing at the Kotabaru coastline is a unique and unforgettable recreational experience.

Meanwhile, Papake Hill, located nearby, offers a slightly different yet complementary nuance. If Mamake emphasizes height and vast views, Papake is often used for relaxed activities and photo spots with a backdrop of distant island clusters.

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Recreational Facilities and Visitor Comfort

The local government has equipped this area with various facilities to ensure visitor comfort:

1. Asphalted Access Road: One of the main advantages is the smooth asphalted access road all the way to the summit, allowing both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles to ascend easily.

2. Viewing Deck: There are several aesthetically designed wooden and concrete balcony points for taking photos (Instagrammable) with a sea backdrop.

3. Gazebos and Rest Areas: Seating areas spread across the hilltop allow families to picnic while enjoying the gentle breeze.

4. Modern Lighting: The installation of decorative lights and streetlights keeps the area charming and safe to visit at night.

5. Local Culinary Stalls: Around the parking area, local vendors serve snacks and drinks, giving visitors the opportunity to taste Kotabaru's signature snacks.

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Family-Friendly Destination

Mamake Hill and Papake Hill are designed as family-friendly destinations. Safety is a priority with guardrails at the edge of the cliffs. For families with children, the spacious summit area provides room for children to explore nature without the need for strenuous hiking.

A favorite family activity here is camping. On weekends, many families set up tents to enjoy quality time under the stars. Toilet facilities and the availability of clean water at several points greatly support overnight activities, making the "back to nature" experience comfortable.

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Cultural Significance and Community Role

The presence of Mamake and Papake Hill tourism has a significant socio-economic impact on the community of Sarang Tiung Village and its surroundings. Culturally, this place serves as a platform for interaction between international tourists (especially paragliders) and local residents.

The local community is actively involved in managing parking, cleanliness, and security. This creates a sense of ownership among the community towards their tourism assets. Furthermore, the area often becomes a center for cultural activities and festivals, such as kite festivals or national-level paragliding championships, which strengthen Kotabaru's identity as a tourist city.

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Visitor Information and Best Times to Visit

To get the best experience, visitors are advised to consider the timing of their visit:

• Golden Hour (Morning & Afternoon): Arrive at 05:30 WITA to witness the sunrise emerging from behind the sea, or at 17:00 WITA to enjoy the sunset that turns the sky purple.
• Night: Mamake Hill offers a view of the sparkling "City Light" of Kotabaru City below, providing a romantic and tranquil atmosphere.
• Weather Conditions: Due to its open location, it is highly recommended to visit during clear weather. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a jacket if you plan to visit at night as the summit winds can be quite strong.

This location is about a 20-30 minute drive from the center of Kotabaru City. The entrance fee is very affordable, usually only covering cleanliness and vehicle parking retribution fees.

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Conclusion

Mamake Hill and Papake Hill are a manifestation of Kotabaru's natural potential managed with modernity. It is not just a photo spot, but a recreational space that offers a harmony between aviation adventure, maritime beauty, and the warmth of the local community. For anyone setting foot in Bumi Saijaan, climbing these twin peaks is a must to understand why Kotabaru is often dubbed a piece of paradise on the coast of South Kalimantan.