The Top 11 Bintan Island Tours & Experiences

Bintan Island isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a place where you can truly experience the local vibe, whether you want a laid-back beach day or an active exploration of mangroves and cultural sights. We particularly love how many of these tours combine natural beauty with authentic local encounters — like the Private Bintan Car Charter that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, or the Treasure Bay Bintan resort that delivers both fun and relaxation in one spot. The variety means there’s something for all, whether you prefer a guided tour or a more flexible, free-and-easy style.

If you’re trying to decide, think about how much time you have, your budget, and what sort of experiences excite you most. For a quick taste of Bintan’s highlights, the Half Day Tour 4 to 6 Hours Free and Easy is perfect, while the Full Day Private Tour suits those wanting an in-depth look. The detailed options below will help you pick the best experience for your visit.

1. Half Day Tour 4 to 6 Hours Free and Easy

This free and easy sightseeing trip is a breeze if you want to explore Bintan without a strict schedule. The tour covers several of the island’s favorite spots, including Bintan Blue Lake, Vihara Dharma Shanti, Patung Penyu Raksasa, and the Cliff Cafe with views of Bintan Mountain. Your driver-guide speaks English well and closely follows your requests, making it ideal for travelers who want flexibility and local insights.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of popular spots and the relaxed pace. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 by six reviewers, who mention the punctuality and friendly service of the driver, as well as the ease of customizing stops. At $57.75 per group (up to 7), it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Bintan’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: If you prefer a no-hassle introduction to Bintan’s top sights with the flexibility to choose what interests you most, this half-day tour offers excellent value and friendly service.

2. Bintan Island: Mangrove Or Fireflies Tour

For a quieter, nature-focused experience, the Mangrove Or Fireflies Tour is a standout. It takes you along the Sebong River, where you can choose between a daytime mangrove exploration or a magical fireflies experience at night. This tour offers a chance to learn about the eco-system directly from guides, making it ideal for families or nature lovers.

The tour lasts from 1.5 to 4 hours, with pick-up available from numerous locations like Nirwana Resort and Lagoi Bay. It’s rated 4.8 based on six reviews, with visitors praising the peaceful setting and memorable moments with loved ones, especially during the fireflies’ glow. The highlight is capturing timeless photos against the backdrop of mangroves or glowing insects—a rare, authentic experience.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a peaceful adventure that emphasizes Indonesia’s rich mangrove environment. It’s flexible in timing and caters well to those who appreciate wildlife and quiet beauty.

3. Private Bintan Car Charter

The Private Bintan Car Charter offers the freedom to create your own day — no scheduled stops, just a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced driver. With around $58 for a roughly 7-hour trip, this is a flexible way to visit Bintan’s key spots at your own pace.

It includes stops like the Bintan Desert Sand Dunes, the Sleeping Buddha Statue in Tanjung Uban, and the stunning Blue Lakes. Reviewers commend the driver’s knowledge and kindness, noting the driver’s ability to adapt to their preferences, whether it was sightseeing, photography, or simply relaxing. The convenience and personalized itinerary make this ideal for independent travelers or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

Bottom Line: If you prefer control over your day and want to explore multiple attractions without the constraints of a group tour, this private car charter is a practical and comfortable choice.

4. Treasure Bay Bintan Island Resort: 1-Day Entry Ticket

For a fun-filled day without leaving the resort, the Treasure Bay Bintan entry ticket grants access to Southeast Asia’s first man-made seawater lagoon. Spread over 6.3 hectares, the lagoon is perfect for activities like paddle boating or trying out the rodeo bull. It’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone wanting some leisure and splashy fun.

At just $8 per person, the access fee is a bargain considering the variety of activities available. The resort’s blend of relaxing and energetic options makes it a popular choice, especially for those who want a relaxed day with a touch of adventure. The lagoon, combined with food options and lively atmosphere, makes it stand out.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a casual day of water activities, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want a convenient spot to unwind with minimal planning.

5. Private Bintan Full Day Tour

This full-day private tour is a fantastic way to see a broad slice of Bintan’s scenery and culture. Starting at 9:30 AM, it packs in visits to Vihara Dharma Shanti, Blue Lake, and Bintan Desert, plus a scenic lunch at a floating restaurant called Rumah Makan Rindu Selalu. The tour also includes stops at local markets and the Pondok Bintan 11 shop.

Rated 5.0 by one reviewer, the tour features a flexible itinerary with an experienced guide who can tailor the day to your interests. The price, at $48.01 per person, includes all entrance fees and transport, offering strong value. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a personalized, all-in-one day of sightseeing, culture, and nature, this full-day tour delivers a lot for a reasonable price.

6. Bintan Car Rental

If you prefer total independence, renting a car with an English-speaking driver is a flexible option. For about $48, you get a vehicle for 4-8 hours, with the benefit of choosing exactly where to go and when. The service covers 17 pickup and drop-off locations, including popular resorts like Banyan Tree and Nirwana Resort.

Reviewers appreciate the ease of communication and the experience of the driver, with some mentioning the availability of motorrickshaws as well. It’s perfect for self-guided exploration, especially if you want to visit lesser-trodden spots or combine multiple activities on your own schedule.

Bottom Line: If you like controlling your own itinerary and enjoy a local driver’s insights, this rental option offers a budget-friendly way to explore the island on your terms.

7. Private Bintan Half Day Tour

This half-day tour focuses on Bintan’s most photogenic spots, including the Sand Dunes, Blue Lake, and a seafood lunch at an overwater restaurant. It’s a good choice for travelers with limited time but wanting a curated experience.

Rated 4.5, reviewers highlight the friendly guide and the stunning scenery. The itinerary is flexible enough to include local snacks and souvenir shopping at Pondok Bintan 11, giving a well-rounded snapshot of the island in just 4-5 hours. The cost, at around $42, makes it a value-packed option.

Bottom Line: Perfect if your time is short but you want a focused, scenic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

8. Indonesia: Desa Wisata Ekang Activities in Bintan

For a peaceful retreat, Desa Wisata Ekang offers a calm countryside escape just 15 minutes from the ferry terminal. It features luxurious tents and cabins, along with activities designed to foster relaxation and connection.

At just $15.31 per person, this activity is about enjoying a slower pace, perfect for families or groups seeking quality time in nature. It doesn’t include a structured itinerary, but the landscaped grounds and engaging activities promise a restful break from the more tour-heavy options.

Bottom Line: If you want to unwind and reconnect in a natural, well-maintained setting, Desa Wisata Ekang is a tranquil choice.

9. Bintan: Mangrove and Firefly Tour with Boat Ride

This mangrove and firefly tour takes you on a boat ride through Bintan’s lush mangroves, culminating in witnessing the enchanting glow of fireflies. It’s an intimate, short trip—about 3 hours—that offers a different perspective on the island’s natural beauty.

While reviews are limited, the focus on eco-tourism and the chance to see fireflies in their natural habitat makes it a memorable, authentic experience. It’s suited for those short on time but eager to see Bintan’s wildlife up close.

Bottom Line: A quick but enchanting tour for nature lovers eager to see fireflies and mangroves away from crowds.

10. Bintan One Day Private Tours

Offering customizable itineraries, this one-day private tour allows you to select destinations like Blue Lake, Sand Dunes, or cultural sites such as the 500 Lohan Temples. Starting and ending at your chosen locations, it provides tailored sightseeing with the comfort of private transport.

Rated with no reviews yet, the emphasis on flexibility makes it suitable for travelers who want to craft their own perfect day, with all entrance fees included. It’s a practical option for those who want control over what they see and do.

Bottom Line: For independent travelers seeking a personalized adventure, this private tour offers the freedom to design your own day.

11. (: BINTAN 🙂 Full Day Tour ( PRIVATE tour )

This private full-day tour is a highly rated (5-star) option for groups up to 7. It includes visits to the 500 Lohan Temple, Vihara Avalokitesvara, Pondok Bintan 11, and local eateries. The itinerary is flexible, and you can choose among several pickup points.

At $81 per group, it provides a comprehensive experience with a personal touch, making it ideal for families or small groups wanting a guided, all-in-one day. Reviewers note the good service and the convenience of a tailored schedule.

Bottom Line: This all-encompassing private tour suits those wanting a deep, personalized exploration without the hassle of planning each stop.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When deciding among Bintan’s many tour options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a quick, flexible introduction, the Half Day Free & Easy offers a relaxed way to see the highlights. If you want to explore nature intimately, go for the Mangrove or Fireflies Tour. For full immersion, the Full Day Private Tour or Private Car Charter give you control and personalized attention.

Think about whether you prefer guided group experiences or private, tailored adventures. Booking early is wise during peak seasons, especially for private tours and popular spots like Treasure Bay.

Final Thoughts

Bintan offers a surprising mix of scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and relaxing resorts, all accessible via a variety of tours. If your goal is a balanced taste of natural beauty and cultural sights, options like the Private Bintan Full Day Tour or the Half Day Free & Easy are excellent picks. For adventure and eco-tourism, the Mangrove or Fireflies Tour stands out.

Travelers with limited time or specific interests should lean toward private options, while those seeking an easy, budget-friendly experience will find plenty of options as well. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure a smooth and memorable visit. Enjoy your time on this beautiful island — and make the most of all these diverse experiences available to you.