Bintan Desert And Blue Lake Private Tour Review
If you’re dreaming of a day trip that combines striking landscapes and unique photo opportunities, the Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Private Tour might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, feedback from recent travelers and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of a memorable experience in the Riau Islands. The tour offers a comfortable ride to two of Bintan’s most eye-catching sights, with plenty of time for photography and exploration.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the private transport ensures a flexible and relaxed experience—no rushing or crowded groups. Second, it’s incredibly budget-friendly at around $20 per person, opening access to spots that often feel far away. Lastly, the tour’s focus on stunning visuals like the surreal Blue Lake and vast sand dunes makes it perfect for anyone wanting picture-perfect moments. A potential consideration is that the conditions can vary; on cloudy days, the scenery might not be as vibrant, but as one reviewer noted, a squall and some wildlife encounters can still make it fun.
This tour is best suited for travelers craving authentic photos, easy access to beautiful landscapes, and a straightforward, affordable adventure. If you enjoy natural scenery, don’t mind a bit of sun, and appreciate a flexible itinerary, this could be a perfect fit.
- Key Points
- What to Expect from the Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Tour
- The Itinerary Breakdown
- Photo Opportunities & Scenic Highlights
- Additional Details & Practical Tips
- Who Should Take This Tour?
- The Value of the Experience
- Why It’s a Good Deal
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Private Tours in Tanjung Pinang
- More Tours in Tanjung Pinang
- More Tour Reviews in Tanjung Pinang
Key Points

- Affordable Price: Just $20 per person for a private experience.
- Photographer’s Dream: Multiple scenic spots with beautiful backdrops.
- Private Transport: Comfortable, hassle-free transfers.
- Guided Flexibility: Driver offers local insights and photo assistance.
- Unique Sights: Blue Lake’s crater origins add intrigue.
- Weather Dependence: Conditions can affect scenery quality.
What to Expect from the Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Tour

This tour promises a day filled with extraordinary sights, comfortable travel, and many chances to capture impressive photos. It’s designed for those who want a straightforward, yet memorable outing without the fuss of large tour groups or complicated arrangements.
Looking for more options in Tanjung Pinang? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Your day begins with a convenient pickup—if you’re staying outside Bintan resort areas, there’s an extra charge of IDR 250,000 per vehicle. The private transfer means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, making it ideal for families or small groups. The driver, often knowledgeable and friendly, accompanies you to each stop, offering insights and helping with photography tips.
The first highlight is the Bintan Desert, a vast expanse of white sand dunes that evoke a sense of open space and tranquility. Here, you’ll find ample photo spots where you can pose against the dunes’ sweeping curves or explore the textured sands. The driver can accompany you into the desert for better shots, making this a fun and flexible experience. As one reviewer simply said, they enjoyed the “mangroves,” which suggests that the terrain and scenery offer a variety of natural backgrounds.
Next, you’ll visit the Blue Lake — a surreal, crystal-clear water body that remarkably emerged from a former mining site. What’s fascinating about this lake is its origin: a large crater that, over time, collected rainwater, transforming into what some call a “post-apocalyptic oasis.” The vivid blue hue contrasts beautifully against the white sand, creating a picture-perfect scene. Many visitors recommend taking selfies or wide shots to showcase this extraordinary natural feature.
Photo Opportunities & Scenic Highlights
The Blue Lake’s striking color is a major draw for Instagram fans, and the surrounding dunes provide endless opportunities for creative shots. With many photo spots spread across the desert and lakeside, you’ll have plenty of backgrounds to choose from—whether it’s the sweeping sands, the reflective blue water, or the skies overhead.
Reviewers mentioned that, even on a cloudy day, the scenery remained impressive and fun to photograph. One traveler recounted their encounter with an eagle and a squall, demonstrating that unpredictable weather can add a bit of adventure to your photo session.
Additional Details & Practical Tips
The tour includes entrance fees, mineral water, and transportation, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs during the day. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera—the desert sun can be intense, and good gear makes all the difference in capturing sharp, bright images.
The tour operates in English and offers flexible booking options—reserve now and pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance. If you’re traveling with young children (ages 0-3), the tour is free for them, making it family-friendly.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Take This Tour?
If you’re craving authentic landscapes that shout “photo-op,” this private tour offers excellent value and ease of access. It’s especially suitable for photographers, adventure lovers, and those seeking a relaxed pace in nature. The private element means you can customize some aspects, like spending extra time at your favorite spot. It also caters well to travelers who appreciate local tips and a driver who can help make your experience more memorable.
The Value of the Experience

At just $20 per person, this tour combines affordability with quality. You get a private transfer, a guide with local knowledge, and access to one-of-a-kind scenic spots. Compared to larger group tours, the privacy and flexibility allow for a more personalized experience, which seems to be a big plus for travelers like Naho, who found the introduces to local activities and spots very valuable.
While the scenery can be weather-dependent, most visitors agree that even a cloudy or rainy day adds a different kind of charm and adventure. The chance to see a rare blue lake emerging from a mining crater makes this experience genuinely unique.
Why It’s a Good Deal
It’s hard to find such a combination of natural beauty, affordability, and guided convenience elsewhere on Bintan. The tour’s focus on scenic photo locations means you’ll leave with plenty of images and memories without breaking the bank. Plus, the optionality for flexible booking and the ability to cancel makes it a low-stakes option for spontaneous or planned trips.
Final Thoughts

This Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Private Tour is perfect for travelers who want an uncomplicated yet visually rewarding experience. It’s a wonderful way to see two very different landscapes—vast dunes and a mysterious blue crater—without the hassle of large groups or complicated logistics. The inclusion of a knowledgeable driver and private transport elevates the value, making it a hassle-free way to explore some of Bintan’s most photogenic natural sites.
If your main goal is to capture stunning photos, enjoy a peaceful day in nature, and do it all affordably, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s also a superb choice for families or small groups looking for a flexible, private outing.
FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, a driver, entrance fees, and mineral water—everything you need for a smooth day out.
How much does pickup outside Bintan resort areas cost?
Extra charges apply if you’re outside the main resort area—IDR 250,000 per car.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0-3 are free, making it family-friendly.
How many people are needed for the tour to operate?
A minimum of 2 participants is required; if not met, you can choose to book on an alternative date.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, your camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a specific language offered for the guide?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English.
Are there any restrictions on alcohol or drugs?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour.
What makes this tour special?
Its combination of private transportation, scenic photo spots, and the surreal Blue Lake makes it a distinctive and accessible experience.
The Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Private Tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, photo opportunities, and ease of access—ideal for those who want a laid-back yet memorable day in the Riau Islands.
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