2 Day Bintan Desert & Blue Lake Tour with Mangrove Adventure

Summary

Bintan Island Overnight Tour: Mangroves, Seafood & Desert Views

You’ll get up close with Bintan’s wild side—mangroves alive with fireflies, fresh seafood dinners right over the water, and surreal desert landscapes beside a blue lake. It’s a short escape packed with real island moments you won’t find anywhere else.

What’s the experience like?

Stepping off the ferry, I felt the thick, salty air hit my face—Bintan’s got this way of waking up your senses right away. Our guide, Pak Arif, met us with a grin and a quick rundown of what to expect. First stop: the mangroves. The boat glided quietly through tangled roots as tiny crabs scuttled along the mudbanks. It was just before dusk, so the air buzzed with insects and the occasional splash from somewhere unseen. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot fireflies blinking like little lanterns above the water—honestly, it’s kind of magical in that humid twilight.

Dinner was at The Kelong Seafood Restaurant—can’t miss it, built on stilts right over the sea. The place smelled like grilled prawns and ocean breeze. We tried Gong-Gong (those chewy sea snails locals love), black pepper crab that left our fingers sticky, and butter prawns that disappeared fast from our table. There’s nothing fancy about it—just fresh seafood and the sound of waves under your feet.

The next morning started early because we wanted to catch the soft light at Bintan’s desert and blue lake. The sand dunes look almost out of place here—wind-carved hills against a bright blue lake that’s oddly calm. I noticed how quiet it gets; just wind moving sand and maybe a distant scooter passing by. Locals sometimes set up small stalls selling coconut water or snacks—perfect for a quick break before heading back to check out from our bamboo villa at D’Bamboe.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bintan Island and Attractions

• Introduction to Bintan Island
• Bintan Mangrove and Fireflies Tour
• Lunch at Kelong Seafood Restaurant
• Visit Bintan Desert and Blue Lake

Day 2 — Hotel Checkout and Resort Time

• Relax at Bintan Resort
• Breakfast

Top questions

Is this Bintan tour suitable for families?

Yes! Kids love the boat ride through mangroves and there’s plenty of space at dinner for families. Just keep an eye on little ones near water.

What should I bring for the desert and blue lake visit?

I’d suggest sunscreen, comfy shoes (sand gets hot!), sunglasses, and some cash for snacks from local vendors.

Are meals included in this package?

Breakfast is included at your accommodation; other meals like dinner at The Kelong are pay-as-you-go so you can pick what you like.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?

The tour involves some walking on sand and getting in/out of boats; please let us know your needs so we can advise or assist where possible.

What’s included

Your overnight stay at Bintan D’Bamboe comes with breakfast each morning. The package is designed for two people minimum—so bring a friend or loved one! All main activities are arranged for you: mangrove/firefly boat tour, visit to Bintan’s desert and blue lake, plus plenty of time to relax or explore on your own.