Gurun Pasir Busung Bintan, Indonesia

Bintan is often promoted as an idyllic island for a weekend vacation. In your mind’s eye would probably be a sunny tropical beach to laze around, or crystal blue waters for holidaymakers to frolic.

Bintan Island, part of Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, is all the above, of course, and more. Least expected is a desert on the island, hence, making it one of the landmarks that must be visited while in Bintan.

Imagine an Arabian desert, with its undulating sand dunes. A visitor could easily spend hours taking photos here because there are just too many angles to capture! This former bauxite mine site is free to visit, in fact, it is a MUST-VISIT attraction for tourists. However, selected photography spots within the area are chargeable, such as with the camel or by the pond, at IDR5000 for two pax.

As in a barren landscape, it is exceptionally hot out there. PRO TIP: Bring along sunglasses, water, a hat, and lather a generous amount of sunscreen on yourself, if you don’t want to be roasted.

Just a short walk from Gurun Pasir Busung is Tasik Telaga Biru, another super picturesque spot that will make you click on your camera shutter button non-stop! This deep blue abandoned mining pond, like an oasis in the desert, is a sight to behold. Pose for your cover model photo shoots with the disused pond as backdrop. Upload these shots to your social media accounts to the envy of your followers!

Time required: at least one hour for shutterbugs. Make sure to head out on weekdays or low peak time to reduce the chances of being photobombed by strangers.

Note: View larger images by clicking on an image once this page has completely loaded. Then navigate by clicking on the right or left side of image.