Best of Borneo

Intrepid Travel · 20 days

4.5

17 Reviews

View Map

Duration

20 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

If you're looking for an adventure somewhere spiritual, wild and full of natural beauty, this 20-day trip through Borneo might just be for you.

Highlights

See wild orangutans at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and look for proboscis monkeys in Bako National Park. One of the last truly wild places on earth, Borneo offers rare treats for nature lovers.
Follow in the infamous footsteps of tribal warriors on a trek through wild, dense jungle on the Headhunter’s Trail – rich with wildlife like hornbills and monkeys.
Climb Mt Kinabalu – the literal pinnacle of all treks in South East Asia – with local guides whose families have trekked the mountain for generations. Witness the sunrise at the peak after a morning hike and spot diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Join a local ranger to witness the life cycle of sea turtles, who come ashore on Turtle Island to lay their eggs on the beach. At night, you’ll watch the hatchlings make a dash down the beach on the way to their new life.
Cruise down the Kinabatangan River and search for wildlife in this rich and unique jungle ecosystem – if you’re lucky, you may even spot wild pygmy elephants!

Trip Details

Duration

20 days

Transportation

4x4, Ferry, Longtail boat, Plane, Taxi, Mini van, River boat, Speed boat

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Kuching, Malaysia

Finishes

Sandakan, Malaysia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Kuching

Selamat datang! Welcome to Malaysia. Kuching, meaning 'cat' in Malay, is the capital and most populous city in the state of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. It was home to the infamous White Rajah of Sarawak, whose mysterious rule in this remote corner of the world sparked the imagination of many people who dreamt of becoming royalty. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe check out the waterfront, home to local vegetable, spice and fish markets. After the meeting, maybe head out with your new travel companions to try some local dishes like Sarawak laksa and kolok mee.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Bako National Park

Hop in a private van to the fishing village of Kampung Bako, then a local boat up the coast to Bako National Park. Bako is the oldest national park in Sarawak and features rainforest, abundant wildlife, jungle streams, waterfalls, diverse plant life, secluded beaches and trekking trails. Millions of years of erosion form a coastline of steep cliffs, rocky headlands and stretches of white, sandy bays. Waves have carved the cliffs into sea arches and sea-stacks, with coloured patterns formed by iron deposits. When you arrive, you’ll take a leader-led walk through one of the jungle trails, looking out for proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys and the elusive Bornean bearded pigs. Return to Kuching in the late afternoon and spend the evening in relaxing your hotel.

Included Activities:

Bako National Park - Wildlife Trail Trek

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Kuching

Head to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre – a government-funded rehabilitation centre set in lush surrounds. The centre was set up to help reintroduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or having been orphaned. Head into the jungle to a viewing platform where you can watch and photograph the orangutans as they swing into view, eating bananas and milk that’s laid out for them twice a day. Human contact must be kept to a minimum and it's essential you follow your leader's instructions. After, return to Kuching where you can freshen up. Tonight, maybe mosey down to the riverbank and watch tambang ferries glide by, or head out to one of the many Chinese-influenced hawker markets for dinner and experience the range of local seafood.

Included Activities:

Kuching - Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Optional Activities:

Kuching - Sarawak Cultural Village (95 MYR)
Sarawak River cruise (65 MYR)
Kuching - Borneo Cultures Museum (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Gunung Mulu National Park

Fly to Mulu today. When you arrive in Mulu, head into the heart of one of the most spectacular national parks in Asia – Gunung Mulu National Park. Transfer the short distance to Mulu HQ where you’ll stay for the next two nights. In your free time, you can take a self-guided trail around the park or head to the treetops on the world’s longest canopy walkway. Or maybe simply kick back with a book and enjoy the sounds of the nearby jungle. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner prepared by the indigenous tribe here - Berawan people, trying the signature jungle dishes like Pansoh (fish or chicken cooked in bamboo) or 'Midin' (sauteed wild fern) and learning about their unique cultural insights while the family sit down and have dinner with you. Later, there’s the chance to take an optional night walk to search for some weird and wonderful insects and reptiles.

Included Activities:

Mulu National Park - Berawan people family visit and home-cooked dinner

Accommodation:

Cabin (multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Gunung Mulu National Park

Today, you have a free morning to explore or have a sleep in. Spend the afternoon strolling the walkways of this 180-million-year-old rainforest, and then catch the sunset flight of the bats at Deer Cave. This UNESCO World Heritage site has the world’s largest known system of caves, formed when surface water worked its way through the rock, carving gigantic passages through the bedrock. Deer Cave has one of the single largest cave passages, 2.2 km long and 220 m tall at its highest point. Before it was part of the park, the cave was a well-known hunting ground for deer, who were attracted to the pools of salty water. The millions of bats who call the cave home all emerge at dusk for their nightly feeding, which is a sight to behold.

Included Activities:

Mulu National Park - Deer & Lang Caves

Optional Activities:

Mulu National Park - Canopy Walk (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Cabin (multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Gunung Mulu National Park

Leave Park HQ behind and head into the jungle. Take a boat upriver to the Clearwater and Wind Caves, which contain Asia’s longest underwater river. The Clearwater Cave system runs for more than 200 km, over 100 of which have been explored. Wind Cave draws a cooling breeze through its lengths and features some of Gunung Mulu’s best cave formations, while Clearwater is covered in a species of bright green plant unique to the park. After exploring, take a longboat downriver before disembarking for a hike through undisturbed jungle to Camp 5, at the end of Melinau Gorge.

Included Activities:

Mulu National Park - Wind & Clearwater Caves
Mulu National Park - Picnic Lunch
Mulu National Park - Local Dinner

Accommodation:

Dormitory (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Limbang

Today, you’ll tackle the infamous Headhunter’s Trail. Located in an isolated area of the Bornean jungle, the trail used to be the route used by warring parties between the Tutoh and Limbang Rivers. Cross streams by rope bridges, wooden walkways and logs, surrounded by the diverse flora, bird-filled trees and the sounds of the forest – a hornbill flying overhead, the cries of monkeys and the pulse of cicadas and crickets. Then, take a boat from Kuala Terikan to Kuala Mendalam. Depending on how much rainfall there’s been, you may be required to help push the boat over shallow parts of the river. Stop at a ranger station for lunch, then travel to Limbang by private vehicle, where you can freshen up and enjoy a good night's rest after two long days of trekking.

Included Activities:

Mulu National Park - Guided trek along Headhunters' Trails
Mulu National Park - Longboat ride along the Melinau & Terikan Rivers

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Labuan Island

After breakfast this morning, take a short walk to the ferry terminal for a boat to Labuan Island. When you arrive, you’ll have a free afternoon and evening at a beach resort. Relax and recover after yesterday’s trek, going for a swim, chilling out with a cold drink or reading a good book.

Accommodation:

Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Kota Kinabalu

Enjoy some more free time on the island before catching a ferry and express bus to Kota Kinabalu – the capital of Sabah and a modern metropolis that rebounded from multiple bombings during WWII. Tonight, maybe head out for a final meal with your group to celebrate your Borneo adventure – the night market is filled with fresh grilled seafood.

Optional Activities:

Labuan - Historical tour (Minimum 2 People) (177 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Kota Kinabalu

Enjoy some free time in Kota Kinabalu today before your group meeting at 6pm to meet your new group. During your free time, maybe immerse yourself in the history of the city at the Sabah State Museum. You can also visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village or explore the islands off Kota Kinabalu – excellent for swimming and snorkelling.

Optional Activities:

Kota Kinabalu - Tunku Abdul National Marine Park Snorkeling Trip (min. 2 - without transport) per person (345 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Dusun Village

Travel by minivan to a Dusun village that sits in the shadow of Mt Kinabalu – the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea – and enjoy a welcome lunch in your homestay with your hosts before visiting a local vegetable farm. Learn about planting and harvesting seasonal produce and then take some of these fresh vegetables home for dinner – a proper farm-to-table experience. Tonight, enjoy a special village cultural performance.

Included Activities:

Dusun Village - Guided village walk
Dusun Village - Cultural performance
Dusun Village – Local Vegetable Farm Visit

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Dusun Village

Start your day by walking to the local vegetable market in Kundasang with your leader. Located in the heart of the community, this market showcases an array of freshly harvested produce, from locally grown vegetables to unique regional seasonal fruits like tarap and rambutan. You'll also find local snacks, wild honey and traditional Borneo crafts. Take the opportunity to chat with vendors to learn about the local produce and how it’s used in traditional Sabah cuisine. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure – perhaps visit Poring Hot Springs to relax in the open-air baths before heading back to your homestay.

Included Activities:

Kundasang - Market Visit
Poring Hot Spring (Slide Pool)

Optional Activities:

Kundasang - War Memorial (Entrance Fee) (15 MYR)
Poring Hot Springs - Hot Springs (Open Bath Tub) - (3 hours) (10 MYR)
Poring Hot Springs - Canopy Walk (10 MYR)
Poring Hotspring (Entrance Fee) (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Kinabalu National Park

Eat a good breakfast this morning and say goodbye to your friends in the village as it’s time to drive to Timpohon Gate to begin your trek up Mt Kinabalu. It’s no small feat – prepare for an uphill trail made of steep steps that vary considerably in size – but along the way you can take in the remarkable variety of plant life, including about 1000 species of orchid and the carnivorous pitcher plant (yes, really). After covering 6 km (approximately 4 to 6 hours), spend the night at a hostel near Laban Rata, located at 3,272m (10,735 ft) above sea level. Rest up for the final ascent (very!) early tomorrow morning.

Included Activities:

Mt Kinabalu National Park - Mt Kinabalu Climb

Accommodation:

Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Kinabalu National Park

Rise at around 2 am this morning to continue your trek – it’s tough, but the sunrise at the summit will be well worth it. At the top, take in the jungles of Borneo in one direction and the South China Sea in the other. After a well-deserved rest and plenty of pictures, return to Laban Rata for breakfast. Then, get started on the descent which can take between 3 - 6 hours. This evening, enjoy your overnight stay at a hostel within Kinabalu National Park.

Optional Activities:

Poring Hot Spring (Entrance) (50 MYR)
Walai Tokou Day Trip Package (Min 2 people) (260 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Kinabatangan River

Journey by private bus into the steamy rainforest to Bilit – a small village on the banks of the Kinabatangan River – and then take a short boat ride to the comfortable jungle lodge where you’ll spend the night. Located on the riverbanks, the lodge is a brilliant place to spot wildlife. For even better spotting, head out on a sunset boat ride and look out for macaques, orangutan, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. End your day by searching for nocturnal wildlife like civets, owls and the rare slow loris on a night walk.

Included Activities:

Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Cruise
Kinabatangan River - Night jungle walk

Accommodation:

Jungle Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Kinabatangan River

Embark on another boat safari early this morning – different species come out at different times, so keep your eyes peeled! After breakfast, join the in-house guide for an insightful journey into the historical Kinabatangan community, which thrived long before tourism developed in the area. Explore traditional practices and craftsmanship and actively engage in the crafting of traditional fish traps. This hands-on experience provides a profound understanding of the local culture and heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for their sustainable way of life. Then, head back on the boat for another river excursion in the afternoon.

Included Activities:

Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Cruise
Kinabatangan River - Fish Trap Making & Story Telling
Kinabatangan River - Dawn Wildlife Cruise

Accommodation:

Jungle Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Sepilok

Say goodbye to your jungle lodge after breakfast and hit the road in a private minivan to a guesthouse located near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Established to help reintroduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or being orphaned, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness conservation in action. From the viewing platform, watch and photograph the orangutans as they swing into view onto the feeding platform. Observe young orangutans as they learn how to climb a specially constructed jungle gym in a new nursery. To see more of Borneo’s creatures, there’s the option to visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Here, rescued sun bears, many of whom have endured years of mistreatment, are given a second chance at life. Learn about the rehabilitation process and how they are reintroduced back into the wild. You can also opt to visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can roam the treetop walkways while you learn more about the flora and birdlife of Borneo.

Included Activities:

Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Optional Activities:

Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre (30 MYR)
Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Jungle Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Turtle Island

This morning, transfer to Sandakan to leave your large bags at the hotel and walk with your overnight bag to a nearby jetty. Travel by speedboat, past small fishing villages and bamboo fish traps, to Turtle Island Marine Park. In the afternoon, there will be some time for swimming, snorkelling or lazing about on the beach. In the evening, you’ll join an expert local ranger and a select group of visitors to watch giant green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs under the moonlight. Watch the rangers as they release protected hatchlings and guide them in their frantic dash to the ocean. This is a moving experience that will stay with you long after your trip is over!

Included Activities:

Turtle Island - Turtle Island Marine Park
Turtle Island - Turtle Hatchery Visit

Accommodation:

Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Sandakan

After breakfast, return to the mainland and walk back to your hotel. Today is free to explore Sandakan as you wish – perhaps you’ll call into Agnes Keith House, the restored home of an American writer best known for her accounts of life in Borneo during WW1. Or you could visit the Sandakan War Memorial, built on the site of a Japanese Prisoners of War camp. Learn about the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, when 2400 prisoners of war were forced to walk through the jungles of Borneo and only six survived. Another great option is St Michaels & All Angels Church, a rare stone building in Sabah that managed to avoid major damage in the war.

Optional Activities:

Sandakan - Agnes Keith House (15 MYR)
Sandakan - St Michaels and All Angels Church (10 MYR)
Sandakan - Puu Jih Shih Chinese Temple - Free
Sandakan - War Memorial - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel Sandakan (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Sandakan

Your adventure ends today after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring Borneo - just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,850

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 20 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

If you're looking for an adventure somewhere spiritual, wild and full of natural beauty, this 20-day trip through Borneo might just be for you.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 08 Oct 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Denzil

Traveled, March 2024

04/05/2024

This itinerary is planned and executed in fine detail and I felt more confident each day.

4.5

Hollie

Traveled, March 2024

01/07/2024

I cannot recommend this trip enough, it has everything - adventure, wildlife, culture and some relaxation. But do not underestimate the physical challenge of Mount Kinabalu. It was tough but worth it!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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