Borneo Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Borneo by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Borneo will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

19 Borneo small group tours with 132 reviews

Borneo – East Sabah Adventure Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Borneo – East Sabah Adventure

Saw all the wildlife I had hoped for and more. The group was also fantastic, full of laid back, like minded, wildlife lovers, from all over the world.

Premium Borneo in Depth Tour

Premium Borneo in Depth

very surprising! everything worked out! nelson was really good!

Trek Mt Kinabalu Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking
  • Mountain Hikes

Trek Mt Kinabalu

Wet, cold and amazing!

Real Borneo Tour

Real Borneo

The highlight was seeing not 1 but 8 orangutan's in the wild!

Wild Sarawak Tour

  • Coastal Walks

Wild Sarawak

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer Tour

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer

We had a very long list of wildlife sightings & experiences.

Customized Private Malaysia Borneo Wildlife Tour, Daily Departure Tour

Customized Private Malaysia Borneo Wildlife Tour, Daily Departure

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Borneo Wildlife Family Holiday Tour

Borneo Wildlife Family Holiday

3D2N Orangutan in Tanjung Puting with Overnight on the Boat Tour

3D2N Orangutan in Tanjung Puting with Overnight on the Boat

Malaysia Sarawak: Iban Longhouses & Wild orangutans (Private Custom) Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Malaysia Sarawak: Iban Longhouses & Wild orangutans (Private Custom)

Malaysia Sabah Eco:  Kinabatangan River & Wildlife(Semi-Private Custom) Tour

Malaysia Sabah Eco: Kinabatangan River & Wildlife(Semi-Private Custom)

14-Day Trans-Borneo Road Bike Tour

  • Road Cycling

14-Day Trans-Borneo Road Bike

On the Trail of the Last Dwarf Elephants Tour

  • Health, Spa & Wellness
  • Intl. Flights Included

On the Trail of the Last Dwarf Elephants

  • Flights included

11D10N Sarawak Coastal and Interior Explorer Tour

11D10N Sarawak Coastal and Interior Explorer

Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu Tour

Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu

The additional activities exceeded expectations; tubing in Tambatuon village was fun for the range of ages.

Reviews of Small Group tours to Borneo

If you are looking for a nature holiday, I would most defiantely recommend Borneo. Saw all the wildlife I had hoped for and more. Our CEO with G Adventures, Ricky, was fantastic. Helpful, kind, knowledgable and very calm. Always happy to help and answer any questions regarding the wildlife or history of Borneo. The group was also fantastic, full of laid back, like minded, wildlife lovers, from all over the world. Thank you!!
Great adventure! I reaced the summit!
We started with a disappointment because the weather prevented us from going to Bako N.P. But by ghe end of the trip we had a very ling list of wildlife sightings & experiences. Our guide was wonderful!

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Borneo Adventure

Award winning Malaysian tour operator established in 1987. We offer a range of over 100 Borneo tours.

Why travel with borneo adventure, great guides.

Experienced local tour guides. Expert Knowledge

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Established in 1987. Fully Licensed & Insured. Responsible Tour Operator.

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Great Choice of Tours

100+ Tours & Activities.

Discover Borneo

Iban Man

DiscoverSarawak

Sarawak on the island of Borneo offers an unforgettable mix of culture- and nature-based travel experiences. With its history of White Rajahs, diverse cultures, mighty rivers, rainforests & iconic wildlife, Sarawak is a unique destination …

Kinabalu Park

DiscoverSabah

The Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo is renowned for the beauty of its natural environment and its network of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Sabah’s abundant and relatively accessible wildlife – …

group tours to borneo

DiscoverSarawak & Sabah

The Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo offers a mix of historic, cultural and natural attractions. Sabah’s attractions focus on abundant and relatively accessible wildlife, unique national parks and picturesque islands and …

group tours to borneo

DiscoverBrunei

The Sultanate of Brunei is wedged in between the two East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, with its northern shore facing the South China Sea. Brunei is a land of contrasts, especially the capital, …

Borneo Adventure specializes in tours and travel in Malaysia and has over 30 years of experience. Our activities are focused on the States of Sarawak and Sabah on the island of Borneo. We are one of Malaysia’s most established inbound tour operators and offer a range of over 100 tours of Borneo to choose from. With offices in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu , our Borneo tours feature the natural environment, wildlife, culture and history of Sarawak and Sabah. The Ulu Ai Project , our community-based tourism project in Sarawak, has won a number of awards and contributes to the advancement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for tourism.

We invite you to experience the best of Borneo.

Popular Tours

Our most popular tour destinations in Malaysian Borneo are Danum Valley , Kinabatangan River , Tabin Wildlife Reserve and Kinabalu Park in Sabah and Kuching , Bako National Park , Gunung Mulu National Park and Batang Ai in Sarawak.

An Iban man throws his fishing net, Ulu Ai, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Ulu Ai Experience (Nanga Sumpa) 3D2N

Meet the Iban people, experience the Borneo rainforest, enjoy the pleasures of upriver travel and stay at our jungle lodge on this 3 days / 2 nights tour

Canopy walkway at Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia

Danum Valley 3D2N

Explore pristine rainforest, search for Borneo's wildlife and stay at the award-winning Borneo Rainforest Lodge on this 3 days / 2 nights tour of the Danum Valley Conservation Area

Elephant along the banks of the Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia.

Kinabatangan River Cruise (Sukau) 3D2N

3 days / 2 nights Kinabatangan River tour including Sepilok Orang Utan and Sun Bear Centres, 2 nights at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge in Sukau plus wildlife watching river cruises

Stalagmites and stalactites in Langs Cave, Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Essential Mulu Showcaves 3D2N

Discover the show caves of Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak on this 3 days / 2 nights tour

A male proboscis monkey eating mangrove leaves near the boardwalk at Telok Assam, Bako National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia

Bako National Park Day Trip

Bako is one of the best parks in Malaysia to see wildlife and experience the rainforest via a network of trekking trails.

Longboat ride to Lubok Kasai Lodge, Ulu Ai, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Lubok Kasai Jungle Experience 4D3N

Meet the Iban people, enjoy the pleasures of upriver travel, stay at our Lubok Kasai jungle camp & experience the Borneo rainforest on this 4 days / 3 nights tour

Grey Leaf monkey at Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah, Malaysia

Tabin Wildlife Reserve 3D2N

Experience the Borneo rainforest and go in search of Sabah’s rich wildlife on this 3 days / 2 nights tour of Tabin Wildlife Reserve in eastern Sabah

Sepilok orangutan

Sandakan Wildlife Watching Tour 4D3N

4 day, 3 night night wildlife tour of Sepilok & Kinabatangan River, designed for those arriving in the afternoon on the Kuala Lumpur-Sandakan flight

Explore Borneo with us

Learn where to go and what to see in Sarawak & Sabah. Borneo Adventure’s map of Borneo with descriptions of the best travel destinations to visit will help you plan your trip.

5 stars -- highly recommend Borneo Adventure

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

What an experience! Booked a 5D tour of Mulu with Borneo Adventure. Spent close to a month planning the trip with our guide Disney Jaboh in Kuching. Disney was a rock star - super patient, incredibly warm and very kind. He addressed all our million questions and helped us craft the perfect tour itinerary to our exact specifications. In time, talking with him was just like speaking with an old friend! We even met him for dinner in Kuching to say hi and say thanks for the memories. During the tour, we were assigned to Nelson, a super experienced guide. Again, 5/5 stars here -- he was the perfect guide and we were so so thankful to have him with us. In 20+ years of travelling to 20+ countries, Borneo Adventure is hands down in the top 3 of private tour companies I've ever engaged. They are not the cheapest, but you pay for what you get.

Could not recommend them highly enough.... we'll definitely be back for a future tour with Borneo Adventure!

ReviewedJuly 5, 2022 byJason C.

An unforgettable experience, breathtaking nature, wonderfully taken cared of by the whole team

We spent unforgettable 4 days in the Batang Ai area, with its breathtakingly beautiful rivers and jungle. We were impressed by the organisation of Borneo Adventure, the huge knowledge of our guide Bayang, and the skilled Iban longboat drivers. We learned so much about the flora and fauna, about the culture and life of the Iban people, even how they cook food in bamboo sticks. The lodge and the camp are both wonderful, the meals really delicious, and all the staff very friendly, relaxed and eager to help. We can highly recommend Borneo Adventure, last and not least because they involve and work together with the Iban people in a sustainable manner.

ReviewedJanuary 7, 2024 byT C.

Great Tours with Great Guides

We did two trips with Borneo Adventure while we were away, both were amazing (Mulu Showcaves 2D1N and Tanjung Datu 3D2N) and highly recommended. The caves and wildlife at Mulu were amazing and our guide Nelson was really great and really knowledgeable. Tanjung Datu is just a special place. Again our guide Lemon was amazing who our made the trip with his cooking, knowledge and conversation. We would use them again 100%.

ReviewedSeptember 19, 2022 byChris W.

group tours to borneo

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BORNEO TOURS

Borneo Tours is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers looking for a unique and immersive experience. Located in Southeast Asia, Borneo offers diverse landscapes, rich culture, and exotic wildlife. Our tours provide an opportunity to explore the rainforests, trek mountains, and witness the natural beauty of the island. With our expert guides and carefully curated itineraries, we ensure a memorable and safe experience. Discover the beauty of Borneo with our customizable tours that cater to your interests and preferences. Book now and experience the adventure of a lifetime in Borneo!

Mount Kinabalu Package

BORNEO TOURS "ON SALE"

Mount Kinabalu Climb Package

3D2N Mount Kinabalu PRIVATE Climb (2 Nights Laban Rata Resthouse)

Selingan Turtle Island

2D1N Selingan Turtle Island

Mount Kinabalu Climb Package

3D2N Mount Kinabalu 【Private Climbing Package】

Mount Kinabalu Climb Package

3D2N Mount Kinabalu Panalaban 【Join-In Package】

Lankayan Island Dive resort

Lankayan Island Dive Resort

Mount Kinabalu Climb Package

2D1N Mount Kinabalu 【PRIVATE Climbing Package】

Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata Low's Peak Circuit

2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climb Via Ferrata – Low’s Peak Circuit

Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata Walk The Torq

2D1N Via Ferrata Walk The Torq – Mount Kinabalu Climb

Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata Low's Peak Circuit

VIA FERRATA LOW’S PEAK CIRCUIT – 3D2N Mount Kinabalu CLIMB (2 Nights Pendant Hut)

Secure your 2024 climbing slots now.

1 Jan 2024 – 31 Dec 2024 is now open for booking! Budget Climb? Normal Climb? Or Via Ferrata? Contact us today!

BOOK NOW WITH BORNEO CALLING _Official Mount Kinabalu Operator!

group tours to borneo

CUSTOMER'S REVIEW

Thank you to Mr Lee and all of the staff at Borneo Calling for making our recent holiday to Borneo everything that we wished for and more. We had a fantastic time and our trip could not have been organized any better. Mr Lee was amazing in helping to organize our initial plans for our trip from the… Read more

group tours to borneo

朋友的介紹選擇了這一家旅行社剛開始非常的忐忑不安。因為神山行程,參加成員20人,所以不停的詢問,但都能給予完整回覆,直到出發前3天更是貼心,主動的告知注意事項讓人非常安心,我們一行人平均年齡超過一甲子,除了攻頂神山,還安排馬里馬里文化村,咔哇咔哇長鼻猴及螢火蟲探險,還有超剌激的泛舟之旅,最後又雙島浮潛遊,非常好的建議… Read more …

group tours to borneo

This is my third time engaging Borneo Calling for arrangement of my trips in Sabah. First time in year 2015, it was under a different company name (Tamariska) at that time. Guided by very friendly and helpful staff name Abby. Second time was in 2017, for my second climb to Mt Kinabalu. However due to … Read more  

group tours to borneo

Out of so many options for Kota Kinabalu tours, I’m glad I chose Borneo Calling because their team covers your adventure from A to Z. Belle from the office was very patient in giving us the best options for our Mt. Kinabalu climb, and even allowed us to avail a spontaneous island tour when we got there. Lee, who … Read more  

group tours to borneo

Highly recommend to go with Borneo Calling. I just completed 2D1N solo trip climbing Mt. Kinabalu with them. 1. Speedy reply. The smooth experience with them started way before the actual climbing. I made the last minute booking almost like 5 days ago and many thanks to the prompt response from their … Read more  

group tours to borneo

Felt so fortunate to have chosen such a nice and genuine tour company! As an university student, organizing a trip of 30 people and leading them to travel to a foreign country wasn’t easy at all, but you guys have made my dream came true! We climbed Mt Kinabalu, participated in Via ferrata, visited the … Read more  

group tours to borneo

We are very happy with our 3D2N MT Kinabalu Climb package with Borneo Calling for end March 2018. Mr Lee and Jesse gave prompt and accurate replies to our queries. The service, transport and lodging arrangements were very good. The friendly and helpful transport drivers and hotel staff went out of … Read more  

group tours to borneo

It is my first time visiting Sabah and I made the right decision for choosing Borneo Calling. Definitely, this is one of the best touring agent you can find in Sabah. From the funny and informative tour guide to the helpful and responsible mountain guide, these people made our trip even more enjoyable! … Read more  

group tours to borneo

I attended Borneo Calling’s 3D2N Mt Kinabalu Low’s Peak Circuit Via Ferrata package and have had a wonderful time. Before the trip, all emails were replied super quick, normally within half-day.The tour itself was very well organised. Day 1’s complimentary tour was great. We’ve managed to visit Nabalu… Read more  

group tours to borneo

Last November 2017 I had the opportunity to climb one of the highest mountain in South East Asia – Mt. Kinabalu. Of course to make my trip worth remembering I asked around which Travel and Tour Agency was the best in KK on their climbing field. And then I found Borneo Calling! Hence, I quickly contact them via … Read more  

group tours to borneo

A wonderful climb up Mount Kinabalu. I was not able to do much training prior to our trip due to injury and ‘just gave it a go’. Very hard work but very rewarding. Our guide Jemin was wonderful and took it very slowly. He paced us very well, pointed out some unusual plants and kept motivating… Read more  

group tours to borneo

Excellent services from all staff of Borneo Calling that I met during my trip to Mt Kinabalu, especially my super-guide, Andy. He was not only extremely professional and experienced but also very kind, patient and fun. I owed it to him that I made to the Summit of Mt Kinabalu and completed Via Ferrata Low’s … Read more  

group tours to borneo

CUSTOMER'S REVIEW ON BORNEO TOURS

This is my third time engaging Borneo Calling for arrangement of my trips in Sabah. First time in year 2015, it was under a different company name (Tamariska) at that time. Guided by very friendly and helpful staff name Abby. Second time was in 2017, for my second climb to Mount Kinabalu… Read more  

Out of so many options for Kota Kinabalu tours, I’m glad I chose Borneo Calling because their team covers your adventure from A to Z. Belle from the office was very patient in giving us the best options for our Mt. Kinabalu climb, and even allowed us to avail a spontaneous island tour when we got there. Lee… Read more  

Felt so fortunate to have chosen such a nice and genuine tour company! As an university student, organizing a trip of 30 people and leading them to travel to a foreign country wasn’t easy at all, but you guys have made my dream came true! We climbed Mt Kinabalu, participated in Via ferrata… Read more  

I attended Borneo Calling’s 3D2N Mt Kinabalu Low’s Peak Circuit Via Ferrata package and have had a wonderful time. Before the trip, all emails were replied super quick, normally within half-day.The tour itself was very well organised. Day 1’s complimentary tour was great. We’ve managed to visit Nabalu.. Read more  

Last November 2017 I had the opportunity to climb one of the highest mountain in South East Asia – Mt. Kinabalu. Of course to make my trip worth remembering I asked around which Travel and Tour Agency was the best in KK on their climbing field. And then I found Borneo Calling! Hence, I contacted them … Read more  

A wonderful climb up Mount Kinabalu. I was not able to do much training prior to our trip due to injury and ‘just gave it a go’. Very hard work but very rewarding. Our guide Jemin was wonderful and took it very slowly. He paced us very well, pointed out some unusual plants and kept motivating us all the way… Read more

HELLO, SABAH - BORNEO TOURS DESTINATION!!

Why borneo tours .

If you are looking for amazing adventures in Borneo, you have come searching at the right place.  

BORNEO , a giant, rugged island in Southeast Asia’s Malay Archipelago, is known for its beaches and biodiverse rainforest where thousands of wildlife called home. The Sabah region of Borneo is quite rugged and the third largest island in Asia isn’t much explored, but the tropical Sabah wildlife is some of the most diverse. Sabah, Borneo has so much more to offer to wildlife-seekers and adventure enthusiasts.

HIKE UP MOUNT KINABALU

A majestic mountain located at the West Coast Division of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in South East Asia standing at 4095.2 meters and has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status. First-time climbers are advised to consider staying at Kinabalu Park or a highland resort at Kundasang one night prior to the climb to acclimatize the high altitude. Take it up a notch with Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata , which provides access to scenic sections of the mountains that are typically made available only to mountaineers. It is also known as the world’s highest and Asia’s first via ferrata. This challenging route offers both Walk the Torq and Low’s Peak Circuit packages fitting for both beginners and intermediate climbers respectively. If you are a thrill-seeker, this is should be one of the top things in your bucket list!

BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS

If climbing or hiking is not your thing, activities such as paragliding, white water rafting at Kiulu or Padas rivers, quad biking on the terrains, or even scuba diving and island hopping are among the few activities you can choose from. Explore beautiful islands where you can find the most beautiful corals and swim alongside sea turtles. Look no further than the Lankayan Dive Resort at Lankayan Island or the Sipadan Island, Mabul Island , Kapalai Island , Mataking Island and Pom Pom Island for your fun island adventures.

ICONIC BORNEO WILDLIFE

Moving on to the east coast of Sabah, here we can witness that Borneo is truly a land blessed with wonderful eco treasures – from scenic islands to wildlife encounters and nature treks. Moreover, there is an amazing array of endangered and endemic Borneo wildlife such as the Orang Utans , Proboscis Monkeys, Bornean Sun Bear, sea turtles, and Bornean Pygmy Elephants . 

Take a one day trip and learn more about these animals at Sepilok , Sun Bear Conservation Center , Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary , and Gomantong Cave . Selingan Island turtle hatcheries area also not to be missed if you are keen on witnessing turtles hatching and baby sea turtles being released back into the sea. Or opt to stay overnight at Kinabatangan River which is called the longest river in Sabah Borneo. This river is known as one of the most exciting and easily accessible places to explore the rich biodiversity of Sabah. Go on river safaris and night walks around the resort for wildlife spotting, even though wildlife spotting is not guaranteed but you will be assured of a nice escape from the busy city. Depending on your budget, you can choose to stay between Sukau, Bilit or Abai , these lodges are all located along the Kinabatangan River.

ANCIENT RAINFOREST

Looking for a nice getaway at one of Borneo Forest Reserve? Danum Valley Conservation Center’s Borneo Rainforest lodge and Tabin Wildlife Reserve are one of our top picks. These lodges provide a nice combination of luxury and wildlife spotting. Both lodges offer a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy the nice outdoors. The mud volcano at Tabin is one not to be missed. If you are keen to get off the tourist tracks to spot for wildlife, take a few days overnight trip to Deramakot Forest Reserve or Danum Valley Field Center. Even though the lodging is simple but it will leave you with an unforgettable experience.

CULTURAL RICHES

Not too keen on all the adventures? No fret, Borneo has something for everyone. Why not come and learn about the cultures and traditions of the natives living in Sabah with us. We’ll take you on a trip to Mari-Mari Cultural Village , Rungus longhouse, War memorial park, and even places as far as the Tip of Borneo where you will hear stories of local people that were passed down from generations to generations.

The best things in life are the people you love and the memories you make, this part of Borneo will definitely leave you with memories that last a lifetime!

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group tours to borneo

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group tours to borneo

Tours to Borneo

Smothered in rainforest, alive with proboscis monkeys, orangutans and pythons, Borneo is an island of incredible biodiversity. This, combined with a fascinating tribal culture and the moody peak of Mount Kinabalu, makes Borneo vacations perfect for exploration. 

Ways to explore Borneo

Discover our borneo tours.

Join one of our  small group trips  to the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia’s Malaysian archipelago for the ultimate wildlife adventure. Follow your local  tour leader  to go in search of orang-utan, pygmy elephant and gibbon in the lush rainforests, and visit the famous Sepilok Sanctuary to witness vital rehabilitation work with these endangered native apes. 

Journey into Kinabalu National Park to spend the night in the shadow of Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, on our  Borneo Wildlife Highlights  trip. Our friendly farm-stay hosts provide a feast of delicious home-cooked Malaysian food while we learn about the daily lives of the indigenous Dusun people. 

Considering a trip to Borneo but new to small group travel? We've answered  some of the most-asked questions .

Our most popular Borneo tours

Kalimantan adventure.

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An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Need some inspiration for your Borneo tour?

group tours to borneo

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group tours to borneo

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Borneo Tours & Holidays

Rain forests teeming with wildlife, pristine white beaches and cosmopolitan cities.

Classic Borneo - 10 Days

Classic Borneo - 10 Days

  • Kota Kinabalu to Kota Kinabalu
  • Age range: 15 - 99
  • Group size: 12

Real Borneo - 10 Days

Real Borneo - 10 Days

  • Age range: 18 - 35
  • Group size: 16

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer - 15 Days

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer - 15 Days

  • Kuching to Sandakan
  • Age range: 16 - 99

Best of Borneo - 20 Days

Best of Borneo - 20 Days

  • Kuching to Sepilok

Borneo Family Holiday - 9 Days

Borneo Family Holiday - 9 Days

  • Age range: 5 - 99

Best of Borneo - 12 Days

Best of Borneo - 12 Days

  • Kuching to Kota Kinabalu
  • Age range: 12 - 100

Trekking Borneo & Beyond - 14 Days

Trekking Borneo & Beyond - 14 Days

  • Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Borneo Adventure - 14 Days

Borneo Adventure - 14 Days

  • Kuching to Kuching
  • Group size: 10

Speak To Our Team

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Call or email our expert team to find out more and help with ideas and planning.

Welcome to Norneo, your gateway to the enchanting wonders of Borneo! Embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the hidden gems of this magnificent island. With our Borneo tours and holidays, you'll discover a land brimming with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and extraordinary wildlife. Get ready to immerse yourself in a tapestry of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and captivating traditions.

Borneo, the world's third-largest island, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and intrepid travelers. It boasts an incredible biodiversity that has earned it the reputation as one of the last frontiers of ecological preservation. From the mist-covered peaks of Mount Kinabalu to the dense jungles of Danum Valley, Borneo offers a plethora of breathtaking landscapes waiting to be explored.

One of the main attractions of Borneo is its wildlife. Step into the realm of orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and an array of exotic bird species. Experience the thrill of spotting these incredible creatures in their natural habitat during a wildlife safari or river cruise. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre provides a unique opportunity to witness the rehabilitation efforts for these intelligent primates.

For the adventurous at heart, Borneo offers unparalleled opportunities for trekking, hiking, and diving. Traverse the mystical rainforests of Kinabatangan River or embark on a challenging trek to conquer the summit of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Sipadan Island, a world-renowned dive site teeming with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Borneo as you engage with its indigenous communities. Visit longhouses and witness traditional dances and rituals, gaining insight into their ancient customs and way of life. Explore local markets and sample delectable traditional dishes bursting with flavors influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Dayak cuisines.

Borneo is a destination that caters to every traveler's dream. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, serene natural beauty, or cultural immersion, this island has it all. Indulge your senses as you traverse the treetop canopy walks, discover hidden waterfalls, and relax on pristine white-sand beaches.

So why visit Borneo? Because it is a land of untamed beauty and extraordinary diversity. It offers a chance to disconnect from the ordinary and embark on a journey that will awaken your spirit of exploration. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a culture seeker, Borneo will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Choose Norneo as your trusted travel partner and let us curate an unforgettable Borneo experience for you. Our expert guides and carefully crafted itineraries will ensure that you make the most of your Borneo tour, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Start your Borneo adventure with us and unlock the treasures of this captivating island.

When is the best time to visit Borneo?

The best time to visit Borneo largely depends on your specific interests and the activities you plan to engage in. Borneo has a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Here's a breakdown of the seasons to help you plan your visit:

Dry Season (March to October): The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Borneo, as the weather is relatively drier and more predictable. During this period, you can expect sunny days, lower humidity levels, and less rainfall. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as trekking, wildlife spotting, and diving. The months of April to October are particularly popular among travelers, offering favorable conditions for exploration.

Wet Season (November to February): The wet season in Borneo brings higher levels of rainfall, particularly in the form of afternoon showers and occasional storms. The rainforest thrives during this time, with lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. Although the wet season may present some challenges, it also offers unique experiences such as river cruises and the chance to witness the rainforest in its full glory. It is worth noting that some areas, such as the east coast of Sabah and Sarawak, may experience more intense rainfall during the wet season.

It's important to keep in mind that Borneo's weather can vary throughout the year, and localized weather patterns may differ in specific regions. If you plan to visit Borneo for specific activities like diving or wildlife encounters, it's recommended to research the best months for those activities in the particular region you'll be visiting.

Overall, the months of March to October are generally considered the peak season for tourism in Borneo due to the more favorable weather conditions. However, even during the wet season, Borneo's natural beauty and wildlife continue to captivate visitors. Whichever time you choose to visit, be prepared for the possibility of rain and plan your activities accordingly.

Remember to check the weather forecast and consider your preferences and activities when determining the best time to visit Borneo. Consulting with our travel experts can provide further insights and help tailor your itinerary to optimise your Borneo experience.

Will I need a visa to travel to Borneo?

To clarify, Borneo is not a country itself but an island shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Each country has its own visa requirements. Here's a breakdown of the visa requirements for visiting the Borneo regions of these countries:

Malaysia: If you plan to visit the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo, you will need a visa if you are not a citizen of visa-exempt countries. The visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of certain countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries, can enter Malaysia visa-free for a specified duration. The visa-free period typically ranges from 30 to 90 days. However, it's important to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. If you exceed the visa-free period, you may need to apply for a visa extension.

Indonesia: If you plan to visit the Indonesian part of Borneo, known as Kalimantan, you will need a visa. Indonesia offers different types of visas, including tourist visas, which can be obtained upon arrival for certain nationalities. The tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days and can usually be extended once for an additional 30 days. However, it's important to check the latest visa requirements and regulations for your specific nationality.

Brunei: If you plan to visit Brunei, which occupies a smaller portion of Borneo, most nationalities are granted a visa-free entry for a specific duration, usually ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on your nationality. However, it's important to check the latest visa requirements and regulations for your specific nationality.

It's essential to verify the visa requirements well in advance of your trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the Borneo regions you plan to visit. Check with the respective embassies or consulates of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei or consult with a travel agent to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate visa information based on your nationality and travel plans.

What are the must see destinations in Borneo?

Borneo, with its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a multitude of must-see destinations that will leave you in awe. Here are some of the top attractions and must-visit destinations in Borneo:

Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia: Home to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Explore the park's lush rainforests, hike to the summit for breathtaking views, and discover unique flora and fauna along the way.

Danum Valley Conservation Area, Malaysia: Immerse yourself in one of Borneo's last remaining pristine rainforests. This conservation area is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, including rare animal species like orangutans, Bornean pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards. Take guided nature walks, embark on night safaris, and experience the wonders of this untouched wilderness.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Malaysia: Witness the incredible work done to protect and rehabilitate orphaned and injured orangutans. Located near Sandakan, this sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates up close and learn about conservation efforts.

Mulu National Park, Malaysia: Discover the extraordinary caves and karst formations in Mulu, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the famous Deer Cave and Lang Cave, witness the breathtaking sight of millions of bats at the Bat Exodus, and trek through lush rainforests to discover stunning waterfalls.

Derawan Islands, Indonesia: Situated off the coast of East Kalimantan, the Derawan Islands are a tropical paradise known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Dive or snorkel among colorful coral reefs, swim with turtles, and explore the rich underwater world.

Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia: A remarkable destination for wildlife enthusiasts, this national park is home to endangered orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Take a boat cruise along the river and witness the incredible biodiversity and natural beauty of the park.

Brunei's Kampong Ayer, Brunei: Explore the "Venice of the East" in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. Kampong Ayer is a unique water village built on stilts, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Bruneian people. Take a boat tour, visit local homes, and immerse yourself in the charm of this fascinating village.

These are just a few highlights of the many incredible destinations in Borneo. Each region offers its own distinct attractions and experiences, ranging from wildlife encounters to cultural immersion and stunning natural wonders. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Borneo has something to offer every traveler. Explore the wonders of this captivating island and create memories that will last a lifetime.

What is the local currency in Borneo, and can I use credit cards?

Borneo is an island shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Each country has its own currency and payment practices. Here's an overview:

Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak):

  • Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). The currency code is MYR, and the symbol is RM.
  • Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. It's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in remote areas.

Indonesia (Kalimantan):

  • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The currency code is IDR, and the symbol is Rp.
  • Credit Cards: Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it's more common to use cash for daily transactions. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted compared to other card brands. It's recommended to carry enough cash for smaller businesses or when traveling to more remote areas.
  • Currency: Brunei Dollar (BND). The currency code is BND, and the symbol is B$. The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is also accepted and used interchangeably.
  • Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major establishments. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted, but it's always advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or in more rural areas.

While credit cards are generally accepted in larger establishments, it's a good idea to carry some cash in local currency for smaller vendors, markets, or when visiting more remote areas. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed. Before traveling, inform your bank or credit card provider about your trip to ensure that your cards can be used internationally without any issues.

It's also recommended to carry a mix of small and larger denomination bills for easier transactions, as some smaller businesses may not have sufficient change for larger notes. Be mindful of potential currency exchange rates and fees when converting your currency.

Remember to keep your money and valuables secure during your travels. A money belt or a secure travel wallet can be useful for carrying cash, cards, and important documents.

Always check the latest currency exchange rates and local payment practices before your trip to Borneo, as they can fluctuate over time.

Is Borneo a good family holiday destination?

Absolutely! Borneo is a fantastic destination for a family holiday, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to travelers of all ages. Here are some reasons why Borneo is an excellent choice for a family vacation:

Wildlife Encounters: Borneo is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and is home to fascinating wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and a variety of bird species. Kids will be thrilled to see these amazing creatures up close, whether it's visiting rehabilitation centers, wildlife sanctuaries, or taking jungle treks to spot them in their natural habitats.

Nature and Adventure: Borneo's diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for adventure and outdoor activities suitable for families. You can explore ancient rainforests, embark on river cruises to spot wildlife, hike to stunning waterfalls, go snorkeling or diving to discover vibrant marine life, and even climb Mount Kinabalu (with age-appropriate children). These adventures will create unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Cultural Immersion: Borneo is a melting pot of cultures, with indigenous tribes such as the Iban and Dayak in Malaysia, and diverse ethnic groups in Indonesia and Brunei. Families can engage in cultural experiences like visiting traditional villages, learning about local customs and traditions, and trying traditional crafts and cuisines. It's a great opportunity for kids to learn about different cultures and broaden their horizons.

Eco-Education: Borneo's unique ecosystems provide an excellent platform for children to learn about the environment, conservation, and sustainability. Many conservation centers and educational facilities offer interactive exhibits and programs aimed at raising awareness and promoting eco-friendly practices. It's a wonderful way to instill a sense of environmental stewardship in young minds.

Family-friendly Resorts and Facilities: Borneo has a range of family-friendly accommodations, including resorts and lodges that cater specifically to families. These establishments often offer amenities such as swimming pools, kids' clubs, playgrounds, and organized activities for children. Some even have dedicated nature guides or kid-friendly excursions to make the experience enjoyable for the whole family.

Safety and Hospitality: Borneo, particularly the tourist destinations, is generally considered safe for family travel. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors, making families feel welcome and comfortable throughout their stay.

When planning your family trip to Borneo, consider the interests and ages of your children and tailor your itinerary accordingly. Take into account the duration of activities, the need for rest and downtime, and choose accommodations that provide comfort and convenience for your family.

It's always a good idea to consult with a reputable travel agency or tour operator who specializes in family travel to Borneo. They can assist in creating a customized itinerary that caters to your family's needs and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

So, pack your bags and embark on a family adventure in Borneo, where nature, wildlife, culture, and fun-filled activities await!

Is Borneo a good destination for solo travellers?

Borneo is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and unique experiences. Here are some reasons why Borneo is a great choice for solo travelers:

Warm and Friendly Locals: Borneo is known for its warm hospitality and friendly locals. Solo travelers will feel welcomed and supported throughout their journey. The locals are often eager to engage in conversations, share their culture, and provide assistance when needed. This creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for solo travelers.

Diverse and Exciting Activities: Borneo offers a wide range of activities that cater to solo travelers. Whether you're interested in wildlife encounters, trekking through pristine rainforests, exploring caves, or diving into vibrant marine ecosystems, Borneo has something for every adventurer. You can join organized tours or venture off the beaten path on your own, creating a personalized itinerary that matches your interests and preferences.

Wildlife and Nature: Borneo is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, with unique wildlife species and stunning natural landscapes. Solo travelers can explore national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation areas to observe orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and other fascinating creatures. The opportunity to connect with nature and experience its wonders is truly remarkable.

Cultural Experiences: Borneo is home to diverse indigenous communities and ethnic groups, each with its own rich cultural heritage. Solo travelers can immerse themselves in local customs, traditions, and festivals, visiting traditional villages, trying authentic cuisines, and learning about the unique ways of life. Engaging with local communities provides an enriching cultural experience and a deeper understanding of Borneo's people.

Safe and Well-Established Tourism Infrastructure: Borneo has well-established tourism infrastructure, particularly in popular destinations such as Sabah and Sarawak in Malaysia. Accommodations, transportation options, and tourist facilities are readily available, making solo travel convenient and comfortable. While it's essential to practice general safety precautions, Borneo is generally considered safe for solo travelers.

Opportunity for Self-Discovery and Reflection: Solo travel allows for self-discovery, personal growth, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Borneo's natural beauty and peaceful surroundings provide an ideal environment for self-reflection and rejuvenation. Whether it's watching a sunset over the rainforest, meditating by a waterfall, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, Borneo offers moments of solitude and serenity.

It's important to note that solo travel in Borneo, as in any destination, requires some level of preparedness and awareness. Research and plan your itinerary in advance, inform others about your travel plans, and follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities and experienced travelers. Joining organized tours or hiring local guides can also enhance your experience and ensure a smoother journey.

So, if you're an adventurous and independent traveler seeking unique experiences and the freedom to explore, Borneo is a fantastic destination to embark on a solo adventure. Discover the wonders of this captivating island, connect with nature and cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Is Borneo a safe destination?

Borneo is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, like any other travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some points to keep in mind regarding safety in Borneo:

Personal Safety: Borneo is known for its warm and friendly locals who are generally welcoming and helpful to tourists. Violent crime rates are relatively low, but it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or at night, and take care of your personal belongings. Keep important documents, such as passports and identification, secure in a hotel safe and carry only a photocopy of them when exploring.

Health and Safety Precautions: As with any travel, it's important to stay informed about health and safety issues specific to the region. Check with your healthcare provider regarding any required vaccinations or recommended medications before traveling to Borneo. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria can be a concern in certain areas, so take appropriate measures to prevent mosquito bites. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of common travel-related illnesses.

Natural Hazards: Borneo's natural landscapes are breathtaking, but it's important to be aware of potential natural hazards. During the rainy season, which varies depending on the region, flash floods and landslides can occur in some areas. Pay attention to weather forecasts, follow local advisories, and avoid venturing into areas prone to such hazards. If you plan on engaging in outdoor activities or trekking, ensure you are adequately prepared and follow the guidance of experienced guides or tour operators.

Transportation Safety: Ensure that you use reputable and licensed transportation services, especially when traveling longer distances or hiring taxis. Be cautious when crossing roads, as traffic conditions can be unpredictable in certain areas. If renting a vehicle, familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road conditions. Public transportation options, such as buses and trains, are generally safe, but remain vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting local customs and cultural norms is important in any destination, including Borneo. Familiarize yourself with local customs, traditions, and etiquette, particularly when visiting religious sites or interacting with indigenous communities. Dress modestly in such places and be mindful of local sensitivities. Demonstrating respect for the local culture will help foster positive interactions and create a more enjoyable travel experience.

It's always a good idea to stay updated on travel advisories and consult reputable sources of information, such as your country's embassy or consulate, before traveling to Borneo. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

By exercising common sense, being aware of your surroundings, and respecting local customs, you can enjoy a safe and memorable experience in the beautiful destination of Borneo.

Will I require any vaccinations to travel to Borneo?

Yes, it is recommended to receive certain vaccinations before traveling to Borneo to protect your health and prevent the spread of diseases. However, vaccination requirements can vary depending on your country of origin, previous immunizations, duration of stay, and specific activities you plan to undertake. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist well in advance of your trip to get personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. They will consider factors such as your medical history, current health status, and the latest recommendations from reputable health organizations.

Common vaccinations and preventive measures recommended for travelers to Borneo may include:

Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), polio, and influenza, are up to date. These vaccines protect against common diseases that can be encountered anywhere.

Hepatitis A and Typhoid: Both Hepatitis A and typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated food and water. Vaccines are available for these diseases and are recommended for most travelers visiting Borneo.

Malaria: Depending on the specific regions and activities you plan to engage in, malaria prevention measures may be necessary. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional who can recommend appropriate anti-malarial medications and advise on mosquito bite prevention techniques.

Japanese Encephalitis: Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. If you plan to spend a significant amount of time in rural areas or during the peak transmission season, vaccination may be recommended.

Rabies: Borneo is known for its wildlife, and rabies can be present in certain animal populations. If you are planning activities that may bring you into close contact with animals, such as wildlife rehabilitation centers or trekking in remote areas, it may be advisable to consider rabies vaccination.

Remember to check the specific vaccination requirements for your country of origin and any transit countries you may be passing through. Keep in mind that some vaccines may require multiple doses or take time to become effective, so it's important to start the vaccination process well in advance of your travel dates.

In addition to vaccinations, it is also essential to take precautions to prevent insect bites, practice good hygiene, and ensure access to safe food and water during your trip. These measures, along with appropriate vaccinations, will help safeguard your health and make your journey to Borneo a safe and enjoyable one.

What is the food like in Borneo?

The food in Borneo is a delightful fusion of flavors, influenced by the diverse cultures and rich culinary traditions of the region. Borneo offers a mouthwatering array of dishes that will satisfy every palate. Here's a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse cuisine you can experience in Borneo:

Seafood: As Borneo is surrounded by the South China Sea and numerous rivers, seafood plays a prominent role in the local cuisine. You can indulge in fresh fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, and a variety of shellfish. Grilled, steamed, or cooked in flavorful sauces, seafood dishes are a highlight of Borneo's culinary scene.

Noodles and Rice: Noodles and rice are staples in Bornean cuisine. Mee goreng, a popular fried noodle dish, and nasi lemak, fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, are must-try dishes. You'll also find various rice-based dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and nasi campur (mixed rice with a selection of side dishes).

Indigenous Cuisine: Borneo is home to several indigenous communities, each with its own culinary traditions. The Dayak people, for example, have a rich food culture that includes dishes like bamboo chicken, pansuh (meat cooked in bamboo), and various wild vegetables. Exploring the traditional food of these communities provides a unique and authentic culinary experience.

Sarawak Laksa: Sarawak Laksa is a signature dish of Sarawak, a Malaysian state in Borneo. This flavorful noodle soup is made with a spicy, aromatic broth, rice vermicelli, prawns, shredded chicken, bean sprouts, and garnished with herbs and lime. It's a must-try dish for food enthusiasts.

Sambal: Sambal is a spicy chili-based condiment that accompanies many dishes in Borneo. It adds a fiery kick and enhances the flavors of various dishes. Sambal belacan, made with shrimp paste, is a popular variation in the region.

Tropical Fruits: Borneo is a paradise for fruit lovers. The tropical climate allows for a wide variety of delicious fruits to thrive. From sweet and juicy pineapple and mango to exotic delights like durian, rambutan, and mangosteen, you'll find an abundance of flavorful fruits to enjoy.

Street Food: Borneo's bustling markets and street stalls offer a treasure trove of delectable street food. From satay (grilled skewered meat) and roti canai (flaky flatbread served with curry) to pisang goreng (fried banana fritters) and kuih (traditional snacks), the street food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

Whether you're a fan of seafood, noodle dishes, spicy flavors, or tropical fruits, Borneo's culinary offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Don't hesitate to try local eateries, night markets, and traditional food stalls to experience the authentic flavors of Borneo's diverse and delicious cuisine.

Can I drink the tap water in Borneo?

It is generally not advisable to drink tap water in Borneo or any other foreign destination. While the tap water in urban areas of Borneo may be treated and safe for locals to drink, it can still contain different microorganisms or contaminants that your body may not be accustomed to. It is always better to err on the side of caution and take necessary precautions to ensure your health and well-being during your trip.

To stay hydrated and avoid potential health issues, here are some recommendations:

Bottled Water: It is recommended to drink bottled water or water that has been properly filtered and purified. Bottled water is readily available in most hotels, restaurants, and convenience stores. Check that the seal on the bottle is intact before consuming.

Boiled Water: If bottled water is not readily available, you can boil tap water for at least three minutes to kill any harmful microorganisms. After boiling, allow the water to cool before drinking or using it for brushing teeth or rinsing fruits and vegetables.

Filtered Water: Another option is to use water purification methods such as water filters or purifying tablets. These can help remove or kill bacteria, viruses, and other impurities from the water. Make sure to use reliable and tested purification methods.

Avoid Ice Cubes and Raw Water-based Beverages: When dining out, be cautious about ice cubes in drinks, as they are often made from tap water. Stick to bottled or canned beverages, or ask for drinks without ice. Similarly, avoid consuming raw water-based beverages like fresh fruit juices or smoothies unless you can verify that they are prepared using purified water.

Remember to also use bottled or purified water when brushing your teeth and cleaning your toothbrush. It's important to maintain good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of waterborne diseases.

By taking these precautions and staying vigilant about the source of your water, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing water-related health issues during your trip to Borneo.

Are there any cultural norms in Borneo I should follow?

Yes, Borneo, like many other destinations, has its own set of cultural norms and customs that visitors should be aware of and respect. Here are some important cultural norms to keep in mind when traveling in Borneo:

Dress Code: Borneo is a predominantly Muslim region, so it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Both men and women should avoid revealing clothing, and women may consider covering their shoulders and knees. Wearing comfortable and lightweight clothing that respects local customs is recommended.

Greetings and Respect: Borneo is known for its warm and friendly people. When meeting locals, it is customary to greet them with a smile and a polite "hello" or "good day." A simple greeting can go a long way in establishing a positive connection. It is also important to show respect to elders, as age is highly regarded in Bornean culture.

Punctuality: While being punctual is generally appreciated in Borneo, it is common for events and gatherings to start a bit later than scheduled, especially in more laid-back settings. However, it is still best to arrive on time for formal occasions and appointments.

Religious Etiquette: Borneo has a diverse religious landscape, including Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and indigenous beliefs. When visiting religious sites, such as mosques, temples, or churches, it is important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering, if required. Observe and respect any religious rituals or practices taking place.

Cultural Sensitivity: Borneo is home to various indigenous communities, each with their own unique traditions and customs. When interacting with indigenous people or visiting their villages, it is important to show respect and sensitivity to their cultural practices and way of life. Seek permission before taking photographs and be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the community.

Public Displays of Affection: Bornean culture tends to be more conservative regarding public displays of affection. It is advisable to refrain from excessive displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, in public spaces. Modesty and discretion are appreciated.

Use of the Left Hand: In Borneo, as in many Asian cultures, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. It is polite to use your right hand for giving and receiving objects, exchanging money, and eating.

By being mindful of these cultural norms and showing respect for the local customs and traditions, you can have a more enriching and meaningful experience in Borneo while fostering positive interactions with the local community.

What should I pack for a trip to Borneo?

When packing for a trip to Borneo, it's important to consider the region's tropical climate, diverse landscapes, and potential activities. Here are some essential items to pack:

Lightweight and Breathable Clothing: Borneo's climate is typically hot and humid, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Opt for loose-fitting tops, shorts, skirts, and dresses. Pack a few long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes and sunburn.

Rain Gear: Borneo experiences frequent rain showers, especially during the wet season. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to stay dry. Consider a small umbrella or a waterproof cover for your backpack or daypack.

Comfortable Footwear: Borneo offers various outdoor activities and jungle trekking opportunities. Bring sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for walking, hiking, and exploring nature trails. Closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals are recommended to protect your feet from insects and rough terrain.

Insect Repellent: Borneo is home to mosquitoes and other insects, especially in forested areas. Pack a good quality insect repellent containing DEET or other recommended ingredients. Apply it generously to exposed skin to protect against mosquito bites and potential diseases.

Sun Protection: Borneo's tropical sun can be intense, so pack sun protection essentials. Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to shield your skin from the sun's rays.

Swimsuit and Beachwear: Borneo boasts beautiful beaches and stunning coral reefs. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit, beachwear, and snorkeling gear if you plan to explore the underwater wonders or relax on the sandy shores.

Daypack or Backpack: A small daypack or backpack will come in handy for day trips, hikes, or exploring cities and towns. It's useful for carrying essentials like water bottles, snacks, insect repellent, sunblock, a rain jacket, and a camera.

Travel Adapters: Borneo uses Type G power outlets, so bring a travel adapter if your electronic devices have different plug types.

Medications and First Aid: If you require prescription medications, be sure to pack an adequate supply. Additionally, carry a basic first aid kit with items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications.

Travel Documents: Don't forget to pack your passport, visas (if required), travel insurance documents, and copies of important travel documents. It's a good idea to keep these items in a waterproof pouch or a secure digital format.

Remember to pack according to the activities you plan to engage in and the specific locations you'll be visiting in Borneo. Check the weather forecast for your travel dates and consider any additional items you might need based on your preferences and itinerary.

What should I pack for a trip to Costa Rica?

Small group tours in Borneo typically involve a set itinerary where you travel with a group of fellow travellers and a tour leader/guide. Accommodation arrangements  vary depending on the specific tour you choose. Here are some common aspects of rooming arrangements on small group tours:

Shared Rooms: In order to promote camaraderie and facilitate interaction among group members, most tours arrange shared accommodation. This means you will be paired with another member of the same gender from the group to share a room. Roommates may sometimes change periodically throughout the tour.

Single Supplement: If you prefer to have your own room and privacy, you may have the option to pay a single supplement fee. This additional fee allows you to have your own room for the duration of the tour. However, please note that single supplements can vary in cost and availability.

Roommate Matching: Tour operators usually offer roommate matching services, where they try to pair you with a suitable roommate based on your preferences, such as age range. This can help ensure compatibility and a more enjoyable experience for all participants.

Rooming Preferences: When booking your small group tour, it's important to communicate your rooming preferences to the tour operator. If you have specific requirements or preferences, such as sharing with a friend or a specific roommate request, it's advisable to inform the tour operator during the booking process.

It's important to carefully read the tour details and inclusions provided by the tour operator to understand their specific rooming policies. If having your own room is a priority, make sure to inquire about the availability of single supplements and any associated costs before booking your tour.

Keep in mind that while sharing a room with a fellow traveller can be a great way to meet new people and build connections, having your own room provides more privacy and flexibility. Consider your preferences and the dynamics of the tour when deciding whether to opt for a shared room or pay for a single supplement.

Remember to communicate your needs and preferences clearly with the tour operator during the booking process to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable accommodation experience on your small group tour in Borneo.

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Classic Borneo - 10 Days

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Borneo Tours & Cruises

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  • While many people think that Borneo is a country, it is actually an island that is home to three different autonomous countries: Indonesia, Brunei, and Malaysia.
  • Greenland and New Guinea are the only islands in the world bigger than Borneo.
  • The rainforest, which hosts most of the island's incredible biodiversity, is unfortunately being wiped out by the booming lumber business.
  • As a testament to the biodiversity, over 360 species have been discovered here in the last decade alone.
  • The largest flower in the world is the Rafflesia Arnoldii, and it is said to have a rotten smell to it.
  • 44 of the 222 mammals found in Borneo are endemic, meaning they only live on this island.

Borneo Travel FAQ's

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Best of Borneo

12 days, kuching to kota kinabalu.

group tours to borneo

  • Full itinerary
  • Tour details

Discover the astounding landscapes and unusual wildlife of Borneo, the world’s third largest island, on a journey through the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah. Experience the otherworldly limestone cliffs of Gunung Mulu National Park, witnessing its famed bat exodus; and encounter rescued orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Set off on a cruise along the Kinabatangan River in search of elusive pygmy elephants, and learn about the customs and traditions of indigenous Bornean tribes.

12 days - Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: national geographic journeys.

Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam – all without sacrificing comfort.

Service Level: Upgraded

Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 12

Ripple Score

Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 100

Map of the route for Best of Borneo

Places visited

Itinerary notes.

There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. Please see here for full details and up-to-date requirements as they may change.

Day 1 Kuching

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 Kuching

Venture out of Kuching on a full-day excursion to a Bidayuh tribal village. The Bidayuh (also known as the Land Dayak) are the indigenous people of southern Sarawak, and we’ll spend time learning about their culture, history, and lifestyle. Alongside our local guide, visit a traditional bamboo longhouse, where several families typically reside, and take a stroll in the village farmlands, passing through rice fields and fruit orchards. Witness a traditional dance performance, and observe how the Bidayuh prepare a daily meal, using fresh, local ingredients.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 3 kuching.

Head to the verdant Santubong Peninsula this morning, crowned by the jungle-covered Mount Santubong. Embark on a cruise down the Santubong River, taking in the stunning mangrove scenery and keeping an eye out for proboscis monkeys and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin. Spend the afternoon at leisure before joining an amphibian expert for an evening walk in fern-filled Kubah National Park. Enjoy a delightful jungle orchestra at nightfall and search for a variety of frog species, including the Kubah or Matang narrow-mouthed frog—one of the smallest frogs in the world.

Day 4 Kuching/Gunung Mulu National Park

Catch a flight to Mulu and transfer to our hotel near Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its incredible biodiversity, old-growth tropical forest, and impressive karst features. The park is also home to the renowned Mulu Caves, one of the largest and most spectacular cave systems on Earth. Set out on a night walk with our local guide to look for the park’s nocturnal wildlife, spotting blinking fireflies and luminescent fungi along the way.

Day 5 Gunung Mulu National Park

Hop on a longboat and glide along the Melinau River to a Penan settlement for a short visit. The Penan are a hunter-gatherer tribe native to Sarawak whose traditional way of life is increasingly threatened by deforestation. Continue to the Wind Cave, observing its surreal calcite formations and the cool breezes that blow through. Climb up a series of steps to reach the breathtaking underground river in Clearwater Cave, the longest cave passage in Asia. After a picnic lunch, walk through delightful foliage to the Lang and Deer Caves. Marvel at Lang Cave's magnificent stalagmites and stalactites, and tread with awe into Deer Cave—one of the largest cave passages in the world and home to more than three million bats. We’ll try to time our excursion to coincide with the bat exodus, when these nocturnal creatures fly out en masse to hunt for insects.

Day 6 Gunung Mulu National Park/Kota Kinabalu

Spend the morning exploring Gunung Mulu National Park at leisure, and opt to discover the majestic landscape from Mulu Skywalk, the world’s longest canopy walk. This afternoon, catch a flight to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy the evening on your own.

Day 7 KOTA KINABALU/KAMPUNG BILIT

Travel on an early morning flight to Sandakan and visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where injured, orphaned, or rescued orangutans are cared for and then reintroduced into the wild. Orangutans are among the planet’s most critically endangered creatures, found only in Borneo and Sumatra. Later, head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to meet rescued Malayan sun bears. We’ll enjoy a talk on these elusive creatures—the smallest species of bear in the world—and learn about the efforts underway to protect them. Afterward, transfer to our lodge in the small village of Kampung Bilit and embark on an evening cruise on the Kinabatangan River, seeking out monkeys, birds, elephants, and crocodiles.

Day 8 Kampung Bilit

Located along a curve on the thriving Kinabatangan River, the small village of Kampung Bilit offers a wide array of wildlife-viewing opportunities. Set out on foot into the jungle with local guides and naturalists; then cruise the rich waterways of the river, keeping your eyes open for proboscis monkeys and orangutans, as well as the rare pygmy elephant.

Day 9 Kampung Bilit/Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Drive to Tabin Wildlife Reserve and check in to our rainforest lodge. This stunning reserve is home to nine primate species, three species of cat, and hundreds of bird species. Embark on a hike along an elephant trail to the Lipad mud volcano, which provides a natural mineral lick for local wildlife, and climb to the top of the observation tower for incredible views of the surrounding forest. After dinner, enjoy a presentation on Tabin’s natural wonders, followed by a night safari in search of the reserve’s nocturnal creatures, such as the Horsfield’s tarsier, the clouded leopard, the slow loris, and more.

Day 10 Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Spend the day exploring Tabin Wildlife Reserve with local guides. Enjoy an early morning bird walk, seeking out the park’s colourful variety of avian species. After breakfast, trek through lush rainforest to the lovely Lipad Waterfall. Take a refreshing dip and shower here, or relax by the edge of the pool. In the late afternoon, set out on a wildlife drive through the reserve. After dinner, venture out on a night walk around our lodge in search of sleeping birds, frogs, and insects.

Day 11 Tabin Wildlife Reserve/Kota Kinabalu

Spend the morning at leisure, opting to watch a video about Tabin Wildlife Reserve or fashioning a souvenir using mud from the Lipad volcano. Later, board a flight to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy free time to explore the bustling coastal city.

Day 12 Kota Kinabalu

Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Visit Mongkos Village, Muara Mongkos
  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Nature Walk in Kubah National Park, Kuching
  • Arrival transfer
  • Excursion to a Bidayuh Tribal Village
  • Santubong River wildlife and dolphin cruise
  • Night walk in Mulu National Park
  • Boat excursion to Wind and Clearwater Caves
  • Walking excursion to Deer and Lang Caves
  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre visit
  • Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Kinabatangan River and wildlife excursions on foot and boat
  • Tabin Wildlife Reserve excursions by jeep and on foot
  • Internal flights
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (7 nts), Lodge (4 nts)

11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners Allow USD120-160 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, plane, boat, hiking, walking.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

group tours to borneo

Borneo & Malaysia Small-Group Tour with Orangutan Experience, Rainforest River Cruise & Internal Flights

Luxury Escapes Tours logo

Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Sandakan, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Sukau, Kota Kinabalu District

Be captivated by the natural beauty of Borneo and experience Malaysia's vibrant mosaic of culture on this nine-day small-group tour (max. 16 travellers). Get up close and personal with treasured wildlife at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, plus observe Malaysian Proboscis Monkey families in their natural habitat at Labuk Bay. Stay among the rich green rainforest in Sukau, taking in the natural scenery during a river cruise. Wander hidden alleys, taste the multitude of Kuala Lumpur flavours and revel in the sights of Malacca, including ancient Chinese temples and the bustling Jonker Street.

From picturesque scenes in Borneo to Malaysia's diverse cities, you'll enjoy unique, handpicked accommodation, private tour-group transport, internal flights, roundtrip airport transfers and naturalist guides to help you make the most of each destination. Whether you're travelling solo or with family, immerse yourself in the multi-faceted Malaysia and the biodiverse forests of Borneo.

Penang Extension: Spend an unmissable six additional days in Malaysia and take a journey through Penang and Ipoh. Visit Penang's only tropical arboretum, take a hands-on cooking class to master Penang's most famous dishes and wander the colourful streets of the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed George Town. Appreciate the wonders of the Tempurung Cave in Ipoh, an intricate system of limestone caves adorned by a constellation of stalagmites and stalactites.

Your journey takes you to: Kuala Lumpur – Malacca – Sandakan – Sukau – Kota Kinabalu.

group tours to borneo

Destinations: Kota Kinabalu District, Sukau, Sandakan, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Labuk Bay Proboscis Mo... +1 more

Destinations: Penang, Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Selamat Datang: welcome to Kuala Lumpur! Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), you will be met by your driver and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur (or KL, as it's commonly known). As the capital of Malaysia, the colourful cultural hub is the largest city in the country, with dizzying high-rise buildings, glitzy shopping malls and a multitude of local and international cuisines. The city is defined by its 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin buildings in the world, and home to the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia, the Sri Mahamariamman.

Later this afternoon, set off on a walking tour of Kuala Lumpur, before sitting down for a welcome cocktail and dinner.

Today, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before travelling to Malacca, a former colonial outpost and a true melting pot of cultures and influences. Spend a full day exploring the city’s remarkable history and its most significant buildings. You'll have the opportunity to visit the ruins of St. Paul's Church and A Famosa, the remains of a Portuguese fortress and the earliest surviving example of European architecture in Asia. Learn about the Chinese influences here with a visit to Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, dedicated to the Buddhist deity of mercy, Guan Yin. Not far from the temple is Jonker Street, brimming with antique shops that recall more than 300 years of Malacca’s fusion of influences.

After returning to KL, the rest of the evening is spent at your leisure.

This morning, explore the hidden alleys and shops of Kuala Lumpur, trying traditional street food along the way. Walk the old streets of KL, exploring beyond the tall buildings with their luxe exteriors, and get to know the Malaysian way of life and the city's history from a local perspective. Return to your hotel to freshen up, before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Sandakan in Borneo.

Welcome to Sandakan, the gateway to Borneo's wildlife. The city was once the capital of British-administered North Borneo and today is a busy port on the east coast of Sabah, East Malaysia. This port city is also a culinary paradise with amazing seafood and local delicacies unique to the cultural mix of people who have settled here over the centuries.

Enjoy the evening at your leisure as you settle into your hotel.

After breakfast, set off to enjoy a full day among nature. Venture to the centre of the Labuk Bay mangrove forest situated on the coast of Sandakan, and get up close and personal with some unique primates. The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is home to three families of the endangered species, who live harmoniously with other species such as the silver leaf monkey, pig-tailed macaque, otters and kingfishers.

After lunch, visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre and learn about the native flora and fauna. Take a stroll over the suspension bridge and finish with the only Canopy Walk (147 metres long) in Sandakan. Your guide will highlight the varied birdlife and the vast diversity of flora that is endemic to this region. Then, return to your hotel for a restful sleep.

Today, the first stop is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC). Get up close and witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat as your naturalist guide gives you an understanding of the plight of orangutans in today’s world, and the initiatives the rehabilitation centre has in place to ensure their ongoing survival and successful release back into the wild.

Afterwards, take a short walk to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC). Founded in 2008, this wildlife conservation centre and research facility aims to improve the welfare and rehabilitation of the Malayan sun bear, a reclusive bear species standing just 70 centimetres tall. It also works to educate about the plight of sun bears and the importance of working to conserve this highly endangered species.

Take a two-hour journey to Sukau for lunch and check-in at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Embark on an afternoon river cruise to Menanggul River in search of wildlife and birds, before retiring to your accommodation.

Rise early to the calls of gibbons and hornbills before embarking on an unforgettable morning cruise to observe the area's wildlife while watching the sun rise. Cruise to the nearby Pitas Oxbow Lake to explore the area and admire the natural surroundings. Return to the lodge for breakfast where you will spend the rest of the morning.

After lunch, you will be free to enjoy an afternoon at your leisure relaxing on the sun deck, exploring the area or enjoying the view, before meeting early evening for another river cruise along the Kinabatangan River. Return to the lodge for dinner.

After enjoying your breakfast, return to Sandakan to be transferred to the airport for the flight to Kota Kinabalu. This bustling waterfront city is surrounded by off-shore coral islands, forest-covered hills, scenic rivers and, of course, Mt. Kinabalu – the highest peak in Southeast Asia.

Settle into your room, and spend the rest of the evening at your leisure before indulging in a buffet dinner at the hotel.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure in beautiful Kota Kinabalu. Wander a short distance from your hotel and explore parklands, take a stroll along the relaxing waterfront, or shop at one of the many nearby shopping malls. Marvel at the ornate mosque or immerse yourself in Sabahan culture at the Muzium Sabah, full of pottery and natural history.

Reconvene for a sumptuous afternoon tea at the hotel's Deco Cafe.

After breakfast, say goodbye to the beautiful Kota Kinabalu and reminisce on the time spent in Malaysia and Borneo. Your private transfer will bring you to the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) for your flight home.

Borneo & Malaysia Small-Group Tour with Orangutan Experience, Rainforest River Cruise & Internal Flights route map

Witness the remarkable journey of the critically endangered orangutans being cared for at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. In the vast expanse of lush, protected rainforest, around 70 orangutans live independently, while 25 orphaned orangutans are housed in nurseries until they are well enough to be released. Learn about the efforts of the centre and the plights of these extraordinary primates in an unforgettable visit.

  • Eight nights of handpicked accommodation
  • Two internal economy-class flights
  • 17 meals included – eight breakfasts, five lunches and four dinners
  • A visit to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
  • Wander the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
  • A boat cruise on the Lower Kinabatangan River, spotting wildlife along the way
  • A full day in historical Malacca, learning about the ancient spice trade and visiting mosques and temples
  • Private roundtrip airport transfers and private transportation throughout the tour
  • Expert English-speaking naturalist guides
  • Insider experiences, sightseeing and entrance fees throughout the tour
  • Drinking water and cold towels provided during sightseeing

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your traveller information details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete your Traveller Details form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 60 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes’ Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise if the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected], who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • For tours that allow children, the child must be 12 years or over and must share a room with an adult.
  • Children are the same price as adults.

7-Day Change of ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:

  • Things don’t always work out. Our 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee is there to help. Bookings (except for cruise bookings and flights which are subject to the cancellation terms of the relevant supplier) may be cancelled with a full refund if cancellation occurs strictly within 7 days from the date of purchase and provided that the cancellation is made no less than 90 days prior to the departure date.
  • All booking Deposits are non-refundable.
  • After final payment is received, bookings are non-refundable unless otherwise provided for in our refund policy.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, a service fee of A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Any changes or cancellations made within the 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee, where applicable, will not incur any fees unless otherwise restricted to the product Fine Print. Booking changes may include, but are not limited to, name changes or name corrections.
  • For date changes made after the 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee, the cost of your new tour must be of equal or greater value than your current tour.
  • If the request is a change from a tour of higher value to a tour of lesser value, any difference in the tour prices will not be refunded.
  • Changes are not permitted once the final payment has been collected.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees in respect of flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).
  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be related to currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs, or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your My Escapes.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 10am. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request. Subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Share) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] .

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] for further information.

  • Roundtrip international flights
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Transfer surcharge from A$120 per car, for two people maximum incurred for arrival or departure flight between 10pm and 8am
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Camera/photography fee of MYR10 for lens greater than 100mm at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice

Baggage Restrictions

  • Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20kg on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller hand-piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 7kg on tour.
  • Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
  • If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available for select tours (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
  • If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
  • Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
  • Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers. Please see Destination information for airport pick-up and drop-off information.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email  [email protected] .

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller. This information can be added directly to your ’My Escapes’ account.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact [email protected] so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] .
  • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
  • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
  • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

Fully Guided Tour: You'll have a tour director and driver with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.

Partially Guided Tour: You'll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.

Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities in this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and ends at Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI), with roundtrip airport transfers. The extended tour ends at Kuala Lumpur Aiport (KUL).

Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately.  If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) at 11am on Day 1 and depart from Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI) after 10am on Day 9. For the extended tour, depart from Kuala Lumpur Aiport (KUL) after 10am on Day 14.

Roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only, unless you have booked your pre- and post-accommodation with Luxury Escapes. If you have booked your pre- or post-accommodation with us, please advise our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] to arrange your transfer.

You must complete your Traveller Details form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller's responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct , to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here  to visit the website.

Need flights?  Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact [email protected] .

Important Destination Information:

Time zone: GMT+8

Telephone: +60-8

Currency: Malaysian ringgit (RM)

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.

Language: Bahasa Malaysia

Climate: Straddling the equator, Borneo is subject to an intense tropical climate. In the lowlands, temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C, while at higher elevations things can get a lot cooler. Borneo has 2 monsoon seasons: the ‘dry’ monsoon (May–October) and the ‘wet’ monsoon (November–April).

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11 Days Borneo adventure

  • Trip rating - 4.5
  • Days - 11 Days
  • Style - Signature
  • From - $2,816 $2,682
  • Add to wishlist

11 Days Borneo adventure

Travel across pristine forests and serene islands where the natural world is the order of things. Colours blend and leap out at you in the form of different flowers while the eye gets a constant workout in trying to gauge the movements of endemic primates that swing by – sometimes stealthily and sometimes with verve. Listen to the cackle of Silver Leaf Monkeys punctuating the odd call of a Hornbill. Bats and birds flit in and out of limestone caves and further out towards the sea, turtles hatch their eggs in a daily ritual. Witness these and experience more with a sense of privilege for having spent a slice of life in Borneo. 

The Borneo tour starts and ends in Kota Kinabalu. It is a small group tour that takes 11 days taking you through Kinabalu National Park, Sepilok, Kota Kinabalu and 4 other destinations in Malaysia. Borneo holiday package is a guided group tour that includes accommodation, transport, meals and others.

Travel to Borneo on an 11-day adventure and explore the curious wildlife and spectacular landscapes of the region.  Experience the ultimate wildlife adventure on a small group tour to Borneo in Southeast Asia's Malaysian archipelago. Follow your tour guide to find orang-utans, pygmy elephants and gibbons in the rainforest and visit the Sepilok Sanctuary to see crucial rehabilitation work with these endangered native apes.   

  • Start Location : Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Finish Location : Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

  • Trip Style : Signature , Solo Travel , Wildlife & Safari ,

Country : Borneo

  • Group Size : 2 to 16

group tours to borneo

Accommodations

10 Night twin share hotel

group tours to borneo

Sabah Park, Botanical Garden, Poring Spring, Canopy Walkway, Tea Factory, Evening Cruise, Morning Cruise, Evening Cruise, Gomantong Caves, Labuk Bay Sanctuary, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Rainforest Discovery Centre, Conservation Park and Hatcheries, Sandakan War Memorial, Visit to Dinawan Island, Mari Mari Cultural Village

group tours to borneo

Airport Transfer

Arrival & Departure transfer included

group tours to borneo

Local Tipping

Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport

group tours to borneo

10 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 4 Dinners

group tours to borneo

Transportation

Private bus, River Boat, Private vehicle

Day 01 Kota Kinabalu

Hello and welcome aboard! Once you’ve made it to your accommodation with a little help from our representative kick back and enjoy your day. Wander around Kota Kinabalu if you have the time but if you want to take it easy that’s fine too because you’ve got another day here at the end of the tour. Be sure to meet your tour leader at the hotel at 6 pm to talk out a few formalities and then sink your teeth into some of the local food immediately afterwards.

group tours to borneo

Day 02 Kinabalu National Park

Step into Malaysia’s best know National Park this morning, its skyline dominated by the Kinabalu Mountain that rises 4095 metres to stab at wisps of clouds and graze a piece of the sky. Considering that the park has an estimated 4,500 species of plants, our obvious starting point is the Botanical Garden, a veritable treasure chest housing the sinister and carnivorous Pitcher Plant as well as 1500 varieties of Orchids, 77 out of which are endemic to Kinabalu. Wash your cares away at the Poring Hot Spring in a soothing sulphur bath after your visit to the gardens. Complete your day by skimming along the treetops on a Canopy Walkway whilst trying to maintain that air of graceful dignity as you go about it.

Day 03 Kinabatangan River

Catch the heady aroma of freshly picked leaves as you start the day with a visit to a tea factory whilst simultaneously learning the ropes of what goes into making a good brew. With your head abuzz with some newly acquired knowledge, clamber on board your private vehicle and drive deeper into the jungle to make it to the edge of the Kinabatangan River. Kick back for a moment after lunch at your lodge and as the sun begins to hang low, throw a leg over a riverboat, settle down comfortably and scan the river banks for wildlife as you go on an evening cruise down the river.

group tours to borneo

Day 04 Kinabatangan River

Wake up early to the sounds of the forest as you gear up for a repeat of last evenings adventure. Only this time you get to watch the river wake up to the changing light. Listen to the stir of silver-tailed macaques and proboscis monkeys as they limber up and skip among the trees while keeping your eyes peeled out for the stately orangutans and pygmy elephants that watch your progress from their forest cover.  Indulge yourself in some culinary lessons or walk the length of some jungle trails for the rest of the day. Put in a night walk for good measure to see the jungles nocturnal inhabitants brush off the day and go about their business in the dark.

Day 05 Labuk Bay

Journey overland to Gomantong after breakfast and take an exploratory step into the interiors of its fascinating limestone caves teeming with swiftlets and bats that get occasionally arrested by a shaft of light filtering from yawning gaps above. At ground level, walk past the army of cockroaches and other insects that feed off the guano and when the seasons’ just right watch the locals collect the droppings from the walls to collect it for soup. Leave for Labuk Bay thereafter, a mangrove haven that acts as a sanctuary for Proboscis Monkeys. Slow Lorises, Otters, and Hornbills rove through the forests here while Silver Leaf Monkeys swing and spring so close to the viewing platforms that you can almost reach out to touch them. 

group tours to borneo

Day 06 Sepilok

Learn about the rehabilitation process of orangutans at Sepilok, the largest orangutan rehabilitation centre in the world. Following a 20-minute documentary about the programme – the primary purpose of which is the reintroduction of orphaned orangutans in the wild – enter the tropical rainforest to watch these primates feed at the behest of park officials. Step into the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre next as well as the Rainforest Discovery Centre, the latter involving a trudge across a length of 150 metres long canopy walkway that offers a unique perspective of the lush rainforest from 25 metres above ground. 

Day 07 Turtle Island

Following breakfast, step out of the mainland and head for Turtle Island. Spend a lazy afternoon here or go traipsing around the surrounding islands as you wait in anticipation for the night show. Hawksbill turtles and green turtles arrive enmasse and crawl ashore like an army invading some secret base under the cover of darkness. While turtles generally return to hatch eggs on the same beach where they were born, depending upon the season and other variables, the Turtle Island is the only place in the world where they arrive every evening without breaking pattern (the exact hour being an exception) to nest. Bear witness to this phenomenon and to the rituals of hatchlings being released back to the sea.

group tours to borneo

Day 08 Langkah Syabas

Return to the mainland this morning and visit the Sandakan Memorial Park, established to commemorate the fallen soldiers who succumbed to one of the most tragic events that were perpetrated in this part of the world during the Second World War. Learn about and contemplate upon the stories of the horrific Sandakan Death March and of those who died during a similar march to Ranau. Take a flight out to Kota Kinabalu after your visit here and then transfer to Langkah Syabas Resort for your overnight stay.

Day 09 Langkah Syabas

Bask in your own private paradise at Dinawan Island, a private resort surrounded by the clearest of waters and views of Mount Kinabalu that looms over in the distance. Choose to while your time away here on sun deck chairs or go snorkeling and scuba diving. Strike out for a plain old swim, go sea boarding or even kayaking until you’re hungry enough to clean out the seafood buffet at lunch. And when the day draws on towards late afternoon return to your accommodation at Langkah Syabas with a full heart. 

group tours to borneo

Day 10 Kota Kinabalu

Compress and even revisit the knowledge you’ve perhaps acquired over your days spent in Borneo by visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Located away from the city the village serves as a museum with a view to preserve the regions culture. Observe a life far removed from modern conventions and trappings and step into a world where starting a fire, making blowpipes and tattoo piercings were a norm. Understand the belief systems, legends and stories of the various tribes and participate in a lost world that strives to keep itself alive by revealing itself to the world at large. Return to your hotel after a traditional lunch at the village itself and chase it down with a final dinner together back at your resort.

Day 11 Kota Kinabalu

It’s time now to bid farewell to your tour leader and new friends but not without a backpack full of memories. Departure transfers are included on the day.

group tours to borneo

Hotel Dreamtel

Hotel Dreamtel Borneo is a modern and comfortable hotel which is in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah, Malaysia. The hotel's sleek and contemporary design is reflected in its stylish guest rooms, which offer all the modern amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine, and there's also a coffee shop for those in need of a caffeine fix. Guests can relax and unwind at the hotel's rooftop pool, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea beyond. The hotel's central location makes it easy to explore the city's cultural attractions, including the nearby Gaya Street Sunday Market and the Sabah State Museum.

group tours to borneo

Langkah Syabas Resort

Langkah Syabas Resort is a tropical paradise located on the coast of Borneo, Malaysia. This eco-friendly resort is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The resort is set amidst lush tropical gardens and features a stunning beachfront, allowing guests to relax and unwind in a serene and peaceful environment. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed with traditional Borneo architecture, featuring wooden accents and local artwork.

Sabah Tea Cottage

Sabah Tea Cottage is a charming eco-lodge located in the heart of the lush rainforests of Borneo. The lodge is surrounded by acres of tea plantations, providing guests with a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The rustic and cozy cottages offer stunning views of the tea fields and the nearby mountains. Guests can take a leisurely stroll through the tea gardens or enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Sabah tea in the lodge's restaurant.

group tours to borneo

Gabriel Dupont

Our Borneo trip was truly fantastic, filled with incredible sights and experiences. Nur, our tour leader, was instrumental in making it exceptional. Her knowledge, patience, and guidance added immense value to the journey, ensuring a memorable experience for all. We learned about Borneo's diverse flora and fauna and witnessed its breathtaking wonders. I commend Nur and the entire team for their expertise and dedication, which contributed to the success of this outstanding journey.

Alexander Bianchi

Man, this trip was unreal, Borneo is like a hidden gem with its stunning nature and vibrant culture. The itinerary was non-stop, but it was just right, ya know? We got to see so much wildlife on that river cruise, I felt like I was in a National Geographic documentary. Nur, our guide, was a total pro. She knew everything about the animals and took some killer wildlife photos. The accommodation was decent, nothing fancy, but it did the job. I'm already counting down the days till my next One World Adventures tour. These guys know how to make memories.

Xavier Dubois

My first group tour with One World Adventures to Borneo was a leap into the unknown, but it turned out to be an absolute blast! The wildlife-packed itinerary exceeded all my expectations, from playful orangutans to majestic elephants. Our knowledgeable leader, Nur, made every moment filled with wonder. And the best part? The amazing group of fellow adventurers who shared in the magic. From thrilling wildlife spotting to heartwarming campfire moments, every second was pure joy. Borneo, you've stolen my heart.

William Gonzalez

Wow, the One World Adventures trip was an absolute blast. Everything was perfectly planned, and our guide Wan was out of this world! I can't recommend this trip enough. We got to witness some incredible things, like Orangutans swinging through the trees, elephants lazing around by the river, and the mesmerizing marine life in the sea. It was an adventure of a lifetime.

Charlotte Clark

During our 11-day trip to Borneo, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in the unique flora, fauna, and wildlife of the region. We had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the orangutan, probosci's monkey, short-tailed monkey, pygmy elephant, and various bird and sea life species. Our trip was made even more enjoyable with delicious food and great accommodations, and our guide Wan, who is a valuable asset to One World Adventures. Overall, it was an unforgettable tour that left us with amazing memories. Highly recommended.

Victoria Phillips

The Borneo adventure exceeded my expectations. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made sure that we were always comfortable and well taken care of. Although the climate was hot and humid, the trip was designed to be easy and relaxing. We were treated to incredible wildlife sightings, including Orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, elephants, fish, and sunbears. Staying in a tea garden was a unique experience and I even got to sample different types of tea. Overall, it was a perfect trip and I highly recommend it.

The Borneo trip was a wild and wonderful adventure, especially for those who love all creatures great and small. Our guide Adam was a total superstar and our accommodations were both comfy and perfectly located. Animal lovers will be in their element with so many incredible sightings, and you'll also get a real insight into the unique culture and people of Borneo. With so many amazing activities on offer, we still managed to keep things chill and take it all in at a relaxed pace. Highly recommended!

Robert Garcia

Wow, this journey was off the hook! Every move we made went smooth as silk and our leader had us chuckling like crazy while also letting us know all about Borneo. What a great way to experience that phenomenal place - no doubt about it. We owe you big time for helping us make these memories. One world Adventures was awesome - I came back and even booked another trip with them, so now I'm literally bursting with anticipation to see what comes next!

We had an amazing experience on our trip to the incredible country provided by One World Adventures. The team put together a fantastic escapade with delicious food and stunning views and unique animals. Our guide was particularly remarkable; he kept us safe and his funny remarks, along with his extensive knowledge of every aspect of it, certainly made this tour unforgettable.

Loura Martin

Taking a trip to Borneo totally rocked! With the small group size, it was effortless to meet other world travelers and make awesome new friends. Our tour leader was super friendly and easy-going - no worries about being bamboozled or getting taken advantage of. So much fun stuff happened on our tour: seeing cool animals, chewing down on yummy local food, and learning about the history. Oh my gosh, I'm ready to do it all over again.

Olivia Davis

As this was my first time traveling with a group, I am delighted to share my experience and wholeheartedly recommend this tour. It was an incredibly enjoyable time with many fond memories made alongside the amazing people in my group and our tour leader. From rivers, jungles, and exotic creatures to captivating history and beautiful accommodations, this trip has something for everyone. Borneo truly offers so much that cannot be forgotten–this journey was exceptional! I had the best time possible, which makes me all the more excited for my next adventure with One World Adventures.

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Essential Information

Start Location: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Group Size :  2 to 16

Trip Style : Signature

Joining Point 

Hotel Dreamtel Address: 5, Jalan Padang, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Phone: +60 88 240 333

Airport Arrival Transfer Included Only available On The First Day Of Your Trip

Finishing Point

Phone: +60 88 240 333 Airport Departure Transfer Included Only available On The Last Day Of Your Trip

Essential trip information

KOTA KINABALU

Hello and welcome aboard! Once you’ve made it to your accommodation with a little help from our representative kick back and enjoy your day. Wander around Kota Kinabalu if you have the time but if you want to take it easy that’s fine too because you’ve got another day here at the end of the tour. Be sure to meet your tour leader at the hotel at 6 pm to talk out a few formalities and then sink your teeth into some of the local food immediately afterwards.

Accommodation: Hotel Dreamtel or similar

Included Activities: Nil

Included Meals: Nil

Optional Activities: Sabah Museum entrance fee - MYR15

KINABALU NATIONAL PARK

Step into Malaysia’s best know National Park this morning, its skyline dominated by the Kinabalu Mountain that rises 4095 metres to stab at wisps of clouds and graze a piece of the sky. Considering that the park has an estimated 4,500 species of plants, our obvious starting point is the Botanical Garden, a veritable treasure chest housing the sinister and carnivorous Pitcher Plant as well as 1500 varieties of Orchids, 77 out of which are endemic to Kinabalu. Wash your cares away at the Poring Hot Spring in a soothing sulphur bath after your visit to the gardens. Complete your day by skimming along the treetops on a Canopy Walkway whilst trying to maintain that air of graceful dignity as you go about it.

Accommodation: Sabah Tea Cottage or similar

Included Activities: Sabah Park, Botanical Garden, Poring Spring, Canopy Walkway

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional Activities: Kundasang - War Memorial - MYR10

Accommodation: Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge or similar

Included Activities: Tea Factory, Evening Cruise

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

KINABATANGAN RIVER

Wake up early to the sounds of the forest as you gear up for a repeat of last evenings adventure. Only this time you get to watch the river wake up to the changing light. Listen to the stir of silver-tailed macaques and proboscis monkeys as they limber up and skip among the trees while keeping your eyes peeled out for the stately orangutans and pygmy elephants that watch your progress from their forest cover.  Indulge yourself in some culinary lessons or walk the length of some jungle trails for the rest of the day. Put in a night walk for good measure to see the jungles nocturnal inhabitants brush off the day and go about their business in the dark.

Included Activities: Morning Cruise, Evening Cruise

Optional Activities: Cooking Class, Hiking, Batik Painting, Night Walk.

Journey overland to Gomantong after breakfast and take an exploratory step into the interiors of its fascinating limestone caves teeming with swiftlets and bats that get occasionally arrested by a shaft of light filtering from yawning gaps above. At ground level, walk past the army of cockroaches and other insects that feed off the guano and when the seasons’ just right watch the locals collect the droppings from the walls to collect it for soup. Leave for Labuk Bay thereafter, a mangrove haven that acts as a sanctuary for Proboscis Monkeys. Slow Lorises, Otters, and Hornbills rove through the forests here while Silver Leaf Monkeys swing and spring so close to the viewing platforms that you can almost reach out to touch them. 

Accommodation: Sabah Hotel or similar

Included Activities: Gomantong Caves, Labuk Bay Sanctuary

Included Meals: Breakfast

SANDAKAN/SEPILOK

Learn about the rehabilitation process of orangutans at Sepilok, the largest orangutan rehabilitation centre in the world. Following a 20-minute documentary about the programme – the primary purpose of which is the reintroduction of orphaned orangutans in the wild – enter the tropical rainforest to watch these primates feed at the behest of park officials. Step into the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre next as well as the Rainforest Discovery Centre, the latter involving a trudge across a length of 150 metres long canopy walkway that offers a unique perspective of the lush rainforest from 25 metres above ground. 

Included Activities: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Rainforest Discovery Centre

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

TURTLE ISLAND

Accommodation: Turtle Island Chalets or similar

Included Activities: Conservation Park and Hatcheries

LANGKAH SYABAS

Accommodation: Langkah Syabas Resort or similar

Included Activities: Sandakan War Memorial

Bask in your own private paradise at Dinawan Island, a private resort surrounded by the clearest of waters and views of Mount Kinabalu that looms over in the distance. Choose to while your time away here on sun deck chairs or go snorkeling and scuba diving. Strike out for a plain old swim, go sea boarding or even kayaking until you’re hungry enough to clean out the seafood buffet at lunch. And when the day draws on towards late afternoon return to your accommodation at Langkah Syabas with a full heart. 

Included Activities: Visit to Dinawan Island 

Compress and even revisit the knowledge you’ve perhaps acquired over your days spent in Borneo by visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Located away from the city the village serves as a museum with a view to preserve the regions culture. Observe a life far removed from modern conventions and trappings and step into a world where starting a fire, making blowpipes and tattoo piercings were a norm. Understand the belief systems, legends and stories of the various tribes and participate in a lost world that strives to keep itself alive by revealing itself to the world at large. Return to your hotel after a traditional lunch at the village itself and chase it down with a final dinner together back at your resort.

Accommodation: Dreamtel Hotel or similar

Included Activities: Mari Mari Cultural Village

Departure day.

It’s time now to bid farewell to your tour leader and new friends but not without a backpack full of memories. Departure transfers are included on the day.

Itinerary disclaimer

Itinerary Changes

The itineraries for One World Adventures are updated on a regular basis during the year, reflecting the current situation in each of our destinations and customer feedback. Information that forms the Essential Trip information may vary from your initial booking and it is vital that you read and review the information provided before your departure. This will provide you with the latest information. Your itinerary may change once you’re in the country- as a result of transport schedules, changes in weather conditions, public holidays and varying local conditions. To ensure our guests have the best experience, the scheduled activities in each location may vary in order and time depending on the season travelled. Your tour leader will inform you of any changes once on the trip.

Optional Activities

Our optional activities selected have been popular with past guests and are listed in the itinerary. This list is only some of the activities you can enjoy and should be used as a guide only to what is available. Prices are for entry only and do not include transport to and from the sites or local guides. Prices are approximate and the activities are subject to availability. Some activities maybe on a join-in basis. It is not possible to participate in all the activities listed due to the limited time in each destination. Planning ahead and choosing the activities that suit you is highly recommended.

Pre-booking recommendations for activities will be noted in the Special information listed in the daily itinerary. Usually, activities can be organized independently on the day or alternatively inform your tour leader and they can assist you make the arrangements.

We have assessed and sighted the credentials and safety of the operators chosen for medium and high risk activities and work closely with them. As such, medium to high risk activities not listed in the itineraries (that may be less expensive) are not recommended as we cannot guarantee there quality or safety. Therefore, our staff or tour leaders will not assist you with organizing these activities. It is at your own risk and discretion if you decide to participate in activities not listed in the itinerary.

We value the important feedback received by our past guests. All feedback is read and improvements to our itineraries and destinations are made. Share your experiences and let future guest gain valuable insight into One World Adventures.  www.oneworldadventures.com/feedback

Emergency Contact Information and Issues.

Our aim is to provide the best possible experience for your holiday. Due to the nature of travel and the places we visit, not everything will always go to plan. If issues arise on your tour, please inform your tour leader or local representative so we can try and rectify the issue at the time. This will help mitigate any negative impact on the rest of your trip.

Unfortunately, a resolution to the problem may not be achieved to your satisfaction- in this event please inform your tour leader that you wish to speak to their direct manager.

We recommend guests provide online feedback within 30 days of finishing your trip, acknowledging that it is very difficult to provide practical assistance once the trip is completed. Letting us know at the time allows us to try and resolve any issues promptly.

International travel requires a valid Passport with at least six months validity. Your passport details are required for the completion of your booking. It is important that you ensure that the name on your passport matches exactly the name on your booking and airline tickets. Contact us immediately if they do not so errors can be corrected.It is highly recommended that you carry copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you and also leave copies with family or friends in case required.

All visa requirements are the responsibility of the traveller. Changes to entry requirements may change at any time and therefore, it is import that you check your government’s foreign travel advisories as well as Consular websites for all countries that you are travelling to. This is important so you have the most up to date information that is specific to your nationality and circumstances.Whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place other sources of visa information available on line may not be up to date or valid.

Once you have booked your trip it is your responsibility to research visa requirements, obtain the necessary documents, now the processing time and application needed for the visas for all countries you are visiting. Visas can take several weeks to process. You can apply directly through a consulate or a booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service.

MALAYSIA: Most nationalities do not need visas to visit Malaysia as a tourist for up to three months. Please check with your relevant Malaysian embassy or consulate.

Health Screening

If you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home. Contact us to make alternative arrangements.

If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required.

Food and Dietary Requirements

Experiencing the different and amazing foods of the places we visit during your tour is part of the experience in travelling. Not all meals are included in the tour price and this allows for flexibility in choice. Choice of where, when and with whom you want to eat with. Your tour leader can provide some recommendations of places to eat and this allows for better budgeting for you.

Please advise any dietary requirements. Our group meals provide an opportunity to try many dishes as well as enjoy the company of your fellow guests.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the tour may vary- some may be basic and simple with shared bathroom facilities-some with cold water. Air-condition rooms are available. Some countries experience daily load shedding where the power may be turned off at set times during the day-usually early afternoon. Many of the hotels have cafes or restaurants that serve local meals. Please be aware that some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.

Hot water peak times for showers are usually morning and evenings in some accommodation. outside these times you may need to speak with the reception to obtain hot water.

Room Issues

Addressing any issues with your room requires immediate attention-please speak with the reception or tour leader so issues can be resolved promptly. Speaking with the travel agent will delay the issues being addressed.

Our tours will involve travel on may forms of transport. Theses include- bus, private vehicle, rickshaw and cycle rickshaw, metro, train, taxi, shuttle buses, jeeps,vans, boats-ferries and airplanes. Some of these modes of transportation will no be the same standed as u are use to. One world adventures audit our suppliers regulaly to make shore transportation is off a safe standed

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

Your Tour Leader

Tipping your tour leader for outstanding service provided to you on your tour is a personal preference and the amount is discretionary. However, as a guide US$3- US$5 per person (in local currency), per day can be used. You are free to tip more or less, depending on how you feel the service was provided. Please remember that tipping is not compulsory and should e given for excellent service. Giving coins, dirty or torn notes or small denominations is considered culturally an insult.

Tipping Kitty:

Your tour leader pays for all tips for drivers, local guides and hotel staff only. Restaurant tips are not included nor tips for your tour leader.

Spending money:

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

Commissions:

The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. Rather than turning a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas, monies collected will be distributed to local businesses, One World Adventures Charities and to providing sustainable travel.

Main Luggage

Depending on the time of year you are travelling, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You need to to be able to lift and carry your luggage and walk short distances. This includes up and down stairs and busy railway stations. The smaller your luggage the easier it is to store above or under bunks on overnight trains and public transport. Aim for around 15 kg. Small wheeled suitcases are easy to pick up and carry. Backpacks are also a good option. Our guests find that lighter luggage cause less worry and lead to a more enjoyable trip .

A small day pack is very useful for carrying your essential items when exploring destinations and for overnight stays.

On overnight trains packing essential items provides ease of access. www.oneworldadventures.com/packing-list

As a rule, WiFi is generally available in most parts of the destinations you travel and in the accommodation we use. Most hotels provide free WiFi in public areas but remember charges for in-room Wifi may occur. Always ask your tour leader on arrival to the hotel.

Usually, in tourist areas-most cafes and restaurants will have free WiFi available- always check and ask for passwords when ordering.

Tour Leader

One of our tour leaders will accompany you on all our trips. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and provide you with the best trip we can. One World Adventures aim to provide the services of an experienced tour leader. However, sometimes a tour leader may be new to a region or training other tour leaders.

Providing general information on the destinations visited, offering suggestions on available sightseeing and activities, recommendations of local places to eat and introducing you to our local friends is there main objective. A broad general knowledge of the historical, cultural, religious and social aspects of the destinations being visited will be provided.

One World Adventures aim to support the local tour guides that have the knowledge of the specific area visited. If you would like more in-depth knowledge of a specific sight nor location , your tour leader can recommend a local guide service for major destinations.

Personal Belongings

It is strongly recommended that you use a neck wallet or money belt when travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, airline tickets, cash and other valuable items. Ideally, leave valuable jewellery items t home. Many of our hotels provide safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of safe keeping valuables. A lock for your luggage is recommended.

Most National Governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your Government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: 

www.oneworldadventures.com/safety-policy

Included activities will be supported by your tour leader. However, during your tour there is free time provided to relax, take it easy, pursue your own interests and explore the destination at your own leisure. It is important that your use good judgment when choosing activities during your free time.

Important to note- the tour leader has the authority to cancel or amend any section of the itinerary if deemed necessary for safety concerns.

Personal Safety

When travelling in tourist areas and cities there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft.

It is recommended that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and preferably walk together or if alone stay in main areas that are well lit. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

Scams involving ATM and credit cards, train tickets, taxis, temple donations and tourist guides operate in a lot of countries. If you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back- but they can issue you with an official loss report for insurance purposes.

Travelling on a group tour

Group travel will expose you to all the pleasures and also the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow guests will likely come from all around the world. We ask you to be understanding of the different needs and preferences of the group. Patience's sometimes a requirement that will benefit everyone’s travel experience.

You too have a responsibility to the group- this includes being on time or at a particular place when requested - this ensures your group isn’t left waiting for you.

The best tours work well when the dynamics of the group work well and everyone is considerate to each other.

Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with the contact details or any personal information about your fellow guests that are booked on your trip-prior to departure.

Solo travellers

One world Adventures is ideal for the solo traveller as they want to meet and share the experience with like-minded people.

Solo travellers will be paired with another traveller that is a the same gender

(as identified on your passport or the information provided in our booking system), so if you identify differently, please let us know in advance. We provide a Single Supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room.

Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour.

All pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will on a single room basis.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against adventure activities, personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US $200,000 for each categories of cover. We also recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You alone are wholly responsible for arranging your insurance. The period of cover should start no later than the date you make your booking with us. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24 hr Emergency contact number on the first day off your trip; You will not be able to join the trip without this. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you, rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

A couple of rules

All travellers have the right to feel safe whilst travelling. One World Adventures do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), sexual harassment-between our guests or involving our tour leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a guest are strictly forbidden. 

Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. We encourage responsible drinking if you choose to consume alcohol when travelling. Abiding by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption is important.

The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, we recommend no participation in this activity.

By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines. 

The decision of the tour leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a tour leader, or interfere with the well-being or operation of the tour group, the tour leader may instruct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund.

One World Adventure reserves the right to refuse you participation in any further tours. 

If someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately.

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from pp Twin Share

Single Traveller

10 Day Borneo Discovery With Turtle Island Small Group Tour

This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

✓ Small group tour, up to 16 guests only ✓ Incredible sightseeing on this adventure through the tropics, including Dinawan Island, visiting endangered orangutans and sun bears in Sepilok, viewing unique birds and wildlife on a safari cruise along the Kinabatangan River, staying at a turtle hatchery island - Selingan Turtle Island and more ✓ Fully escorted by a professional, English-speaking tour guide ✓ 6 nights at 4-star accommodation ✓ 2 nights immersed in nature at a rainforest lodge ✓ 1 night in a chalet on Selingan Turtle Island ✓ Breakfast daily, 8 lunches including a cooking class, 3 dinners and a high-tea experience ✓ Domestic flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan ✓ Group departure transfer to Sandakan Airport (SDK) ✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout ✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

group tours to borneo

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Kota Kinabalu

Welcome to Malaysia.

On arrival into Kota Kinabalu, make your own way to the accommodation - arrival transfers can be pre-booked. 

This evening you will have your tour briefing, orientation walk of the surrounding areas and dinner (not included).

Day 2 Kota Kinabalu Dinawan Island Kota Kinabalu

Just a 30-minute boat trip from Kota Kinabalu, is a tiny gem of an island with secluded beaches and clear waters to snorkel or explore on a kayak. Ara Dinawan Island is an exquisite addition to Sabah's natural marvels, boasting untouched and pristine beauty that is exclusive to its location. It is now considered one of the most stunning islands in Sabah, unspoiled and untainted by human interference. 

Your boat will take you directly to the coral reefs where your experienced snorkelling guide will point out the best sport to see what’s lurking underwater. Alternatively, you can choose to take a kayak for a paddle through the crystal clear waters. This is the perfect island getaway for a day or a weekend for those looking for some peace and tranquillity to totally unwind and rejuvenate the senses. 

Return to Kota Kinabalu by boat and spend the evening at your leisure.

Day 3 Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu National Park Kota Kinabalu

After breakfast, you will drive to the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. En route, you will stop at local vendor’s shops for refreshment breaks and to also sample the local produce. 

Your first stop will be Poring Hot Springs, a popular destination for locals on the weekend and public holidays. There is a canopy walk, butterfly garden and orchid garden which you will have time to explore. The canopy walk is a steep 15 min walk to the start of the canopy, but views are magnificent.

Continue onto Kinabalu National Park where you will meet an experienced guide who will take us along trails in Malaysia’s first world heritage site. There are a few different options depending on your fitness level and interest. The mountain and its surroundings are among the most important biological sites in the world, with over 800 species of orchid, 600 species of ferns, 326 species of birds, and is the richest place in the world for the Nepenthes insectivorous pitcher plants (five of the thirteen are found nowhere else on earth).

Return to Kota Kinabalu and have the evening at your leisure.

Day 4 Kota Kinabalu

Today you will head into the countryside, approximately 1 hour from Kota Kinabalu, to explore the local customs.

Embark on a captivating excursion to explore the local community and their rich cultural heritage, fully immersing yourself in their customs and way of life. Experience a profound sense of tranquillity as you embrace the serene allure of Kiulu, with its breathtaking vistas of vibrant paddy fields, picturesque farms, rejuvenating woodlands, and undulating verdant peaks. This enlightening day trip will undoubtedly enthral you, leaving an indelible impression that will beckon you to return for further exploration. 

You will stop by a local market to buy basic ingredients before we proceed to the location of your cooking class, guided by a local chef who will teach you how to prepare traditional Sabahan dishes. Here is where you will have lunch, enjoying your culinary masterpieces, along with other traditional Sabahan delicacies. 

After lunch, feel free to dip into the cooling river water before we return to Kota Kinabalu.

Day 5 Kota Kinabalu Sandakan Selingan Turtle Island

This morning, you will be transferred to Kota Kinabalu Airport in time for your included flight to Sandakan.

On arrival into Sandakan, you will be transferred by road to the local jetty, in time for your boat transfer to Selingan Island, famous for its turtle hatchery. The boat transfer will take approximately 1 hour as you pass small fishing villages and bamboo fishing traps.

On Selingan Turtle Island, green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs every night of the year. In the afternoon, there's time for swimming, snorkelling or some quality time lazing about on the beach of this tropical island. Snorkelling gear is available for hire.

In the evening, be touched by the sight of giant green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs under the moonlight and watch the researchers as they release protected hatchlings and guide them in their frantic dash to the ocean. Beware that this is a very delicate environment, and you must follow instructions from your leader and the local rangers to ensure minimal impact on the turtles. 

You will spend tonight on the island.

Please note that a Single Supplement is not available on this night - solo travelers will be roomed with other solo travelers of the same gender.

Day 6 Selingan Turtle Island Sandakan

After breakfast, take the return 1 hour boat trip to the mainland where you will commence your touring of Sandakan and its surrounding places of interest.

Visit Sandakan Memorial Park, which is adjacent to the site of the original Sandakan Prisoner of War (POW) Camp. The park commemorates the sacrifice and suffering endured by both Australian and British soldiers who were held by the Japanese as Prisoners of War between 1942 and 1945. 

Next, you will visit the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, located on a steep hilltop where you can have a magnificent view overlooking Sandakan Bay and the Town Centre. From here, continue to one of the oldest churches in Sabah, St. Michael's Church where you can see a century old building where Christianity is preached.  

You will also visit the Agnes Keith Museum to learn about life in the colonial days of Agnes & Harry Keith. Harry was the first conservator of the Forestry Department in Sabah and Agnes was the author of the three famous books called Land Below the Wind, Three Came Home and White Man Returns. 

Stop at the nearby English tea house where you may have another spectacular view of Sandakan Nature City and have lunch before checking in at your hotel. 

Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Day 7 Sandakan

Today you will visit one of the most popular locations in Malaysia - The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The centre was set up to help re-introduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or having been orphaned. There's also a short film about the orangutan rehabilitation process to watch in the reserve's Interpretation Centre. 

From one animal to another, The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center is within walking distance. We will visit this wonderful new centre that is taking care of rescued Sun Bears that have spent many years mistreated and locked away in cages.  

Return to the hotel where the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel facilities.

Day 8 Sandakan Kinabatangan

Today you will journey into the heart of Borneo at Gomantong Cave. At this massive limestone cave, you can walk along the boardwalk in one of the two main cave complexes, observe skilled harvesters, and marvel at the rich wildlife, including bats, kingfishers, and wild orangutans. This adventure is packed with natural beauty and intriguing discoveries.

Transfer to your lodge for the next 2 nights. Upon arrival at the rainforest lodge, check into your accommodation before having lunch. This afternoon, you will embark on your first river safari to view wildlife and birds in its virgin rainforest habitat. Arrive back at the lodge with time to freshen up before dinner.

Day 9 Kinabatangan

Spend today fully immersed within Borean nature as you have early morning and evening river safaris. 

The Kinabatangan River wildlife includes rarities such as the Bornean gibbon, Borneo pygmy elephant, orangutan and proboscis monkey with myriad species of birds that will keep you glued to your binoculars.

Tonight, you will have the chance to go on a nature walk around the lodge to spot nocturnal creatures.

Day 10 Kinabatangan Sandakan

Today, we say farewell to Borneo as you are transferred to Sandakan Airport (SDK), arriving at approximately 11am, in time for your departure flight.

Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. 

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

What's Included

  • Small group tour, up to 16 guests only
  • Return boat transfers to Dinawan Island
  • High-tea experience on Dinawan Island
  • Entry fees into; Kinabalu National Park, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Selingan Turtle Island permit fee
  • Return boat transfers to Selingan Turtle Island
  • 6 nights at 4* accommodation
  • 2 nights in a rainforest lodge
  • 1 night in a chalet
  • Breakfast daily, 8 lunches and 3 dinners
  • Cooking class in Kota Kinabalu
  • Domestic economy class flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan
  • Group departure transfer to Sandakan Airport (SDK)
  • Fully escorted by a professional English-speaking tour guide
  • Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
  • In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

Sightseeing Highlights

  • Kota Kinabalu - snorkel through the pristine waters of Dinawan Island
  • Kota Kinabalu - explore the treetop canopy walk within Kinabalu National Park
  • Kota Kinabalu - try your hand at Malaysian cuisine during a local cooking class
  • Selingan Turtle Island - observe turtles hatching at night on the famous Turtle Island
  • Sandakan - tour the famous, historical sites of Sandakan Memorial Park a former POW Camp
  • Sandakan - take in all of Sandakan Bay at the vista where the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple sits
  • Sandakan - visit one of the oldest places Christianity has been preached in Malaysia - St. Michael’s Church
  • Sandakan - learn about the colonial times at Agnes Keith Museum
  • Sepilok - visit Borneo’s most famous inhabitants, the orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre 
  • Sepilok - visit the world’s smallest bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Kinabatangan - cruise through the peaceful waterways of the Kinabatangan River
  • Kinabatangan - stay amongst the dense rainforest of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Kinabatangan - go on morning and afternoon river safaris trying to spy gibbons, elephants, orangutans and many different bird species

Inspiring Features

  • A highlight of your time in Borneo is witnessing nature is all its beauty at Selingan Turtle Island. Observe turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs and hatchings make their first 'step's into the wild.
  • Malaysian cuisine is a treat! Try your hand at a Kiulu cooking class, using produce you have sourced from local suppliers. Of course you will be eating your concoctions as part of lunch.
  • Fully immerse yourself into the flora and fauna along the Kinabatangan River at Bilit Rainforest Lodge. The lodge is renowned for its local birdlife and Bornean animals (pygmy elephant, Sumatran rhinos, sun bears and proboscis monkeys) traversing through the lodge's grounds.

Selingan Turtle Island

The island is a natural habitat for green and hawksbill turtles. Both species are currently endangered, however the island serves as a safe haven for laying their eggs. Whilst here, you will need to adhere to the strict rules and regulations dictated by the staff.

  • Use of personal cameras whilst on the island incurs a RM10 per unit fee (camera fee contributes to conversation costs)
  • Flash photography is prohibited
  • Video taking is prohibited

It is necessary to travel light to the island for various reasons including capacity of the boat and the island having no permanent jetty. We strongly recommend taking an overnight bag with only necessities - your remaining luggage will be securely stored and returned to you upon arriving back into Sandakan.

Due to limited capacity of accommodation, solo travellers will be roomed with other solo travellers of the same gender whilst staying at the chalet.

Payment Terms

Flight information & booking options.

This package is a flight add-on package

This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and international flights will be added to your booking.

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.

Visa & Passport

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here .

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a ”3”

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with three options:

1 - Single Supplement By paying an additional $395.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

2- Shared Room with a known friend If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller In this trip you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.

If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.

You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your trip. 

Changes to room configuration during the trip must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.

This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after the tour.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

What is MDAC? Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a form that must be completed by travellers who want to visit Malaysia prior to their arrival.

Commencing on Jan 1, 2024, the MDAC will be mandatory for pre-submission. Travellers are required to complete the MDAC form at least three days before their arrival and must present the filled-out form along with their passport upon entry into the country.

MDAC exemption Submission of the MDAC is not mandatory for all travellers entering Malaysia. The following categories are exempt from the MDAC requirement:

  • Those transiting/transferring through Singapore without seeking immigration clearance
  • Malaysia Permanent Resident
  • Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS) Holder
  • Malaysian Long-Term Pass holders
  • Nationals of Singapore
  • Diplomats and official passport holders
  • Brunei Common Certificate of Identification holders
  • Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveller Program participants
  • Indonesian Cross Border Pass holders
  • Thailand Border Pass holders

How to apply for the MDAC? To obtain your MDAC, follow the steps provided below:

  • Visit the MDAC website, and select the register button
  • Fill in your personal information, including your valid email address
  • Enter your travel information, which includes the dates of your arrival and departure, the mode of travel, and the last port of embarkation
  • Click on the submit button

After you submit your application, you can check your email box to receive your PIN. You can use the PIN to access your MDAC file through the Check Registration section on the MDAC website. You will be required to enter your PIN, passport number, and nationality.

Search “MDAC” or visit: 

https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main

MDAC E-gate Malaysia has implemented a modernised entry system called E-gate. This automated system offers a convenient way to enter the country with reduced manual intervention.

The E-gate system is currently available at two key locations: Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals One and Two, as well as the Johor Bahru Checkpoint.

Only the following categories of travellers are eligible for using the E-gate:

  • Foreign business and social travellers from 10 countries, including Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the US, and the United Kingdom
  • Submitted Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arrival
  • Enrolled a biometric (fingerprint) at the counter
  • e-Passport holder

Group Size Minimum: 2 Maximum: 16

Children Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Style To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

  • Fully Escorted - This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

Health & Mobility Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation & Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation - Kota Kinabalu

  • $79.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $79.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation - Sandakan

  • $82.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $82.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

  • International airfares
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Departure Dates for 10 Day Borneo Discovery With Turtle Island Small Group Tour

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Experiences

group tours to borneo

Snapshot: Kota Kinabalu

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Borneo Tours & Holidays

Small group tours & tailor-made holidays.

Borneo

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Experience Borneo's unspoilt rainforest, flawless beaches and wild adventures, with one of our Borneo holidays. The third-largest island in the world, Borneo is politically divided between three different countries, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. Lying at the geographic centre of Maritime South East Asia, it lies to the south of the Philippines amongst the islands of the Greater Sunda Archipelago. Home to a staggering array of rare tropical species, the island’s rainforest provide a rich ...

Experience Borneo's unspoilt rainforest, flawless beaches and wild adventures, with one of our Borneo holidays. The third-largest island in the world, Borneo is politically divided between three different countries, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. Lying at the geographic centre of Maritime South East Asia, it lies to the south of the Philippines amongst the islands of the Greater Sunda Archipelago. Home to a staggering array of rare tropical species, the island’s rainforest provide a rich haven for endangered orangutans, leopards, two-metre monitor lizards and numerous other endemic forest species. Borneo’s is also known for Asia’s third-highest mountain, Indonesia's longest river and thousands of miles of bat-filled caves. Our Borneo tours explore the islands western territory of Sarawak, where, tropical rainforest and a string of untouched beaches that fringe the clear waters of the Sulu Sea, can be found. This region is one of the most biodiverse places in the world its well-preserved hiking routes snake through an interior that is still inhabited by indigenous tribes. The city of Kuching provides the perfect base to enjoy sunset boat trips, searching for near-extinct Irrawaddy dolphins, visiting tiny islands scattered in the Sulu Sea and whale shark spotting. Travel to Borneo and discover this extraordinary place for yourself with Wild Frontiers on one of our outstanding Borneo holiday and tours packages.

Meet the Experts

Start your journey, tailor-made holidays.

Whether you want to travel on one of our award-winning itineraries or build your own journey from scratch, our expert consultants will help create the perfect tour for your tastes and budget. Below are a few suggestions of the kind of trips we can offer, all of which can be tailored to you.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

Highlights of borneo, best experiences.

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is Southeast Asia's highest peak but only requires a good level of fitness to climb. Begin the long hike up to Low's Peak at 2am through thick cloud forest and arriving at the top in time to witness dawn breaking across the forest canopy below.

Island hop in a marine conservation area

Island hop in a marine conservation area

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a marine conservation area and its five beautiful islands lie amongst shallow turquoise waters and coral reefs. Ideal for swimming and snorkelling, you'll get the opportunity to do so with a drop-off at each island.

Visit the Orangutan Rehab Centre

Visit the Orangutan Rehab Centre

Set up in 1964 to help orphaned Orangutans be re-released into the wild, the rehabilitation centre which is set amidst 4,300 hectares of lush forest, offers an opportunity to observe these magnificent primates up close and in their natural environment.

Boat on the Ox Bow Lake

Boat on the Ox Bow Lake

The Kinabatangan river is renowned for its wildlife and its rich diversity of habitats, which includes its series of Ox Bow Lakes. Enjoy a boat journey out onto one of these lakes in search of primates and bird life. Keep an eye out for the rare proboscis monkeys.

Spot wildlife on a jungle trek

Spot wildlife on a jungle trek

The lowland rainforests of the Danum Valley contain an extraordinary variety of bird and animal life, including orang-utans, rare pygmy elephants, sun bears and the Sumatran rhino. A jungle hike is an ideal way to see some of these elusive creatures up close.

Explore the Tabin Nature Reserve

Explore the Tabin Nature Reserve

Tabin was declared a wildlife reserve on account of the large number of animals inhabiting its forests, some of which are highly endangered. The Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Tembadau are all found here and you might be lucky enough to spot them.

Take on an untamed jungle trek

Take on an untamed jungle trek

Maliau Basin, also known as Sabah’s Lost World, surrounded by cliffs and steep slopes, is a hidden paradise of flora, fauna and geology located in South-Central Sabah. Trek for four days in one of the world’s oldest rainforests, which remains barely explored.

Learn to cook Sarawak style

Learn to cook Sarawak style

Enjoy the culinary tastes and cultural traditions of Borneo by learning how to cook real Sarawak cuisine in a traditional setting. Prepare and serve up a number of Malaysian dishes with a local family using local ingredients brought in the market.

Visit impressive limestone caves

Visit impressive limestone caves

The Gunung Mulu National Park is home to one of the largest limestone cave systems on earth including the world's largest (Deer Cave), Southeast Asia's longest (Clearwater Cave) and the largest natural chamber on earth (Sarawak Chamber).

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Danum Valley

Danum Valley

A stunning natural gem, the Danum Valley Conservation Area presents a pristine landscape of virgin jungle and lush tropical lowland forest that provides shelter for a rare collection of animals, including ...

Kinabalu National Park

Kinabalu National Park

Set amongst the dramatic landscapes of the Kinabalu National Park, Mount Kinabalu is Borneo's highest peak, and one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia. Accorded UNESCO World Heritage status and ...

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu

Formerly known as Jesselton, the capital of Sabah State lies along the north-western coast of Borneo, overlooking the waters of the South China Sea. Founded by the British North Borneo Company in the ...

Kuching

The capital of Sarawak, Kuching is the largest city in Borneo and one of the most vibrant cities in the region. Situated on the banks of the Sarawak River, in the north-western part of the island, the ...

Tabin Nature Reserve

Tabin Nature Reserve

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is located in the eastern part of Sabah. The reserve comprises an area of approximately 300,000 acres in the centre of the Dent Peninsula, north-east of Lahad Datu town, south of ...

Kinabatangan River

Kinabatangan River

Sabah's Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia, running some 560 kilometres from its source in the mountains of the south-west to the Sulu Sea, east of Sandakan. Blessed with one of ...

Sepilok

One of Sabah's most popular attractions and part of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre was set up in 1964 to help orphaned Orangutans. Set amidst 4,300 hectares ...

OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY

Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley

Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley

Bunga Raya Island Resort, Gaya Island

Bunga Raya Island Resort, Gaya Island

Gaya Island Resort, Gaya Island

Gaya Island Resort, Gaya Island

Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort, Kinabatangan (Abai)

Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort, Kinabatangan (Abai)

Sepilok Nature Lodge, Sandakan

Sepilok Nature Lodge, Sandakan

Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Kinabatangan (Sukau)

Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Kinabatangan (Sukau)

Discover more.

The climate is typically tropical with temperature ranging from a cool 22°C (72°F) in the evenings to a sultry 34°C (93°F) in the daytime.

Sarawak receives an abundance of rainfall (averaging 200-250 cm a year); the rainy season is normally during the 'landas', a local term for the monsoon rains that come between November and February each year. Sabah is less wet than Sarawak and because it lies just below the typhoon belt, it is often known as "the land below the wind".

The monsoon period should not deter visitors to the region as it is not cold; in fact the rains during this time may be heavy but it is intermittent and they bring respite from the tropical heat. This is also the time of the year when the local tropical fruits unique to the region are in abundance.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Health and Vaccinations 

There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to Malaysia though you should be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. Malaria is prevalent in parts of Borneo, therefore we strongly suggest that you visit your GP to discuss your personal requirements. Please note we are not medical professionals and so we highly recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.  

Currency  

In Borneo, Malaysia the unit of currency is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR).   

To check out the latest exchange rate for the places that you are visiting you can go to www.oanda.com . 

Cultural Sensitivity 

On our tours you will frequently interact with local people, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. We therefore ask you to be considerate and to treat them with respect. Your tour-leaders and guides will always be able to advise you accordingly.  

Borneo, Malaysia is a multicultural but predominantly Islamic country. You should respect local traditions, customs and religions. Shoulders and legs should be covered when visiting temples and other important religious sites.    

Ladies should dress modestly in the towns and cities, this means avoid wearing shorts and tank tops. When you’re outside of the towns and cities you can wear normal summer clothes. If your trip includes spending time at hotels resorts the dress code is more relaxed.    Men can wear normal summer clothes all the time.   

As you can imagine the humidity is very high here, so be prepared. When you’re exploring national parks, light weight natural fabrics work best and pack long trousers and long sleeved shirts to help keep the bugs away.   

Language & Religion 

The official language is  Malay  although English is also widely spoken and understood. Mandarin and Tamil are the other two main languages, alongside a multitude of other less widely spoken languages representing smaller ethnic groups.   

More than half of the population (52%) follows Islam. Other religions followed in Malaysia are Buddhism, Daoism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Sikhism. In addition, Shamanism is practiced in East Malaysia.   

Time  

Borneo is 8 hours ahead of GMT.   

A useful website to check the time zone differences is www.worldtimezone.com .  

Food and drink 

In Borneo forget potatoes – rice (nasa) and noodles (mee) rule in this region. Rice is either steamed or fried, and noodles can be made from wheat, wheat and egg, rice or mung beans, and are used in a bewildering number of dishes either fried or boiled. Malays like their fish fried (ikan) whole and stuffed with spices or chopped into chunks or steaks and served with a spicy (tamarind) sauce. In Malaysian Borneo in particular, hinava (raw fish marinated with lime juice and herbs) is very popular.  

Apart from fish, chicken (ayam) is possibly the most consumed meat in the region. Beef (daging lembu) and mutton (daging kambing, which also refers to lamb as well as kid and goat) are common in Malay dishes too. Chilli of course, features heavily. Fruit is usually the desert, served raw and presented on platters while alcohol is readily available all over.   

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Luxury Borneo Tours made for you

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Exceptional Wildlife

Spot endangered orangutan, elephants, monkey and rhino

group tours to borneo

Gorgeous Landscape

Explore thick rainforest, beaches and mountain ranges

group tours to borneo

Brilliant Diving

Swim with turtles and whale sharks in crystal clear water

Rare animals, ancient rainforests, exotic islands and world-class diving

Borneo is one of the most captivating destinations in South East Asia.

A compound of untouched rainforest, beaches and mountain ranges, Borneo is an off-the-beaten-track adventure. The island is home to many incredible but endangered species like the orangutan, pygmy elephant, Malayan sunbear, proboscis monkey and Borneo rhino.

We’ve handpicked discreet, conscientious safaris and guided expeditions through the Kinabatangan Rainforest and Danum Valley to give you the best opportunities for observing animals.

For the perfect add-on to your jungle expedition, you can hop over to Borneo’s collection of idyllic, palm-fringed islands, such as Lankayan or Mataking, where the wildlife experience continues with a wealth of aquatic life, such as sea turtles and whale sharks.

Of course, there’s plenty of cultural trips to be done, too: we can take you to the markets of Kinabulu and remote jungle water-villages, or we can arrange an exploration of rural Sabah by bicycle.

Climb Borneo’s tallest mountain, Mount Kinabalu, at sunrise

Explore the Danum Valley and spot seemingly endless wildlife

Swim with turtles at Sabah’s Sipidan Island

Unveil the mystery of the Sarawak caves

group tours to borneo

Charlie Morris

Travel Designer

group tours to borneo

Borneo is as close to paradise as you'll find and the sheer vibrancy of the island is outstanding. One day you could be walking through thick forest, the next diving alongside turtles, relaxing on pristine beaches or scaling a mountain. 

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Luxury accommodation in Borneo

group tours to borneo

Kota Kinabalu

group tours to borneo

Danum Valley

Trip Inspiration

group tours to borneo

14 Day trip

Whatever you want from your luxury Borneo tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

group tours to borneo

Sandakan is best known as being home to the Sepilok Nature Rehabilitation Centre, where they care for rescued or orphaned Orang-utans as well as Sun Bears, Gibbons, Sumatran Rhinos and Elephants in need of treatment.

group tours to borneo

This primary lowland forest is a sparkling, undisturbed representative of Borneo‘s prolific and unique flora and fauna has been recognised worldwide for its outstanding biodiversity.

group tours to borneo

A clean and bustling city with a pretty waterfront from which to enjoy the sunset, Kota Kinabalu has much to offer visitors, although most use the city simply as an entry point to Borneo, spending their time exploring the surrounding countryside instead.

group tours to borneo

Borneo’s prettiest and most historic city, Kuching is the ideal place to start an island adventure with plenty to explore within the city and in the surrounding countryside.

group tours to borneo

Batang Ai National Park

Sitting close to the border of Indonesia, the national park of Batang Ai is tucked deep into the Borneo jungle. The area was flooded in the 1980s to create a reservoir, and you can still see treetops sticking out of the water.

Meet your Asia team

group tours to borneo

When to visit

The best time to visit beautiful  Borneo  is when the warm weather arrives in March through to October and the island is hot and dry. It’s perfect for climbing Mt Kinabalu, searching for whale sharks, turtles and seeing endangered orangutans in the wild.

group tours to borneo

Hiking and Trekking

April - August

group tours to borneo

Wildlife Spotting

May - August

group tours to borneo

Diving and Snorkeling

April - September

Kinabatangan River, Sabah. Borneo, Malaysia.

When is the Best Time to Visit Borneo?

Borneo travel guides.

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Our Guide to Wildlife in Borneo

Kinabatangan River, Sabah. Borneo, Malaysia.

Coming Nose-to-Nose with the Proboscis Monkeys of Borneo

group tours to borneo

Conquering Southeast Asia’s Highest Peak: Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

group tours to borneo

10 of Southeast Asia's Most Spectacular National Parks

Plan your trip to borneo.

Whatever you want from your adventure in Borneo, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Our travel planner really listened to our wishes and designed a vacation to suit us perfectly. Lots of special touches, and great staff assistance from beginning to end.

Our trip to Southeast Asia was a trip of a lifetime and an experience we will never forget, thanks to Kate and Cathy’s help and expert guidance. They worked with us to create a magical itinerary and remained engaged during our trip, especially when we had a last-minute request which they made happen. They are simply the best! We experienced…

This is the second time I have used Jacada Travel to organise a family holiday for us, once to Costa Rica and once to Borneo. Both times the customer service and advice have been excellent. We worked with travel advisors on what we wanted out of the trip and both times the iternary, accomodation, guides and in country support and…

The service from Jacada is superb. Our journey to Asia went flawlessly. The logistics were always spot on. The hotel selections were right for the locations and budget. The guides and drivers were on time, knowledgeable and friendly. The tours gave meaningful insights into the local customs and culture. Rachel was very helpful during the planning phase. Wing,the trip concierge,…

Kate helped us plan our recent trip to Borneo, Java, and Bali, and it was wonderful. Our guides were excellent - very informative and helpful. The hotels that Jacada booked were superb. The trip was everything that we expected, and some. This is the second trip we have planned with Jacada Travel. We had a very good experience working with…

group tours to borneo

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

group tours to borneo

group tours to borneo

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Borneo Eco Tours

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Borneo EcoTours With Wildlife Experts

The rainforest of Borneo is 130 million years old, making it the oldest in the world. The Borneo rainforest is also disappearing faster than any other rainforest on earth, so it's at the very top of our "see it while you can" list of Eco Tours. Borneo is the center of evolution for many rare and endemic species, and one of the only remaining natural habitats for endangered orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and Sumatran rhinoceros. Like the Galapagos, many species on Borneo evolved in unique ways. A prime example of this is Borneo's incredible "gliders" — a group of mammals, reptiles and amphibians that have evolved to "fly" amongst the ancient trees.

The Ultimate "Weird and Wonderful Wildlife" Safari

Our Weird & Wonderful Wildlife program starts with a visit to an Orangutan sanctuary, and includes the best opportunities available in Borneo to track these most human of all primates in the wild throughout the trip. A combination of rainforest hiking and eco-responsible river cruises in electric boats allows you to get up close to the Orangutans, and also offer prime sightings of many of Borneo's most exciting wildlife, including Bornean gibbons, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, clouded leopards, marble cats and more.

Special expeditions — a signature of Wild Planet Adventures — include excursions to see Borneo's famous flying lemurs, gliding frogs and lizards, and nocturnal hikes to see slow loris and tarsiers, two of the world's smallest — and cutest — primates. Relax on a tropical island bungalow in the turquoise-blue waters of the Celebes Sea — one of the top 5 dive & snorkel sites in the world — at the end of your trip. No other Borneo itinerary offers more wildlife or more natural wonder!

Borneo Orangutan & Wildlife EcoTours - Select Your Adventure from our Safaris Below:

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Borneo Tours - Weird & Wonderful Wildlife + "Lost World" - 16-day Adventure

group tours to borneo

In addition to everything our 12-day itinerary includes—encounters with truly wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants, and exclusive expeditions to see Borneo’s endemic flying & gliding mammals and reptiles, and tiny tarsiers and slow loris—our 16-day itinerary also features an overnight on Selingan "Turtle Island." Our 16-day Borneo vacation also takes you on the world’s first wildlife eco-tours in the remote Maliau Basin, also known as the fabled “Lost World” of Borneo. Only recently discovered, the Lost World is so pristine and untouched, if you step off the trail it is likely that no other human will have ever set foot where you are standing! Learn More>

2024 - $9,998 2012 - $4,398 2013 - $4,598 -->

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Borneo Tours - Weird & Wonderful Wildlife 12-Day Adventure

We've combined several unusual and remote eco-systems with exclusive activities, fun environmental education and high-end local naturalist guides to create the absolute best possible wildlife experience currently available in the country. This Borneo tour provides unforgettable encounters with orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants, plus special expeditions to see Borneo's endemic flying & gliding mammals and reptiles, as well as special nocturnal expeditions to see tarsiers and slow loris - two of the world's smallest and cutest primates - a Wild Planet Adventures Exclusive! Learn More>

2024 - $7,898 2012 - $4,398 2013 - $4,598 -->

group tours to borneo

Borneo Trips - Travel on Your Own

Choose your destinations, go whenever - and wherever - you want. With this Borneo trip, you can choose from any destination in the country and we can put your trip together for you. Gain access to our local, full-service office and our expert wildlife guides, vehicles, logistical support, and intimate knowledge of local accommodations, activities, and destination value. Allow us to customize a trip to Borneo that meets your heart's desires! Learn More>

2012 - $4,398 2013 - $4,598 -->

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Borneo Gallery

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Orangutan tours in beautiful Borneo

Make a difference to borneo's wildlife, travel through the wild untamed lands of beautiful borneo with orangutan trekking tours, imagine a place that is spiritual and wild, colourful and mysterious, and full of tantalising secrets. this is beautiful borneo..

  • Wild Orangutans
  • Black handed Gibbons
  • Bornean bearded Pigs / Wild Boar
  • Proboscis monkey
  • Highly experienced tour guides
  • King Fishers
  • Amazing plant diversity

Our Difference

We have spent most of our lives in the jungle and rivers of borneo. growing up in this environment lead to us becoming wildlife and culture tour guides, supported by our family’s deep knowledge and understanding of the area..

Our Adventure Tour packages have been carefully designed to build an awareness of ecotourism while taking safety and impact on the environment into consideration. We also like to help our trekkers design customised itineraries, perfect for visiting the orangutans and going beyond!

Whether you are wanting to relax and unwind, be educated on the issues affecting Borneo’s wildlife, or turn up the pace and take on the all of the experiences that Borneo’s wildlife has to offer, you will be in great company. We look forward to making your trip the experience of a lifetime!

Our Tour Packages

Our adventure tour packages have been carefully designed to build an awareness of ecotourism while taking safety and impact on the environment into consideration., tour options.

4 Days & 3 Nights

5 Days & 4 Nights

Photography tour

Or choose your own!

Who are our tours for?

People who care about and enjoy:

  • Eco tourism
  • Walking and treks
  • Photography
  • Making a difference
“Once you travelled, the voyage never ends, but is played out over and over again in the quietest chambers. The mind can never break off from the journey.”
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.”

Our tour guides take amazing photographs of the wildlife and tours. The following are just a glimpse into some of the incredible experiences you will have on an Orangutan Trekking Tour.

Orangutan Baby On Branch

Borneo Tours & Holidays

Bornean Orangutan female and her baby, in a tree, in the Tanjung Puting National Park, Borneo

Anthropologists, adventure-seekers and animal lovers alike are drawn to Borneo’s steamy jungles, blissful mountains, balmy beaches and peaceful villages.

These tropical shores have a glorious diversity. Float down the Kinabatangan River, the most biologically diverse rainforest in the world; see the sun rise over Mt Kinabalu; meet mischievous orangutans in Sepilok; chow down on a tasty laksa or take in the incredible underwater scenery snorkelling in Tunku Abdul National Marine Park.  Borneo’s  wild bounty awaits.  

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Borneo at a glance

Capital city.

Malaysia: Kota Kinabalu (Sarawak) and Kuching (Sabeh), Indonesia: Pontianak (Kalimantan), Brunei: Bandar Seri Begawan

23.7 million

Malaysian Ringgit (RM), Brunei Dollar (B$), Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)

Bahasa Malaysia, Bahasa Indonesia, Chinese dialects, Dayak languages

(GMT+08:00)

CALLING CODE

Indonesia: +62, Malaysia: +60, Brunei: +673

ELECTRICITY

Malaysia and Brunei: Type G (Irish/British 3-pin), Indonesia: Type C (European 2-pin), Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Borneo

Best time to visit borneo.

Borneo's climate is typical for a tropical region - generally hot and humid all year-round.

Temperatures are usually in the high 20 ° s for most of the year, dropping back to the low 20 ° s at night.

Rainfall tends to be in short, heavy bursts followed by sunshine. The 'wet season' runs from November through to February but it does rain throughout the year, although our itineraries are rarely affected.

The state of Sabah is known as the 'land below the wind' as it's below the monsoon belt.

Culture and customs

The cultures across Borneo can vary depending on what border you’re closest to – divided into Malaysian, Indonesia and Brunei regions.

Borneo’s population is largely made up of Malay with the predominant religion being Muslim. The remainder of Borneo’s population is Chinese, Indian or belong to indigenous populations.

You may hear the word ‘Dayak’ used by locals as a general term referring to the riverine and hill-dwelling ethnic subgroups in Borneo.

Historically, most indigenous communities in regional areas lived in longhouses, though many have moved for employment in urban areas. That being said, there is still a substantial number of Dayak tribes that maintain a strong spiritual tie to the rainforest and have retained their customs and speak local dialects.

Food and drink

Rice (nasi) and noodles (mee) are dietary staples across the island and accompany most meals. You’ll find varieties of white, red and brown rice grown throughout Borneo – prepared by steaming, frying, boiling into a breakfast porridge, or cooking with coconut milk in a hollowed bamboo stick to make lemang. 

Must-try foods in Borneo 

1. Sarawak laksa

This Malaysian-influenced staple is a spicy broth filled with vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, chicken slices, shrimp and coriander. 

Skewers of meat (usually beef or chicken) are grilled to perfection over charcoal. 

3. Roti canai

Fried roti bread that is crispy, fluffy and soft all at the same time. It might be served with savoury or sweet fillings (from eggs and sardines to coconut jam and bananas), dipped into curry and lentil sauces, or enjoyed on its own. 

4. Bamboo chicken

Chicken marinated in chillies, lemongrass, garlic and ginger is stuffed into a bamboo stick with rice, sealed with turmeric leaves and cooked over an open flame until all the flavours merge together. 

Geography and environment

The South-East Asian island of Borneo sits just south of the South China Sea, with the Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, Makassar Strait, Java Sea and Karimata Strait also surrounding the island.

Split up between three countries (Brunei, Indonesia , Malaysia ), the regions most visited by tourists (Sabah and Sarawak) belong to Malaysia.

Home to the oldest rainforest in the world, large cave and river systems and mountains, Borneo has an incredible range of biodiversity with hundreds of species of birds, bats, plants, flowers and insects living in this ecologically precious part of the world.

Sitting 4,095 m above sea level, Sabah's Mount Kinabalu is the third highest mountain in South-East Asia and a popular trekking spot for active travellers looking for a challenge.

History and government

Early history.

Early on, Borneo was used as a port for trade, with the Chinese and Indians stopping in on the coast as a part of their trade route from 500 to 1300 AD. The Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch and British were soon to follow. Because of this, Borneo now has a rich diversity of international influences to draw upon from these years of trade and interaction with other cultures.

With most of coastal Borneo falling under the rule of the Javanese Majapahit kingdom in the 14th century, the Sultanate of Brunei extended its rule in the north from the 15th to 17th century. By the 19th century, both the British and the Dutch had colonial interests in the area, with a dynasty led by James Brooke ruling Sarawak for many years. Brooke's interest in the area stemmed from his attempts at trade in the Far East and connections to the Sultanate of Brunei. Brooke's rule was fraught with controversy and battles with the Sea Dayak people, who interrupted trade and were labelled as pirates. James Brook was succeeded by his nephew, Charles, and then his son, Vyner, in this rule known as the 'White Rajahs' of Sarawak.

Recent history

Japan took control of Borneo during World War II, resulting in a high number of deaths for the local population. During the war, many British and Australian prisoners of war were sent to Borneo, with the most notorious spots being Sandakan where thousands of Allied soldiers perished due to disease, malnutrition and exhaustion.

By the conclusion of the war in 1945, Borneo was freed from the Japanese yet only two decades later, Borneo was the site of more conflict, this time between Indonesia and Malaysia. This conflict arose from the union of Sabah and Sarawak with Malaya in the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. More recently, the Sultanate of Brunei became an independent nation (in 1984).

Palm oil plantations have spread rapidly throughout Borneo in the last ten years, mainly due to the decline in the rubber industry. While these plantations have provided jobs and helped the economy in the short term, their proliferation has led to wide-scale deforestation, which surmounts to devastating habitat loss for many of Borneo's endangered species and displacement of indigenous people who rely on the forests and jungles to sustain their hunter-gatherer lifestyles.

Top 10 nature spots of Borneo

1. mount kinabalu.

Seeing sunrise from the top of Mount Kinabalu is a fine payoff for making it to the top. The climb, while strenuous, is filled with beautiful flora, interesting animals and beautiful vistas - making this majestic mountain a true natural highlight of Borneo.

2. Poring Hot Springs

Located within the Kinabalu National Park, these steaming hot pools of water provide a relaxing place to unwind after trekking Mount Kinabalu. Sliding into the open air baths is a therapeutic way to soothe your muscles - a nice outdoor reward for completing such a climb! 

3. Bako National Park

The oldest national park in Sarawak may be small, but with isolated beaches, jungles, waterfalls, rock formations and walking trails, visitors will be delighted in the perfect panoramas to photograph and range of wildlife viewing opportunities on offer.

4. Turtle Island

Lying just north of Sandakan, Turtle Island Park is a haven for endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Witnessing turtles landing onshore at dusk, or baby turtles hatching, is one of life's most unforgettable moments.

5. Kinabatangan

This district of Sabah is know for its incredible array of wildlife and diversity of habitat, with limestone caves, swamps, rivers, lakes, forests and mountains all contributing to the ecological diversity of the area. Home to such rare species as the Asian elephant, the proboscis monkey and the Sumatran rhinoceros, a visit to the jungle here will guarantee some wildlife viewing thrills.

Meeting the gentle orangutans of Sepilok is a must-do for visitors to Borneo. These orange-tinged creatures are captivating, entertaining and cheeky - and watching them play, eat and interact in the jungle of Sepilok is a privilege not to be missed.

7. Headhunters' Trail

Walking in the footsteps of one of the world's most mysterious, feared and intriguing people may not be for everyone, but walking along the famed Headhunter's Trail reveals a little bit of local history as well as many wondrous natural sights.

8. Mulu National Park

Visitors should overlook Mulu National Park at their own peril. Not visiting this World Heritage-listed area would mean missing out on canopy walks and treks that reveal exotic creatures, spectacular caves and stunning limestone karst formations.

9. Danum Valley

This area of pristine lowland rainforest is arguably one of Borneo's premier wildlife hot spots. Walk the trails and spot exotic birdlife, interesting plants, flying squirrels, vocal frogs and active gibbons.

10. Gaya Island

Get away from it all and revel in the seclusion of Gaya Island, located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. See tropical fish swimming through colourful reefs, learn to scuba dive, laze on the uncrowded beaches or grab a kayak and go exploring this slice of tropical beauty.

While Borneo's wild landscapes and beautiful beaches are definitely the true highlight of any visit, there are still treasures to found in Borneo's markets.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Borneo

1. Ikat weaving 

​ This traditional weaving process results in coloured, patterned textiles that can be used as clothing, wall hangings and home furnishings.

2. Wood carvings

Sarawak boasts a population of talented wood carvers -wooden bowls, charms, masks and figurines are all wonderful souvenir choices.

3. Ceramics 

Sarawak also has a wide range of good-quality ceramics and pottery thanks to the local populations of Chinese and Iban tribal potters, each group possessing their own distinctive style.

Festival and events

Rainforest world music festival.

The diversity of world music is celebrated over three days each July in the heart of the Borneo jungle. Hoards of eager festival-goers flock to Kuching, Sarawak (in Malaysian Borneo) for daytime music workshops, cultural and craft displays and evening concerts by indigenous performers from all over the globe. And like every good festival, there are always plenty of food stalls serving up yummy Malaysian and Asian foods. 

Borneo International Kite Festival

Each September, the seaside town of Bintulu shows us how cool kites can be. Kites of all shapes, colours and sizes fill the sky for stunning displays and kite flying competitions. Come and watch the others show off their skills, participate in a kite-making workshop or take in the cultural performances.

Gawai Dayak (Harvest Festival)

More than just a celebration of the rice harvest, Gawai Dayak is an important symbol of unity for the Dayak and is celebrated with gusto in cities and rural villages across Sarawak. Many longhouses open their doors to visitors, where they are treated to traditional costumes, ritual music and lots of locally brewed rice wine (tuak) and Dayak foods. Head to the Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching for the liveliest celebrations, where parades and other festivities begin a week before the main event on May 31.

Borneo Cultural Festival

Hear, see and taste the best of Malay, Chinese and Dayak culture at this annual July festival. Lively music, traditional dances and other cultural performances take place on multiple stages over 10 days in the city of Sibu in Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo). Expect Dayak drums, Malay songs, Chinese dragon dances and lots of mouth-watering cultural eats.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Chinese New Year

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Adha

Islamic New Year

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Christmas Day

Since Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei all have claim to Borneo, different parts of the island celebrate different public holidays. The ones listed here are celebrated in all three nations. There are more public holidays in  Indonesia,   Malaysia  and  Brunei.

Further reading

Borneo travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to visit Borneo?

Visas are your responsibility. Entry requirements can change anytime, so you must check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you visit for detailed and up-to-date visa information about your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more details.

Is tipping customary in Borneo?

Tipping isn’t customary in Borneo, but leaving a small token of appreciation is always welcome if you feel the service has been particularly good.

What is internet access like in Borneo?

Internet is easy to access in large cities and tourist areas, though it can be quite slow. Access is more limited in remote and rural areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Borneo?

Mobile phone coverage is good in major cities, but there is little to no coverage in the mountains and in remote areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Borneo?

Squat toilets are common in Borneo, though some hotels and tourist areas have Western-style, flushable toilets. Carrying your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer is a good idea, as these are not always provided.

Can I drink the tap water in Borneo?

Tap water is not considered safe to drink in Borneo. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, pack a reusable bottle that can be filled with filtered water. Your leader can tell you where to find filtered water or pack your own purification tablets.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Borneo?

Most places only accept cash, especially small businesses, though you might be able to use your credit card at larger hotels, shops and restaurants in tourist areas.

What is ATM access like in Borneo?

You’ll find ATMs in Borneo’s large cities and urban areas, though they are less easy to find in rural and remote parts.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Borneo?

No vaccines are required in order to enter Borneo but some are recommended for protection against disease. Always visit your doctor or travel clinic for up-to-date advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Is Borneo a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Discretion is highly advised for LGBTQIA+ travellers in Borneo. Homosexuality is illegal in both Malaysia and Brunei, where it can be punished with long prison sentences or even death.

While homosexuality is not illegal in Indonesia, few people are openly out. Regardless of which part of Borneo you are visiting, discretion is strongly suggested.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Does my trip support the intrepid foundation.

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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On the next long weekend break, you may want to visit these tea plantations in Malaysia

Monday, 03 Jun 2024

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A group trekking at the Bharat tea plantation in Cameron Highlands. — Filepics

Did you know that tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world? It loses only to the “elixir of life” – aka water.

May 21 has been designated by the United Nations (UN) as International Tea Day since 2019. We’re a few days late to the celebration this year, but better late than never, right?

From another perspective, we are a few months early, if we were to go by the “original” tea day date.

Prior to the UN adopting the day, several countries had already started celebrating the steeped beverage 14 years earlier.

On Dec 15, 2005, the inaugural celebration took place in India, one of the world’s largest tea producing countries.

Rather than simply shining the spotlight on tea, however, the group of tea workers who created the day also meant for it to highlight the issues faced by workers in the tea industry, especially the ones toiling away on the plantations and estates.

As such, the UN eventually declared an official International Tea Day, albeit on a different date, with its Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) tasked with leading the annual observance. According to FAO, “the celebration promotes the sustainable production, consumption, and trade of tea”.

As Malaysians, a great way for us to commemorate the day is by supporting our local tea producers. If you can do more than just purchasing tea products and drinking copious amounts of teh tarik, it’s a good idea to visit the plantations as well, because understanding its significance – be it culturally, medically or fiscally – will give you a greater appreciation of your favourite beverage.

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Sungei Palas Tea Centre overlooks Gunung Brinchang. -- Filepic

The cooler climate of Cameron Highlands makes it perfect for growing tea, hence the vast acres of plantations there, run by Malaysia’s two largest tea producers.

Several types of teas are produced at these plantations, including oolong and green teas, but the most produced is none other than black tea. It is the main ingredient of the nation’s beloved teh tarik and “teh o ais” after all.

The main black tea maker, Boh, unsurprisingly owns the largest tea plantation in the country. You can visit the Boh Tea Plantation at Boh Road or the Boh-owned Sungai (alternatively spelled Sungei) Palas Tea Garden in Brinchang. Both are open daily except on Mondays.

If you want to take a peek at how Malaysian teas are made, join the “plantation walk” that’s offered by the second largest tea producer, Bharat Group, which operates its primary estate in Tanah Rata.

Its products, sold under the Cameron Valley Tea brand, are also available at its three tea houses, all open daily. Cameron Valley Tea House 1 and 2 are both located at Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata, while Cameron Valley Tea House KT is located in Kuala Terla.

Gopeng, Perak

The plantation has over 200,000 gaharu trees today.  — GISELE SOO/The Star

Located roughly two hours away by car from Cameron Highlands is another tea valley, but this one looks starkly different. Instead of a hilly landscape dotted with lush tea bushes, you’ll see an endless sea of tall trees towering over you at this Gaharu Technologies-owned plantation.

Gaharu Tea Valley in Perak’s small town of Gopeng produces a different kind of tea, one called agarwood herbal tea.

Sold under the Hoga brand (Hoga being a portmanteau of “holistic” and “gaharu”), agarwood technically refers to the resinous heartwood of Aquilaria trees, but more often than not you’ll hear these trees being referred to as simply agarwood or gaharu trees. The leaves from these trees are what’s used to produce the agarwood herbal tea.

The tea valley is opened daily except on Tuesdays. You can spend a whole day here doing activities like admiring the view from the hilltop café, enjoying the cool waterfall and being a literal tree-hugger at the Hugging Park.

Ranau, Sabah

Over in the cooler corner of Sabah is where you’ll find the third largest tea producer in Malaysia. Established in 1978, Sabah Tea has been under Ipoh-based Yee Lee Corporation Berhad since 1997, when it was privatised.

Located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu in Ranau, Sabah Tea Garden is more than just a picturesque plantation. It also has a resort offering three types of accommodations. Based on how adventurous you’re feeling, you can opt to “rough it” on the camp grounds, experience traditional living in the longhouses, or have all your creature comforts in the cottages.

Stop by the resort’s restaurant to savour tea-infused food and beverage like pancakes, ice cream and the special Sabah Tea pandan teh tarik.

You can also take part in the many other activities available, such as the tea factory tour, jungle trekking, river trekking, morning sunrise walk, insect night walk and blowpipe lesson.

A giant teapot seen at the Sabah Tea Resort in Ranau. -- The Star

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Tags / Keywords: Cameron Highlands , Pahang , Boh , Bharat Group , Ranau , Sabah Tea , Tea Plantations , Gaharu Tea Valley , Gopeng , Perak , sabah , tourism , domestic tourism

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Venice bans loudspeakers and limits tour groups in latest mass tourism crackdown

Seeing an estimated 25 million visitors every year, Venice has brought in a series of measures tackling overcrowding and mass tourism. From today, loudspeakers have been banned and tour groups have been limited in the Italian city.

By Dylan Donnelly, news reporter

Saturday 1 June 2024 17:00, UK

File pic

Venice has introduced new rules tackling mass tourism, with loudspeakers now banned and tour groups limited to just 25 people.

The Italian canal city, which welcomes an estimated 25 million people a year, announced the measures in December in a bid to tackle mass tourism.

Coming into effect from Saturday, the new rules say tour groups are limited to 25 people in Venice as well as the islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello

Loudspeakers have also been banned as they "generate confusion and disturbances".

Elisabetta Pesce, the official with responsibility for the city's security, said last year the latest rules are "aimed at improving the management of groups organised in the historic centre".

Pic: Reuters

It marks the latest crackdown on mass tourism for Venice. In April, the city rolled out a €5 (£4) fee for day trips throughout the summer in a bid to thin the crowds.

Simone Venturini, Venice's top tourism official, said at the time: "We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents.

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"We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days."

However, some residents protested the measure, saying more attention needs to be paid to boosting the local population and services they need.

Pic: Reuters

Venice passed a milestone last year when the number of tourist beds exceeded the number of official residents for the first time, who now number fewer than 50,000 in the historic centre.

In August, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommended Venice be added to its list of World Heritage sites in Danger over growing concerns of overcrowding and unsustainability.

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The agency said steps proposed by the Italian state to tackle the issues are "currently insufficient and not detailed enough".

Venice avoided being blacklisted in 2021 as Italy banned cruise ships from entering its lagoon to defend its ecosystem.

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UNESCO members cited the then-planned day-tripper fee as a reason to keep it off the endangered list.

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Florida gas prices drop as summer travel season kicks off, says AAA

by Gershon Harrell

{p}Florida's gas prices are on the decline, says AAA. According to the Auto Club Group Florida gas prices have seen a downtick over the past 10 days, dropping 11 cents per gallon. (AAA){ }{/p}{p}{/p}

Florida's gas prices are on the decline, says AAA. According to the Auto Club Group Florida gas prices have seen a downtick over the past 10 days, dropping 11 cents per gallon. (AAA)

TAMPA, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida's gas prices are on the decline, says AAA.

According to the Auto Club Group Florida gas prices have seen a downtick over the past 10 days, dropping 11 cents per gallon.

See also: Free admission for kids is back at Palm Beach Zoo

Sunday's state average was $3.45 per gallon which is about 5 cents less than a week ago, but 6 cents more than this time last year.

"The summer travel season is beginning with gasoline prices that are 20 cents less than the highest price this year," said Mark Jenkins, Public Relations Manager for AAA - The Auto Club Group. "While gasoline prices are usually volatile through the summer months, recent futures prices suggest the state average could move lower this week."

Florida's most expensive gas markets by region:

  • West Palm Beach - Boca Raton ($3.64)
  • Naples ($3.55)
  • Fort Lauderdale ($3.51)

Florida's least expensive gas markets by region:

  • Crestview - Fort Walton Beach ($3.16)
  • Panama City - ($3.18)
  • Pensacola ($3.21)

Ways to save on gasoline, as provided AAA:

  • Combine errands to limit driving time.
  • Shop around for the best gas prices in your community.
  • Pay with cash. Some retailers charge extra per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card.
  • Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent.
  • Drive conservatively. Aggressive acceleration and speeding reduces fuel economy.

Resources for drivers provided by AAA:

  • Enroll in savings programs. AAA Members who enroll in Shell's Fuel Rewards program can save 30 cents per gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents per gallon each additional trip to the pump. Click here for more information.
  • Get a tune-up. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to optimize its fuel economy. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a certified repair shop.
  • Find the lowest gas prices in your area by using the free AAA mobile app.
  • Determine anticipated fuel costs for your trip by using the AAA's Gas Cost Calculator.

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NCT Dream reveals tour must-haves, pre-show routines and how they relax after a concert

The guys of K-pop group NCT Dream open up about their tour must-haves and the surprising ways they spend their downtime for USA TODAY's weekly series, The Essentials.

In a new series,  USA TODAY’s The Essentials , celebrities share what fuels their lives.

Don't sleep on NCT Dream and its success.

When the septet debuted in 2016, the K-pop group's members were teenagers, influenced by the concept of "youth" while navigating their personal aspirations in the spotlight.

Nearly eight years later, the guys have matured and come into their own, developing a signature style and garnering worldwide recognition. Last year alone, NCT Dream placed No. 6 on the IFPI Global Top 10 Album Chart, won top awards in South Korea and embarked on a global tour across 26 cities, including in the U.S.

NCT Dream will make its way back to the states this year – starting Sept. 12 – for seven stops on its third world tour, including in New York, California and Washington D.C.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

"Just getting ready for the concert itself is a thrill, and we're very excited to be able to come up with a brand new concert," says the group's leader Mark , 24.

On a late-night Zoom call prior to The Dream Show 3: Dream()scape tour's kickoff in Seoul, NCT Dream's members spilled on their routines and performance go-to.

How NCT Dream preps for a performance

Everyone has their own way to get hype before a concert, including NCT DREAM's members: Mark, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, Jisung and Renjun (who was absent from this interview).

Jisung , 22, says one of his go-to pump-up songs is " City Lights " by Avicii, while Jaemin , 23, says his playlist puts a "zen mode" before hitting the stage.

For Jeno , 24, there's usually a lot on his mind before a performance. Instead of listening to music, he tends to put on his headphones and play nothing. "I like to block all the sound out, to stay still and to empty my mind."

As part of his pre-show routine, Chenle , 22, watches interviews of late basketball player Kobe Bryant , "on every tour, before every concert."

"It gets me pumped up for the concert and ready to put on great performance," he says.

Exclusive interview: NCT Dream on their first US tour, growth and milestones

How NCT Dream relaxes after a show

Before a performance, Chenle takes precautions toward his health, including taking vitamins. Especially after a show, he uses products to prevent vocal issues and alleviate any strain since his voice gets "really hoarse."

Jeno also prioritizes his well-being on tour. "I always like to take a shower and I always make sure I use cold water at the end, especially because we're using our bodies a lot for shows and it really tires out our muscles," he says.

Haechan , 23, usually winds down by taking a warm bath and occasionally drinks some wine.

Sleep is key for the all group's members, but Jisung often find himself staying up late after a show.

"I'm on my phone all night," he says. "I want to learn how to relax."

What does NCT Dream do during downtime?

When the guys have a chance for free time on tour, they still spend it together.

"I like taking pictures. I'm not a professional, (but) I like to see the scenery and everything. Having a nice walk every once in a while is good in a different city," Mark says.

"We get to see a lot of different architecture in each city and that's another thing I like to look out for while we go out and take pictures," says Jaemin.

An avid basketball fan, Chenle keeps his sneakers on hand wherever he goes. "I've played basketball in pretty much every city we've been to so far," he says, adding how Mark usually plays pickup with him.

But each member uses his personal time-off differently.

"One of my most important essentials is my laptop so I can play games," says Haechan. "I can go outside during downtime but that makes me use up more energy. So I prefer to stay indoors … It's like me-time."

Jisung enjoys watching other K-pop artists' music videos, as well as some of the other content they have on their channels.

NCT Dream tour must-have items

Jaemin lists several must-haves for tour: wireless headphones, perfume, hydration cream, a Thai product for sinus relief, vitamins and an energy drink to name a few.

Chenle says his good luck charms for a great performance are the friendship ring that he shares with his members, plus his watch. "I have to put it on as soon as I wake up; there's like a routine," he says.

Besides his headphones, Mark's other must-have isn't tangible – it's his concentration.

"I always remember to bring myself," he says.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Davis Riley gets 1st individual PGA Tour win by 5 at Colonial in final group with Scheffler

Davis Riley poses with the winner's trophy at the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley poses with the winner’s trophy at the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley waves after winning the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley looks where his ball landed on the second hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Davis Riley, left, gets a kiss from his wife Alexandra Patton Riley after he won the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley hits from the sand on the second hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley kisses the winner’s trophy at the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Scottie Scheffler hits a tee shot on the third hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Davis Riley hits a tee shot on the third hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Scottie Scheffler hits from the gallery on the second hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Davis Riley hits from the gallery on the second hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Webb Simpson wears a red pin on his hat as he watches his tee shot on the 17th hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Davis Riley hits from the sand on the 18th hole during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

Fans in the gallery reach out to Davis Riley as he walks to the the tenth tee box during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero

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FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Davis Riley was practicing a week before Colonial when he got an unsettling call that his older sister had a seizure at work, which led to the discovery of a tumor on her brain and surgery the next day.

Riley wasn’t even sure then that he would be able to, or even want to, play in the Charles Schwab Challenge.

“When you have somebody that close to you, all the worst-case scenarios are going through your head,” Riley said. “It was certainly a scary feeling thinking about how you could lose your sister.”

The family got a huge sigh of relief when the surgery was successful and the tumor was non-cancerous. His parents told him that his sister wanted him to go play.

So Riley did, and got his first individual victory on the PGA Tour after playing in the final group Sunday with Scott Scheffler. Riley shot even-par 70 to finish at 14-under 266, five strokes ahead of the world’s No. 1 player and Keegan Bradley.

After beginning the final round with a four-stroke lead, Riley gave up a stroke with a bogey on the second hole when he drove into the right rough and then hit into the bunker. But that was the closest Scheffler — or anybody else — would get with wind gusts of 20 mph and more blowing throughout the day, and with firm greens.

A staff distributes an extra edition of the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper reporting on Japanese golfer Yuka Saso winning the U.S. Women's Open golf tournament Monday, June 3, 2024, in Tokyo. The Japanese title reads as "Saso won second major." (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

Bradley had a 67, and Scheffler shot 71 on a day when he didn’t have a birdie until the 13th hole. Collin Morikawa, the only player in the field to finish all four rounds under par, was fourth at 8 under after his closing 68.

The 27-year-old Riley’s only other PGA Tour win came when he and Nick Hardy won the Zurich Classic team event in New Orleans last year. The Mississippi native’s win at historic Colonial, which had been completely restored since last year’s tournament, earned him $1,638,000, the traditional winner’s plaid jacket and a fully restored and modernized 1975 Stingray car.

Riley’s parents were still with his sister and not there for his victory. But Hardy, who teed off five hours before the final group, was there to greet him after his final 6-foot par putt.

“We’ve got a special friendship and obviously having our maiden PGA Tour in together was certainly special,” Riley said. “We actually played the first two days together this week. So there’s definitely a level of comfort there. Probably a big reason why I got off to a good start.”

The final round was played on the day that Grayson Murray’s parents said their 30-year-old son took his own life Saturday, a day after the two-time tour winner had cited illness when withdrawing from the event with two holes left in his second round. The family had insisted to PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan for play to continue.

Bradley was at 10 under after a 4-foot birdie at the 17th hole, but missed a similar-length chance to save par at No. 18 after his tee shot and approach both ended up in the right rough.

“My best round of the year probably. Hung in there,” Bradley said. “I really felt comfortable out there in contention, which is not always the case.”

Colonial was his first top 10 since being in a three-way playoff at the Sony Open in January won by Murray.

Riley curled in a 27-foot birdie at the 229-yard par-3 No. 4 that is the middle of the famed “Horrible Horseshoe” that is still the toughest three-hole stretch on the course. Scheffler bogeyed there and again at No. 5 after his into the right rough running parallel to the Trinity River.

“It was certainly nice to start out with a cushion,” Riley said. “You got the No. 1 player in the world breathing down your neck, not really any shot lead is too comfortable. ... I tried to treat today as if we both started tied and I just tried to win the day.”

By time Riley closed out the front nine with a 9-foot birdie putt, he was six strokes ahead of Scheffler.

“I just wasn’t able to put as much pressure as I would have hoped to put on Davis early in the round,” Scheffler said. “He made that bogey on 2 and answered it really quick with a birdie on 4 and didn’t really give us much of an opening today. ... It was a well-earned win for him.”

Scheffler was playing close to his Dallas home a week after his arrest in the morning darkness before his second round of the PGA Championship, when police were investigating a pedestrian fatality and arrested — and briefly jailed — Scheffler for not following traffic directions.

After tying for eighth at Valhalla, Colonial was the 11th top-10 finish in Scheffler’s 12 tournaments this year. Before the PGA Championship, he had taken three weeks off for the birth of his first child after back-to-back wins at the Masters and the RBC Heritage at Hilton Head.

It was Scheffler’s third consecutive top-three finish at Colonial, even after an opening 72 that was the first time this season he failed to break par in a first round. That also included his first triple-bogey of the season, when his tee shot at the par-3 13th hole went into the pond fronting that raised green.

No. 13 was Scheffler’s first birdie Sunday, but he was still seven strokes back at that point. After the triple on Thursday, he had played 44 consecutive bogey-free holes — including rounds of 65 and 63, until Nos. 4 and 5 on Sunday.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

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RBC Canadian Open: How to watch Round 4, featured groups, live scores, tee times, TV times

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The final round of the RBC Canadian Open takes place Sunday at Hamilton Golf & Country Club.

Robert MacIntyre leads the field by four strokes after a red-hot stretch coming down the back nine separated him from a crowded pack. MacIntyre played his final five holes 5-under par, including an eagle at the par-5 17th, to head into Sunday 14-under for the week in search of his first PGA TOUR win.

The chasing pack consists of Ben Griffin, Ryan Fox and Canadian Mackenzie Hughes all at 10-under par. Big names like Tommy Fleetwood, Sam Burns and Joel Dahmen sit at 9-under, with Rory McIlroy and Tom Kim just in striking distance at 7-under.

Here's everything you need to know to follow the action.

HOW TO FOLLOW (all times ET):

Television:

  • Sunday: 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Golf Channel; 2:30-6:30 p.m. on CBS

PGA TOUR LIVE:

PGA TOUR LIVE is available exclusively on ESPN+

  • Main feed: Primary tournament-coverage featuring the best action from across the course
  • Marquee group: New “marquee group” showcasing every shot from each player in the group
  • Featured groups: Traditional PGA TOUR LIVE coverage of two concurrent featured groups
  • Featured holes: A combination of par 3s and iconic or pivotal holes

PGA TOUR Radio on SiriusXM and free on PGATOUR.COM/liveaudio :

  • Sunday: 1-6:30 p.m.

Featured Groups

Marquee Group

  • 9:25 a.m.: Gary Woodland, Nicolai Højgaard
  • 9:45 a.m.: Adam Scott, Adrien Dumont de Chassart
  • 11:10 a.m.: Shane Lowry, C.T. Pan

Featured Holes

  • Nos. 6 (par 3), 8 (par 3), 13 (par 3), 16 (par 3)

Robert MacIntyre takes four-stroke lead into the final round of the RBC Canadian Open

Robert MacIntyre shines at RBC Canadian Open with dad on bag

Why Joel Dahmen contending at RBC Canadian Open makes perfect sense

Five things to know: Hamilton Golf and Country Club

Purse breakdown

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