From CAD 4,798 Was CAD 5,645
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Through rainforest, jungle, rivers and wetlands, take a 12-day Premium adventure to uncover Borneo’s natural wonders. You’ll discover fascinating culture, history and ancient traditions as you journey to the jungles of Sabah and Sarawak, learn about the Iban way of life within Batang Ai National Park, get swept up in the energy of Kuching and connect with nature at the Kinabatangan River. Take boat rides in search of local wildlife, visit an Orangutan rehabilitation centre in Sandakan and wake up to the calls of monkeys. From dense rainforests to misty rivers and jungle valleys, this diverse island is a joy to explore.
Highlights
- Surround yourself with rich wildlife with two nights at the naturally beautiful and perfectly located Kinabatangan Wetland Resort – your Feature Stay accommodation.
- Visit endangered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, meet the Malaysian sun bear and take multiple cruises down the Kinabatangan in search of wildlife.
- Gain unique insight into the Iban way of life during an Exclusive Experience where you stay in a rustic jungle lodge in the rainforests of Batang Ai, visit a traditional longhouse and chat to the locals about their culture.
- Get a taste of Borneo’s diverse food scene during Exclusive Experiences, including dinner at a bustling food court popular with locals and a freshly caught seafood dinner after touring the seafood market.
- Experience Borneo's beautiful natural surroundings with visits to local farms, waterfalls, National Parks, wildlife cruises, and more.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, RESPonsible Elephant Conservation Trust (RESPECT). Donations help them educate and engage local communities on the importance of conserving local habits for Borneo Pygmy Elephants.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2742
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Boat,Plane,Private Mini Van
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TMPB
Starts: Kuching, Malaysia
Finishes: Sandakan, Malaysia
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (6), Dinner (7)Accommodation: Lodge (4 nights),Hotel (5 nights),Resort (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4798 (CAD 400 /day)
Itinerary
Selamat datang! Welcome to Borneo. When you arrive in Kuching, you’ll be collected from the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. You’ll then have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and group members. If you arrive early, you might like to take a stroll along Kuching’s scenic waterfront or visit the Borneo Cultural Museum. After your meeting, your leader will help you get acquainted with the city on a walk to one of Kuching’s food courts popular with the locals, where you can sample some local delights and get an introduction into Malaysian cuisine.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Kuching - Welcome Dinner
Accommodation:
- Riverside Majestic Hotel Astana Wing or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, begin your journey to Batang Ai National Park where the remote and lush rainforests are alive with the calls of hornbills and gibbons. The Iban people have called these rainforests home for 400 years, with entire villages living under one roof in longhouses built alongside the river. Hidden away from the modern world, these communities have retained centuries-old traditions. Stop off at the native market in Lachau, where you can pick up locally made goods like woven baskets and traditional Iban clothing. Then, take a longboat down the Delok River to your accommodation for the evening – the serene and secluded Nanga Sumpa Lodge, tucked away on the riverbank. The operator here has had a long-standing relationship with the community, creating jobs and community involvement so the local people can benefit from tourism. He also set up a scholarship fund to boost children's education in the community. Tonight, you'll sit down for a traditional dinner at the lodge.
Included Activities:
- Batang Ai - Nanga Sumpa Dinner
- Batang Ai - Lachau Bazaar Lunch
Accommodation:
- Nanga Sumpa Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast surrounded by nature, you’ll take a 2-hour walk through the jungle, passing local farms, orchards and plantations as your leader shares stories from the region and teaches you about foraging for edibles and local medicinal plants. Next, take a longboat up the river to the Enseluai waterfall. Keep your eyes open in case of a rare orangutan sighting! Take some time to relax and go for a swim, then your leader will choose a scenic spot for a picnic using local ingredients. In the afternoon, cruise back to Nanga Sumpa for a walk through the village. After dinner, visit a traditional longhouse and spend time with the Iban people who will teach you about their way of living. Hang out on the common veranda, share some rice wine and gain insight into the local Iban culture.
Included Activities:
- Batang Ai - Jungle and Plantation Walk
- Batang Ai - Local Longhouse Visit
- Batang Ai - Enseluai Waterfall
Accommodation:
- Nanga Sumpa Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up to the songs of birds and after breakfast, take a longboat out of the rainforest and make the journey back to Kuching, stopping off for lunch at a local coffee shop along the way. The name Kuching literally translates to ‘cats’, and the city has fully embraced this moniker. You’ll have free time here, so maybe wander the streets to see the giant cat statues, spray-painted street art and local cat museum. If you’d like to dive deeper into the city’s fabulous food scene, your leader can recommend some spots to eat.
Included Activities:
- Kuching - Group Lunch
Accommodation:
- Riverside Majestic Hotel Astana Wing or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Kuching and take a flight to Mulu National Park. This national park is full of rainforests, mountains, caves and karst formations. Your leader will provide insight on how the park’s weird and wonderful geographic features came to be. In the late afternoon, visit Deer Cave and Lang Cave, which are reached by a scenic jungle walk along a 3-km plank path, passing through peat swamp, alluvial flats and limestone outcrops. Watch millions of bats fly out of Deer Cave at sunset and see the large ring-shaped formations they make as they circle the cliff face, before moving out across the rainforest. Return on the same path and head to your accommodation for the evening in secluded forest bungalows, tucked away in the park.
Included Activities:
- Mulu National Park - Sunset bat experience
- Mulu National Park - Deer & Lang Caves guided walk
Accommodation:
- Garden Bungalows, Mulu National Park or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, join your leader and further explore Mulu National Park. First, head to Wind Cave (named for the cool breeze that flows through it) along the Melinau River. Your leader will share some details on the formation of the cave as you explore the stalagmites and columns. Later, discover the caverns and crags of Clearwater Cave – one of the longest caves in Asia! The rest of the day is free for you to relax and take in the scenery.
Included Activities:
- Mulu National Park - Wind & Clearwater Caves guided walk
- Mulu National Park - Picnic Lunch
Accommodation:
- Garden Bungalows, Mulu National Park or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll fly to Kota Kinabalu – the bustling capital of the Sabah state. In the late afternoon after you have arrived, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for a cocktail while watching the sunset over the skyline. The rest of the evening is free for you to explore. The city’s food scene is best experienced like a local, so for dinner tonight, be sure to ask your leader for advice on hidden treasures away from the main tourist trail.
Included Activities:
- Kota Kinabalu - Sunset Cocktail
Optional Activities:
- Kota Kinabalu - Sabah Museum entrance fee (15 MYR)
Accommodation:
- Horizon Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
You have a free morning in Kota Kinabalu – maybe go snorkelling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and search for marine life, or take a tour to the cultural village. If you’d prefer to stay in the city, you can visit the handicraft market on the waterfront or explore Chinatown. Your leader will be on hand to help you plan activities for the day. Later in the afternoon, head to a local vegetable and fish market, learning about and sampling regional snacks along the way. End the tour with dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Kota Kinabalu - Seafood Market Tour and Dinner
- Kota Kinabalu - Local Market Tour
Optional Activities:
- Kota Kinabalu - Tunku Abdul National Marine Park Snorkeling Trip (Min 4) (355 MYR)
- Kota Kinabalu - Cultural Village Tour (excludes transportation) (130 MYR)
Accommodation:
- Horizon Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a flight to Sandakan this morning, then visit the Sandakan War Memorial. Here, you’ll learn about the city's past as you stand on the same ground of the former Japanese POW camp. This site also marks the starting point of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches. Next, head to the jetty for a boat ride to the Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort – your Feature Stay accommodation. Sitting on the banks of the Kinabatangan River, the resort offers access to local wildlife. Wooden boardwalks cut through the jungle and connect spacious and bright chalets which serve up great views of the surrounding mangrove forests. This afternoon, take a river cruise, where your leader will help you spot some of the local creatures. Wild elephants seldom reveal themselves, but crocodiles, macaques, wild orangutan, proboscis monkeys, hornbills and kingfishers can sometimes be seen. Enjoy dinner at the resort before heading back out for a night-time wildlife walk. Geared up with a headlamp, you’ll set out in search of interesting insects or other animals that pop up after dark.
Included Activities:
- Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Spotting Cruise
- Kinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife Walk
- Sandakan - War Memorial
Accommodation:
- Kinabatangan Wetland Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Take an early morning cruise through the fog as the sun rises, enjoying light refreshments on board while you search for birds and wildlife. Keep an eye out for long tail macaques and pig tail macaques, then return to the resort for breakfast and search the property with your leader for some insects, plants and birds. This afternoon, set off for another river adventure, exploring small tributaries by boat. Later, head out for a night-time cruise and look out for nocturnal animals – you might even see a wide-eyed slow loris hanging from a tree! Have dinner back at the resort, then relax in your comfortable rooms.
Included Activities:
- Kinabatangan River - Morning wildlife spotting cruise
- Kinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife Spotting Cruise
Accommodation:
- Kinabatangan Wetland Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Return to Sandakan by boat and visit the orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Watch them as they swing into view on ropes and vines, then check in at the outdoor nursery where young orangutans, born in captivity or orphaned, are cared for. You’ll also visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre – seeing the world’s smallest bears in large forest enclosures as they are rehabilitated after being rescued. This evening, enjoy a final dinner in Borneo with your group and leader.
Included Activities:
- Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Sandakan - Farewell Dinner
Accommodation:
- Sabah Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent to arrange additional accommodation. Flights depart most days from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur.
Similar Experiences
Premium Turkey in Depth
15 Days from CAD 4,186
Premium Mexico in Depth
15 Days from CAD 5,842
Premium Vietnam in Depth
15 Days from CAD 3,519
Premium Egypt in Depth
15 Days from CAD 5,388
Premium Morocco in Depth
15 Days from CAD 4,068
Premium Greece in Depth
16 Days from CAD 6,817
Borneo – East Sabah Adventure
8 Days from CAD 1,364
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Noela - Traveled, August 2023
We recently visited Borneo on the Premium Borneo in Depth. We were immersed in nature and experienced Borneos Natural Wonders and wildlife, whilst expertly guided and informed. NP Guides and leaders always went beyond with knowledge, passion and humour. A wonderful unforgettable experience. Once in a lifetime.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Heather - Traveled, August 2023
We thoroughly enjoyed this tour. Seeing Orangutans in the wild was a highlight, also lots of Probiscus monkeys and other creatures. The caves at Mulu were spectacular. Be prepared for lots of walking, boating and very hot, humid weather. Nelson was an excellent guide and made the trip interesting and very well organised.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Melanie - Traveled, August 2023
A magical experience which was nothing like you could imagine. Nostalgia was a fantastic tour leader and nothing was too much trouble. Just amazing trip ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Liane - Traveled, August 2023
I had such a great time exploring Borneo and experiencing new things. This tour allowed me to do so with incredible guidance
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Melanie - Traveled, August 2023
A magical experience which was nothing like you could imagine. Nostalgia was a fantastic tour leader and nothing was too much trouble. Just amazing trip ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Keith - Traveled, April 2024
Tour has plenty to see and do but you can opt out if you want to take a break. Beverly accommodated every special need.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Ian - Traveled, April 2024
If you want to experience all the experiences of Borneo do this one. And look for Beverley!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Gerald - Traveled, April 2024
Premium Borneo in Depth showcases modern and traditional aspects of authentic Malaysia Borneo by exploring bustling coastal cities and the stunning natural beauty and wildlife in remote parts of the country. A truly superb trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Ingeborg - Traveled, March 2024
This trip was my first one to Borneo and I loved every minute of it. We visited three distinctly different environments from a wild jungle experience to amazing cave systems and spotting wildlife, not only the elusive wild orangutan. The trip was well organized, our leader very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and great fun as were the local guides. A great adventure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Clancie - Traveled, January 2024
This trip is fabulous and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is probably a bit more physical than you would think from the score and some accomodation is very basic but the experience was really fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
Heather - Traveled, April 2024
A wonderful trip for wildlife. 3 times we came across orangutans plus we saw wild Pygmy elephants swimming. A trip you would struggle to do on your own
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2024
David - Traveled, January 2024
Great experience- so glad I booked this trip - one of the best trips ever taken
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2024
Henry - Traveled, January 2024
<<>>
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2024
Karen - Traveled, January 2024
Our trip to Borneo was a once in a lifetime experience, primarily due to the exceptional quality of the guide, Nostalia. She was extremely knowledgeable about her country, culture, history, people and wildlife which made this trip so spectacular. The level of organisation was outstanding. The pleasure the guide and people around us took in sharing their country with us was heart warming. Choose this trip to explore the natural beauty of Borneo for memories that will last forever.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/07/2024
Dean - Traveled, December 2023
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/04/2023
Craig - Traveled, October 2023
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/01/2023
Phil - Traveled, October 2023
The trip was a fantastic way of viewing the national parks and wildlife in their natural surroundings. We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to absorb the local culture. We have many treasured memories. We wish to give our thanks to the other guides, Lemon, Freddy - Batang Ai, Chris - Mulu and Max - Kinabantangan. Also a special mention to the outstanding long boat crew for their exemplary hard work and great cooking. The only negative was the cost of the pre-paid transfer from the Sandakan Hotel to the Airport. This was grossly overpriced at 21 times the local rate. We look forward to using Intrepid for our next adventure
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Linda - Traveled, October 2023
From the jungle of Batung Ai seeing orang-utan & head massage by Lemon at the rustic wonderful lodge & visit to the longhouse (enjoyed the rice wine!) to amazing caves at Mulu NP (yes even climbing 200 steps to the best cave I've ever seen "Clearwater Cave"), bats & insects & hilarious guide Chris; macaque & proboscis monkeys at Kinabatangan with amazing lodge; jungle cruising & bird spotting by our guides.. at night! Fantastic trip with our amazing guide Rony & fun group... we are Intrepid Borneo 7.... lifelong friends made.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/01/2023
Aarika - Traveled, October 2023
It’s well worth the extra money for the premium Borneo trip. The accommodations were great and if you’re not into so much trekking this trip has just enough jungle walks to still keep you active without overdoing it. All the local guides were amazing as well! Definitely a trip that would have been difficult to plan on our own.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/01/2023
Michael Robert - Traveled, October 2023
The Borneo premium trip is an interesting trip but it is not the typical “premium level” of accommodation or food and you should be careful to read the itinerary very carefully to determine if it’s a trip for you. There is lots of fun to be had and we were with a fantastic group! We easily dealt with the replacement of our lead guide early in the trip and both guides had medical issues!! Local guides were great!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience