Excursions in
Borneo

Back to Borneo

Excursion

Iban Longhouse Homestay

Spend the night with Borneo’s former head hunters. Our overnight visit to a traditional Iban longhouse is an incredible way to learn more about the history of the Iban people who continue to grow traditional hill-paddy along with a few cash crops, and still practice many ancient traditions, including elaborate tattooing. Although shy, the Iban are renowned for their warm hospitality and a night in a longhouse is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit to Sarawak. Travel by wooden longboat or vehicle to the local longhouse where you will be greeted by the many families living under one room. Each family has a separate area within the longhouse, using the central corridor as a community area. Your accommodation will be on a thin mattress in the open corridor, with mosquito net if needed. Bathroom facilities have been upgraded to western toilets and showers where possible, although note that the shared squat toilets may also feature. Be prepared for very basic facilities and a very early wake-up call from the family roosters!

Excursion

Irrawaddy Dolphin Cruise

Visit the Damai Peninsula to discover the rare Irrawaddy Dolphin and spot some of Sarawak's fascinating wildlife including the iconic Proboscis monkey and giant crocodiles.

Excursion

Sarawak Cultural Village

Showcasing Sarawak’s unique and diverse culture in an accessible format, the Cultural Village is an award winning living museum. Seven traditional villages are set amidst the scenic 17 acre site including three longhouses, a Penan hut and a Chinese farmhouse. Activities and traditional dance shows can be seen including a lively Melanu entry dance, traditional wood and bamboo carving, beadwork, weaving, sago processing and tree-bark clothing making, amongst others. Visitors are also able to join in on the fun; learning how to throw a spinning top, trying a Penan blowpipe or dressing in traditional Iban clothing for a memorable photo. Finish your experience with a visit to the air-conditioned theatre for a multi-ethnic music and dance performance. The locals hold the village in high regard for keeping their traditions and cultures alive, making the museum very worthwhile for all visitors.

Excursion

Iban Longhouse Insight

Spend the day at a local longhouse – an authentic dwelling of the local Iban people who were once feared for their head-hunting practices (don’t worry, it’s a tradition no longer in practice!). Explore the longhouse and learn about the lifestyle of these friendly natives whose lives are perfectly intertwined with nature. Witness a traditional dance (ngajat) and demonstrations on the use of a blowpipe – an ancient hunting weapon of the natives that shoot poisonous darts with deadly accuracy. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at the longhouse and chat with the chief to learn more about the history and culture of the Iban people.

Excursion

Semenggoh Orangutan Feeding

One of the best places in Sarawak to view semi-wild orangutans, Semenggoh is just 45 minutes from Kuching. The orangutans have been rescued from captivity and trained to survive in the surrounding forest reserve, with some who have not returned presumed to be living free in the forests further afield. The rehabilitated animals roam freely in the rainforest and often swing by the centre at feeding time, allowing visitors a heart-warming encounter. A couple of captive crocodiles saved from the wild also live in the wildlife reserve but thankfully these are not free roaming! Adoption programmes are also available, and the centre staff are on hand to chat about the rehabilitation work done in the reserve. Please note that sightings are not guaranteed - sometimes the fruits of the forest are enough for these tree dwelling creatures and the need to return is diminished. In our opinion this is a good thing as it demonstrates the rehabilitation is going well but please manage expectations before your visit. Feeding time is usually 9am and 3pm daily.

Excursion

Bako National Park Birdwatching

Home to over 150 bird species, Bako National Park is a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Although many of these birds can be seen around the rest houses and central park HQ, we recommend hitting the trails to enjoy the best sightings. Serious bird watchers should ensure they bring a good pair of binoculars and the Pocket Guide to the Birds of Borneo book. Bird watching guides can be arranged for all sightseeing in Borneo.

Excursion

Bako National Park – Proboscis Monkey Spotting

Departing from the Bako Fishing Village, travel by motorboat along the beautiful coast to visit Bako National Park. The oldest of Sarawak’s national parks, Bako offers a perfect introduction to Sarawak’s forests and wildlife, as well as the best spot to see the rare Proboscis Monkey. With easy trails and much of the wildlife possible to spot around the Park Headquarters, Bako is a delightful day out from the city of Kuching. Lucky visitors will have the chance to get up close with Proboscis monkeys, silvered langurs, long-tailed macaque monkeys,  bearded pigs, flying lemurs, monitor lizards, as well as many different bird species. Birders will also be rewarded as the park is home to many species including the Rufous-backed Kingfishers, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Red-crowned Barbet, White bellied Woodpecker and sightings of the Hornbill have also been enjoyed (though are much rarer!) Despite the seemingly small size, Bako contains a wide variety of vegetation – swamp forest, scrub like padding vegetation, mangrove forest, dipterocarp forest, delicate cliff vegetation and beautiful sandy beaches. Swimming is not possible due to the saltwater shores being a habitat for local crocs – though they are very rarely spotted. Adventurers can tackle longer trails through the park, or easy walks to viewpoints are also possible for those looking for a relaxed day out. Lunch can be enjoyed as you relax at park HQ with wildlife all around.

Excursion

Kuching City Tour

Known locally as the ‘Cat City’, it won’t take long to notice why this charming name has been bestowed upon the city -there are statues and tributes to cats at nearly every street corner. While taking a look around, visit the old White Rajah buildings, open markets, temples and mosques. Finally visit the Urang Sarawak Museum to discover Sarawak’s Culture and history through key artefacts.

Excursion

Rafflesia: The World’s Largest Flower

Take a full day tour into the highlands of Borneo for a chance to spot the world’s largest flower. A one-hour scenic drive will take you to Crocker Range National Park, home of the Rafflesia Centre. View the exhibits on display to learn about this remarkable flower which is only found in Southeast Asia. Begin your trek through the jungle in search of the Rafflesia Flower with your park ranger. After your trek, continue by road to a mountainside restaurant for lunch before heading back to the city. On return stop at Tambunan to admire the patchwork rice fields as well as the monument of Mat Salleh, an important figure in Malaysia’s fight for independence. See some of his weapons used to lead rebellions and learn about the country’s era of British colonial rule. Having discovered Borneo’s natural wonders and colonial past, return to Kota Kinabalu late afternoon.

Excursion

Mount Kinabalu Helicopter & Tranquil Spa

Indulge in a luxurious experience as you take to the skies to soar over Mount Kinabalu in a helicopter. The views of the rugged peak from above are mesmerising! Your pilot will explain the myths and legends of the majestic mountain, adding to the magic of your morning. Back on the ground you will be transferred to a tranquil spa for a rejuvenating holistic spa session. Choose from a selection of therapies inspired by Borneo’s ‘Bobohizan’; the island’s native healers.

Excursion

Climbing Mount Kinabalu

Climb to the peak of the largest mountain in Malaysia, Mt. Kinabalu. With an overnight stop at base camp, a two day adventure can see you reach the summit. Alternatively you may prefer not to venture to the top and enjoy some of the alternative trekking routes around the mountain. Contact us to discuss the options and let us help you enjoy an adventure on Mt. Kinabalu with an expert guide by your side.

Excursion

Train Rides & River Rafting

An action packed day on the Padas River in Grade 3-4 rapids. Start the day early, transferring by coach to Beaufort Railway Station. Hop on-board the train and enjoy a unique scenic train ride for 2-hours to get to Pangi Station, the starting point for your rafting adventure. After a safety introduction the paddling begins. The journey will take around 1.5-2 hours (10km) in total with a mix of gently flowing waters and exhilarating rapids. Be sure to look around and enjoy the breath-taking scenery that surrounds the rivers. Pass by jungle-covered highlands, lush fields and other spectacular natural landscapes. Around halfway through the journey, stop on the riverbanks for a chance to swim or to simply soak up the scenery. At the end of the adventure dry off and enjoy a delicious barbeque before heading back to the city.

Excursion

Sunset Kayaking, Snorkelling & Seafood Dinner

In the afternoon paddle from Tanjung Aru Beach to enjoy the clear waters off the coast. Enjoy time snorkelling in search of exotic marine life before heading back to shore as the sun begins to set. Back on dry land stroll with your guide to the Seafood Night Market to enjoy the fresh catch of the day for dinner.

Excursion

Mangrove Safari: Proboscis Monkey & Fire flies

Spend an afternoon in Borneo’s Beaufort region to discover the natural wonders and beautiful landscapes along the Kilas River. With an expert nature guide, cruise in a local motorboat searching the mangrove for proboscis monkeys, silver langurs and macaque monkeys. Birders will delight with a chance to spot azure kingfishers and pied hornbill. As the sun sets enjoy the surreal experience of the fireflies lighting the trees – cruising past the twinkling trees you arrive at a river lodge and dine on a delicious barbeque dinner. A magical end to any day in Borneo.

Excursion

Village Cycling

Discover a more authentic side of Borneo on a guided cycle tour in the unspoiled countryside of Kiulu. Follow the quiet trails along rice paddies and small villages. Cross hanging suspension bridges as you pedal from village to village. Rest at a local Dusan house to learn about the traditional culture and ways of life by the Dusan people. Authentic snacks will also be enjoyed to refuel you before heading to a nearby plantation to learn more about rubber tapping. Take a stroll around the plantation before a local lunch and a relaxing drive back to the city.

Excursion

Garden of Eden Valley Trek

The Garden of Eden Valley Trek is a full day of adventure that begins with a gentle 45 minute walk along the Mulu National Park boardwalks to the Bat observatory. Enter the first of the 2 ‘show caves’ included on your trail – Lang Cave. The smallest of the caves displays a spectacular variety of stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, shawls and rimstone pools. The next stop is Deer Cave – the largest of the show caves at Mulu but also the largest cave passage in the world. The sense of space will hit you as you travel through the cave towards the final pools. From here you now climb, walk and swim up the Eden River to the walking trails, winding your way around the valley to a series of waterfalls and rockpools. A perfect place to stop for a dip or further exploration, as well as a picnic lunch. Journey back to Deer Cave to end the day at the Bat Observatory for the famous Bat Exodus. Watch as millions of bats stream through the skies at sundown. Note: A Medium to High level of fitness is required and a Licensed Mulu National Park is included. High water levels can reduce the time in the valley and flooding will result in a cancellation. Appropriate clothing must be worn.

Excursion

Adventure Caving & The Pinnacles

For the truly adventurous (and very fit) options for adventure caving are available, as well as a challenging trek to the Pinnacles. Adventure caving options including the Lagangs Cave, Racer Cave, Clearwater Revival, Clearwater Connection and Sarawak Chamber Overnight. The Pinnacles Climb is a very physically challenging, high risk, adventure activity. The trek takes 3 days, 2 nights involving camping and a free climb up the Pinnacles. For an easier option a trek is also available with camping to Camp 5 without the Pinnacles climb. Details can be discussed on request only or you may contact the Mulu National Park HQ. Note: Booking must be made in advance. Pinnacles climb only allowed after a local assessment. Adventure caving can only to be arranged with proof of experience and full risk disclosure.

Excursion

Mulu Canopy Skywalk

At 480 metres, the Mulu Skywalk is one of the longest canopy walks available in Borneo. Led by a park guide, head high into the canopy and walk amongst the ferns and vines above the forest floor. 10-30 metres up you will have an opportunity to get closer to wildlife, spot some unique species of bird and if you’re lucky you may spot wild monkeys or beautiful Hornbill high in the treetops. Note: Bookings must be made in advance. Not suitable for those with height phobia. Wildlife sighting limited. Walk way is narrow and creaky.

Excursion

Mulu Night Walk

Join a national park guide for a 2-hour night walk around the trails. Torch at the ready you can hunt out the thousands of unique creatures that call Mulu home. As the nights get darker many animals come out to hunt, nest and raise their young.

Excursion

Cruising to Clearwater Cave

Begin the day with a leisurely boat ride to Wind Cave. Along the way pass local villages where you can observe their morning routines and wave as you pass by. The water levels can vary along the river and should they drop too low you will wade along the shallow streams before arriving to the caves. Walk along the extinct river, feeling the cool breeze of the cave in the smaller passages as you head to Kings Chamber. Proceed along the plank walkways on the edge of the limestone rocks outside the cave to reach Clearwater Cave. Steep steps lead you to the entrance and showcase some unique flora along the way. Navigate through the cave along the walkways as you follow the crystal clear water. Returning back to the cave entrance take time for a swim in the outer pools or relax before heading back along the river to the park HQ.

Excursion

Deer and Lang Cave Discovery

From Mulu National Park Headquarters take a 3km elevated plank-walk to Lang Cave and the adjoining Deer Cave. At 2161 metres wide, it’s considered to be the largest cave passage in the world. After checking out the magnificent stalactites and stalagmites of Lang Cave, head to Deer Cave for a look at “Lincoln’s Profile”, an attraction inhabited by thousands of free-tailed bats found in the cave. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, witness an incredible spectacle of nature as many thousands of these bats emerge from the cave for a night of foraging in the jungle. Whilst trekking back to the park headquarters under cover of darkness, experience an entirely different side of the rainforest as its nocturnal inhabitants come to life.

Excursion

Markets, Temples & Tea

Discover the delights of Sandakan city on a short tour. Visit the central market in search of spices. The market is rarely visited by tourists and houses vibrant vegetable stalls, a lively wet market and an upper level home to a variety of local food vendors. Afterwards visit the former home of American writer Agnes Keith, who penned Land Below The Wind in 1939. Today the home is a heritage house, providing interesting insights in to life during British North Borneo. It is furnished with a reproduction of colonial furniture and antiques. A gallery on the first floor tells the story of this remarkable woman, her books and her family. Follow your visit with a stop at an English tea house to enjoy refreshments or lunch. Continue on to Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple at the south of the city. It is located on the hilltop, with a breath-taking panoramic view of Sandakan Bay.

Excursion

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

In 1994 a palm oil plantation owner was in the process of clearing local land for expansion and came across several families of monkeys that he knew very little about. These strange looking primates were recognised to be the endangered Proboscis monkeys. Endemic to the island of Borneo and at threat due to the loss of forest and increase in palm oil plantations, the owner did some research and discovered the struggles of the Proboscis in the face of his current line of work. He soon changed his plans, helping the survival of the monkeys and eventually opened the doors of his former plantation as the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. Visit the sanctuary on a short tour for an opportunity to see the monkeys roam in their natural habitat, returning only to the main platforms to enjoy food to help supplement their diet and promote an increased population. Feedings are done daily at various time slots on two platforms. Visitors are usually lucky enough to see large families, some with offspring, as well as silver leaf langurs and maybe even an oriental pied hornbill or two!

Excursion

Rainforest Discovery Centre

With a 1km lakeside walking trail, a canopy walkway with eight viewing towers and a central lake, the Rainforest Discover Centre is a wonderful spot for some wildlife spotting. Night walks are available or you can enjoy an early morning stroll as the jungle comes to life. The best spots include orangutan, tarsiers and wild cats, as well as a variety of bugs, birds and beetles. The centre also houses an exhibit hall to learn about the tropical flora and fauna.

Excursion

Sun Bear & Orangutan Conservation

Located in the heart of Sepilok lies the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. This centre aims to increase awareness of this endearing, but little-known bear species – named after the crescent shaped patch of fur on their chests that resembles the rising sun. A series of elevated walkways allow you to stroll around the park, peering down at the sun bears living happily in their natural habitat who have been rescued from illegal hunting, poaching and loss of natural habitat. Lucky visitors may also encounter wild Orangutan swinging through the trees to play with the bears – an incredible wildlife experience. Upgrade your experience with a special meeting with Dr. (Hon) Wong Siew Te, the founder of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation. Enjoy a wonderful 45-minute private presentation on the Sun Bears before a personal tour around the facility from the founder himself. Follow this with lunch at the Nest Dining at Sepilok Forest Edge to enjoy a twist of Bornean Contemporary Cuisine. The Restaurant is surrounded by luxuriant rainforest as a backdrop. Located next door lies the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The rehabilitation centre was founded 1964 with the aim of returning orphaned, injured or displaced orangutans into the wild. The current residents of the centre roam freely in the forest where they can fend for themselves and eventually primates are released back into the wild. At the hours of 10am and 2:30pm the orangutan emerge from the forest for their ration of bananas and fruits, giving visitors an up-close view and a chance to snap some fantastic photos. Walk along the boardwalks to the nursery to see the youngest primates learning to swing the ropes – if you’re lucky you may even spot the dominant male.

Excursion

Danum Night Drive Safari

In the evening board one of the open-top 4WD vehicles for an exhilarating wildlife night tour. Accompanied by a local guide with a spotlight, spot a range of nocturnal animals that inhabit the reserve, from samba deer to civet cats, leopards, and a stunning array of insects and frogs. There is also the option to enjoy an extended night drive after the standard night drive which ventures further along the roads for a higher chance of wildlife spotting.

Excursion

Canopy Walkway

The 107m long, 27m high canopy walkway at Borneo Rainforest Lodge gives visitors the chance to walk with the wildlife in an area otherwise unreachable to humans. With orangutans swinging through the canopy and hornbill flying overhead, traverse the swinging bridges and take in the stunning views over the top of the rainforest.

Excursion

Nature Trails & Wildlife Spotting

The wildlife is of course the main attraction when visiting Danum and so encounters are common during most visits. The ancient rainforests are teeming with life from the creepy crawlies on the ground to the famous Orangutans high in the canopy. Possible wildlife sightings during your time in Danum Valley can also include; tarsiers, sambar deer, bearded pigs, flying squirrels, king cobra, proboscis monkeys, red leaf monkeys, gibbons and pygmy elephants. Clouded leopards can also be spotted, as well as the flat headed cat, marbled cat, leopard cat and bay cat. Twitchers are also in for a treat as new species of birds are still being discovered within this complex ecosystem and common sightings include the great Argus pheasant, blue headed pitta, Bornean bristlehead and several species of hornbill. The best way to explore Danum Valley is on foot and with 50km of marked trails, there is plenty to discover. Our expert nature guides will lead treks in small groups of around 6-8 but private guides can be requested in advance for a supplement. The coffin cliff trail is one of the most popular and our favourite trek – taking you from the Rainforest Lodge, over suspension bridges and slowly climbing through the jungle to reach a panoramic view point with breath-taking views across the valley. The well-trodden trail returns back to the lodge via Fairy Falls or Serpent Falls for a quick dip, as well as a stop off at ‘The Coffin’ where ancient remains of Kadazan Dusun coffins can be seen. Other popular trails include the Danum Trail, Elephant Trail and Segama Trails which are fairly flat and great for wildlife spotting. For the more adventurous there are longer trails and also chances to go off the marked paths with your guide in search of snakes and rarer wildlife hiding in the thick undergrowth.

Excursion

Nature Walks in Kinabatangan

Walk along the boardwalks after dark in the Kinabatangan River on the look out for nocturnal wildlife including snakes, birds and insects. Keep your eyes peeled for flying lemur and the eye shine of the elusive Bornean wild cats including the Clouded Leopard which is spotted around the Kinabatangan River.

Excursion

Oxbow Lake Morning Cruise

Rise early in the morning along with the birds and other animals of the river for a cruise to Oxbow Lake, a crescent shaped lake that formed when the river’s meander became so wide that it cut itself off. The stillness of the lake and relative protection provides a haven for animals and plants making for an ecosystem that’s completely distinct from that of the river.

Excursion

Batik Painting

Unleash your creative side by trying a local Batik painting activity. Batik is a technique of traditional wax-resist dyeing of clothes. Learn these techniques and creating your own design inspired by the rainforest surroundings.

Excursion

Wildlife River Safari

Wildlife cruises down the Kinabatangan River are an unforgettable experience and the mainstay of any Kinabatangan adventure. Binoculars at the ready, opportunities for wildlife viewing won’t take long and top spots include proboscis monkeys, monitor lizards, giant crocs, long tailed macaques and orangutan swinging effortlessly through the towering trees. If you’re lucky you may also spot the shy Bornean Pygmy Elephants. Twitchers will be rewarded with some incredible sights of rare colourful birds, as well as a chance to spot all 8 varieties of Borneo’s hornbill. The best months for avian wildlife are the rainier months of October to late March. Evening cruises offer the chance to see the trees lit up by the fireflies and crocs hunting from the shores.

Excursion

Gaya Island Marine Centre

The marine centre advocates 3 key conservation themes - Turtle Rescue, Coral Reef Restoration and Conservation Through Education. The resident marine biologist and dedicated team work together with equally passionate partners, championing initiatives to protect marine life, raise awareness for sustainable seafood choices and aim for pollution-free waters.

Excursion

Guided Nature Walks

Discover an exceptional botanic reserve, diverse wildlife and a rare, undisturbed mixed dipterocarp forest, found only on Gaya island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Excursion

Kayaking & Zipline

Head out to Manukan Island in Tunku Abdul Marine Park for a kayaking adventure to Sapi Island. A relatively smooth paddle, you will also have the chance to enjoy snorkelling along the way. At the end of the kayaking head to Gaya Island to experience an inter-island zipline from Gaya Island back to Sapi. Seven seconds of adrenaline and fun flying over the stunning aquamarine water. After lunch on Sapi Island continue kayaking and snorkelling off the pristine white sand shores before returning by boat back to Kota Kinabalu.

Excursion

Snorkelling & Diving

Our preferred resorts are located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu and set on the shores of Pulau Gaya, the largest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park lies within The Coral Triangle, known as the world’s marine epicentre. Home to diverse marine life exceeding 75% of species known to science with coral gardens found 20 metres from the shore; this underwater realm has over 25 dive spots for all year exploration. Programmes are conducted around 5 islands within the marine park. Snorkelling is also available directly from the shores of the resorts, as well as on dive boats.

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