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Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point, a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our Borneo experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect Borneo holiday to match.
This holiday is Borneo at its best – orangutans, wild river safaris, and barefoot island time to round it all off.
Your adventure kicks off in Sepilok, where rescued orangutans swing through the trees and little ones learn the ropes at the rehabilitation centre. From there, it’s on to the Kinabatangan River, where you’ll cruise through tangled jungle waterways with expert guides who will help you spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and – if luck’s on your side – the elusive pygmy elephant, as you go.
Your next stop is the Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Traverse ancient rainforests, explore the diverse ecosystems, and rejuvenate in natural mud volcanoes for a truly immersive encounter with Borneo’s biodiversity. Not forgetting waking up to the chorus of a jungle symphony that starts before the sun even comes up. It’s the perfect place to slow down and really soak up the wild side of Borneo.
Finally, you’ll swap your jungle boots for flip-flops with a beach break on the luxurious Gaya Island. Spend your days lazing on the soft sands in the sunshine, snorkel over vibrant coral in the clear waters, and toast every day with a sip of something refreshing as the sun sets. Kota Kinabalu also has some stunning beaches to offer if you prefer to stay on the mainland. Just chat to us and we'll build a Borneo holiday idea to suit you.
We've designed this Borneo holiday to give you a dose of proper adventure, followed by just the right amount of luxury and calm.
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this Borneo holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your holiday will be tailored to suit you.
You'll depart the UK today on your overnight flight to Malaysia. You'll have a short layover in Kuala Lumpur before continuing onwards to Sandakan in Borneo. If you'd like to break up the journey, you can add a few days in Malaysia’s capital before heading to the jungle. Just chat to us and we'll build this into your holiday itinerary.
You'll arrive in Sandakan this afternoon, where a private transfer will take you to your first jungle lodge in Sepilok. We've left this afternoon free to enjoy at your own pace. If you're feeling energised despite the long journey, head into the city for a spot of shopping at the local markets, or simply unwind in a hammock, listening to the sounds of the rainforest.
Orangutans are always top of the wildlife wishlist on a Borneo holiday, and today, you'll have your first orangutan encounter at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre. Here you'll have the chance to watch these fascinating primates have their breakfast at their morning feeding session. You'll also visit the Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world's smallest bear species. The rest of the day is yours to explore Sepilok, keeping an eye out for wild orangutans and other primates in the surrounding trees.
You'll journey deeper into Sabah’s jungle today, heading to your next riverside lodge on the Kinabatangan River. This area is home to some of Borneo’s most iconic wildlife, and during your afternoon river cruise, you’ll have the chance to spot proboscis monkeys, orangutans, macaques, pygmy elephants, and a variety of birdlife. The guides are brilliant here, if there's any wildlife to be seen hidden within the trees, they'll spot it!
Today, you'll have a full day to explore the Kinabatangan River, with activities like bird watching, boat cruising in search of crocodiles, and evening firefly watching, there's plenty to keep you busy. If relaxing is more your style, you can simply soak up the sights and sounds of the rainforest from your lodge. Most lodges here don’t have swimming pools, so do let us know if this is important for you and we'll make sure it's built into your tailor-made holiday plans.
Next up, you'll leave the river behind and head inland for more jungle adventures in Tabin Wildlife Reserve. After checking into your private, clean, and air-conditioned accommodation, it's time to enjoy some of the many activities on offer. Your time here can be spent as actively or as laid back as you choose. We'd suggest braving an early morning wake-up to join a bird walk before breakfast. The afternoon can be spent trekking through the rainforest and learning about the flora and fauna of the area. You can even take a swim and shower at the nearby Lipad waterfall. Alternatively, head to the massage hut and try out the Tabin Rainforest Foot Soak made with a natural blend of herbs, to relax tired muscles after long jungle treks.
You'll say goodbye to the jungle today and travel by 4x4 back to Lahad Datu, where you'll take a flight to Kota Kinabalu before venturing onwards to your beach hotel. There are some great mainland beaches near Kota Kinabalu, or you could choose to take a boat over to the secluded and luxurious Gaya Island. There are benefits to each, so do chat to us about the options and we'll help you decide the best sandy spot to wind up your holiday.
These days are yours to spend however you like. You might choose to relax on the beach, snorkel in the clear waters or indulge in a spa treatment or two. If you're still up for more adventure, head off to explore the lively city of Kota Kinabalu, take a boat trip to a nearby island, visit the Poring Hot Springs or even consider a hike around Mount Kinabalu. As always, your holiday is yours alone, and we'll make sure your choices are perfect for you.
It's time to head back to the airport today in time for your flight home, bringing your Borneo adventure to a close.
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Erin and Ian are dedicated to all things Borneo and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Speak to one of our travel specialists today.
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