11-Day Borneo Wildlife Experience

Welcome to Borneo! Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, meet your driver and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel. After settling in, visit the vibrant Kota Kinabalu Night Market for an evening visit. Immerse yourself in the local culture as your guide introduces you to Sabah's sights, sounds, and flavors. Browse stalls brimming with aromatic spices, fresh tropical fruits, colorful vegetables, and handmade souvenirs. Cap off the evening with a delicious dinner before returning to the hotel to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu (Standard City View room)

Enjoy a relaxing day of sun, sea, and sand at one of the beautiful islands within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This morning, transfer to the marina jetty for a scenic 30-minute boat ride to Mamutik Island. Upon arrival, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish, or unwind on the beach and take in the serene island surroundings. A local lunch will be served on the island. Afterward, continue to relax or take a refreshing dip before your return journey. In the mid-afternoon, depart by boat back to Kota Kinabalu and transfer to your hotel.

Remark: Scheduled boat departure is at 08:15 hrs. Guests are requested to arrive at the marina jetty no later than 08:00 hrs.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu (Standard City View Room)

This morning, embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's tallest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, stop at the charming Pekan Nabalu market—perfect for stretching your legs, sampling seasonal tropical fruits, and browsing local handicrafts. Enjoy stunning views and photo opportunities of the majestic Mount Kinabalu on a clear day. Upon arrival at Kinabalu Park Headquarters, explore the Kinabalu Geopark Gallery and its fascinating exhibits on the region's unique geological and ecological features. Stroll through the Botanical Garden, home to a rich collection of montane flora. Weather permitting, enjoy a guided nature walk along one of the park's scenic trails, where you'll experience the crisp mountain air and the biodiversity of this cool highland forest. In the afternoon, return to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a well-deserved rest in preparation for the next day's adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu (Standard City View room)

Rise early for a flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, located on the northeast coast of Borneo. Upon arrival, head straight to the world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you will gain insight into the center's important conservation work through a short video presentation. Then, walk through the lush forest to the feeding platform to witness orangutans—and possibly other primates—in their natural environment. Don't miss the chance to observe the playful juveniles in the enclosed nursery, where they learn the skills needed for survival in the wild. After lunch, embark on a scenic 2.5-hour boat journey up the Kinabatangan River, Sabah's longest waterway, to the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. This journey offers your first glimpse of the rich riverine ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Upon arrival and check-in, set out on a late afternoon river cruise in search of Borneo's iconic wildlife, such as proboscis monkeys, hornbills, macaques, and, if you are lucky, even pygmy elephants. In the evening, you may opt for an optional night river cruise to spot nocturnal creatures under the starlit canopy. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner at Melapi Restaurant, followed by a nature talk and slide presentation led by a resident naturalist.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sukau Rainforest Lodge (Deluxe room)

Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest and begin your day with an early morning river cruise along the Kinabatangan River to Kelenanap Oxbow Lake. Keep watch for hornbills, kingfishers, and, with some luck, crocodiles or wild orangutans along the riverbanks. Return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a guided nature walk along the Hornbill and Attenborough Boardwalks with the lodge’s naturalist. The late morning and early afternoon are at leisure. After lunch, relax by the dip pool or enjoy the tranquil river surroundings. Later, visit the Ape Gallery for an informative Ape Talk on Borneo’s primates and conservation efforts. In the mid-afternoon, proceed to the Gomantong Caves, a remarkable limestone cave system known for its swiftlet nests. Explore the main chamber and, weather permitting, witness the dramatic bat exodus at dusk. Return to the lodge for dinner at Melapi Restaurant and a peaceful evening in the rainforest.

Note: Gomantong Caves are home to a variety of insects and invertebrates, including cockroaches and centipedes, which are a natural part of the cave ecosystem. Guests are advised to wear closed-toe shoes and remain on designated walkways. While these creatures are harmless, please be prepared for their presence during the visit.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sukau Rainforest Lodge (Deluxe Room)

Wake up to another day of adventure and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the lodge. Then, set off on a 2-hour overland journey to Lahad Datu for refreshments and check-in at the tour office. Continue with a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Utan Rainforest Lodge, a hidden eco-retreat nestled deep within the Virgin Jungle Reserve (VJR) of Sungai Kapur. The lodge features 14 air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and heated showers, offering comfort in the heart of the rainforest. Shared facilities include a covered restaurant with an open deck, a refreshing dip pool, a cozy bar, and a gift corner. Upon arrival, you will receive a warm welcome and a briefing on the lodge facilities, followed by a delightful lunch and check-in. In the afternoon, begin exploring the pristine wilderness of the Sungai Kapur VJR with a guided walk along the Kapur Trail, where a guide will introduce you to the region's unique flora and fauna. After a short tea break, head out for a late afternoon river cruise, watching wildlife along the riverbanks and enjoying a spectacular sunset over the estuary. Favorable weather may treat you to a magical display of fireflies illuminating the riverside like twinkling stars. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, then wrap up the day with an exciting night safari drive, offering the rare chance to spot nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Utan Rainforest Lodge (Deluxe room)

Awakened to the melodic calls of gibbons and the flutter of hornbills echoing through the rainforest canopy. After a light bite, set out on a morning nature hike, venturing to the Cuckoo Hide, a prime birdwatching spot. With luck and patience, you may glimpse Borneo's endemic cuckoos and other vibrant bird life in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge to freshen up and enjoy a hearty breakfast surrounded by lush greenery. If weather and sea conditions allow, embark on a coastal river cruise, gliding along the Segama River and its mangrove forests. Stay alert for sightings of flying foxes, soaring eagles, and, with a bit of luck, playful dolphins breaching the surface. After the cruise, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest before indulging in a delicious lunch. Spend the early afternoon browsing the information gallery, pick up keepsakes at the gift corner, enjoy premium beverages at the restaurant, or cool off in the dip pool. In the late afternoon, gear up with your leech socks and set out on a jungle trek. Choose from a gentle stroll along the lodge's marked trails or a more adventurous route deeper into the wild, and just let your guide know your preference. As dusk settles, savor a delectable dinner before heading out on a guided night walk. Let the forest reveal its nocturnal secrets as you search for elusive creatures such as civets, leopard cats, mouse deer, and moon rats that thrive in the darkness. Return to the comfort of the lodge for a restful night amid the symphony of the rainforest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Utan Rainforest Lodge (Deluxe Room)

Enjoy a full day at leisure to unwind and soak up the beauty of this island paradise. Whether you choose to lounge by the water, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, explore nature trails, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, your resort offers a wide array of experiences to suit your pace and style. Make the most of your final full day in Borneo—relax, recharge, and let the serenity of the island embrace you.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Gaya Island Resort (Bayu Villa)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kuala Lumpur. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at leisure. Spend your free afternoon at the iconic Central Market, a vibrant cultural landmark in a striking Art déco building. Browse a colorful array of local crafts, artisan boutiques, galleries, and occasional live performances—a true celebration of Malaysia's creative spirit. Alternatively, wander through the bustling streets of Chinatown in the evening, where heritage shop-houses, street food, and lively energy to create a charming local atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Tower Wing Deluxe Room)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a private transfer to Kuala Lumpur International Airport for your flight home. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Borneo's incredible wildlife, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture.

Meals: Breakfast