Discover the Natural Wonders of Borneo
Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a land of untamed wilderness, teeming with exotic wildlife and steeped in rich cultural heritage. Shared by three countries - Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei - this vast island is home to some of the most incredible natural wonders on the planet. From the towering mountain ranges of Mount Kinabalu and Mount Mulu to the lush rainforests of Danum Valley and Niah National Park, Borneo is a nature lover's paradise. Explore the orangutan sanctuaries, visit the proboscis monkey sanctuaries, or take a river cruise to spot the iconic proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. The island's stunning beaches, such as those found in Sabah's Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, offer a chance to relax and unwind.
Experience the Diverse Cultures of Borneo
But Borneo is not just about nature; it's also a land of rich cultural diversity. The indigenous tribes of Borneo have lived in harmony with the land for centuries, with their own languages, customs, and traditions. Visit the villages of the Iban, Kadazan-Dusun, and Murut people to learn about their way of life, try their traditional cuisine, and experience their warm hospitality. Explore the vibrant cities of Kota Kinabalu and Bandar Seri Begawan, with their bustling markets, colonial architecture, and delicious street food. From the ancient cave paintings of Niah National Park to the intricate wood carvings of the Kelabit people, Borneo's cultural heritage is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
The best time to visit Borneo largely depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. Generally, the dry season, which runs from March to October, is considered the best time to visit Borneo. The weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor adventures such as hiking, trekking, and wildlife spotting. The temperatures are also slightly cooler during this period, ranging from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F), making it comfortable for exploring. However, if you're planning to visit the rainforests or go rafting, the wet season from November to February might be a better option, as the rivers are swollen and the rainforests are at their lushest. It's also worth noting that the peak tourist season is from June to August, when the weather is warm and dry, and many festivals and events take place. Overall, the best time to visit Borneo is during the dry season, but with some flexibility to accommodate your specific travel plans and preferences.
Borneo is the third-largest island in the world, located in Southeast Asia, divided among three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. The northern part of the island is part of Malaysia, comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak, bordering the South China Sea. The central and southern parts are part of Indonesia, known as Kalimantan, while the small country of Brunei is located on the north coast. Borneo is separated from the Malay Peninsula by the South China Sea and from Sulawesi by the Makassar Strait, and bordered by Java Sea to the south. Major cities on the island include Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Bandar Seri Begawan, Pontianak, and Banjarmasin, offering access to national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural attractions.
Borneo, being a melting pot of cultures, offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that reflects its Malaysian, Indonesian, and Bruneian heritage. Popular dishes include spicy seafood dishes like laksa and sambal goreng, fragrant rice dishes like nasi lemak and nasi goreng, and traditional snacks like kuih and keropok. Don't miss the sweet treats like roti canai and apam balik, and indulge in local fruits like durians, rambutans, and mangosteens. For drinks, try fresh coconut water, fresh fruit juices, or traditional beverages like teh tarik (pulled tea) and kopi (coffee) at a bustling night market or street stall. In the evenings, head to a local restaurant or food court to sample the region's famous satay and barbecue offerings.
The Complete Oman Tour Planned by Experts
- The iconic Pitons rise up from the coast and create a dramatic backdrop to the town of Soufriere
- Follow nature trails through the forest to discover the island’s exotic flora and fauna
- Visit Sulphur Springs, ‘the world’s only drive-in volcano’, for the chance to walk through the crater of the volcano, bathe in mineral-rich mud pools and swim at the foot of a waterfall
- The Anse Chastanet Reef offers fantastic snorkelling right off the beach
- A visit to one of the island’s historic plantation houses is a great way to learn about St Lucia’s heritage.
Malaysia Jungles, Beach and Wildlife
Discover the very best of Malaysia’s wildlife, jungle and beaches on this ultimate itinerary.
- Visit Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring
- Enjoy a canopy walk among thre tree tops to see wildlife from a close... more
11 NIGHTS
From £2659 pp (inc. flights)
A multi-centre trip to Borneo allows you to explore the island's diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Start in Kota Kinabalu, the gateway to Sabah, and explore the vibrant city's night markets, try local street food, and take a boat tour to the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. From there, head to the Kinabatangan River for a wildlife safari to spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and other endangered species.
Next, travel to Brunei and discover its unique blend of Malay and Islamic culture. Explore the capital city's stunning mosques, including the iconic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, and visit the Brunei Museum to learn about the country's history and traditions. Take a boat tour of the Sungai Indrivei River to see proboscis monkeys and other wildlife, or visit the Ulu Temburong National Park for trekking and caving adventures. Finally, end your journey in Kuching, the charming capital of Sarawak, and explore its vibrant art scene, visit the Sarawak Cultural Centre, and take a boat tour to the Bako National Park to see proboscis monkeys and monitor lizards. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty, a multi-centre trip to Borneo is an unforgettable experience.
Kinabatangan River
The Kinabatangan River is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, offering a unique opportunity to spot endangered species such as proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and crocodiles. Take a guided boat tour along the river and get up close and personal with the majestic creatures that call this region home. With its pristine waters and lush jungle surroundings, the Kinabatangan River is a nature lover's dream come true.
Sipadan Island
Located off the coast of Sabah, Sipadan Island is a snorkeler's and diver's ultimate destination. This tiny island is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an incredible array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Take a boat trip to the island and explore the underwater world, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views.
Mulu National Par
Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sarawak, and it's one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. The park is home to towering trees, sparkling waterfalls, and an incredible array of wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. Take a guided trek through the jungle, explore the many caves and rock formations, or take a boat trip through the rapids of the Melinau River.
Kuching Night Market
Kuching's night market is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Located in the heart of Kuching's old town, the market offers a dazzling array of food stalls serving up delicious local dishes like char kway teow and hokkien mee. Browse through the stalls selling everything from handicrafts to souvenirs, or try your luck at bargaining for some amazing deals on everything from t-shirts to traditional instruments. The Kuching Night Market is a must-visit experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine.
English is widely spoken in Borneo, especially in tourist areas, but it's still a good idea to learn some basic Malay phrases like "terima kasih" (thank you) and "sama-sama" (you're welcome). Additionally, if you're planning to venture off the beaten path, it's a good idea to learn some basic Bahasa Malaysia phrases.
Passport and Visas:British citizens do not need a visa to enter Malaysia, but you'll need to have a valid passport with at least six months' validity. Make sure your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Good to Know:Borneo is a tropical region, so be prepared for hot and humid weather. Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. It's also a good idea to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
Tipping:Tipping is not expected in Borneo, but it's always appreciated for good service. Aim to tip around 5-10% of the total bill at restaurants and bars.
Events and Festivals:Borneo has a rich cultural calendar, with many festivals and events throughout the year. Some popular ones to look out for include:
Kuching Food Festival: A celebration of Sarawak's culinary delights, featuring local street food, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances.
Sabah Fest: A vibrant festival showcasing the unique culture and traditions of Sabah, including traditional dance performances, music, and food.
Rainforest Music Festival: A three-day festival featuring local and international musicians performing in the heart of the rainforest.
Additional tips:- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or attending cultural events.
- Be prepared for occasional power outages and internet connectivity issues in rural areas.
- Try local specialties like fresh seafood, durians, and laksa noodles - they're delicious!
- Respect the local environment and wildlife - Borneo is home to many endangered species, so be sure to support responsible tourism practices.
By following these insider tips, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in Borneo!
Borneo is a tropical island with a warm and humid climate year-round, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C (68°F) or rising above 35°C (95°F). The region experiences two main seasons: the wet and dry season.
January to March: Dry Season- Temperature: 23-32°C (73-90°F)
- Humidity: 60-80%
- Rainfall: 100-150 mm (3.9-5.9 in)
Best time to visit: Comfortable weather, minimal rain, and perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife spotting.
April to June: Wet Season- Temperature: 22-32°C (72-90°F)
- Humidity: 80-90%
- Rainfall: 200-300 mm (7.9-11.8 in)
Best time to visit: If you're looking for a more relaxed pace, as some attractions might be closed due to heavy rainfall. Still, there are many indoor attractions and activities to enjoy.
July to September: Dry Season- Temperature: 23-32°C (73-90°F)
- Humidity: 60-80%
- Rainfall: 100-150 mm (3.9-5.9 in)
Best time to visit: Comfortable weather, minimal rain, and perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife spotting.
October to December: Wet Season- Temperature: 22-32°C (72-90°F)
- Humidity: 80-90%
- Rainfall: 200-300 mm (7.9-11.8 in)
Best time to visit: If you're looking for a more relaxed pace, as some attractions might be closed due to heavy rainfall. Still, there are many indoor attractions and activities to enjoy.
Additional Tips- Borneo is prone to typhoons during the wet season, so it's essential to check weather forecasts and stay informed.
- The dry season is generally the best time for outdoor activities, but even during the wet season, there are still plenty of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy.
- Be prepared for occasional flash floods and landslides during heavy rainfall.
- Always stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
Find Yourself in Borneo's Wild Beauty
As you step foot in Borneo, you'll be immediately enveloped in the lush greenery of the rainforest, the warm sun on your skin, and the sounds of exotic wildlife all around you. This ancient land is a true adventurer's paradise, where the thrill of discovery is around every bend. Whether you're trekking through the jungle, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing on a pristine beach, Borneo has a way of awakening something deep within you. Let the rugged landscape and vibrant culture stir your senses, and allow yourself to get lost in the untamed beauty of this incredible island.
In Borneo, you'll find a sense of freedom that's hard to find elsewhere. The pace of life is slower, the people are warm and welcoming, and the natural world is still largely untouched. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the world around you. So come, let Borneo inspire you to be bold, to take risks, and to discover the true depths of your own adventure-seeker's spirit. Let its untamed beauty awaken your senses, ignite your passions, and leave you feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready for whatever life has in store for you next.
