Borneo places to visit

The Kinabatangan River in Sabah is one of the best places in Borneo to spot wildlife in the wild. Its lush riverbanks are home to the island’s famous ‘Big 5’: orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, rhinoceros hornbills and crocodiles. Keep your eyes peeled for macaques, kingfishers and plenty of other rainforest residents too.

Most wildlife spotting takes place by boat, cruising along the river and smaller tributaries where animals gather at the water’s edge. With safaris at different times of day, you’ll have plenty of chances to spot wildlife as the jungle comes alive. Stay in a small jungle lodge beside the river and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

A visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a must when travelling through Borneo. Established in 1964, it was the world’s first centre dedicated to rehabilitating orangutans, giving orphaned, injured and displaced animals the skills they need to return to the rainforest. Rather than being a zoo, Sepilok gives orangutans the freedom to roam the surrounding forest, with feeding platforms and viewing areas allowing visitors to observe them without interfering with their rehabilitation. More than 700 orangutans have been reintroduced following treatment and rehabilitation, making this a genuinely special place to learn about these incredible animals and the importance of protecting their rainforest home.

If you want to experience a different side of Borneo, Batang Ai National Park is well worth adding to your itinerary. Deep in Sarawak’s rainforest, this remote region combines spectacular jungle and wildlife with a fascinating insight into Iban culture. Stay in a traditional riverside longhouse with the Sumpa community, meet local families and learn about their traditions and way of life. It’s a chance to slow down, get off the beaten track and experience Borneo through the eyes of the people who call the rainforest home.

This secluded tropical paradise has a real castaway feel, making it perfect if you’re after a little Robinson Crusoe-style escape. On our Lankayan beach trip, you’ll stay at the island’s only resort, surrounded by powdery white sand, swaying palms and crystal-clear waters. Spend your days snorkelling or diving among colourful coral and turtles, then watch the sun sink into the sea as the island settles into blissful peace.

For something completely different, add Mulu Caves to your Borneo itinerary. Hidden deep in the rainforest of Gunung Mulu National Park, this extraordinary network of limestone caves is home to some of the largest cave chambers in the world. Explore the vast underground caverns before heading outside as dusk falls, when thousands of bats pour from the caves in a spectacular swirling cloud across the evening sky. It’s one of those unforgettable Borneo experiences that’s well worth going off the beaten track for.

For a taste of Borneo away from the main tourist trail, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is hard to beat. This huge protected area in Sabah is a mix of dense rainforest, rivers and wetlands, home to pygmy elephants, orangutans, gibbons, hornbills and plenty of other wildlife.

The reserve’s mud volcanoes and salt licks naturally attract animals, making them great spots for wildlife watching. Head out on guided jungle walks, 4WD safaris and night drives, then spend the night in a simple jungle lodge surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.

Known for its delicious cuisine, Kuching proudly showcases its Chinese and Malaysian influences through its moreish street food and inspired architecture. As the capital of Sarawak, it is a wonderful place to spend a day or two. Our cycling and river cruise trip offers the perfect introduction to this foodie gem and will give you the time to sample some authentic Sarawak street food.

Take on the challenge of climbing Mount Kinabalu, standing at an impressive 4,095 metres above sea level. On our 3-day Mount Kinabalu trek, you’ll climb through changing landscapes and above the clouds before reaching the summit in time to watch the sun rise over the mountains. It’s a tough climb, but those panoramic views from the top make every step worthwhile

Looking for a remote rainforest experience in Borneo? Deramakot is one of Sabah’s best-kept secrets.

This vast reserve is known for its conservation work and low visitor numbers, which means wildlife here is truly wild. The focus is on guided drives along jungle tracks, both during the day and at night, where you might spot anything from civets and deer to the elusive clouded leopard.

Accommodation is simple and functional, but that’s part of the appeal. The experience feels authentic and less polished than other areas, but far more adventurous.

If you’re visiting Borneo, then it’s most likely you’re a wildlife lover. In that case, you’ll enjoy nothing more than getting up close and personal with nature while staying in treehouse accommodation on the coast of the Damai peninsula. Spend 2-nights in this treetop paradise surrounded by mangroves, monkeys and fireflies.