Borneo

Travel on Your Own

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SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Single travelers staying in a room by themselves will be charged this additional single supplement fee, as all of our regular prices are otherwise based on double occupancy.

SINGLE SHARE OPTIONS (if available)
If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room, we will make every effort to find you a roommate of the same gender, in which case you will not have to pay the single supplement fee. The single supplement will be charged until we are able to confirm a roommate for you. If we are able to match you with a roommate, the single supplement will be refunded. In the event that we cannot find a share for you, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee.

New: Click the Singles Find a Share' icon below or check our "Community" page to connect with other single travelers looking to share.

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Borneo

Travel on Your Own

Choose from any destination in the country and we can arrange a trip that you can enjoy on your own, including accommodations, transportation, activities and guides. Gain access to our full-service local offices and benefit from our expert local naturalist and biologist wildlife guides, trackers, vehicles, logistical support, and intimate destination knowledge. Please give us a call and we would be happy to craft a custom itinerary to meet your desires!

 

Borneo Lodging

We specialize in the highest quality lodging combined with unsurpassed access to Borneo's most exotic and remote destinations. Great care has gone into our selection of lodging partners, with particular emphasis on lodges that offer outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities. These special lodges offer all the comforts of home and pamper you with delicious local Malay regional specialties. Our meals are sometimes extravagant, always healthy, and can cater to most special dietary needs.

SIPADAN - KAPALAI & MABUL ISLANDS

Sipadan Mabul Dive Resort (Upgrade option)

Mabul Water Bungalow is a 4-Star floating dive-resort situated at Mabul Island, overlooking the world-renowned Sipadan Island which is 15-minutes away by speedboat.

These 16 wooden bungalow units are entirely built over water with stilts offer sheer comfort. Each bungalow is exquisitely furnished with contemporary decor, equipped with remote control air-conditioner, ceiling fan, private bathroom with hot/cold shower and toilet. A spacious private balcony offers panoramic vistas of blue sea, color TV with satellite channels, mini bar, in-room safety box and free wireless internet access.

Facilities includes a large and airy restaurant for dining, a souvenir shop selling a variety of t-shirts, accessories and gifts, a business center, a dive center and a luxury day-spa.

Dive spots abound. Around Mabul, silky and muddy bottoms offer fantastic experiences and opportunities to lovers of "muck diving". These sites can be reached in a few minutes by speedboat and some of them just by swimming from the dive center pier. For those who are ready to explore more, you can experience the tiny marvels of Kapalai Island's macro life, or secure a permit for Sipadan Island (where big fish and turtles abound). With a combination of sun and water in a unique and serene setting with friendly staff, Sipadan-Mabul is an ideal destination for diver and non-diver alike seeking a great holiday experience!

Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

A few minutes by boat from the islands of Sipadan and Mabul but a full world away from them lies the exhilarating Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort, sitting on its sturdy stilts on the shallow sandbanks of the Ligitan Reefs. Planned and built in full style as an airy, comfortable, sunny water village with no land in sight, it boasts a mile-long sandbank of powdery white sand where one can suntan at complete leisure while gazing out to the miles of brilliant turquoise stretching into the horizon offering the purest image of natural serenity.

Dive spots are extremely close and can be reached in just a few minutes by speedboat and some of them, actually, just by swimming from the dive center pier. For those who are ready to explore more than the tiny marvels of Kapalai’s macro life, can, in just a few minutes, dive in Sipadan (where big fish and turtles abound) or in Mabul (where silky and muddy bottoms offer different and equally pleasant experiences and opportunities to the lovers of "muck diving").

SUKAU

Borneo Nature Lodge (Alternate Lodge)

Nestled along the riverbank of Kinabatangan River lies Borneo Nature Lodge - an eco-friendly resort, offering the comfort without compromising the green. A natural haven for the outdoor enthusiast, Borneo Nature Lodge is your ideal lodging as you explore the melting pot of wildlife found here in Sukau. At the end of an exciting day, find comfort in your air-conditioned bedroom at the lodge, which comes with an attached bathroom as well as coffee-making facilities. Appreciate the 'green' details of the chalets built here - all electrical items run on solar power (with the exception of air-conditioners) and energy-saving light bulbs are used throughout the lodge. You will also notice a fixed glass feature which allows natural light to pour into your room.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Named "One of the World's Top 50 Jungle Lodges" by National Geographic Adventure (and recently elevated to 4 Star Resort Status), Sukau Rainforest Lodge nestles on the banks of one of Borneo's most important waterways, the Kinabatangan River, home to many of Borneo's magnificent wildlife. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the rainforest and the cacophony of its inhabitants, its majestic birds, all 7 species of Borneo Primates including Borneo's iconic Proboscis Monkey, Orangutans in their natural habitat as well as herds of Borneo Pygmy Elephants. Sukau Rainforest Lodge offers the rare comfort and luxury in the midst of the Borneo Rainforest whilst retaining an Eco-Lodge ethos, the delicate balance of true sustainability. Here you'll have an experience you'll always remember and one you'll never regret.

 

New starting April 2017: Deluxe Villa upgrade option. Contact us for more details.

DANUM VALLEY

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

The award-winning Borneo Rainforest Lodge is nestled in a magnificent setting alongside the Danum River flowing through Sabah's largest protected Lowland Rainforest - Danum Valley Conservation Area - 43,800 Hectares of pristine and undisturbed tropical flora and fauna in the eastern part of Sabah. There are only 31 individual chalets with fans and en-suite bathrooms, accommodating up to only 60 guests on any one day and on a Full-Board basis.

Kawag-Danum Rainforest Lodge (Alternate Lodge)

Experience the wildlife and rain-forests of the Danum Valley conservation area while staying at the newly opened Kawag-Danum Rainforest Lodge. Danum Valley has 43,800 hectares of pristine primary virgin rainforest that is host to a plethora of wonderful wildlife, birdlife and insects.

 

*NOTE: Will require some activity changes from published itinerary, contact us for more info.

KOTA KINABALU

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort

This 5-star resort is the perfect place to begin or end your trip. A gentle breeze caresses your face as you wake to the sound of waves lapping the beach. The balcony opens up to an inspiring vista of sparkling coral islands and swaying of palm trees. Sophistication surrounds you in a lavishly decorated suite inspired by Borneo's rich cultural heritage. Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, Kota Kinabalu, is a perfect tropical getaway, a luxurious tranquil retreat just a short drive from the city.

MALIAU BASIN

Maliau Studies Center Resthouse

The Maliau Basin Studies Centre is located at the southeast edge of Maliau Basin and serves as the headquarters and administration centre for the Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA). Among the facilities provided by the Studies Centre are Hostels, a Rest House, VIP Chalets, conference room, laboratory, nature interpretation facilities for researchers and other visitors as well as other facilities such as observation towers, suspension bridges and nature trails.

There are two accommodation options:

RESTHOUSE (Deluxe Room) The Resthouse Deluxe Rooms can accommodate 2-3 people and are fully serviced with hot shower, air-conditioning with 1 king size bed as well as a coffee making facility. This rest house is just right for those who seek beyond basics, after a long day witnessing how Maliau Basin lives up to its nickname of ‘Sabah’s Lost World’.

VIP CHALET (Upgrade) There are 2 two VIP Chalets that are available for visitors, each of which can sleep 2-3 people. These Chalets are air conditioned, fully serviced and equipped with an en-suite bathroom, a refrigerator and private balcony. VIP Chalets are primarily intended for short visits and are perfect for those who long for the taste of basic luxury in the midst of the jungle.

 

*Maliau Studies Center Resthouse does not provide electricity between 12:00 midnight and 7:00 am daily. Electricity can be provided for an additional fee paid 90 days prior to trip date.

SELINGAN TURTLE ISLAND

Selingan Turtle Island Chalets

This is the only accommodation on Selingan Turtle Island. The chalets are basic but comfortable. Each has an attached bath, air conditioning and simple, tropical inspired decor. The key staying here is the location - guests will enjoy a highly privileged opportunity to watch both egg laying and the release of hatchlings into the sea.

SEPILOK

Sepilok Nature Resort

Hidden amongst a veritable treasure trove of tropical plants, grasses, huge trees and spectacular orchids in bloom, the quaint bungalows of the Sepilok Nature Resort are within walking distance of the world-famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, precious home of the last wild Orang-Utans of Northern Borneo. Combining rich traditional style with contemporary luxury, Sepilok Nature Resort is the ideal starting point for most other wildlife land destinations in Sabah such as the fauna rich Kinabatangan River and the surrounding Sukau area.

 

Borneo Activities

At a Glance

We know you've chosen to travel with us for our wildlife emphasis, so we've included a wide variety of adventure activities designed to educate, inspire, and bring out the wonder in you. All of our activities are flexibly designed to accommodate different skill levels and interests, while exposing you to a variety of unique eco-systems in order to see the most amount of wildlife. And did we mention fun?

  • Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing
  • Special expedition to see Borneo's unique flying and gliding mammals and reptiles
  • Exclusive excursion to see Tarsiers and Slow Loris
  • Night Safaris for Nocturnal Animals
  • River Cruises
  • Rainforest Hiking
  • Sustainable and Responsible Safaris
  • Snorkeling or Diving
  • Cultural Interaction

Exclusive Wildlife Activities

Flying and Gliding Animals

Special Expeditions to see Borneo's unique flying and gliding mammals and reptiles.

Night Safaris for Nocturnal Animals

Special night safaris to track Tarsiers and Slow Loris - two of the world's smallest and cutest primates. Thrilling nocturnal hikes and night time river cruises to see clouded leopard, marble cats, flying lemurs and more. No other company offers all these unforgettable wildlife experiences!

Other Activities

Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing

We've combined remote destinations with exclusive wildlife activities led by expert naturalist guides for the best possible chance to see rare wildlife. No other Borneo itinerary will expose you to so much wildlife!

Night Safaris for Nocturnal Animals

Thrilling nocturnal hikes and river cruises for clouded leopard, marble cats, flying lemurs and more.

River Cruises

By electric motor where possible, for the best chance to view wildlife without scaring it away.

Rainforest Hiking

In three distinct regions to for up-close wildlife encounters with Orang-Utans, Proboscis monkeys, Pygmy Elephants and more.

Sustainable and Responsible Safaris

Electric motors for river safaris and interaction with local Orang-Sungai "River People." Your fees make a difference!

Snorkeling or Diving

On the Ligitan Reef in the Celebes Sea, one of the top 5 dive spots in the world.

Cultural Interaction

With local Orang-Sungai "River People".

 

Borneo Wildlife

Prolific & Likely Sightings

Wild Planet's wildlife safaris are designed for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Our "Ultimate Wildlife" safaris are specially designed for maximum wildlife viewing. We take care to seek out wildlife that is rare, off the beaten path, and in greater numbers than you will see on conventional tours.

Our expert naturalist guides will educate you in the field so your experience is intimate and unparalleled. Still, wildlife viewing can unpredictable and requires patience and sensory awareness. A partial list of some of the animals you are likely to see is below:

Primates: Orang-utan, proboscis monkey, Bornean gibbon, macaques, langurs
Other mammals: Pygmy elephant, bearded pig
Birds: Over 620 species including 8 hornbill species
Weird & Wonderful: Color-changing flying frog, flying lemur, draco lizard

Rare or Endangered Possible Sightings

Primates: Tarsier, slow loris,
Other mammals: Marble cat, clouded leopard, Bornean rhinoceros, sun bear
Weird & Wonderful: Paradise gliding tree snake, lung-less frog

 

Borneo Guides

Adrian Chin

Born in Kota Kinabalu, Adrian Chin has been guiding for 17 years and holds a "Blue Collar" (senior guide) license. A dazzling male Temminck's Sunbird inspired him to become a birdwatcher and he has now observed well over 300 of Borneo's birds. The endemic Whitehead's Trogon of montane forest is Adrian's favorite species and Dennis Yong (widely regarded as one of the finest naturalists in Malaysia) was his early mentor.

Adrian has tracked every kind of mammal in Borneo extensively, and watched birds in West Malaysia, Thailand, Bali and Taiwan, as well as in England. His dream is to see the amazing birds-of-paradise in New Guinea. In addition to birds, Adrian is fascinated by plants and Borneo's unique mammals and reptiles. He is a keen photographer.

Hazwan Bin Suban

Hazwan was born in the coastal city of Sandakan. In his nine years as a licensed wildlife guide, Hazwan has seen 345 of Borneo's bird species and is particularly interested in their calls and songs. The elusive Bornean Ground-Cuckoo of swampy forests is his favorite. His dream-trip would be to visit New Guinea with its incredible birds-of-paradise, bowerbirds and other interesting species. In addition to birds, Hazwan is also fascinated by Borneo's terrific diversity of mammals. He is one of our top mammal experts.

Hamit Suban

A native of Sandakan, Sabah, developed his passion for wildlife and birds as a youngster growing up in the tropical lowlands. He joined the tourism industry in 1999, quickly working his way up into a tour guide specializing in wildlife and birds in 2004. Hamit has developed an intimate knowledge of the behavior and vocalizations of Bornean birds and is also a keen wildlife photographer. He was the "guide of choice" for Susan Myers, the author of the Field Guides Birds of Borneo because of his detailed knowledge of essentially every active bird territory in Sabah, Borneo.

Hamit has been involved in various mammal and bird surveys with the Sabah Forestry Department under the project "Heart of Borneo" throughout Sabah. He is on the committee for the Borneo Bird Festival held yearly at the Rainforest Discovery Center. He is a member of the Borneo 400 Club, an elite club of those who have seen and identified more than 400 birds in Borneo and specializes in digiscoping - capturing wildlife photos through a scope with DSLR and compact cameras. His vast knowledge of birds has earned him wide recognition as one of the best hardcore bird guides in Sabah.

Osman Majingah

Meet Osman, our licensed bird watching specialist. As a seasoned guide, Osman has led travelers to discover Borneo in a fun and enjoyable way. This Blue badge guide is easy going, radiates friendliness and able to guide with extraordinary patience - he is exceptionally recommended for families with kids or elderly adults.

With over a decade of experience, Osman knows the nooks and crannies of Sabah's best wildlife sanctuaries and birding sites.

With his expertise and interest in exchanging ideas with people from diverse backgrounds, it is not surprising that he is one of our most highly requested guides from repeat travelers.

Jumaidi Bin Amil Hassan

Jumaidi has been guiding for seven years and holds a Green Guiding License. A lover of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, he is known for is keen sight and ability to find hard-to-find animals. He has observed over 300 of Borneo's birds including many of the sought-after endemics. He is captivated by the sheer beauty of birds and the glorious songs of species such as the White-crowned Shama.

Jumaidi's interest in nature is very diverse and he also enjoys studying frogs, reptiles and plants as well as larger mammals.

 

Borneo FAQ

Borneo Facts for Visitors

Location

Borneo is a the third-largest island in the world and is located in Southeastern Asia. The island is divided between Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Our Weird & Wonderful Wildlife itinerary will visit only visit the Malaysian areas of the island.

Size

The island of Borneo is 287,001 sq mi, nearly the size of the state of Texas.

Language

The official language of Malaysia is Malay, however English is widely spoken across the island.

Religion

60% of the Malaysian population are Muslim. Nearly 20% are Buddhist. The remaining 20% is comprised by Christian, Hindu and several other traditional religions.

Currency

The currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit.

Entry Requirements

To enter Malaysia, your passport must be valid for at least six months. You do not need a visa to enter Malaysia if you are coming for tourism for stays of 90 days or less.

This Trip's Exclusive Wildlife Features:

Choose Your Borneo Travel Style! Any of our wildlife adventures are also available as fully customizable private trips, honeymoons or family wildlife adventures.
CONTACT US | EMAIL US | CHAT NOW | RESERVE A TRIP | 1-800-990-4376
We're Wild for Wildlife...
  • Unparalleled wildlife viewing in remote destinations with exclusive wildlife activities and expert guides
  • Special expedition to see Borneo's unique flying and gliding mammals & reptiles
  • Exclusive activity to see tarsiers & slow loris - two of the world's smallest and cutest primates
  • Sustainable and responsible safaris with electric motors for river safaris and interaction with local Orang-Sungai "River People"
  • Night safaris for nocturnal animals to seek clouded leopard, marble cats, flying lemurs, and more!
We're Wild for Wildlife...
  • Unparalleled wildlife viewing in remote destinations with exclusive wildlife activities and expert guides
  • Special expedition to see Borneo's unique flying and gliding mammals & reptiles
  • Exclusive activity to see tarsiers & slow loris - two of the world's smallest and cutest primates
  • Sustainable and responsible safaris with electric motors for river safaris and interaction with local Orang-Sungai "River People"
  • Night safaris for nocturnal animals to seek clouded leopard, marble cats, flying lemurs, and more!
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