Premium Borneo in Depth

4.0Based on

Carbon neutral

12 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

12 peopleMaximum group size

15 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Kuching, Malaysia

Ends

Sandakan, Malaysia

Highlights

Surround yourself with rich wildlife with two nights at the naturally beautiful and perfectly located Kinabatangan Wetland Resort – your Feature Stay accommodation.

Visit endangered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, meet the Malaysian sun bear and take multiple cruises down the Kinabatangan in search of wildlife.

Gain unique insight into the Iban way of life during an Exclusive Experience where you stay in a rustic jungle lodge in the rainforests of Batang Ai, visit a traditional longhouse and chat to the locals about their culture.

Get a taste of Borneo’s diverse food scene during Exclusive Experiences, including dinner at a bustling food court popular with locals and a freshly caught seafood dinner after touring the seafood market.

Experience Borneo's beautiful natural surroundings with visits to local farms, waterfalls, National Parks, wildlife cruises, and more.

By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, RESPonsible Elephant Conservation Trust (RESPECT). Donations help them educate and engage local communities on the importance of conserving local habits for Borneo Pygmy Elephants.

Itinerary

Venture deep into the wilds of Borneo on the Premium Borneo in Depth tour—a 12-day small group journey from Kuching to Sandakan. Tailored for experienced travelers and seniors, this easy-paced adventure traverses lush rainforests, misty rivers, and vibrant cities. Highlights include wildlife safaris along the Kinabatangan River, visiting an Orangutan rehabilitation center, and learning about Iban traditions in Batang Ai National Park. With premium accommodations and seamless logistics, this wildlife tour package stands out for its immersive blend of nature, culture, and comfort—perfect for those seeking both adventure and authenticity in Borneo.

day 1 - Kuching

Selamat datang! Welcome to Borneo. When you arrive in Kuching, you’ll be collected from the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. You’ll then have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and group members. If you arrive early, you might like to take a stroll along Kuching’s scenic waterfront or visit the Borneo Cultural Museum. After your meeting, get to know your group over dinner at a local restaurant where you can sample some local delights and get an introduction into Malaysian cuisine.

included:Complimentary Arrival Transfer, Kuching - Welcome Dinner

accommodation:Riverside Majestic Hotel Astana Wing or similar

meals:1 Dinner

day 2 - Batang Ai National Park

This morning, begin your journey to Batang Ai National Park where the remote and lush rainforests are alive with the calls of hornbills and gibbons. The Iban people have called these rainforests home for 400 years, with entire villages living under one roof in longhouses built alongside the river. Hidden away from the modern world, these communities have retained centuries-old traditions. Stop off at the native market in Lachau, where you can pick up locally made goods like woven baskets and traditional Iban clothing. Then, take a longboat down the Delok River to your accommodation for the evening – the serene and secluded Nanga Sumpa Lodge, tucked away on the riverbank. The operator here has had a long-standing relationship with the community, creating jobs and community involvement so the local people can benefit from tourism. He also set up a scholarship fund to boost children's education in the community. Tonight, you'll sit down for a traditional dinner at the lodge.

included:Batang Ai - Lachau Bazaar Lunch

accommodation:Nanga Sumpa Lodge or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 3 - Batang Ai National Park

After breakfast surrounded by nature, you’ll take a 2-hour walk through the jungle, passing local farms, orchards and plantations as your leader shares stories from the region and teaches you about foraging for edibles and local medicinal plants. Next, take a longboat up the river to the Enseluai waterfall. Keep your eyes open in case of a rare orangutan sighting! Take some time to relax and go for a swim, then your leader will choose a scenic spot for a picnic using local ingredients. In the afternoon, cruise back to Nanga Sumpa for a walk through the village. After dinner, visit a traditional longhouse and spend time with the Iban people who will teach you about their way of living. Hang out on the common veranda, share some rice wine and gain insight into the local Iban culture.

included:Batang Ai - Jungle and Plantation Walk, Batang Ai - Local Longhouse Visit, Batang Ai - Enseluai Waterfall

accommodation:Nanga Sumpa Lodge or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 4 - Kuching

Wake up to the songs of birds and after breakfast, take a longboat out of the rainforest and make the journey back to Kuching, stopping off for lunch at a local coffee shop along the way. The name Kuching literally translates to ‘cats’, and the city has fully embraced this moniker. You’ll have free time here, so maybe wander the streets to see the giant cat statues, spray-painted street art and local cat museum. If you’d like to dive deeper into the city’s fabulous food scene, your leader can recommend some spots to eat.

included:Kuching - Group Lunch

accommodation:Riverside Majestic Hotel Astana Wing or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

day 5 - Mulu National Park

Say goodbye to Kuching and take a flight to Mulu National Park. This national park is full of rainforests, mountains, caves and karst formations. Your leader will provide insight on how the park’s weird and wonderful geographic features came to be. In the late afternoon, visit Deer Cave and Lang Cave, which are reached by a scenic jungle walk along a 3-km plank path, passing through peat swamp, alluvial flats and limestone outcrops. Watch millions of bats fly out of Deer Cave at sunset and see the large ring-shaped formations they make as they circle the cliff face, before moving out across the rainforest. Return on the same path and head to your accommodation for the evening in secluded forest bungalows, tucked away in the park.

included:Mulu National Park - Sunset bat experience, Mulu National Park - Deer & Lang Caves guided walk

accommodation:Garden Bungalows, Mulu National Park or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 6 - Mulu National Park

Today, join your leader and further explore Mulu National Park. First, head to Wind Cave (named for the cool breeze that flows through it) along the Melinau River. Your leader will share some details on the formation of the cave as you explore the stalagmites and columns. Later, discover the caverns and crags of Clearwater Cave – one of the longest caves in Asia! The rest of the day is free for you to relax and take in the scenery.

included:Mulu National Park - Wind & Clearwater Caves guided walk, Mulu National Park - Picnic Lunch

accommodation:Garden Bungalows, Mulu National Park or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

day 7 - Kota Kinabalu

Today, you’ll fly to Kota Kinabalu – the bustling capital of the Sabah state. In the late afternoon after you have arrived, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for a cocktail while watching the sunset over the skyline. The rest of the evening is free for you to explore. The city’s food scene is best experienced like a local, so for dinner tonight, be sure to ask your leader for advice on hidden treasures away from the main tourist trail.

included:Kota Kinabalu - Sunset Cocktail

accommodation:Horizon Hotel or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 8 - Kota Kinabalu

You have a free morning in Kota Kinabalu – maybe go snorkelling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and search for marine life, or take a tour to the cultural village. If you’d prefer to stay in the city, you can visit the handicraft market on the waterfront or explore Chinatown. Your leader will be on hand to help you plan activities for the day. Later in the afternoon, head to a local vegetable and fish market, learning about and sampling regional snacks along the way. End the tour with dinner at a local restaurant.

included:Kota Kinabalu - Local Market Tour

accommodation:Horizon Hotel or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 9 - Kinabatangan River

Take a flight to Sandakan this morning, then visit the Sandakan War Memorial. Here, you’ll learn about the city's past as you stand on the same ground of the former Japanese POW camp. This site also marks the starting point of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches. Next, head to the jetty for a boat ride to the Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort – your Feature Stay accommodation. Sitting on the banks of the Kinabatangan River, the resort offers access to local wildlife. Wooden boardwalks cut through the jungle and connect spacious and bright chalets which serve up great views of the surrounding mangrove forests. This afternoon, take a river cruise, where your leader will help you spot some of the local creatures. Wild elephants seldom reveal themselves, but crocodiles, macaques, wild orangutan, proboscis monkeys, hornbills and kingfishers can sometimes be seen. Enjoy dinner at the resort before heading back out for a night-time wildlife walk. Geared up with a headlamp, you’ll set out in search of interesting insects or other animals that pop up after dark.

included:Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Spotting Cruise, Kinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife Walk, Sandakan - War Memorial

accommodation:Kinabatangan Wetland Resort (Feature Stay) or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 10 - Kinabatangan River

Take an early morning cruise through the fog as the sun rises, enjoying light refreshments on board while you search for birds and wildlife. Keep an eye out for long tail macaques and pig tail macaques, then return to the resort for breakfast and search the property with your leader for some insects, plants and birds. This afternoon, set off for another river adventure, exploring small tributaries by boat. Later, head out for a night-time cruise and look out for nocturnal animals – you might even see a wide-eyed slow loris hanging from a tree! Have dinner back at the resort, then relax in your comfortable rooms.

included:Kinabatangan River - Morning wildlife spotting cruise, Kinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife Spotting Cruise

accommodation:Kinabatangan Wetland Resort (Feature Stay) or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 11 - Sandakan

Return to Sandakan by boat and visit the orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Watch them as they swing into view on ropes and vines, then check in at the outdoor nursery where young orangutans, born in captivity or orphaned, are cared for. You’ll also visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre – seeing the world’s smallest bears in large forest enclosures as they are rehabilitated after being rescued. This evening, enjoy a final dinner in Borneo with your group and leader.

included:Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sandakan - Farewell Dinner

accommodation:Sabah Hotel or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 12 - Sandakan

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent to arrange additional accommodation. Flights depart most days from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur.

meals:1 Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

Lodge (4 nights), Hotel (5 nights), Resort (2 nights)

Meals

11 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners

Transport

Boat, Plane, Private Mini Van

Guide

An expert tour leader

Included Activities

Complimentary Arrival TransferKuching - Welcome DinnerBatang Ai - Lachau Bazaar LunchBatang Ai - Jungle and Plantation WalkBatang Ai - Local Longhouse VisitBatang Ai - Enseluai WaterfallKuching - Group LunchMulu National Park - Sunset bat experienceMulu National Park - Deer & Lang Caves guided walkMulu National Park - Wind & Clearwater Caves guided walkMulu National Park - Picnic LunchKota Kinabalu - Sunset CocktailKota Kinabalu - Local Market TourKinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Spotting CruiseKinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife WalkSandakan - War MemorialKinabatangan River - Morning wildlife spotting cruiseKinabatangan River - Evening Wildlife Spotting CruiseSepilok - Sun Bear Conservation CentreSepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation CentreSandakan - Farewell Dinner

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Premium Borneo in Depth

4.0

based on 1 review

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Other Practical Information

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 173+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 809 customer reviews from

Anonymous

I had an easy experience booking a tour with bookmundi. The website is very intuitive and easy.

1 week ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Premium Borneo in Depth that you might like.

Journeys: Best of Borneo

5.0(13 reviews)

If you yearn for rare wildlife encounters and lush tropical adventures, "Journeys: Best of Borneo" is a 12-day countryside and village tour that reveals the island’s breathtaking diversity. From Kuching to Kota Kinabalu, traverse the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, where mist-shrouded limestone cliffs and dense rainforests await. Spot rescued orangutans at Sepilok, cruise the Kinabatangan River in search of pygmy elephants, and marvel at the bat exodus in Gunung Mulu National Park. The tour is enriched by cultural exchanges with indigenous communities, offering a deeper understanding of Borneo’s traditions. The standout feature of this trip package is its combination of extraordinary wildlife viewing and authentic cultural immersion—a journey where every day brings new discoveries in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.

12 days

Wild Sarawak

Venture into the heart of Borneo on the "Wild Sarawak" trip—a 10-day wildlife tour designed for those who crave active exploration in remote, tropical landscapes. This journey begins in Kuching and winds its way to Kota Kinabalu, taking in the lush rainforests and cultural gems that define Malaysia’s most untamed region. Expect an itinerary packed with adventure and discovery. Traverse the dense jungles of Sarawak, where you’ll witness orangutans swinging through the treetops at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. Delve underground in Mulu National Park, famous for its colossal limestone caves and dramatic stalactites, offering a glimpse into one of the world’s largest cave systems. For travelers who relish a challenge, the Headhunter’s Trail offers a thrilling trek through thick jungle, echoing with stories of Borneo’s tribal history. Along the way, you’ll experience the hospitality of indigenous communities with an overnight stay in a traditional longhouse—a rare chance to connect with the region’s living heritage. The tour’s pace is energetic, catering to those comfortable with longer hikes, humid conditions, and the physical demands of exploring untamed wilderness. Each day promises new scenery: wander Kuching’s riverside promenade, marvel at the golden beaches of Labuan Island, and relax after your adventures with time on pristine sand and in tranquil surf. What makes this tour package truly special is its seamless blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. With a small group setting, you’ll enjoy camaraderie and personalized guidance from expert local leaders, ensuring you make the most of every destination—from bustling markets to remote rainforests. If you’re a nature-lover, wildlife-spotter, or simply someone eager for an active, off-the-beaten-path getaway, "Wild Sarawak" delivers a uniquely thrilling exploration of Borneo’s best-kept secrets.

10 days

Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu

4.9(9 reviews)

If you’re searching for wild beauty and a dash of adventure, the "Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu" tour in Malaysia is your answer. Over 11 days, this trip takes you from the lively city of Kota Kinabalu into Borneo’s eastern jungles, where you’ll meet orangutans at a renowned rehabilitation center and cruise the Kinabatangan River in search of wildlife. The journey culminates in a sunrise hike up Mt Kinabalu—the region’s highest peak and a true test for any adventurer. With accommodations, meals, and expert guides included, the USP here is a perfect mix of wildlife encounters and mountain triumphs, ideal for those who crave both nature and a challenge.

11 days

Classic Borneo

Explore the wild heart of Borneo on this 10-day adventure, tracing a path from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu. The 'Classic Borneo' wildlife tour immerses you in lush rainforests, winding rivers, and vibrant local villages. Encounter orangutans at Sepilok, cruise the Kinabatangan River, and unwind on the beaches of Manukan Island. With easy-paced activities suitable for most travelers, this trip offers a restorative connection with nature, guided by local experts who reveal Borneo’s hidden wonders. The tour’s unique selling point? Unmatched opportunities to see rare wildlife up close, all while enjoying the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

10 days

Borneo Adventure

Dive into the wilds of Borneo with the "Borneo Adventure," a 14-day trekking and hiking tour from Kuching to Sepilok, perfect for experienced travelers and nature lovers drawn to rare wildlife and jungle exploration. This journey takes you deep into pristine rainforests, up limestone pinnacles, and to the summit of Mt Kinabalu (4093m), the island’s highest peak. Traverse the legendary Mulu National Park, exploring vast cave systems and ascending razor-sharp pinnacles, all while encountering an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna—orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, and hundreds of bird species. Along the way, you’ll engage with indigenous communities and learn about their rich cultural heritage. The USP of this trip is its rare blend of challenging trekking and unparalleled wildlife encounters, set in some of the world’s most biodiverse habitats. Whether you’re scaling mountains, navigating jungle trails, or marveling at the unique ecosystems, every day offers new discoveries. For those seeking an adventure tour that combines rigorous trekking with the thrill of spotting rare wildlife and exploring unspoiled rainforests, the Borneo Adventure is an unmatched experience.

14 days

Real Borneo

Venture deep into the heart of Borneo with the "Real Borneo" tour—a 10-day adventure crafted for young adults craving authentic wildlife encounters and untamed landscapes. Starting and ending in Kota Kinabalu, this guided group trip takes you through the lush Sabah region, offering rare opportunities to spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and more. Stay in bamboo hut homestays, trek to remote villages, and snorkel in crystal-clear island waters. The journey balances moderate physical activity with immersive cultural experiences, including learning from Indigenous communities. Accommodation, transport, and meals are covered, so you can focus on adventure. The real standout: exclusive access to Borneo’s diverse ecosystems and the chance to witness wildlife found nowhere else on earth.

10 days

Escorted Borneo Adventure - Premium Tour

Borneo, home to critically endangered species such as the rhino, elephant, leopard, and orangutan, is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise. Its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity make it a top tourist destination in Asia for natural lovers. This small-group escorted Borneo adventure tour, limited to 16 people, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the island's Sabah and Sarawak, ensuring an intimate and immersive Borneo safari experience. The Malaysian state of Sarawak offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making your holiday in Malaysia more meaningful. In the charming capital of Kuching, you’ll discover a blend of colonial history and local traditions. Explore the awe-inspiring cave systems of Mulu and experience life at an Iban longhouse, where you’ll get a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sarawak’s indigenous people. Meanwhile, Sabah, located in northern Borneo, boasts an abundance of wildlife, stunning national parks, and idyllic beaches. Best attractions in Malaysia also include a visit to Kinabalu National Park, home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, rainforest adventures in Danum Valley, and a scenic cruise along the Kinabatangan River to observe the region’s vibrant wildlife. From the moment your trip to Malaysia and Borneo begins, we aim to make your travel stress-free. Enjoy the convenience of a complimentary one-way chauffeur service from your doorstep to the airport, allowing you to start your adventure relaxed and refreshed. Our commitment to providing a world-class experience includes 24/7 local assistance, an airport meet-and-greet with a knowledgeable local guide, and seamless travel arrangements. With guaranteed departures for as few as two guests, you can book with confidence knowing your journey is secure.

10 days

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights