Borneo Holidays

Borneo

Located to the east of the mainland, the vast island of Borneo is shared between Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.

Made up of two states, Sabah in the north and Sarawak to the south, most of Malaysian Borneo is a remote wilderness of thick tropical jungle that supports one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems and which is home to both indigenous tribal groups and the endangered orangutan. Sarawak, ‘land of the hornbill’, is a good starting point and tour state capital Kuching with its bustling waterfront, colonial centre and neighbouring national parks. Also explore the spectacular Mulu National Park which boasts the world's largest cave system. From here fly north to Kota Kinabalu and plunge into the interior. Visit the wonderful Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, take a river cruise down the Kinabatangan River or explore the remarkable virgin lowland rainforest of the protected Danum Valley.

Holiday Ideas for Borneo

14 DAYS

Best of Borneo

from £4190 - £4590
per person

11 DAYS

Borneo Family Adventure

from £6390 - £6690
per person

12 DAYS

The Wildlife of Sabah

from £5890 - £6390
per person

Start Planning Your Holiday

When to visit Borneo

The best time to visit Borneo is during the dry season which runs between May and September, when sunny weather and less humidity can be expected. This is an ideal period for exploring the rainforests of Sabah and Sarawak, spotting Borneo wildlife such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants and diving in the crystal-clear waters. June and July are especially popular due to clearer skies and excellent conditions for jungle trekking and river cruises along the Kinabatangan River. Although Borneo has a tropical climate and rain is possible year-round, the wet season from November to February brings heavy showers that can disrupt travel, particularly in more remote areas. Despite the rain, some areas of Borneo can still be visited off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

BEST TIME

GOOD TIME

LOW SEASON

OFF SEASON

This is a general overview suggesting when to travel in the country. Please note that this may not directly apply to any specific itinerary or region.

What to do in Borneo

Boasting nature, wildlife, adventure and culture, Malaysia Borneo is one of the world’s most enriching and diverse holiday destinations. From Sabah’s capital Kota Kinabalu, explore Kinabalu National Park which is home to the mighty Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak. Nature enthusiasts can trek jungle trails, relax in natural hot springs or birdwatch in this UNESCO site. For unforgettable wildlife encounters, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where rescued primates swing through the treetops, cruise the Kinabatangan River to spot proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants or spot all eight of Sabah’s hornbill species in Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Time can also be spent relaxing on Gaya Island’s paradise beaches. In Sarawak, Malaysia Borneo’s other state, begin in the vibrant city of Kuching which offers colonial architecture, bustling food markets and riverside promenades, perfect for sampling local Sarawak laksa. Venture into the vast Mulu Caves, a subterranean wonderland of towering stalagmites and underground rivers, experience authentic Iban culture by staying in a traditional longhouse, sharing meals and stories with indigenous hosts, and hike through Bako National Park where winding trails lead to secluded bays and rare wildlife such as the bearded pig and silvered langur.

Places in Borneo

Kota Kinabalu

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