This was a good trip but could have been even better. Highlights were seeing orangutans, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants in their natural setting.
On day 2 trip notes state a day trip to Bako NP and we left hotel at 7.45am. Unfortunately we were back at hotel by 1.30pm and this included an hour spent having lunch at Bako. Felt that if Exodus weren’t giving us the day trip promised then they could have added in an optional afternoon trip perhaps to Semenggoh to see orangutans.
On day 5 you fly from Mulu NP to Kota Kinabalu and meet new guide as Exodus have recently changed the trip so that you have different guides in Sarawak and Sabah. This is difficult for both group and guide as you no sooner meet new guide than you have a free day in KK (unless you choose the snorkelling day trip option). Unfortunately the hotel in KK has no outdoor space or swimming pool and Exodus need to upgrade this hotel to make free day more comfortable.
Stay in longhouse on Day 7 is a one-off experience and some on group really didn’t enjoy the basic facilities on offer. Unfortunately day 8 was a Sunday and the tea factory was closed so this spoiled the tea factory visit as there is no atmosphere being shown round an empty factory.
When i booked trip we were meant to get an included lunch on day 8 because the Gomantong Caves were closed to the public. This was outwith Exodus control so this was an acceptable compromise however in July the caves were open to public. Exodus cancelled the “free” lunch on Day 8 but we then had to pay to enter Gomantong caves when we visited on Day 10. Seems a stupid example of penny pinching on a fairly expensive trip.
On the nights of days 10 and 11 we stayed at Nature Lodge on Kinabatangan River. No mosquito nets were provided in the rooms and most of the group were bitten. Food at Lodge was included but was fairly basic and poor quality. Three river cruises were included whilst staying at Nature Lodge but entire group was charged 60MYR a head for the final cruise because they took us upstream in search of pygmy elephants. It seemed unnecessary to charge group this extra £100+ as we had an included cruise, were not out for any longer than we would have been and probably used the same amount of fuel. Also didn’t like that it was compulsory- if entire group didn’t agree then trip to find elephants wouldn’t happen.
Borneo rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley was lovely but unless you opted out of arranged activities it was full on for the entire visit and exhausting.
My main concern on this trip was the amount charged for single supplement. This is not something that you give much thought to until you find yourself travelling solo. On this holiday paying the supplement only gets you your own room for 10 nights as you have to share for 2 nights at Mulu NP and Rainforest Lodge in Danum. The other 10 nights are spent in fairly average hotels and a quick check of prices showed that the entire cost of a room in these hotels was fractionally less than the single supplement. Given that the basic tour cost includes accommodation surely the single supplement should only charge the additional 50% cost of the room. I and other solo travellers on trip definitely felt ripped off by single supplement charged.
Borneo Holidays
The Borneo Big 5
Holidays to Borneo
Borneo is a territory of thick tropical jungle and raging rivers, spiky jagged mountains and huge caves. It boasts an incredible diversity of all kinds of species. Endangered orang-utans and thousands of other mammals, birds, reptiles and insects all live in the virgin rainforest which you can explore on our thrilling Borneo holidays.
The best viewing of all these creatures and the incredible environment they live in is in the series of excellent marine reserves and national parks, all well managed to minimise the impact on the environment. There are many adventures to be had here, with our Borneo trips also offering excellent walking and trekking.
As you walk deep into ancient rainforests, you’ll be in awe at the remoteness and wild beauty that can’t be found anywhere else. Hiding beneath the wildlife-rich foliage and jungle canopy is a wealth of wonderful creatures that you can get closer to on our tours. As you walk among soaring conifers and pitcher plants, keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and snakes and listen out for the great call of a gibbon.
Our holidays to Borneo aren’t just about the wildlife, you’ll also get an insight into the cultural melting pot that blends age-old traditions and Chinese heritage with various indigenous communities. And the food of Borneo is just as diverse, incorporating vibrant Malay, Chinese and Indian flavours. Throughout several of our Borneo holidays you’ll have the opportunity sample mouth watering food as you explore lively markets selling street foods where the sights, sounds and smells are intoxicating.
Our Top Borneo Tours
Activities in Borneo
Linda Stalker Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
Joe Figueiredo Borneo & the Malaysian PeninsulaAn incredible two weeks on Borneo and the Malaysian peninsula. The first part of the trip involves several days of wildlife cruises, whilst staying deep in the jungle, to search for orangutans, elephants, crocodiles and various exotic birds. We were fortunate enough to spot lots of interesting animals under the guidance of our fantastic leader, Jeffry. The second half of the trip involves visiting various towns and cities on the peninsula, including Malacca, famous for its street market, Kuala Lumpur, and Georgetown, a colonial town on Penang Island. There are plenty of opportunities for tours, sampling traditional food and shopping. Finally, the tour moves onto Langkawi for a relaxing end to the holiday. This serene island, featuring pristine beaches, wonderful restaurants and vibrant nightlife allowed my group plentiful free time to enjoy another part of the country before flying home. A wonderful holiday that encapsulated everything Malaysia has to offer.
Natasha Challoner Borneo & the Malaysian PeninsulaThis was an excellent trip with plenty of variety due to having a week of nature, the culture of the Malaysian Peninsula and the idyllic relaxing Island of Langkawi. Melaka was excellent. I loved all the buzz. The Batu temple was amazing. Then there was the tranquillity of the Sandakan memorial.
Where are the best places to visit in Borneo?
One of the best places to visit in Borneo is Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, boasting breathtaking views and challenging treks. Nature lovers will be in their element at Danum Valley, a pristine rainforest teeming with diverse flora and fauna, while the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bako and Mulu national parks are famous for their caves, unique rock formations and rich biodiversity. Other must-visit destinations include Sepilok which is famous for its orangutan rehabilitation centre, and Labuk Bay Sanctuary where you’ll have the chance to observe proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
How can I explore the wildlife on Borneo trips?
Borneo is a pure paradise for wildlife lovers, with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and a variety of bird species in the wild. The best ways to get up close to the wildlife in Borneo is on guided jungle treks, river cruises and wildlife safaris led by our experienced guides who can help you spot some of the more elusive creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll also stay in various accommodations in the heart of the jungle, so you’ll have a greater chance of witnessing the magnificent creatures.
FAQs on Borneo Holidays
Borneo experiences a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit Borneo is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October. This period is generally sunny with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Although the rainy season falls between November and January, you can expect rain showers at any time, so be prepared and make sure you pack a waterproof jacket!
Borneo isn’t all about the wildlife, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage that blends ancient traditions and indigenous communities. Home to a diverse melting pot of indigenous tribes, each with its own unique culture, traditions and beliefs, Borneo invites you to immerse yourself in local cultures by visiting traditional longhouses, attending cultural performances and sampling some of the delicious street foods that can be smelt wafting through the air of the bustling markets.
When packing for a trip to Borneo, it’s essential to pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Other essential items you should pack include sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a hat and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the tropical heat.
Borneo is the largest island in Asia and is renowned for its rich and diverse cuisine that reflects the unique cultural blend of its indigenous tribes. Traditional Borneo food is made up of a delightful array of flavours, using fresh ingredients sourced from the lush rainforests and surrounding waters. From the famous ambuyat made from sago palm to the flavourful jungle ferns stir-fried with belacan shrimp paste, the authentic cuisine showcases a vibrant fusion of herbs, spices and cooking techniques. Many of the staple dishes include noodles, prawns and grilled fish. Each dish tells a story of heritage and tradition, inviting you to savour the exotic tastes of this enchanting island.
Owing to its stunning landscapes, Borneo offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers, including mountain climbing, jungle trekking, river rafting, snorkelling and diving. And of course, you can’t visit Borneo without going in a wildlife adventure in search of native animals such as proboscis monkeys, wild macaques and crocodiles on a river cruise. Snorkelling is a great way to get up close to the colourful marine life and explore the kaleidoscopic underwater realms.
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