Borneo Holidays

Name: Borneo
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.7 (72 reviews)

The Borneo Big 5

Orangutan

Witnessing an orangutan in its natural habitat is one of the most incredible wildlife experiences you can have. Our tours are designed to take you closer to their natural environment so that you can observe how they behave in the wild. Danum Valley is one of the best places in Borneo to see orangutans in the wild as you walk along lofty rainforest canopies. On our Borneo Wildlife Discoverer trip, you’ll also visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary where rehabilitated orphans and injured orangutans are cared for until they are ready to be released into the wild. Witness feeding time and observe youngsters as they learn how to climb!

Pygmy Elephant

If you’re going on one of our wildlife holidays to Borneo, this magnificent animal is probably at the top of your list of things to see. Bornean elephants, also known as pygmy elephants, are indigenous to Borneo and are much smaller than Indian elephants as well as being behaviourally and physically different.

On our tours, we take you to some of the best elephant-viewing locations. The Kinabatangan River is home to one of the largest populations of pygmy elephants. They often come down to the river to drink and this is an amazing sight to behold. Danum Valley is another great place to go in search of the pygmy elephant in Malaysia and is one of Asia’s last remaining lowland rainforests.

Proboscis Monkey

The proboscis monkey is endemic to Borneo’s rainforests, and it can be identified by its extraordinarily large nose, which they use to attract their mates. You’re most likely to find the proboscis monkey swinging through the jungle canopies or climbing trees around rivers and mangroves. Our Borneo wildlife trips include a visit to Bako National Park which is renowned for its proboscis monkeys. The only way you can reach here is by boat and the entire adventure is unforgettable. You can also visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary where they are cared for in the heart of Semawang’s mangrove forests.

Estuarine Crocodile

Found slinking through mangrove swamps and mudflats that can be found along the rivers of Bako and Santubong, the Estuarine Crocodiles are saltwater crocodiles and are the world’s largest river predator which can grow to over 6 metres in length. While you wouldn’t want to get too close, to see them in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience. Our holidays incorporate trips to Sarawak and the Kinabatangan River providing you with the best opportunities to spot these deadly creatures in the wild.

Rhinoceros Hornbill

Our Borneo tours are brimming with wildlife and the country is home to a staggering eight species of hornbill. The rhinoceros hornbill is found in rainforests and lowlands across Borneo, and Sarawak has been nicknamed the ‘Land of the Hornbills’. This majestic bird was believed to have mythical powers and sacrificed by pagans who wore the distinctive yellow and orange beak on a necklace. The rhinoceros hornbill has now been under protection since 1998. On our Borneo Wildlife Discoverer trip, you’ll visit Mulu National Park, home to 262 species of bird, including the rhinoceros hornbill.

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

14 Days from 2 818 €

2 580 €

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Discover Borneo and Malaysia's incredible diversity

Culture

15 Days from 5 218 €

4 860 €

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Showcasing the best of Borneo – wildlife, rainforests and beaches

Wildlife

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Activities in Borneo

Family Holidays in Borneo

The tour started in the rainforest in Borneo where we saw orangutans, monkeys, crocodiles and various birds. The river cruises on the impressive Kinabutangun river were awesome! The second part on the peninsula was wonderful for culture, beaches, wildlife and food!!!

Sherman Hirowatari Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula

The highlights for me were seeing orangutans (including babies!) in the wild, plus the rare pygmy elephants, alongside so much other incredible wildlife. Our local leader and guides were outstanding – not only were they brilliant at spotting animals I never would have seen on my own, but they also shared fascinating insights into Borneo’s wildlife and culture, which really enriched the whole experience.

I loved the variety of activities too – from hiking through the rainforest to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, spotting wildlife on boat trips, exploring charming towns, and relaxing on pristine white beaches. It truly offered a little bit of everything.

This trip was magical from start to finish, and the orangutans in particular were such a special sight. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable memories.

Sarah Hibbert Borneo Wildlife Discoverer

Malaysia is such a rich country with so much to offer from nature to history. The main reason I loved this trip was because it felt like it gave me a full experience of this beautiful country. From seeing Proboscis Monkeys in the wild to the beautiful sites like Georgetown, this trip had it all.

Rino Falvo Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula

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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

When is the best time for 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!

What cultural experiences can I have in Borneo?

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.

What should I pack for Borneo holidays?

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.

What is the food like in Borneo?

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.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Borneo?

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.