Wildlife Adventures in Borneo
Private - Independent Tour
Kuala Lumpur – Kota Kinabalu – Sepilok Abi Kinabatangan Danum Valley - Gaya Island
Borneo inspires travellers to reconnect with nature and wildlife. Orangutans take centre stage; pass away the time as these fun-loving mammals, especially the juniors, show off their cheeky personalities and acrobat skills. Natural beauty surrounds you during each step of your journey, sightings differ on each tour as local guides go in search of Borneo’s array of the flora, fauna and birdlife on morning drives or river cruises. Early mornings and evening treks will capture the very essence of the diverse wildlife. Share these experiences with fellow guests in some of the more remote overnight stays. We have included a stay on Gaya Island at the end, pure escapism.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10&11
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Day 12
Day 1 : Kuala Lumpur
Upon arrival, you will be greeted and driven to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore
Day 2 : Kota Kinabalu
This morning you will check out early for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. You will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay. The rest of the day is at your pace, take a stroll around the craft markets or simply unwind before your adventure begins.
Day 3 : Kota Kinabalu
This morning you will join a group tour in Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a staggering 5000 species of plants, 326 types of resident and migratory birds as well as 100 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Depart the city stopping en-route at Pekan Nabalu, where you will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos of Mount Kinabalu. At the Kinabalu Park, follow your local nature guide on one of the many trail walks as you learn more about the different vegetation zones and plants. The biggest highlights here are the 1200 orchid species as well as pitcher plants, many of which are endemic to Kinabalu.At the botanical garden, often referred to as the 'mountain garden' there is the chance to take a closer look at various, often medicinal plants along a 700-metre-long path. Lunch is included at the national park restaurant, a cosy venue where a variety of Malaysian and Western classics are served.
Day 4 : Sepilok
Transfer to the airport for an onward flight to Sepilok. You will be greeted on arrival for check in at Sepilok Nature Lodge. This hidden resort is located amongst tropical trees and spectacular orchids, and you are within walking distance of the Orangutan Conservation Centre. This evening join your guide on a walk to the Rainforest Discovery Centre, home to the famous 620m long Rainforest Skywalk and the most educational nature park in Malaysia. The Rainforest Skywalk lets you discover life in the treetops. You will find many informative panels to read along the main trails and see rarely seen flying squirrels, tarsiers, slow lorises and much more.
Day 5 : Abi Kinabatangan
For most guests, this morning will prove to be a highlight as you visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. At this centre, observe man’s closest relative being rehabilitated to survive in their natural habitat. Next is a visit to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a centre that manages to improve the living condition of the rescued Sun Bears. Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant. After lunch, board a boat to Kinbatangan Wetlands Resort in Abai Kinabatangan for a 2 night stay. The boat ride takes you across Sandakan Bay, passing the historical Berhala island. Enoy refreshments whilst being briefed about the lodge and the activities, there is time to freshen up before your tour later this afternoon. You will be guided on a small boat cruise along the Kinabatangan River in search of wildlife, soak up the stunning river landscape as the sun sets. Dinner will be served with fellow guests before you are handed a headlamp or torchlight to take a nocturnal stroll with your host along the boardwalk.
Day 6 : Kinabatangan Wetland Resort
Join an early morning cruise to observe the wildlife and birdlife. Learn about the local Orang Sungei (River People) way of life as you pass the local fishing village, Kampung Abai. You may opt to purchase their catch of the day which will contribute in a small way to their economy. Your chef will be more than happy to cook and serve it during dinner. There is another river adventure this afternoon as you cruise in search of village landscapes and wildlife and a final night cruise after dinner, in search of nocturnal wildlife.
Day 7 : Danum Valley
Depart for the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and the sheer magnificence of it will keep you in awe as you trek along its trails, swim in its rock pools and get a bird's eye view of the forest from the canopied suspension bridge. This evening, after dinner (weather permitting), there is a nocturnal tour.
Day 8 : Danum Valley
Wake up to the calls of the Bornean gibbons. Breakfast is served before you start your day with a trek to the ancient burial site, Coffin Cliff. This afternoon your choice of optional activities include a guided jungle trekking or if weather permits, a water tubing session down Danum River.
Day 9 : Gaya Island
This morning starts with a leisurely breakfast. Your driver will return you on a shared transfer to Lahad Datu for a flight to Kota Kinabalu. On arrival you will be met and transferred on a shared boat ride to Bunga Raya Island.
Day 10&11 : Gaya Island
We have included 2 free days for you to take it at your own pace. Take a dip in the warm azure waters, or glide across the ocean on a paddleboard or kayak or simply relax, poolside.
Day 12 : Depart Kota Kinabalu
You may wish to extend your stay, or if it’s time to leave a boat transfer will take you back to the mainland and transfer you to Kota Kinabalu airport.
