About Malaysian Borneo
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Nestled in Southeast Asia, Malaysian Borneo also known as East Malaysia, is a captivating destination comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, indigenous cultures, and an abundance of wildlife, Malaysian Borneo beckons adventurous travellers from around the world.
Scale Mount Kinabalu - Southeast Asia's highest peak - trek through ancient jungles or explore traditional longhouses along winding rivers. Encounter rare species such as orangutans swinging through the treetops, dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and delve into the rich cultural tapestry woven by various ethnic groups like the Iban and Kadazan-Dusun, each with their unique traditions and customs. Malaysian Borneo promises unforgettable experiences at every turn. |
Read on for more information about -
- Getting here & getting around
- Kota Kinabalu (For rafting, snorkeling, cultural & hiking daytrips and Mount Kinabalu)
- Interior Sabah (For Maliau Basin, Mount Trus Madi & Orou Sapulot)
- Sandakan (For Sepilok, Gomantong caves, Turtle Island & the Kinabatangan river)
- Lahad Datu (For Danum Valley & Tabin Wildlife Reserve)
- Tawau & Semporna (For Sipadan island)
- Sarawak (For Kuching & Mulu)
- Entry requirements into Malaysia
- Health & Safety
- Packing recommendations
- Travelling with children
Getting here
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To begin your journey to this part of the world, you will likely start by exploring the gateway cities before finally arriving in Malaysian Borneo. Kota Kinabalu International Airport, located in Sabah, serves as the main gateway to Borneo. Airlines such as Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia offer regular flights from major cities in Malaysia and other countries. The most direct routes are via Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Hong Kong.
Once you have explored these gateway cities, it's time to venture deeper into Malaysian Borneo. Your route will depend on your proposed tour itinerary. For example, if you are planning to start with a Kinabatangan River Safari tour, you can take a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, or if the first thing you would like to do is conquer Mt Kinabalu, then you can start in Kota Kinabalu. Plan your itinery before booking your flights to minise driving time between distant cities. |
Travelling between and around Sabah & Sarawak
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With its vast rainforests, mountain ranges, and remote regions, it is essential to plan your travel arrangements in advance. The quickest and most convenient option for covering long distances within Sabah and Sarawak is air travel. If booked in advance, domestic flights can be relatively inexpensive, as many domestic carriers are accessible such as Malaysia Airlines, MAS Wings, AirAsia & Firefly. There are direct flights that connect you between Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Mulu and Miri.
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For shorter distances within cities or towns, taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab, the local equivalent of Uber, are available. Public buses offer a relatively comfortable and very affordable means of travelling between towns. Easybook.com & RedBus allow you to prebook bus tickets for travel in Malaysia, however not all routes may be available to book online. Tickets can usually also be booked at the bus station on the day you travel but buses may sometimes be full, especially if you are travelling on or near a public holiday.
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Shared minivans are another common mode of transport for trips between rural areas but may be less reliable due to irregular schedules, minivans typically leave when they are full rather than at a set time and can make for an uncomfortable cramped ride.
Renting a car or motorcycle can provide flexibility when exploring Borneo independently, however, be cautious when driving as road conditions can vary considerably across the island. If you are booked on to any tours, especially on the east coast, you are likely to have to leave your rented vehicles unattended for several days. If you are travelling on a tight schedule between remotes lodges or areas then the best option is to request a private or shared transfer from your tour operator to make sure you reach your next destination on time. |
Sabah's West coast
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu's skyline
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Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a popular starting point for many travellers and serves as a gateway to Borneo's stunning landscapes. This vibrant city offers a perfect blend of modernity and traditional charm. Explore its waterfront promenade, bustling sunday market, sample delectable food, or take a quick boat ride over to the islands just off the capital's coast.
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White water rafting at Kiulu river (grade I - II)
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Daytrips from Kota Kinabalu- Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of daytrips including river rafting suitable for ages 4 and above at the gentle Kiulu river and adrenaline filled white water rafting at the Padas river. Delve into Sabah's rich tribal history at Mari Mari Cultual Village, or join a trek around Kinabalu Geopark to learn more about the local Dusun communities surrounding the mountain. Ocean enthusiasts can snorkel & dive at the islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just 15 minutes from the city by boat.
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Mount Kinabalu
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Mount Kinabalu - Thousands of people come to Kota Kinabalu annually to join a Mount Kinabalu summit climb and watch sunrise from the highest point between New Guinea and the Himalayas. This challenging 2D1N hike in one of Malaysia's first National Parks is open to everyone with a decent fitness level, no prior experience of climbing is required. Even if you don't fancy hiking, Kinabalu National Park and Poring hot springs are well worth visiting and are 2 of the stops included in our West to East shuttle.
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Kota Kinabalu is also the starting point for adventures into Sabah's remote interior region including Mount Trus Madi, Orou Sapulot and Maliau Basin, you'll find more information on these places below. Once you are ready to move on to your next destination, domestic flights from Kota Kinabalu International Airport are the fastest and most convenient way to take you to the east coast of Sabah such as to Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Tawau, or you can join our West to East shuttle from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan and stop off at Mount Kinabalu, Poring hot springs and Sabah Tea Plantation on your way to the East coast
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Recommended day trips departing from Kota Kinabalu Kiulu river rafting (grade I - II) Klias proboscis monkey river cruise Kinabalu Geopark trekking Diving & snorkeling with Scuba Junkie West to East shuttle |
Interior Sabah
By far the wildest and most untouched part of Sabah, this is for the true adventurers. Expect basic jungle camps, challenging terrain and a warm local welcome on any trip into the Interior of Sabah. These destinations all take 4 or more hours to reach from Kota Kinabalu but are well worth the effort!
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Maliau Basin- Otherwise known as Sabah's lost world, Maliau Basin was first discovered during the late 1940's when a British pilot narrowly missed a precipitous cliff while making a pass through a low-lying cloud. The 25-kilometer-wide bowl and sunken jungle growing within the colossal basin would eventually come to be known as Sabah’s Lost World. After several failed attempts, it wasn't until the 1980's that a team actually managed to penetrate the jungle into Maliau Basin and discovered a self-contained ecosystem that had never been inhabited by humankind, rich in biodiversity, with some of the tallest tropical trees in the world.
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Sapulot and Batu Punggul- Not far from the Kalimantan border, Batu Punggul is a jungle-topped limestone outcrop riddled with caves, towering nearly 200m above Sungai Sapulot. This is deep in Murut country and the stone formation was one of several sites sacred to these people. Batu Punggul and the adjacent Batu Tinahas are traditionally believed to be longhouses that gradually transformed into stone. The view from the upper reaches of Batu Punggul may be the best in Sabah – in every direction is deep jungle, knifelike limestone outcrops and, if you are lucky, swinging orangutans. Few tourists visit this area but the ones that do will leave with a forever lasting impression of this amazing area.
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Mt Trus Madi- About 20km southeast of Tambunan town is the dramatic Mt Trus Madi, Sabah's second-highest peak, rising to 2642m, and one of the best places in Malaysia to watch the sunrise. The climb is more challenging than that of Mount Kinabalu but the reward of a sunrise with Mount Kinabalu in the distance is well worth it. Forested all the way from start to finish you also get the opportunity learn about Sabah's incredible flora and fauna (mainly birds, reptiles and amphibians).
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Sabah's East coast
Sandakan
Sandakan city waterfront
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Sandakan is the main starting point for river cruise safaris in the Kinabatangan floodplains as well as tours to Turtle Island and Lankayan. The city offers an intriguing glimpse into Borneo's history - take a walk on the Sandakan Heritage Trail, explore its historic landmarks like Agnes Keith House, visit the Sandakan War Memorial, or embark on a wildlife adventure to witness orangutans at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Whilst it is possible to fly to Sandakan and leave on a wildlife tour on the same day, we recommend allowing 1 or 2 nights around Sepilok & Sandakan first before heading off to your next destination.
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The Kinabatangan river
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The Kinabatangan river- Widely considered one of the best places to see true wildlife in South East Asia with some places offering a money back guarantee if you fail to see proboscis monkeys. At times you also get large herds of up to 100 pygmy elephants, regular orang-utan sightings, salt water crocodiles of up to 4meters, large packs of long tail and pig tailed macaques and birds galore! There are numerous accommodation options at the Kinabatangan river making it suitable for most budgets.
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Orangutans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre
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Sepilok- A visit to the world's most famous place to see orangutans in their natural habitat just became even more compelling thanks to the addition of an outdoor nursery for youngsters in the same complex, and the nearby, excellent Sun Bear Conservation Centre. For those who have time, the nearby Rainforest Discovery centre is also well worth a visit and is home to Malaysia's longest canopy walk.
Orangutan feeding times: 10am & 3pm (closed at lunchtime) Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Open daily 9am till 3.30pm |
Light shaft in Gomantong cave
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Gomantong caves- Imagine a massive crack in a mountain, a cathedral-like inner chamber shot with splinters of sunlight and swarming with cockroaches and scorpions, and you have the Gomantong Caves. Yes, the smell is disgusting thanks to the ubiquity of bat guano, but these caves are magnificent. The forested area around the caves conceal plenty of wildlife – travellers are regularly able to spot orangutans here. Best visited in combination with a Kinabatangan river tour or on your way to or from the river.
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Hatchling at Selingan
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Turtle island parks- Just off the coast of Sandakan you have Turtle island, officially called Selingan island. With sightings of nesting turtles and turtle hatchlings almost guaranteed year round, Selingan Island is a hit with visitors of all ages. An overnight stay is required to see baby turtles hatching and female turtles nesting, the best time to visit is April to October, the sea can be rougher from November to January but whenever you go, you are sure to have a magical experience!
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Deramakot Forest Reserve - Access into Deramakot is via the small town of Telupid which can be reached in just over 4 hours from Kota Kinabalu or 2.5 hours from Sandakan. The main draw for visitors to Deramakot is the possibility of spotting the elusive Sunda clouded leopard but orangutans, gibbons, pygmy elephants, leopard cats, civets and more can be found in this huge forest reserve. Tours to Deramakot start from 3D2N and include 7 hours of wildlife safaris (drives) per full day with dusk, dawn & night being the favoured times for wildlife spotting!
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Lahad Datu
Lahad Datu serves as the entry point to Danum Valley Conservation Area, a pristine rainforest home to diverse flora and fauna. Tabin Wildlife Reserve is another must-visit destination near Lahad Datu. Both protected areas offer opportunities to observe orangutans, pygmy elephants, and gibbons in their natural habitat. The town itself has very little to offer visitors so we recommend planning your trip to minimise time spent in Lahad Datu town.
Lahad Datu can be reached via multiple daily flights from Kota Kinabalu operated by MAS Wings or by travelling overland from Sandakan (3.5 hours) the Kinabatangan (2 hours), Semporna (2.5 hours) or Tawau (3 hours).
Lahad Datu can be reached via multiple daily flights from Kota Kinabalu operated by MAS Wings or by travelling overland from Sandakan (3.5 hours) the Kinabatangan (2 hours), Semporna (2.5 hours) or Tawau (3 hours).
5* Borneo Rainforest Lodge
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Danum valley - Flowing like a series of dark, mossy ripples over 440 sq km of central Sabah, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is like something out a children’s story book: the sheer spectrum of furry and scaled friends you find within its dipterocarp forest is mind-blowing: orangutan, tarsier, sambar deer, bearded pig, flying squirrel, king cobra, proboscis monkey, red-leaf monkey, gibbon and pygmy elephant (to name a few). There are only 2 accommodations in Danum Valley and you can choose between jungle luxury at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Sabah's premier jungle accommodation or basic rooms at Danum Valley Field Centre.
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4x4 safari at Tabin Wildlife Reserve
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Tabin Wildlife Reserve- About an hour's drive from Lahad Datu, this 1205-sq-km reserve consists mainly of lowland dipterocarp forest with mangrove areas – most of it is technically secondary forest, but that doesn't seem to trouble the wildlife or visitors. The stars here are the primates – gibbons, red-leaf monkeys and macaques, plus a lot of orangutans. Rescued orangutans from Sepilok are released here, so you've got a pretty good chance of spotting some. Birdlife is particularly abundant with a staggering 260 species recorded here including all eight of the hornbill family, from rhino through to helmeted. Tabin has a number of mud volcanoes and salt-licks where animals and birds gather for their precious minerals, and you can watch them, cameras poised, from viewing towers.
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Tawau & Semporna
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Most visitors to Semporna come for the fabulous diving & snorkeling that awaits them at the islands off the coast including Mabul, Kapalai, Sibuan, Mantabuan, Mataking and the world famous Sipadan Island. Make sure to contact Scuba Junkie Sipadan well in advance to prebook your Sipadan permits as there are limited spaces available each day.
There is no airport in Semporna but there are daily direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan to Tawau airport, from Tawau airport you can reach Semporna by taxi in around 75 minutes. |
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If you are coming from the Kinabatangan river, Danum Valley or Tabin Wildlife Reserve then it is easier to travel overland to Semporna than fly and we can assist you with transfers if needed. We also offer complete Reefs & Rainforests adventures to help you combine time in the jungle and time underwater, have a look at our 10D9N Reefs & Rainforests itinerary for inspiration!
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Sarawak
Kuching
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Kuching, Sarawak’s charming capital city, is another gateway city that should not be missed. Known as the "Cat City," Kuching exudes a laid-back atmosphere boasting a rich cultural heritage reflected in its well-preserved colonial architecture. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, take in the views from Fort Margerita, visit the extensive Borneo Museum to learn about Borneo's diverse indigenous cultures, and reward yourself with local cuisine along Carpenter street. Within easy reach of Kuching city you will find Semenggoh orangutan centre, Fairy caves, Bako National Park and the Sarawak Cultural Village, all very much worth a visit and a minimum 3 night stay in Kuching is recommended if you plan to visit a few of these places.
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Mulu
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Mulu National Park - is renowned for its extensive cave system, a captivating destination that boasts the largest underground cave chamber in the world and a series of easily accessible show caves, each as impressive and unique as the next. The only way into Mulu is by MAS Wings flight from Kota Kinabalu or various cities in Sarawak, there is no overland option to reach Mulu.
Adventurous visitors can choose to leave what little civilisation Mulu offers behind and hike 10km out to camp 5 to experience the thrill of climbing Mulu Pinnacles or hike a section of the Head Hunter Trail. |
Entry requirements into Malaysia
As of 1st January 2024, all international travellers entering Malaysia are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) and submit three (3) days prior to arrival. Further information can be read here. To register and submit the MDAC form, please visit the Immigration Department's here.
A valid passport is mandatory for entry into the country, with a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure, along with a visa if applicable. Additionally, a passport is necessary when travelling between Peninsular Malaysia and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as for interstate travel between Sabah and Sarawak.
For most nationalities, social or tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at major entry points in Malaysia. Tourist visas typically allow for a stay of up to 90 days. However, it is advisable to check with the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country prior to travel as certain nationalities may require a visa before arrival. Further information regarding entry requirements into Malaysia can be read here https://www.malaysia.gov.my/portal/subcategory/1543
A valid passport is mandatory for entry into the country, with a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure, along with a visa if applicable. Additionally, a passport is necessary when travelling between Peninsular Malaysia and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as for interstate travel between Sabah and Sarawak.
For most nationalities, social or tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at major entry points in Malaysia. Tourist visas typically allow for a stay of up to 90 days. However, it is advisable to check with the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country prior to travel as certain nationalities may require a visa before arrival. Further information regarding entry requirements into Malaysia can be read here https://www.malaysia.gov.my/portal/subcategory/1543
Health & safety
While there are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into the country, please consult with a healthcare professional well in advance of your trip. They can provide guidance on necessary vaccinations and medications specific to the region and your personal health, such as those for malaria or dengue fever. Comprehensive advice from the UK government can be found on the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Additionally, obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is strongly advised. While exploring East Malaysia's diverse landscapes and wildlife, it is important to take general health precautions - protecting yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants are recommended preventive measures. Moreover, practising good hygiene habits while travelling is vital.
Some foreign countries have travel advisories in place that caution against travelling to the islands off the East coast of Sabah due to a historical dispute between the Philippines and Malaysia. In reality the situation is very safe and hundreds of people travel to and from the East coast every day, you may however wish to check whether the travel advisory affects your travel insurance to avoid any surprises.
Additionally, obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is strongly advised. While exploring East Malaysia's diverse landscapes and wildlife, it is important to take general health precautions - protecting yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants are recommended preventive measures. Moreover, practising good hygiene habits while travelling is vital.
Some foreign countries have travel advisories in place that caution against travelling to the islands off the East coast of Sabah due to a historical dispute between the Philippines and Malaysia. In reality the situation is very safe and hundreds of people travel to and from the East coast every day, you may however wish to check whether the travel advisory affects your travel insurance to avoid any surprises.
Packing for Malaysian Borneo
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It's important to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential packing tips to keep in mind:
1. Climate Considerations: East Malaysia has a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or quick-drying synthetics that will keep you cool in the humid conditions. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect against insects and the sun's rays. As East Malaysia experiences rainfall throughout the year, a waterproof jacket or poncho is a must-have item. It will shield you from unexpected showers while exploring nature reserves or embarking on river cruises. 2. Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in this region. Protect yourself by packing an effective insect repellent containing DEET. 3. Outdoor Gear: If you plan on exploring the lush jungles, national parks, or climbing Mount Kinabalu, ensure you have appropriate outdoor gear such as sturdy hiking shoes, quick-dry clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reliable headlamp for night-time adventures, and a small backpack to carry your essentials during day trips. Comfortable socks are equally important to prevent blisters during long hikes. |
4. Medications and First Aid: It's always advisable to bring any necessary prescription medications along with a basic first aid kit that includes band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may require.
5. Travel Documents: Remember to carry your passport with at least six months validity remaining before expiration. This is also mandatory upon registration of Mt. Kinabalu climbs.
5. Travel Documents: Remember to carry your passport with at least six months validity remaining before expiration. This is also mandatory upon registration of Mt. Kinabalu climbs.
Travelling with children
Top kid-friendly wildlife destinations to explore in East Malaysia:
1. Sepilok Forest Reserve: Kids can witness orangutans up close and personal, and learn about conservation efforts. Around 25 minutes from Sandakan airport, Sepilok offers a few different accommodations to choose between and the ones with swimming pools are highly recommended for families: Sepilok Jungle Resort (the oldest and most budget-friendly), Sepilok Forest Edge Resort and Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort. There are no other facilities in Sepilok aside from the hotels and the sanctuaries so stock up on snacks & cash at Sandakan airport. The 3 main places to visit in Sepilok can all be covered in one day but as most flights land late morning, we recommend heading to the Rainforest Discovery Centre the afternoon you arrive and saving the orangutan and sunbear sanctuary for the following morning.
2. Kinabatangan River Floodplain: A haven for little adventurers, embark on river safaris for wildlife spotting opportunities and explore the jungle by torchlight at night! River cruises are great fun for kids who have an interest in nature and are able to remain seated in a boat for up to 2 hours. Hornbill Lodge in Bilit village has rooms large enough to comfortably sleep up to 4 adults or 2 adults & 3 children.
3. Turtle Island: A boat ride away from Sandakan city, kids can enjoy the beach during the daytime then witness a mother turtle lay eggs, as well as the release of newly hatched baby turtles once the sun sets. Keep in mind that Turtle Island has a strict rooming policy, a maximum of 1 extra bed can be added per room and only for children aged 10 or below. Families of 4 and above or families with a child 11 or older will need to take 2 rooms.
4. Tabin Wildlife Reserve: An abundance of wildlife and a nice combination of 4wD safaris and shorter walks compared to Danum Valley make Tabin a good choice for families. Tabin Wildlife Resort offers mid-range accommodation with air-conditioned rooms large enough to sleep up to 4 people.
5. Kota Kinabalu: In addition to these 4 fantastic wildlife-filled destinations, families will love the variety and flexibility offered by a stay in Kota Kinabalu. Book an accommodation that suits your budget and choose from the various activities on offer, including Kiulu river rafting (suitable for ages 4 and above), Mari Mari Cultural Village, a proboscis monkey river cruise, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can also rent stand-up paddle boards and take part in other watersports at Tanjung Aru beach, just 10-15min drive from the city centre.
1. Sepilok Forest Reserve: Kids can witness orangutans up close and personal, and learn about conservation efforts. Around 25 minutes from Sandakan airport, Sepilok offers a few different accommodations to choose between and the ones with swimming pools are highly recommended for families: Sepilok Jungle Resort (the oldest and most budget-friendly), Sepilok Forest Edge Resort and Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort. There are no other facilities in Sepilok aside from the hotels and the sanctuaries so stock up on snacks & cash at Sandakan airport. The 3 main places to visit in Sepilok can all be covered in one day but as most flights land late morning, we recommend heading to the Rainforest Discovery Centre the afternoon you arrive and saving the orangutan and sunbear sanctuary for the following morning.
2. Kinabatangan River Floodplain: A haven for little adventurers, embark on river safaris for wildlife spotting opportunities and explore the jungle by torchlight at night! River cruises are great fun for kids who have an interest in nature and are able to remain seated in a boat for up to 2 hours. Hornbill Lodge in Bilit village has rooms large enough to comfortably sleep up to 4 adults or 2 adults & 3 children.
3. Turtle Island: A boat ride away from Sandakan city, kids can enjoy the beach during the daytime then witness a mother turtle lay eggs, as well as the release of newly hatched baby turtles once the sun sets. Keep in mind that Turtle Island has a strict rooming policy, a maximum of 1 extra bed can be added per room and only for children aged 10 or below. Families of 4 and above or families with a child 11 or older will need to take 2 rooms.
4. Tabin Wildlife Reserve: An abundance of wildlife and a nice combination of 4wD safaris and shorter walks compared to Danum Valley make Tabin a good choice for families. Tabin Wildlife Resort offers mid-range accommodation with air-conditioned rooms large enough to sleep up to 4 people.
5. Kota Kinabalu: In addition to these 4 fantastic wildlife-filled destinations, families will love the variety and flexibility offered by a stay in Kota Kinabalu. Book an accommodation that suits your budget and choose from the various activities on offer, including Kiulu river rafting (suitable for ages 4 and above), Mari Mari Cultural Village, a proboscis monkey river cruise, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can also rent stand-up paddle boards and take part in other watersports at Tanjung Aru beach, just 10-15min drive from the city centre.
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6. Mulu National Park: Just a short flight from Kota Kinabalu, Mulu National Park offers a an easy to follow boardwalk through lush rainforest to huge caves filled with stalactites, stalagmites and a whole host of impressive geological features and is suitable for kids able to walk (or be carried) a few kilometers. A visit to Mulu National Park is sure to create some lasting memories for the whole family!
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Boardwalk at Mulu National Park
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