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Orangutang, Borneo
4.6
| 12 reviews

The Ultimate Adventure Through Wild Borneo

9 nights
Moderate

Hang out with orangutans, stomp steamy rainforests and kick back on remote tropical beaches in the wilds of Sarawak

What's Included?

Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides

All accommodation

2 night in hotels, 1 night in a hostel, 1 night in a homestay, 3 nights in forest huts and 2 nights in an eco-lodge

Meals

All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 8 dinners

Transfers

Airport transfers and everything in between

Equipment & Permits

All your cycling and kayaking gear; all National Park permit fees

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From

excluding flights
From

excluding flights

What's it like?

4.6
| 12 reviews
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
September 2024
Emily M.
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
September 2024
Emily M.
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
September 2024
Emily M.
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
September 2024
Emily M.
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
September 2024
Emily M.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Hell yea
April 2024
James D.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Brilliant Borneo break!!
April 2024
Debra S.
Wild Adventures Of Borneo
April 2024
Jordan B.
Wild Adventures Of Borneo
April 2024
Jordan B.
Wild Adventures Of Borneo
April 2024
Jordan B.
Orangutang, Borneo
Waterfall trek, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Bako, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Kayaking the Sarawak River, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Waterfall trek, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Explore jungles teeming with wildlife, including endemic proboscis monkeys, orangutans and nocturnal creatures

Hike through virgin rainforest to reach sparkling waterfalls, mysterious caves, remote beaches and traditional longhouses

Kayak the untouched Sarawak River and traverse the spectacular landscapes of Borneo by bike

Drift off to the hum of the jungle at authentic cultural homestays, secluded forest lodges and a tranquil Buddhist village

Key Information

Day 1

Welcome to Borneo!

Kuching, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Cycling

2hrs · 12km · 100 up · 100 down

Arrive into the state of Sarawak in northwestern Borneo, and transfer to your hotel in Kuching, one of the most beautiful and laid-back cities in Malaysia. If you arrive on an early flight, settle in and relax at the hotel's pool before meeting your guide for an optional ride along the city's heritage trail, cycling through the old bazaars, temples, the central square and along the picturesque waterfront. Continue on to surrounding kampongs (villages) before crossing the waterway in the traditional fashion – on a sampan ferry. Conclude the day with a sunset dinner at the bank of the atmospheric Sarawak River. If you arrive on an evening flight, you can head straight to bed and meet your group on Day 2.

Day 2

Wildlife encounters in Bako National Park

Proboscis monkey, Bako National Park, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Wildlife Tracking

3hrs · 4km · 150m up · 150m down

Today, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey into Bako National Park, your first immersive encounter with Borneo’s lush rainforests and iconic wildlife. Guided by an experienced park ranger, you’ll navigate an intricate network of jungle trails that weave through diverse ecosystems—from mixed dipterocarp and mangrove forests to verdant beach and cliff vegetation with breathtaking views of the scenic coastline. Along the way, keep a keen eye out for the park’s remarkable inhabitants: silver-leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, bearded pigs, vibrant bird species, and the uniquely captivating proboscis monkeys, endemic to the region. You’ll return to Kuching in the afternoon, with time to unwind and enjoy dinner with your group—recharged for the adventures awaiting you tomorrow!

Day 3

Silabur Jade Cave and Mongkos Longhouse visit

Jade Cave, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Driving

2hrs

Caving

1hr · 2km

Hiking

2hrs · 7km · 150m up · 150m down

Rise early and jump into the van for a two hour transfer to Lobang Batu, a Bidayuh village near the border with Indonesian Borneo. Meet the local community guides, and trek to the entrance of Silabur Cave, one of island's most breathtaking natural wonders. Get your torch lights ready and venture deep into the enormous limestone cave system, where occasional sun rays beam down through cracks and holes in the cavernous roof. In the afternoon, you'll meet the indigenous community of Kampong Mongkos, home to one of the few remaining traditional longhouses in Sarawak. Wander around the village and see daily life in this remote farming location, then settle in for the night in a simple hostel managed by the local community, featuring mixed dorm-style accommodations and shared bathroom facilities.

Day 4

Bengoh Waterfalls trek

Waterfall trek, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Hiking

3hrs · 6km · 200m up · 200m down

Say goodbye to your hosts after breakfast and drive to Bengoh Dam jetty (about 90 minutes drive) for a short, exciting boat ride across a tranquil lake surrounded by mountains. Then set off on a spectacular hike to a series of secluded waterfalls immersed in the virgin jungle - think lush greenery, dense forest, pristine wildflowers... it's often likened to Jurassic Park. Sunbathe on giant rocks, take a cool dip in the crystal-clear pools and learn the Dayak culinary arts as you cook with bamboo harvested from the jungle. End your day with an authentic homestay experience at Bidayuh village in Kampung Kandung, overlooking the emerald Bengoh Lake. Rest, relax and tuck into a homemade meal as you watch the sun slowly sink behind the mountains.

Day 5

Kayak an untouched stretch of the Sarawak River

Kayaking, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Kayaking

3.5hrs · 12km

Get ready for another adventure-packed day, paddling through Borneo's incredible landscape. Float down an untouched stretch of the Sarawak River, kayaking through the rainforest in the shade of overhanging canopies and the sound of chirping insects and birds. Reach a secluded basecamp for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, transfer via a mesmerising limestone karst landscape en route to Siniawan, a historic former gold-mining town. Wander the atmospheric streets lined with traditional wooden buildings that have stood for over a century. Indulge in local specialties and sample some craft beer while soaking in the charm of this storied village. As the day draws to a close, retreat to a serene Buddhist village nearby, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by peace and tranquility—a perfect end to a day of exploration.

Day 6

Orangutan spotting, countryside cycling and jungle by night

Orangutans, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Hiking

1.5hrs · 5km · 200m up · 200m down

Cycling

2hrs · 22km · 150m up · 150m down

Start your day with a hearty vegetarian breakfast, fueling up for an unforgettable visit to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve. This renowned primate rehabilitation center is home to a thriving population of endangered orangutans. While these semi-wild primates roam freely across a vast protected forest, sightings aren’t guaranteed—but they often emerge from the canopy during daily supplemental feedings, offering a chance to observe them up close in their natural habitat. After your visit, set off on a scenic drive to the foothills of Mount Singai, where you’ll enjoy an early lunch at one of the welcoming community homestays. In the afternoon, hop on a bike and cycle through a short, picturesque route around the serene Serapi Retreat, your tranquil accommodation for the night. After dinner, if you’re feeling adventurous, join your guide for a nocturnal rainforest exploration. Experience the enchanting darkness of the jungle as you track unique frog species and immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of the rainforest at night.

Day 7

Tanjung Datu: where the jungle meets the sea

Tanjung Datu National Park, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Driving

1.5hrs

Boat Ride

0.5hrs

Hiking

2hrs · 4km · 100m up · 100m down

After breakfast, you'll travel by road and boat for a couple of hours to reach the remote Tanjung Datu National Park, a hidden slice of paradise in the most westerly tip of the island, nicknamed the 'Heaven of Borneo’. Here, rugged mountains and lush rainforest sweep down to clear turquoise seas. Visit the park's turtle hatchery and learn about the local turtle conservation program, before hiking through pristine forest to reach Antu Laut beach where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and admire the huge boulders that dot the coast. Spend the rest of your day relaxing on the beach before settling into simple camping shelters and if you are lucky, watch the turtles nesting at night (sightings are common from April to October).

Day 8

Borneo's rainforest getaway

Tanjung Datu National Park, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Hiking

1.5hrs · 2km · 60m up · 60m down

Boat Ride

0.5hrs

Driving

3hrs

This morning, rise before breakfast to enjoy another short hike amongst the pristine beauty of Tanjung Datu, walking along picturesque bays and white sandy beaches – eyes open for pig-tailed macaques and Bornean bearded pigs. After breakfast, there's time to chill by the beach before taking a short boat transfer out of the national park. Grab lunch in a fishing village, then transfer by road (3 hours) to a secluded eco-lodge nestled in the lush foliage of the Damai Peninsula, dominated by the rainforest-clad slopes of Mount Santubong. Enjoy some well-earned downtime at the resort's beach and catch a beautiful sunset. Tonight, lay back in your cabin and listen to the rainforest come alive with the sounds of insects and frogs.

Day 9

The pristine Santubong Peninsula

Permai Rainforest Resort, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Wildlife Watching

4hrs

The Santubong Peninsula is a truly beautiful spot—perfect for a relaxed morning. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then spend your time as you please: explore the mangrove trails near the lodge, sunbathe on a private beach, or try your hand at ocean SUPing or kayaking (optional - equipment hire available at the resort). This afternoon, head out for a final wildlife adventure on a scenic cruise along the Santubong and Salak Rivers, one of the best places in Sarawak to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins. These unique creatures, with their rounded heads and expressive faces, are often seen, though sightings depend on the tides. As evening sets in, explore smaller tributaries to see flashing fireflies in the mangroves and spot Estuarine Crocodiles lurking in the dark. Keep an eye out for other wildlife, including monitor lizards, otters, mudskippers, and kingfishers. Round off the day with a farewell dinner in the fishing village of Buntal before returning to your forest retreat for a final night serenaded by the jungle.

Day 10

Bid farewell to Borneo!

Orangutan, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

Your adventure ends today as you enjoy a final breakfast before transferring to Kuching Airport in time for your onward journey.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Kuching International Airport

14:00 on Day 1

Ends

Kuching International Airport

Any time on Day 10

Transfers

Free airport transfers are included if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 10. If you wish to join the city cycling tour and welcome dinner in Kuching on Day 1, we recommend booking a flight that arrives by 14:00 at the latest. If you arrive later, your host will pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your hotel, and you'll meet the group on the morning of Day 2. The transfer usually takes about half an hour.

If you would like to arrive early or extend your stay with extra nights, your host can arrange private airport transfers and additional accommodation for an extra cost. See the Optional Extras section for details.

Travel options

Kuching International Airport (KCH) is accessible via various indirect flights from the UK, mainland Europe and US. Flights generally connect through Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines.

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3

Hostel · Multi share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4

Homestay · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6

Chalet · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 7

Campsite · Multi share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 8

Rainforest Lodge · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9

Rainforest Lodge · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Malaysian feast, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

The Malaysian part of Borneo is an ethnic melting pot of Chinese, Malaysian, and indigenous peoples who have coexisted on the island for centuries. The result is a spectacular variety of spices and flavours that influence the local cuisine. Borneo staples include grilled fish, barbecued prawns, fried rice, noodles, and local vegetables seasoned with garlic, ginger, and rich sauces. The rainforest provides many of the locals' favourite treats, including durian (a tropical fruit with a pungent smell) and the rambutan (a juicy, sweet fruit similar to a lychee). Fish- and chicken-based soups with noodles cooked in a hot clay pot are very traditional.

Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for though many dishes contain oyster/fish/soy sauce, shrimp paste and egg so options may be limited - please just request this on your passenger info form.

What is the accommodation like?

Marian Hotel, Kuching, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Kuching

For the first two nights, you’ll stay in the heart of Kuching’s historic center, just steps from the riverside, the main bazaar, and old Chinatown. Accommodation is typically at the Marian Hotel, a charming boutique lodge steeped in heritage. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool and a stunning sunken garden, offering a serene retreat after your adventures. You’ll stay in en suite, twin-share rooms with air-conditioning, though it’s worth noting that, as a historic building, the rooms vary in style and size and some even feature unique mezzanine floors.

Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Village homestays

In Kampong Mongkos, you'll stay in a basic but comfortable hostel managed by a thriving rural community, home to one of the few traditional Bidayuh longhouses that remain in Sarawak. Depending on the group size accommodation will be either in twin-share rooms or multi-share rooms, with shared bathrooms. In Kampung Sting, you'll be hosted by the friendly Bidayuh villagers, an indigenous group who thrive on the natural wealth of the tropical rainforest, fruit orchards and pepper plantation. Needless to say, the home-cooked meals here are very fresh. The homes are simple with private, multi-share rooms which floor mattresses with linen and blankets. All toilets and showers are communal.

Kuching New Buddhist Village, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
KBS Buddhist Village

You'll spend one night in Kuching New Buddhist Village, a project run by a local NGO. You'll sleep in a hotel that offers comfortable twin-share rooms with air conditioning, a hot shower and an en suite toilet. Enjoy the tranquil gardens surrounding the property, including a spectacular nine-storey pagoda which you can climb up to in your free time.

Serapi, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Matang

Nestled in the foothills of Gunong Serapi, cradled by a mountain stream, is the secluded Serapi Mountain Retreat. Your night here will be spent in two- or three-bedroom bungalows with shared facilities. Each room accommodates two people, but depending on group size you may share a same-sex triple room. On some departures, you may stay at the Matang Wildlife Center instead. This forest lodge is basic but comfortable and consists of simple chalets and lodge rooms with en suites or shared cold water showers, toilets and fans.

Tajung Datu sleeping area. Source: Paradesa borneo (MBA host)
Tanjung Datu National Park

Spend one night in the untouched and pristine Tanjung Datu National Park. Due to its remoteness, facilities are basic and limited, with visitor accommodation consisting of four simple forest huts (dormitory style camping shelters) with single floor mattresses and a shared bathroom/shower (cold water). The park's remoteness is one of its main attractions and hiking untrodden jungle trails will be truly special – proof that the luxury of nature can be far more extraordinary!

Permai Forest Resort, Wildlife Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo
Santubong

Your final two nights will be at the comfortable Permai Rainforest Resort, backed by protected rainforest and close to a popular beach area. You'll sleep in two- or three-bedroom cabins, which have twin-share air-conditioned rooms and a shared common bathroom.

Upgrades

Due to the limited number of rooms in most locations, solo room upgrades are not available on this tour.

This trip has been rated as Moderate

This trip is designed for those with a true spirit of adventure. You’ll need to be prepared for a few hours of activity each day, with a mix of hiking, cycling, kayaking, and wildlife tracking. While the distances and elevations may not appear particularly challenging on paper, the tropical heat and very high humidity can significantly increase the intensity of these activities. Some jungle trails may be overgrown, with muddy or wet conditions underfoot in places, adding an extra layer of challenge. The humidity, combined with the heat, can make even moderate activities feel more demanding, so staying hydrated is essential. However, there will be regular breaks to rest, enjoy the surrounding views, spot wildlife, and soak in the beauty of the rainforest.

Accommodation on this trip reflects the remoteness of the locations visited and adds to the adventure. In some areas, you may stay in basic facilities such as dorm-style rooms, homestays and simple huts. These places, though rustic, bring you closer to the heart of the jungle and the natural environment, enriching your experience.

Expect a few early starts and one exciting nocturnal hike, designed to maximise your chances of spotting unique wildlife. For kayaking, you should feel comfortable paddling for up to three hours at a time. While no prior experience is necessary, a bit of upper body strength will help you enjoy it more. The two cycling days are suitable for all levels, even beginners, with routes that include gentle forest trails and tarmac roads, with only a few manageable hills to climb.

What will I need to carry?

You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings (soft duffel bag or rucksack recommended, hard cases not advisable) which will be transported for you throughout the itinerary. For the overnight stay in Tanjung Datu on Day 7, it is advisable to carry only a small overnight rucksack with rain cover. During the activities, all you need is a day rucksack with rain cover (30+ litres, which you will carry on the hikes). Please see the kitlist for more detailed information.

Borneo lies within the tropics and for this reason you should expect high humidity and the chance of rain at any time of the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season from March to October. During these months the climate is typically tropical, with temperatures ranging from a cool 22°C/71°F in the evenings to a sultry 34°C/93°F in the daytime. Relative humidity is consistently high and typically around 70-90%.

chris s.(October 2024)
Wild Borneo adventure

Overall I thought this trip was great.

Our guide Farhah , was amazing from the moment she greeted me at the airport to the moment we were saying emotional goodbyes. She was so patient and encouraging with the group. The other guides, assistants and hosts were also amazing (shout out to Alex).

The itinerary was thoughtful and varied, with a bunch of different activities, amazing scenery, wildlife and some good food and culture.

I think it was a good level of intensity but pretty tough at times with a packed itinerary and with the heat and humidity adding to the challenge. Some in the group found it too tough at times, but everyone tried so hard and I was proud of what some others achieved.

Priya B.(October 2024)
An excellent window to Borneo's

An excellent window to Borneo's flora & fauna. Thoroughly enjoyed the variety of activities offered in this trip. Faraha and her team worked really hard to make this itinerary run smoothly. The group gelled very well and enjoyed most of the activities together. However there needs to be some change in the itinerary to give a pause to constant packing, unpacking and laundry ! Majority of accommodations were vary basic. The trip notes don't give clarity about how basic these places and toilet facilities are. We (wrongly!)expected slightly more variety in the vegetarian food available at various places, given Malaysia's tropical location.

Philippa S.(October 2024)
Oh wow! Hot, humid and

Oh wow! Hot, humid and hectic but at the same time exciting, adventurous and pushing personal boundaries and confidence. Saw great wildlife, scenery and culture all within the security of a great group of people with an amazing guide. Thank you.

Emily M.(September 2024)
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!
A once in a lifetime kind of trip!

What a trip! This is a truly authentic taste of the wild side of Borneo and something not to be missed! The trip gives you absolutely everything from hiking and biking, to swimming and rafting! Delilah our host was absolutely amazing and made us feel so welcomed and well looked after. The treks are definitely hot and sweaty but not too far in distance and totally worth it in the end with all the amazing wildlife and scenery. The local guides were so knowledgeable and passionate about their amazing work and our whole group really felt like we’d been part of something special. Every meal was absolutely delicious and really authentic in terms of traditional Malaysian food. The Home Stays and the National Park nights are definitely off the beaten track and it felt like you had come off the tourist trail to experience something truly unique. We were so lucky to see Orangutangs and baby Turtles being released into the wild which for me was a once in a lifetime experience! I’d fully recommend to anyone wanting to experience something totally different who is up for a bit of a wild adventure!

Arron B.(September 2024)
Truly worthwhile

This a great trip to see the people, culture and wildlife of Borneo.

Elaine P.(September 2024)
Borneo bonanza!

Amazing trip around Sarawak. Varied anct and accommodation over the trip makes for a whole variety of experiences. The animals are the highlight with the monkeys, bearded pigs, orangutans and particularly the turtles being the highlight.

Kathy B.(July 2024)
A Fun and Active Way to Discover Borneo

This was an excellently organised trip - Kelvin worked so hard to ensure everything went smoothly from our activities to our meals. He ensured everyone was happy and comfortable with everything and made the trip with his cheeky sense of humour and big smiles. The trip was tiring at times due to the activities but this made it all the more enjoyable because you found you really made the most of each day and were ready to fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle each night.

James D.(April 2024)