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Slow Paced Borneo

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Slow Paced Borneo

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If you want to immerse yourself in the incredible wildlife and beaches of Borneo but don't fancy too much road travel or rushing around, then a holiday like this one could be ideal. 

This suggested itinerary takes in Sepilok, the Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley. With astonishing biodiversity, these are the best places to see most of Borneo's native species, including the iconic orangutan, pygmy elephants and many lesser-known exotic creatures. You'll explore the jungle with an expert nature guide from whom you'll learn untold tales about the rainforest and get the best possible wildlife sightings - a memorable experience. 

After exploring the jungle, you'll head to Gaya Island, where you can enjoy five days in idyllic surroundings at the beach. Here you have the chance to relax, explore jungle trails or swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters inhabited by a wealth of marine life.

 Highlights include:

  • Wonder at the incredible rainforest teeming with wildlife in the company of your expert nature guide 
  • Drift down the Kinabatangan River, keeping watch for pygmy elephants, rare bird species and primates
  • The flexibility to enjoy lazy days relaxing by the pool or active days following nature trails. The choice is yours at Gaya Island

Your holiday will include private transport and guides. Having a personal guide will allow you flexibility and spontaneity, and an expert nature guide will ensure you have the absolute best viewing of the fantastic wildlife. 

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace and style. Get in touch to find out how this suggested itinerary could inspire your trip.

Day 1 Depart The UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Sandakan

Day 2 & 3 Orangutans Sepilok 

On arrival at Sandakan Airport, meet your expert nature guide for the 30-minute road transfer to Sepilok Nature Resort - a hidden gem within walking distance of the Sepilok Flower Reserve. Spend the first evening relaxing after the flight.

The area is renowned for its orchids, ancient trees, and of course, its orangutan community. During your time here, there will be an opportunity to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where a highlight is the daily feeding of the orangutans.

Day 4-6  Exploring the Kinabatangan River 

Transfer to Sandakan Jetty, where you'll board a cruise into the Lower Kinabatangan River. You'll arrive in time to have lunch and then settle in, relax, and explore the boardwalk paths. Take a late afternoon cruise on the river with your guide to search for wildlife while the sun sets. Look out for the magical twinkling of fireflies in the mangroves before returning to the lodge for dinner. 

Spend two days here exploring the area with your guide. Take in the Oxbow lake and surrounding forest - always with eyes peeled for wildlife! Early morning starts give you a high chance of seeing animals and birds along the river.

You could also choose to take an overland journey to the area around Gomantong Cave - ecologically important for the swifts and bats that occupy its cavern. Follow a trail deep into the forest, keeping an eye out for orangutans often seen feeding nearby. Then witness the dramatic departure of over two million bats as they head out of the cave to feed.  

 Day 7-9 Wildlife Danum Valley Conservation Area 

Transfer by boat and by road to Lahad Datu, the gateway to Danum Valley This is one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the whole of Southeast Asia,  home to a wide range of creatures, including pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and wild orangutans, as well as over 240 bird species.

Danum Valley is a dense rainforest full of fascinating wildlife that you will explore along canopy walkways, on more challenging guided trails (the "Coffin Cliff" trek is 2.6km)  and on 4WD drive night safaris. As you listen to the hum of the ancient jungle and pass waterfalls, you'll keep watch for orangutans, gibbons, and nocturnal animals such as sambar deer, civet cats, and leopards, not to mention plenty of insects and frogs.

Days 10-14  Beach time!

Transfer to Lahad Datu to board the short flight to Kota Kinabalu. On arrival, you'll transfer to the jetty for the short boat ride across to Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. Check-in at Gaya Island Resort. The next few days are to spend at your leisure, reflecting on your Borneo adventure: explore the island, snorkel, dive, spot wildlife, or relax by the pool.

Day 15 fly home

Depart Kota Kinabalu for your flight back to the UK.

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace, and style. Get in touch to find out how this suggested itinerary could inspire your trip.

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000 per adult depending on trip length and time of year as well as the hotels and flights involved. We offer child and seasonal discounts. You can read our ultimate guide to holiday costs in Asia for more in-depth information.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 to create your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

  • International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
  • Accommodation as described
  • Privately guided tours and transfers
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
  • Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
  • 24-hour in-country backup while away
  • Your dedicated travel expert in the UK 

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley Conservation Area

Located in one of the country's most biodiverse ecosystems with its own treetop canopy walkway.

Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Luxurious and relaxing beach on the breathtaking shores of Pulau Gaya, off Kota Kinabalu.

Sepilok Nature Resort, Kabili-Sepilok Forest

Sepilok Nature Resort, Kabili-Sepilok Forest , Sepilok

In the Kabili-Sepilok Jungle, lodge-style accommodation, good food, and a very special atmosphere.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Kinabatangan River

Excellent lodge with a sustainable ethos perched on the banks of the Kinabatangan River.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

Danum Valley Birdwatching

Danum Valley Birdwatching, Danum Valley Conservation Area

Being a centre for conservation and ecological research, Danum Valley is one of the best places for bird-watching in Malaysian Borneo.

Danum Valley Coffin Cliff Trek

Danum Valley Coffin Cliff Trek, Danum Valley Conservation Area

Trekking through 130 million year old virgin rainforest, visit the recently discovered coffin cliff of the ancient tribes.

Danum Valley Elephants

Danum Valley Elephants, Danum Valley Conservation Area

Families of elephants live in the Danum Valley and sometimes make an appearance – try to spot them during your stay.

Danum Valley Natural Jacuzzi

Danum Valley Natural Jacuzzi , Danum Valley Conservation Area

Enjoy a refreshing dip in Danum's natural Jacuzzi pool.

Danum Valley Night Walk

Danum Valley Night Walk, Danum Valley Conservation Area

See the nocturnal wildlife of the Danum Valley including endangered species such as slow lorises and the clouded leopard.

Danum Valley Trekking

Danum Valley Trekking, Danum Valley Conservation Area

Explore the 130 million year old virgin rainforest of Danum Valley, spot an array of wildlife and absorb the natural surroundings.

Danum Valley Tubing

Danum Valley Tubing , Danum Valley Conservation Area

Tubing through the slow moving currents of Danum's river.

Island Exploration: Gaya and Sapi

Island Exploration: Gaya and Sapi, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Set in a national park a short journey from Kota Kinabalu, the islands of Gaya and Sapi offer incredible sun, sea and sand.

Island Exploration: Sapi, Manukan and Mamutik

Island Exploration: Sapi, Manukan and Mamutik, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Discover the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, with fantastic snorkeling opportunities.

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Climb Mount Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu

Climb the largest mountain in Malaysia with an expert guide and see Kinabalu Park, one of Borneo's most famous World Heritage Sites.

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Slow Paced Borneo '

More Holiday Suggestions

Countryside & Caves by Train

Countryside & Caves by Train

Travelling by train along the coast is both fun and a great way to discover lesser-known Vietnam.

Digital Detox in Sri Lanka

Digital Detox in Sri Lanka

Step away from the everyday for a one-of-a-kind holiday. Truly off-the-beaten-track with accommodation in our favourite "eco & unique" hotels.

East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain

East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain

An immersive 2-week urban and rural adventure across the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Step away from the tourist trail and into authentic India.


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Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
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    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • Holidays in Borneo
    • Classic Holidays
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    • In Depth Holidays
    • Borneo & Mainland Malaysia
  • Guide to Borneo
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    • Weather & When to go
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      • Lankayan Island
      • Manukan Island
      • Mount Kinabalu
      • Sandakan
      • Sepilok
      • Turtle Islands National Park
      • Sipadan, Mabul & Kapalai Islands
      • Tabin Wildlife Reserve
    • Sarawak
      • Overview
      • Bako National Park
      • Batang Ai
      • Kuching
      • Mulu National Park
    • Peninsular Malaysia [redirects]
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