Family Borneo Highlights

DAY 1 Depart the UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Sandakan.

DAYs 2 & 3  Sepilok

On arrival in Sandakan, your private nature guide will meet you for the short transfer to your Sepilok hotel. The first afternoon is free to relax before spending a day being introduced to Borneo’s wildlife. 

Head to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, an educational experience where there is a chance to observe rescued baby orangutans who are rehabilitated here before being released back into the wild.        

In the afternoon, have fun exploring jungle trails and learn a little more about your surroundings at the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Take the 28 metre-high canopy walkway offering views over the treetops and if you’re lucky you may spot wild orangutans and some of the 250 bird species that live in the forest.

There are more adventures to be had in the evening as you take a guided walk, keeping watch for the nocturnal insects and wildlife.

Day 4 & 5 Kinabatangan

Today you begin your journey to the Kinabatangan River, a journey which takes you through beautiful mangroves, wetlands and lush rainforests. En route, your nature guide will help you look out for orangutans and pygmy elephants. Your accommodation has boardwalks right into the jungle, enabling you to immerse yourselves in jungle life and watch for wildlife throughout your time here. During your time in the region you’ll also visit Pitas Oxbow Lake where, if you can prise the younger ones out of bed early, you’ll be rewarded with wildlife activity at its best as the birds and monkeys forage for breakfast!

Day 6 & 7  Kota Kinabalu 

Today you’ll leave the jungle and take a short flight to Kota Kinabalu. Your guide and driver will meet you on arrival for the transfer to your hotel. Spend a day relaxing by the pool or exploring the waterfront. Alternatively, join your guide for a cycle tour weaving through the countryside around the Kiulu River via a network of rope bridges and easy road trails. 

Days 8 & 9 MURAT TRIBE AND JUNGLE EXPERIENCE    

On your journey from Kota Kinabalu, by 4-wheel drive and boat, you will venture deep into one of the most remote parts of Sabah state. You’ll travel through the homeland of the Murat people towards Batu Punggul, an 800 ft forest-clad limestone pinnacle that is home to a labyrinth of caves.  On the first day, you’ll explore caves via underground streams and sleep overnight under the stars in a comfortable hammock camp.

Day 9 will see you exploring Batu Punggul itself, after which you’ll enjoy an evening of Murut hospitality and spend the night in a longhouse. While accommodation is basic for a couple of nights, the experience and hospitality on offer during these three days are fantastic

Day 10 – 14 Gaya Island Resort 

Enjoy a morning of light trekking and swimming in multi-levelled waterfalls, before journeying back to Kota Kinabalu. On arrival, board the boat for the transfer across to Gaya Island Resort.

Besides its incredible nature and wildlife and its fascinating indigenous culture, Borneo’s other attraction is the beautiful tropical islands and exotic marine life. Spend the next few days appreciating the lovely surrounds of Gaya Island Resort: explore the island’s jungle trails, go snorkelling or diving, spot wildlife, or never leave the pool! The Canopy (hillside) and Kinabalu (sea view) Villas offer interconnecting rooms for families, or you could opt for the spacious two-bedroom Suria Suite.

Day 15 Fly Home

Today you fly home. Alternatively, you could choose to stopover in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.  

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.