Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Definitely. Whether it’s Gaya Island or Sabah’s coast, there are lovely, quiet beaches ideal for families.
ETG Make Family Holidays Immersive & Easy
- No time? No problem. You’ve got enough on your plate, let us take the weight of the planning off your shoulders. We’ll handle the logistics so you can focus on making memories.
- Designed for parents, by parents. We’ve explored Borneo with our own kids, so we know the magic moments and the meltdowns. Every experience is tried, tested, and family-approved.
- Discovery and downtime. Whether you’re tracking wild orangutans or floating through firefly-lit mangroves, we balance thrilling experiences with plenty of time to swim, chill, and connect.
- Safe and stress-free. From smooth logistics to brilliant guides and handpicked hotels, we’ve designed every element to help you switch off and relax.
- The kind of memories that stick. Trek through the jungle, cruise down rainforest rivers, learn about tribal life and watch your children come alive in ways no screen can compete with.
What’s included:
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout
Pricing:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp
Borneo Family Holiday Ideas
Our luxury Borneo holidays are privately guided by a nature expert to ensure you get the best wildlife sightings and care throughout your trip. Equally, they will share their insight into the precarious state of the Bornean jungle, which can be particularly eye-opening for kids and teenagers.
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Family Borneo Highlights
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bali
Java, Borneo & Beach: Orangutans, Temples & Castaway Islands
Encounter Borneo’s amazing wildlife, journey through Java’s volcanic landscapes visiting impressive temples, and finish with an idyllic stay on an exclusive tropical island.
Highlights
Kalimantan
Staying in the Borneo rainforest to see orangutans and other wildlife
Java
Exploring the countryside and the magical temples of Indonesia’s cultural heartland
The Karimunjawa Islands
Living the dream at an exclusive, tropical island hideaway
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bali
Borneo, Java & Bali Adventure
Come face-to-face with the wondrous wildlife of Indonesian Borneo, explore the cultural heartland of Java and relax in Bali’s leafy countryside.
Highlights
Kalimantan
A once-in-a-lifetime experience in Borneo, spotting wildlife from your private houseboat
Java
Soaking up a surreal sunrise over ancient temples and volcanoes
Bali
Going off the beaten track in Bali’s countryside to feel the magic of ‘The Island of the Gods’
Gallery
Meet Our Experts
“Head to the Kinabatangan River for an early morning wildlife cruise. The mist rising over the water, the calls of proboscis monkeys in the trees, and the chance to see wild pygmy elephants make it an incredible way to start the day.”
Chione Armstrong
Travel Expert
The Best Times to Go on a Family Holiday in Borneo
Christmas & New Year is a brilliant time for a Borneo family adventure. Dry weather, calm seas, and festive magic (think: beach BBQs instead of Brussels sprouts).
February Half-Term is short but sweet, with sunshine and fewer visitors, perfect for wildlife spotting.
Easter can work well too: April sees a mix of sunshine and tropical showers, but the jungle stays lush and orangutans active.
The Summer Holidays (June to August) bring occasional rain, but it rarely disrupts travel and the wildlife is still thriving. Plus, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and brilliant value.
October Half-Term can be wet in parts, but for beach time near Kota Kinabalu or a river safari on the Kinabatangan, it’s a surprisingly rewarding shoulder-season escape.
Summer Holidays in Borneo
The best season to explore the wild. Spot turtles nesting on beaches, enjoy lush jungles and calm seas.
Top Picks:
-
Sepilok: Watch rescued orangutans learn to swing again.
-
Kinabatangan River: Drift past monkeys and crocs on a private wildlife cruise.
-
Gaya Island: Relax in a beachfront resort with easy snorkelling and jungle walks.
Summer Itineraries
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Showing 3 Featured Itineraries
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Slow Paced Borneo
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.
Highlights
Kinabatangan River
Drift down the Kinabatangan River, keeping watch for pygmy elephants, rare bird species and primates
Wildlife spotting
Wonder at the incredible rainforest teeming with wildlife in the company of your expert nature guide
Gaya Island
The flexibility to enjoy lazy days relaxing by the pool or active days following nature trails. The choice is yours at Gaya Island
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bako National Park
Bucket List Borneo
This is the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime Borneo holiday. It covers everything that makes Borneo special, from its renowned wildlife to its lush rainforests
Highlights
Get off the beaten track
Getting away from modern life as you travel to the most remote part of Sabah
Wildlife spotting
Listen to the call of gibbons and peek through rainforest vines to see orangutans swinging in the trees on an adventure in Danum Valley.
Mount Kinabalu
Climbing 4,098 meters to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Family Borneo Highlights
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Gallery
Spring & Easter Holidays in Borneo
Shoulder season = sweet spot. April brings fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes, ideal for active family trips.
Top Picks:
-
Tabin Wildlife Reserve: Track exotic birds and beasts with expert naturalists.
-
Borneo Rainforest Lodge: Learn jungle survival skills together (and sneak in a spa session).
-
Kota Kinabalu: A relaxing finish by the sea with great food and sunsets.
Spring & Easter Holidays in Borneo
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Showing 3 Featured Itineraries
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Slow Paced Borneo
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.
Highlights
Kinabatangan River
Drift down the Kinabatangan River, keeping watch for pygmy elephants, rare bird species and primates
Wildlife spotting
Wonder at the incredible rainforest teeming with wildlife in the company of your expert nature guide
Gaya Island
The flexibility to enjoy lazy days relaxing by the pool or active days following nature trails. The choice is yours at Gaya Island
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bako National Park
Bucket List Borneo
This is the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime Borneo holiday. It covers everything that makes Borneo special, from its renowned wildlife to its lush rainforests
Highlights
Get off the beaten track
Getting away from modern life as you travel to the most remote part of Sabah
Wildlife spotting
Listen to the call of gibbons and peek through rainforest vines to see orangutans swinging in the trees on an adventure in Danum Valley.
Mount Kinabalu
Climbing 4,098 meters to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Family Borneo Highlights
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Gallery
Winter & Christmas Holidays in Borneo
Swap sleet for sunshine. Borneo is beautifully warm and full of life at Christmas — perfect for festive explorers.
Top Picks:
-
Danum Valley: Wake up to misty jungle views in one of Asia’s best ecolodges.
-
Selingan Island: A magical spot for seeing turtles hatch.
-
Sabah’s west coast: Celebrate Christmas with seafood on the beach and lantern-lit dinners.
Christmas & Winter Itineraries
Crafting bespoke holidays is the core of what we do. With each bespoke trip, our consultants shape every element to you, from travel times to guides, from hotels to illuminating experiences.
Showing 3 Featured Itineraries
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Slow Paced Borneo
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.
Highlights
Kinabatangan River
Drift down the Kinabatangan River, keeping watch for pygmy elephants, rare bird species and primates
Wildlife spotting
Wonder at the incredible rainforest teeming with wildlife in the company of your expert nature guide
Gaya Island
The flexibility to enjoy lazy days relaxing by the pool or active days following nature trails. The choice is yours at Gaya Island
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bako National Park
Bucket List Borneo
This is the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime Borneo holiday. It covers everything that makes Borneo special, from its renowned wildlife to its lush rainforests
Highlights
Get off the beaten track
Getting away from modern life as you travel to the most remote part of Sabah
Wildlife spotting
Listen to the call of gibbons and peek through rainforest vines to see orangutans swinging in the trees on an adventure in Danum Valley.
Mount Kinabalu
Climbing 4,098 meters to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Borneo
Family Borneo Highlights
Borneo is a fantastic family destination: the wildlife, marine life, and tropical surroundings are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday together.
This suggested holiday itinerary takes in some of the best highlights of the country and includes an off-the-beaten-track twist. It’s a holiday that will please all ages with a combination of fun and interactive activities, wildlife spotting, beach fun and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Wildlife sightings
Spot elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and more as you sail along the Kinabatangan River
Gaya Island
Relax at Gaya Island beach resort where there’s brilliant snorkelling and interesting jungle trails to follow too
Murat
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure away from modern life as you travel to the homeland of the indigenous Murat people
Gallery
A Note on Christmas
Borneo makes a brilliant festive escape: warm days, wildlife in full swing, and zero tinsel-related stress. Swap grey skies for jungle canopies and river sunsets, with the odd lantern-lit dinner or tropical twist on Christmas cheer. Hotels here don’t go overboard, but many add thoughtful touches: special meals, beach bonfires, or a cheeky Santa sighting for little ones. Just bear in mind it’s peak season, so if you want first pick of the best family lodges and beachfront spots, it’s worth planning about a year ahead.
Family Holidays
In Our Traveller’s Words
Experience Travel Group live up to their name
A holiday away from "normal" life that comes with many experiences. A three week combined rest and adventure discovering different areas of Laos... Never far away from the fascinating Mekong River, we felt privileged to spend time with the beautiful people of Laos, (even if they did eat everything!).
With ETG, we have visited extraordinary places
... stayed in wondrous hotels, met fascinating everyday people, listened to varied opinions, and learned much about places far away. I couldn't do that on my own.
ETG look outside the box
They always come up with things that no one else seems to, that's why they are so good. They are original and trying their best to show you the real country and people and not the facade. Great listeners, always a smile and a good banter... exceptional service and insight.
Important FAQs about Family Holidays in Borneo
Yes, if paced right (which we always do). We build in plenty of downtime, AC breaks, and pool time to keep everyone happy.
Absolutely. With expert guides, well-established routes, and carefully vetted lodges, Borneo is adventurous but secure, and we’re with you all the way.
Totally. We plan efficient, smooth routes and take care of all transfers with minimal disruption and maximum wildlife.
The Finest Family-Friendly Hotels in Borneo
From barefoot beach resorts to jungle hideaways with plunge pools and pizza ovens, we’ve handpicked the very best family stays in Borneo. Our favourites combine character, comfort, and that little something extra your kids will love, whether that’s treehouse rooms or nightly visits from friendly geckos.
See More
Danum Valley Conservation Area, Borneo,
Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley offers the most comfortable jungle stay in Malaysia, with expert-led wildlife treks and treetop experiences.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife sightings,
Jungle comfort,
Canopy walkway
Best for
Couples
Gallery
See More
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Borneo,
Gaya Island Resort
Gaya Island Resort offers barefoot luxury in Malaysian Borneo with villas, marine adventures, nature trails and ocean views from a protected island setting.
Highlights
Highlights
Tropical snorkelling,
Jungle trails,
Scenic villas
Best for
Couples,
Families
Gallery
See More
Kinabatangan River, Borneo,
Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort
Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort offers peaceful wildlife experiences in a remote mangrove setting, ideal for nature lovers in search of Borneo’s rarest species.
Highlights
Highlights
Eco-friendly,
Immersive nature
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Gallery
See More
Sepilok, Borneo
Sepilok Nature Resort
Sepilok Nature Resort offers comfortable lodge-style stays in Borneo’s rainforest, with easy access to orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife encounters,
Spacious rooms,
Forest setting
Best for
Couples,
Families
Gallery
Download Your Complimentary Guide to Family Travel
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