Essence of Borneo: Rivers, Rainforest & Relaxation
Featured Journey11 DaysMalaysia

Essence of Borneo: Rivers, Rainforest & Relaxation

Kuala Lumpur – Sandakan – Kinabatangan River – Sepilok – Kinabalu Park – Kota Kinabalu

11
Days
10
Destinations
18
Guests (Max)
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Absolute Asia/Malaysia/Essence of Borneo: Rivers, Rainforest & Relaxation

Overview

Discover the real Malaysian Borneo on this 11-day adventure incorporating wildlife, wilderness and coastal indulgence. You will begin your travels in Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant commercial capital of Malaysia, before flying east across the sprawling jungles and meandering rivers of Borneo.

You will enjoy a river cruise on the iconic Kinabatangan river, one of the richest ecosystems on the planet, searching for proboscis monkeys, wild orangutans and pygmy elephants. You will also walk the planks at Sepilok’s renowned Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and visit the world’s smallest bear at the Sun Bear Sanctuary.

You will then travel up into the highlands to Kinabalu National Park to explore its hidden treasures and conquer the adventurous climb to the summit of Mount Kinabalu. Your adventure will finish on the golden sands of Kota Kinabalu where you can unwind and reflect at a beach resort in luxury.

This itinerary provides a great mix of soft adventure and comfort, perfect for nature lovers who wish to enjoy the natural wonders of Borneo with a chance to unwind.

Route

Kuala Lumpur – Sandakan – Kinabatangan River – Sepilok – Kinabalu Park – Kota Kinabalu

Travel style

Moderate

Itinerary ideas

Trip Highlights

Arrive in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur City Tour

Fly to Sandakan & Kinabatangan River Cruise

Wildlife on the Kinabatangan River

Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary

Why Choose Absolute Asia

English-speaking guides who live in the country you're visiting

A private travel designer reachable throughout your trip

Hand-selected hotels chosen for character, not chain

Private transfers and drivers for a seamless day-to-day

Interested in this itinerary but want to join a small group instead?

Our small group departures follow a similar route at a lower per-person cost.

Learn More

Day by Day

Itinerary

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening, consider visiting the iconic Petronas Towers for a panoramic view of the city skyline.

Kuala Lumpur City Tour
Sandakan & Kinabatangan River Cruise, Malaysia
Kinabatangan River, Malaysia
Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, malaysia
Kota Kinabalu & Kinabalu National Park, malaysia
Mount Kinabalu Trek, malaysia
Rasa Ria, malaysia
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu Airport

Tailor-Made Journey Guidance

Speak to a Travel Specialist

Every journey is private, tailor-made, and planned around your pace, interests, and preferred style of travel. Connect with a destination specialist to begin designing your itinerary.

Emily Watson
Emily WatsonSenior Asia Specialist