Classic Borneo

Classic Borneo

1,508 Views
10 Days From

$2680

$2412

Classic Borneo

10 Days Starting in Sandakan, Malaysia and ending in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Visiting: Sandakan, Sepilok, Kinabatangan River, Gomantong Cave, Kundasang, Kundasang War Memorial, Kampung Kiau, Kota Kinabalu, Manukan Island, Sabah Museum, Mari Mari Cultural Village

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TMKB

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

From: $2680 $2412 (USD) Operator discount: -$268

NB: Prices correct on 21-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Classic Borneo" tour and immerse yourself in the natural wonders and cultural richness of Malaysia. Begin your journey in Sandakan, where you'll visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Experience the vibrant local culture with a heritage walk and food tastings. Cruise the Kinabatangan River, spotting wildlife like pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys. Explore the biodiversity of Gomantong Cave and engage with the community at Kampung Kiau. Relax on the pristine beaches of Manukan Island, enjoying snorkelling adventures in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine National Park. Conclude your adventure in the bustling city of Kota Kinabalu, where you can explore local markets and cultural sites. This tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and serene beach relaxation.

Highlights

  • Visit endangered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

  • Learn about a social enterprise that empowers women in Kampung Kiau and enjoy a traditional lunch.

  • Relax on Manukan Island and explore diverse marine life on a snorkelling trip.

  • Cruise the Kinabatangan River to spot pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys.

  • Savour local cuisine during a heritage walk in Sandakan.

  • Explore the Gomantong Cave, home to bats and swiftlets.

  • Experience the vibrant culture and markets of Kota Kinabalu.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Sandakan

Location: Sandakan

Accommodation: Hotel

Selamat datang! Welcome to Malaysia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive before then, feel free to start your Sandakan exploration earlier. This city is celebrated for its seafood so, after your meeting, be sure to ask your leader for tips on where to pick up the freshest catch. Maybe head out to dinner with your group so you can get to know each other.


Included Activities:
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Day 2: Sandakan

Location: Sepilok, Sandakan

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary. Established to help reintroduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or being orphaned, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness conservation in action. From the viewing platform, watch and photograph the orangutans as they swing into view to eat the supplementary diet of fruits that laid out for them twice daily. Next, head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Here, rescued sun bears, many of whom have endured years of mistreatment, are given a second chance at life. Learn about the rehabilitation process and how they are reintroduced back into the wild. You’ll also explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can roam the treetop walkways while you learn more about the flora and birdlife of Borneo.Last, but not least, learn about the city's past as you stand on the same ground as the former Japanese Prisoners of War camp at the Sandakan War Memorial. This site also marks the starting point of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, on which 2400 POWs were forced to walk through the jungles of Borneo.Return to Sandakan for the evening.

Included Activities:
-Sepilok - Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Visit
-Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre Visit
-Sepilok - Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Visit
-Sandakan - War Memorial

Day 3: Sandakan / Kinabatangan River

Location: Sandakan, Kinabatangan River

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Get a sense of Sandakan’s diverse cultural traditions completing a section of the Heritage walk together with your local leader and taste traditional cuisine like roti (flat bread) and teh tarik (hot milk tea). Later, travel to Kinabatangan River in a private transport. Arrive at your jungle lodge beside the river – ideal for taking in your wild surroundings. The Kinabatangan River is a protected forest reserve, containing some of Borneo's highest concentrations of wildlife. In the afternoon, board a river cruise and look out for the more elusive creatures. Wild elephants seldom reveal themselves, but crocodiles, wild orangutans and kingfishers are more easily seen. Tonight, return to the lodge for dinner.

Included Activities:
-Sandakan - Section of the Heritage walk including local tastings
-Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Spotting Cruise

Optional Activities:
-Kinabatangan River - Binocular Hire (Two Days)
-Kinabatangan River - Binocular Hire (One Day)
-Kinabatangan River - Night Wildlife Spotting Cruise

Day 4: Kinabatangan River

Location: Kinabatangan River

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the calls of Bornean gibbons and hornbills before hopping aboard a morning cruise down the river. Keep an eye out for proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques and pig-tailed macaques – your leader will point out the differences between each species. Enjoy some down time to relax and enjoy your surroundings before another afternoon river wildlife cruise. This final cruise will be your last chance to snap some photos of the animals along the river. Enjoy another night in the heart of the jungle.

Included Activities:
-Kinabatangan - River safari Cruise
-Kinabatangan River - Morning wildlife spotting cruise
-Kinabatangan River - Second Afternoon Wildlife spotting cruise

Day 5: Gomantong Cave/ Kundasang

Location: Gomantong Cave, Kundasang, Kundasang War Memorial

Accommodation: Cottage/Resort

Accommodation Name: Cottage/Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Before heading to Kundasang this morning, stop at the Gomantong Cave – the most extensive limestone formation in the Lower Kinabatangan region. Home to a thriving community of bats and swiftlets, this cave boasts fascinating biodiversity. In the afternoon, drive to Kundasang Spend the rest of the day getting your bearings.

Included Activities:
-Kinabatangan - Visit to Gomantong Cave

Optional Activities:
-Kundasang - Kundasang War Memorial

Day 6: Kiau Village / Kota Kinabalu

Location: Kampung Kiau, Kota Kinabalu

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Head west this morning and travel to the rural village of Kampung Kiau. Here, you’ll have the chance to experience a slice of local life by visiting a coffee production house, where you’ll learn about how the beans are cultivated in the region. After, visit Everything Pineapple – a sustainable community-based project that was formed in the aftermath of the 2015 Sabah earthquake to empower local women, socially and economically. Pick up some delicious handmade pineapple jam, chutney or juice. Sit down to a lunch of these dishes in a shady spot shared by the community, then hit the road and drive on to Kota Kinabalu for the night. Perhaps pop into Nabalu Market for a handmade souvenir or a local snack on the way to 'KK'.

Included Activities:
-Kampung Kiau - Everything Pineapple community project visit & lunch

Day 7: Manukan Island

Location: Manukan Island

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a short boat ride this morning to Manukan Island – one of the larger islands found in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine National Park. A paradise of white sand beaches and clear waters, this island is the perfect place for swimming, snorkelling and walking. You can also sit back and unwind with a cocktail on the beach.

Included Activities:
-Manukan Island - Manukan Island Visit

Day 8: Manukan Island

Location: Manukan Island

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

See beneath the surface of Manukan’s waters today on a snorkelling trip with a local guide. Cruise out to the coral reefs where your guide will help you spot brightly coloured marine life. If you’re lucky, you might even bump into a sea turtle while you’re down there! Pull up on the beach for lunch and some time in the sun. After snorkelling, the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Maybe jump straight back in the water or head out for a walk.

Included Activities:
-Manukan Island - Boat trip & snorkelling

Day 9: Kota Kinabalu

Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Museum, Mari Mari Cultural Village

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head back to Kota Kinabalu today by boat and minivan. Modern-day 'KK' is a vibrant modern metropolis, having recovered from World War II bombings. You may like to peruse the local handicraft market on the waterfront or wander around Chinatown at Gaya Street. Or you may prefer to check out the Sabah Museum to learn about Sabah’s past and do some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Anjung Kinabalu. Perhaps round your group up for a final dinner tonight to celebrate all you’ve seen and done on your adventure through Borneo.

Optional Activities:
-Kota Kinabalu - Mari Mari Cultural Village (Entrance)

Day 10: Kota Kinabalu

Location: Kota Kinabalu

Meals Included: Breakfast

With no activities planned for today, your adventure will come to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer

    A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included for arrivals on Day 1 or if pre-tour accommodation is booked through the provider.

  • Sepilok - Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Visit

    Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to see conservation efforts for orphaned and domesticated orangutans.

  • Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre Visit

    Explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre and learn about the flora and birdlife of Borneo.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as binocular hire and night wildlife spotting cruises are not included.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Malaysia are not included.

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Mt Kinabalu National Park - Lower trails guided walk
  • Mt Kinabalu National Park - Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden
  • Dusun Village - Home-cooked lunch
  • Kinabatangan River - Wildlife spotting cruise
  • Kinabatangan River - Wildlife spotting cruise
  • Kinabatangan River - Orang Sungei guided village walk
  • Sandakan - War Memorial
  • Sukau - Gomantong Caves
  • Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
  • Sepilok - Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
  • Tunku Abdul National Marine Park - Boat trip & snorkelling

Transport

  • Boat , Plane , Private mini van

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. Some nationalities may have increased government travel warnings in place for Eastern Sabah. Please check your government’s travel advice and that your travel insurance covers you for travel to Eastern Sabah.
  • 4. Sandakan can be reached via flight from Kuala Lumpur on airlines like Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air and AirAsia.

Mode of Transport

Transportation on this tour includes travel by boat and private mini van, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey between destinations. This combination allows for both scenic waterway exploration and efficient overland travel.

Accommodation

Accommodation throughout the tour varies, with stays in hotels, lodges, and resorts. While the itinerary provides a guideline, alternative arrangements may be made if preferred accommodations are unavailable. Early arrivals may require luggage storage until check-in, with shared day rooms available on some trips.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Kinabatangan River cruises?

    During the Kinabatangan River cruises, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, pig-tailed macaques, crocodiles, wild orangutans, and kingfishers. While wild elephants are more elusive, they are also present in the area.

  • What activities are included on Manukan Island?

    On Manukan Island, you will have the opportunity to enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and walking along the white sand beaches. There is also a snorkelling trip with a local guide to explore the coral reefs and spot marine life, including the possibility of seeing a sea turtle.

  • What is the purpose of the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre?

    The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is established to help reintroduce orangutans back into the wild after they have been orphaned or domesticated. It provides a unique opportunity to witness conservation efforts in action.

  • What can I learn at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre?

    At the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, you can learn about the rehabilitation process for rescued sun bears, many of whom have endured years of mistreatment. The centre works to reintroduce these bears back into the wild.

  • What is the Everything Pineapple project in Kampung Kiau?

    The Everything Pineapple project in Kampung Kiau is a sustainable community-based initiative formed after the 2015 Sabah earthquake. It aims to empower local women socially and economically by producing handmade pineapple products like jam, chutney, and juice.

  • What is the significance of the Sandakan War Memorial?

    The Sandakan War Memorial stands on the site of the former Japanese Prisoners of War camp and marks the starting point of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, where 2400 POWs were forced to walk through the jungles of Borneo.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

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24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

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I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

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V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

john whelan (Google Reviewer)  

We booked the 10 day...

28-Feb-2025

We booked the 10 day Group Explorer package with them for Vietnam and Wow !!! . It was fantastic. We were initially a bit anxious, but that all settled after day one. There is a fair bit of travelling and moving involved, but we'll woth it as you get to see and experience loads .Our Guide Huy was brilliant and looked after us really well from local knowledge to restaurants and tour information and activities . It's worth doing folks with intrepid . Well done, keep up that standard of service.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

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Declan Curry (Google Reviewer)  

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07-Feb-2025

I have recently completed the Premium India In Depth tour. A most wonderful introduction to this amazing continent. From the Taj Mahal to Tigers 🐅 in the wild , dining whe the locals eat and a couple of meals with families was a great way to embrace the people and their culture. Magnificent architecture,be it Forts or Shrines. The most informative and inspiring of guides was great to have with us. Mumbai to Delhi and 6 more cities plus A Safari included. Best trip to experience India 🇮🇳. Prepare to have all your senses assaulted . Go for it.

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Monday

May 03, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$3065 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 07, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$3095 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 10, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$3080 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 12, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$3080 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 17, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$2730 $2457 (USD)

Operator discount: -$273 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 21, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$3060 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
$2824 $2542 (USD)

Operator discount: -$282 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
$2680 $2412 (USD)

Operator discount: -$268 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit for future tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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