Borneo is a bucket list destination for many, synonymous with orangutans and rainforest lodges. It is the third largest island in the world and is divided into thirds belonging to Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.
Borneo has one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is known for its biodiversity. But it has not been without problems. Oil palm plantations have taken over an important part of the forest, significantly affecting the animals found there.
The good news is that the government and local charities are taking conservation and reforestation seriously, ensuring that this island can continue to offer unique tourism experiences.
March, April and May are Best times to visit Borneo. These months have less rainfall and temperatures are not relatively as high as in summer. May and September can also be a little cheaper and less competitive when it comes to secure accommodation. You’ll also be able to enjoy smaller crowds at popular tourist spots.
Malaysian Borneo is home to two popular holiday destinations: Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu, both in the Sabah region in the north of the island. During our family trip to the island, we visit the recommendations below.
Part One: Rainforest Adventures near Sandakan
Our first base was near Sandakan, specifically the small town of Sepilok, where we had many opportunities to observe wildlife and immerse ourselves in nature. Sepilok Forest Edge Resort offers an incredible accommodation experience in the Borneo rainforest, located in Sandakan and just a 20-minute drive from Sandakan Airport.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, formerly known as Pusat Pemuliharaan Orang Utan Sepilok, was established in 1964 by Barbara Harrison, an English woman. This center cares for orphaned and injured orangutans and prepares them to return to the rainforest, if possible.
You can visit the center with a guide or on your own. Guides are often much better at spotting orangutans in the trees. Their red hair camouflages them well against branches, so they are not always easy to see. Food is placed on raised platforms twice during the day; Be sure to check when the feeding times are as you are most likely to see orangutans.
Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Sanctuary
You won’t have to go far to reach the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Sanctuary – it’s just across the car park from the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
Sun bears are the world’s smallest breed and the second most endangered. Their name comes from the golden crescent shape on their chest. Most bears here were previously kept as pets or by people who wanted to trade their body parts (particularly the gallbladder) for medicinal use. By visiting the center, you will support the center in caring for the bears and drawing attention to the practices that have harmed them.
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Additionally, in Sepilok, the Rainforest Discovery Center is where you can learn more about the ecosystems and biodiversity of Borneo’s rainforests.
The center features a canopy walkway, allowing you to experience the rainforest from a different perspective. They can walk through the rainforest canopy and hopefully spot some wildlife. The indoor section of the center also features displays and exhibits that provide information on the flora and fauna of Borneo and the conservation challenges facing the rainforest.
The Rainforest Discovery Center also offers many nature trails with wildlife and bird watching opportunities. Consider booking a night tour of the trails here, where you’ll hopefully be able to spot some of Borneo’s nocturnal animals.
Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
Located in Labuk Bay, about 38 kilometers from Sandakan, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is a private reserve that is home to these strange-looking creatures. Proboscis monkeys are endemic to Borneo and easily recognized by their large, distinctive noses!
There are two viewing platforms and several feeding times per day (these complement the monkey’s natural diet); try scheduling your visit with one of these. Make sure you have your camera ready; We have some great photos here.
Part Two: Exploring the Kinabatangan River
The Kinabatangan River is one of the main rivers in Borneo and the longest in Sabah. It is a fantastic place for river cruises and wildlife viewing. It is a hotspot of biodiversity and home to many of Borneo’s endemic residents, including the hornbill, orangutan, pygmy elephant, proboscis monkey, crocodile and more.
Due to the importance of the Kinabatangan River in terms of biodiversity, conservation efforts are being made to protect the animals’ natural habitats. Several tour operators offer river cruises on the Kinabatangan River.
The best way to experience the Kinabatangan River is to stay in a waterfront lodge. We stayed at Sukau Rainforest Lodge, where David Attenborough stayed when he filmed in Borneo. Stays typically include wildlife walks and river cruises with a guide. The Kinabatangan River is a highlight for birdwatchers as early morning boat tours allow you to see many different species.
Part Three: Discovering the wonders of nature in Kota Kinabalu
You can fly from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu (the plane ride takes less than an hour) or travel by car (hire a driver, taxi or rental car).
The road between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu is uncomfortable and takes four to five hours. However, traveling by car allows you to stop and see the following places of interest: Sabah Tea Resort, Gomantong Caves and Agnes Keith House.
We stayed at the Shangri La Rasa Ria in Koto Kinabalu.
Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is part of Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At 4,095 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in Malaysia and the third highest in Southeast Asia.
Climbing to the top of Mount Kinabalu is a popular activity. You’ll need a climbing permit and a guide, so it’s best to book through a tour operator who can organize everything for you. The most popular climbing route is the Summit Trail, which will take you to Low’s Peak, the highest point on Mount Kinabalu.
Most climbers choose to do a two-day climb, starting early in the morning to reach the summit at dawn on the second day. You can book a stay at Laban Rata (basic but sufficient accommodation), about 3,273 meters up the mountain.
You will need to be in shape to reach the top. Although the climb is challenging, the views from the top of the mountain are unbeatable.
If you don’t want to climb a mountain, there are also many great trails in the national park. These will allow you to see much of the local flora and fauna, such as carnivorous plants and orchids. You may even see a Rafflesia flower in the area. Guides tend to inform each other when one blooms locally.
poring hot springs
Poring Hot Springs is about 136 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu. You’ll find natural hot springs and enjoy bathing in the pools (great if you’ve just climbed Mount Kinabalu), surrounded by lush tropical forests.
Here there is a canopy walkway (one of the longest in Southeast Asia), a butterfly farm, gardens, and plenty of walking trails. Poring Hot Springs also has locker rooms and a restaurant, making it a great place to comfortably spend the day.
Sabah, Malaysia: An Adventure in the North Borneo Rainforest
In North Borneo, you are guaranteed once-in-a-lifetime experiences when it comes to wildlife viewing. Not only that, this island also offers excellent opportunities to learn about conservation and reforestation. So if Borneo isn’t on your bucket list yet, add it and plan your trip soon.
TheFamilyConscience.com is a family adventure and parenting travel blog. I am a social worker and mother of two children, a teenager and a preteen. I am especially interested in sustainable and educational trips.
