BORNEO

Malaysian Borneo is the most visited part of the island but still far from the crowds making it ideal for both first-time visitors and experienced adventurers. Here, you can combine jungle adventures, mountain trekking, wildlife encounters and visits on tropical island. I't the perfect place to go off the beaten track without ever feeling lost. 

For many travellers, the adventure begins in Malaysian Borneo, which consists of the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Infrastructure is generally well developed, transportation is relatively straightforward and the range of experiences is impressive. 

Kota Kinabalu: The capital of Sabah

Located on the shores of the South China Sea and surrounded by mountains, jungle and islands, the capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, offers the perfect balance between nature and modern comforts.

Explore bustling local markets, enjoy freshly caught seafood or take a day trip to the nearby islands. The city is also a popular base for rainforest excursions, river safaris and adventures around Mount Kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the easiest places on Borneo to combine outdoor adventure with comfortable accommodation, vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options.

Sarawak: Rainforests, caves and culture

On the western side of Malaysian Borneo lies Sarawak, a region that often feels more laid-back and less visited than Sabah.

Its capital, Kuching, is known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic waterfront and fascinating mix of Malay, Chinese and indigenous cultures. The city serves as a gateway to many of Sarawak’s natural attractions.

One of the most impressive is Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its vast cave systems, dramatic limestone formations and pristine rainforest landscapes.

Sarawak is also one of the best places to learn about Borneo’s indigenous communities, including the various Dayak groups who have lived in close connection with the rainforest for generations.

While Sabah and Sarawak attract most visitors, some of Borneo’s most authentic experiences can be found in Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of the island.

Covering the majority of Borneo’s landmass, Kalimantan is characterised by immense forests, winding rivers and far fewer tourists. Travelling here is often less about famous attractions and more about immersing yourself in some of Southeast Asia’s most untouched natural environments.

Exploring Kalimantan may require a little more planning, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Tanjung Puting and orangutans

One of Kalimantan’s most famous attractions is Tanjung Puting National Park.

Visitors typically explore the park aboard traditional klotok riverboats, which often serve as both transport and accommodation. Along the way, you can visit feeding stations and areas where orangutan sightings are common.

The park protects one of the world’s most important habitats for the Bornean orangutan and offers excellent opportunities to observe other wildlife in a truly wild setting.

Rivers, villages and Dayak culture

Many of Kalimantan’s greatest experiences are found along its rivers, which have served as the region’s primary transportation routes for centuries.

Travelling inland provides opportunities to visit Dayak communities, explore traditional longhouses and gain insight into cultures that remain deeply connected to the natural environment.

Rivers such as the Mahakam open the door to remote areas rarely visited by international travellers, offering a glimpse of the Borneo many people dream of discovering.

Diving and island life in Eastern Kalimantan

Off Kalimantan’s east coast lie the Derawan Islands, one of Indonesia’s lesser-known diving destinations.

Here you'll find crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs, sea turtles and an abundance of marine life. Compared with some of Indonesia’s more famous islands, the area remains relatively peaceful and attracts fewer visitors, making it ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds.