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Orangutans and eco-islands: Borneo's best experiences

Explore Borneo with our small group tours across Sabah and Sarawak, which include Wildlife and Family ranges. Discover lush rainforests, rare wildlife and authentic cultural experiences.

Written by: Caitlin Middleton - Product Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
Published: 5 December 2025

 

Tucked away in the heart of Southeast Asia, the island of Borneo is one of the world’s last great wildernesses. It’s a land of emerald-green rainforests, tropical beaches and rare wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Famous for orangutans, vibrant tribal culture and spectacular biodiversity, Borneo is untouched by mass tourism and best explored on a group trip, guaranteeing an authentic yet responsible experience.

 

From river cruises to canopy walks and eco-island stays, here are Borneo’s best travel experiences:

1. Watch orangutans in their natural environment

There’s so much to see on our tours to Borneo – orangutans, monkeys and exotic birds are just the start. On our family Borneo tour, visit the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah, where rescued and orphaned orangutans learn to return to the wild.

 

On our Borneo wildlife tours, you’ll also get to see these gentle giants up close in their natural environment. It's a truly unforgettable experience that highlights the importance of conservation in this fragile ecosystem.

 

Pictured: Orangutan swinging from tree to tree

View our family Borneo wildlife adventure tour

2. Cruise through Bako National Park

One of Borneo’s oldest national parks, Bako in Sarawak is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Glide along mangrove-fringed waterways, where you might spot proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs and colourful kingfishers.

 

Our expert local guides help you uncover the park’s secrets, from hidden waterfalls to rare pitcher plants, all while travelling in the most sustainable way possible.

 

Pictured: Unique-shaped rock jutting out of the water in Bako National Park, Sarawak

view our borneo sarawak highlights tour

3. Sleep in a longhouse

To truly understand Borneo, spend a night in a local homestay. In the heart of Sarawak, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional village, sharing meals and stories with your hosts.

 

It’s a genuine opportunity to connect with local communities, learn about daily life and experience Borneo’s warmth and hospitality first-hand.

 

Pictured: Traditional longhouse in Sarawak

view our borneo sarawak and sabah discovery tour

4. Follow a canopy walkway

Venture high above the forest floor on a canopy walkway in the Mulu National Park. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, you’ll walk among ancient trees alive with butterflies, birds and gibbons.

 

It’s one of the most memorable ways to experience the beauty of Borneo’s untouched wilderness.

 

Pictured: Rocky pinnacles in Mulu National Park

5. Tuck into authentic and fusion food

Borneo’s cuisine is as diverse as its people – a mouthwatering mix of Malaysian, Chinese and indigenous flavours. Feast on aromatic laksa in Kuching, sample satay skewers from a bustling night market or try fresh seafood by the coast.

 

Our tours introduce you to both authentic home-cooked dishes and creative fusion meals – a delicious reflection of Borneo’s unique culture.

 

Pictured: Local food at a nightmarket

6. Watch proboscis monkeys

With their long noses and pot bellies, proboscis monkeys are one of Borneo’s most endearing creatures. Spot them lounging in the treetops or leaping between branches along the Kinabatangan River.

 

Early morning or sunset river cruises offer the best chance to see proboscis monkeys – often alongside crocodiles, hornbills and macaques.

 

Pictured: Proboscis monkey

view our borneo sabah wildlife highlights tour

"Highlights were seeing a group of silver leaf monkeys in the trees just above our heads, a pygmy elephant on the riverbank, wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, rhinoceros hornbills..."


 

7. Eat lunch with the Dusun tribe

In the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, join members of the Dusun tribe for a home-cooked lunch. You’ll learn about their traditional farming methods, try locally grown produce and experience Borneo’s community spirit.

 

It’s a chance to exchange stories and enjoy true local hospitality – these are the moments that make our tours to Borneo so memorable.

 

Pictured: Kota Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu)

8. Go birdwatching in Tabin Wildlife Reserve

For bird lovers, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is a paradise. Over 300 species, from rare hornbills to colourful broadbills, thrive here. With your naturalist guide, explore the forest trails and listen to the chorus of exotic calls echoing through the trees.

 

Even non-birders find themselves captivated by the diversity and energy of this wild haven.

 

Pictured: Hornbill in tropical rainforest

9. Go on a guided nightwalk

When the sun goes down, the rainforest truly comes alive. On a guided nightwalk, your torchlight might reveal slow lorises, flying squirrels and luminous fungi glowing beneath the trees.

 

It’s an atmospheric and exciting way to see Borneo’s nocturnal world and understand just how rich its ecosystems are.

 

Pictured: Lang Cave, Mulu National Park

10. Stay on an eco-island

End your adventure with a stay on a Bornean eco-island, where pristine beaches meet turquoise waters. Relax in sustainable lodges, snorkel above coral reefs and fall asleep to the sound of waves.

 

Ara Dinawan Island is the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, and a reminder that responsible travel can still feel like paradise.

 

Pictured: Snorkelling water fun - this could be you!

11. Visit the Sun Bear Conservation Centre

At the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sepilok, you’ll meet the world’s smallest bears and learn about efforts to protect them.

 

Watching these playful creatures forage and climb is both heartwarming and eye-opening, a testament to the power of conservation done right.

 

Pictured: Malaysian sun bear, Sepilok

Who can join our Borneo tours?

Solo travellers

Our Borneo tours are perfect for solo travellers looking to explore with like-minded travellers. A two-week trip is just about enough to immerse yourself in the wonders of this lush paradise and our expert leaders and ready-set itineraries take the stress out of planning, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure.

Everything you need to know about our solo-friendly adventures

 

Over 50s

Our small group tours to Borneo draw a mix of travellers of all ages and walks of life, particularly those in their 40s to 60s. Our itineraries are perfect for those who like to travel at a comfortable pace, with everything taken care of, from the local transport to the accommodation.

These are the best trips for over 50s

 

Families

Our family-friendly Borneo tour has been designed with curious kids and nature-loving parents in mind. Borneo is a safe destination, and you can expect a warm greeting from the locals – our expert guides are with you every step of the way, so you can enjoy undisturbed family time, immersed in nature.

This is what you need to know about our family small group tours

 

 

What are the best places to visit in Borneo?

Sabah

Sabah, in Malaysian Borneo’s north, is the gateway to incredible wildlife and landscapes. Wander the markets of Kota Kinabalu, visit Sepilok’s famous orangutan and sun bear centres, and cruise along the Kinabatangan River.

Discover the best things to do in Sabah on our dedicated small group tour

 

Sarawak

Sarawak’s charm lies in its culture and wilderness. The riverside city of Kuching is a delight to explore, with colonial architecture and vibrant food markets, before you journey deeper into Bako or Mulu National Parks for lush rainforest trails, cave systems and wildlife galore.

Uncover the wildlife-rich Sarawak on our dedicated small group tour

Don't just travel, Explore!

Our small group tours to Borneo bring you closer to the island’s heart, from rare wildlife and jungle adventures to local connections and authentic accommodation. As a certified B Corp travel company, we’re proud to support communities and protect the places we visit.

 

With expert guides, thoughtfully crafted itineraries and sustainable stays, you’ll see Borneo the Explore way: up close, meaningful and unforgettable.

View our Borneo tours

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