Incredible Borneo, Malaysia
Incredible Borneo, Malaysia
Incredible Borneo, Malaysia
11 Days Starting and ending in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Visiting: Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Kinabatangan River, Selingan Turtle Island Chalet, Mari Mari Cultural Village, Nabalu, Kinabalu GeoPark, Poring Hot Spring
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MAL3
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 42
Physical rating:
Low, Easy
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$3249
$1738 (USD)
Operator discount: -$1462
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$49
-47%
Tour Overview
Come join Travel Talk Tours on an 11-day expedition that will transport you through the captivating landscapes of Borneo and Malaysia. This remarkable odyssey promises to be a symphony of diverse cultures, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and immersive experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Our meticulously crafted itinerary invites you to explore the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, venture into the wilds of Sandakan, navigate the picturesque Kinabatangan River, bask in the pristine beauty of Selingan Island, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Each destination on this journey offers a unique facet of Southeast Asia’s diverse wonders, where ancient rainforests, exotic wildlife, and indigenous cultures await your discovery. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature enthusiast, a culture aficionado, or simply seeking relaxation, this 11-day tour promises a captivating and enriching exploration of Borneo and Malaysia’s boundless treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Kota Kinabalu
Location: Kota Kinabalu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kota City Centre – 4 Star
Meals Included: No Meals
Greetings, Malaysia! Upon your arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport, you will receive a warm meet-and-greet by our guide in the arrival hall. From there, we’ll smoothly transition to your designated vehicle for a convenient transfer to your hotel. Once at the hotel, you’ll complete the check-in process, and the remainder of the day is yours to unwind and enjoy at your own pace. Rest well for the night, as you anticipate the adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan ( By Flight), Kinabatangan River
Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kinabatangan
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Borneo Nature Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy your morning meal (packaged for convenience). Our team will pick you up from the hotel to catch an early flight to Sandakan. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you at the arrivals hall, and you’ll embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the charming countryside adorned with villages.
A brief boat transfer will then take you to the Borneo Nature Lodge or a similar accommodation. Get oriented, savor a satisfying lunch, and complete the check-in process. Bask by the riverside, embracing the tranquil atmosphere, before setting off at 4:00 PM on a boat journey up the Kinabatangan River, the longest river in Sabah. This expedition offers a chance to witness the vibrant wildlife and diverse bird species that inhabit the untouched rainforest surroundings.
Day 3: Kinabatangan River
Location: Kinabatangan River
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Borneo Nature Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Awaken to the harmonious melodies of birds, insects, and creatures of the wild. Begin your day at 6:00 AM with a morning cruise up the Kinabatangan River, extending your journey to the Kelenanap Ox-Bow Lake. Here, indulge in bird watching and the search for various wildlife species. Conditions permitting, embark on a brief jungle stroll, immersing yourself in the untamed beauty of Borneo’s wilderness. Afterward, return to the lodge for a satisfying breakfast.
The rest of the day is yours to explore the surroundings or venture into the nearby village at your own pace. As the afternoon mellows, embark on another boat cruise at 4:00 PM, meandering along the river’s gentle currents.
Day 4: Kinabatangan River, Selingan Island
Location: Kinabatangan River, Selingan Turtle Island Chalet
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Selingan Island Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following an early breakfast at the resort, set out from Sukau at 6:30 AM to catch the scheduled 9:30 AM boat bound for Selingan Island. Upon arrival, proceed with registration at the Turtle Island Parks HQ and complete the check-in process.
The afternoon presents a leisurely opportunity to unwind at your own pace. Embrace activities like swimming and snorkeling, immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty. As evening approaches, ensure you have your essentials, as the ranger will call you after dinner for the remarkable experience of observing turtle nesting. Witness the transfer of the precious eggs to the hatchery.
A helpful note: When packing for your overnight stay on Turtle Island, remember to bring only essentials, as there are no porters available on the island to assist with luggage.
Day 5: Selingan, Sandakan
Location: Selingan Turtle Island Chalet, Sandakan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sabah Hotel – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set off at 6:30 AM after your check-out, enjoying a wholesome breakfast. Thereafter, embark on a boat journey back to the mainland of Sandakan. A drive of approximately thirty minutes takes you to the renowned Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre, a sanctuary for orphaned and injured orangutans.
By 2:00 PM, post-lunch, prepare for a captivating city tour that uncovers the iconic landmarks of Sandakan. The exploration might encompass the bustling Central Market, where an astonishing array of fresh seafood and agricultural products await. Continue to the distinctive Sim-Sim Water Village.
Day 6: Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu ( By Flight )
Location: Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kota City Centre – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Savor a delightful breakfast to start your day. At the scheduled time, we’ll arrange your transfer from Sandakan Airport to Kota Kinabalu. Upon your arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport, our team will be ready to take you to your hotel, ensuring a seamless check-in experience.
By 6:00 PM, your evening adventure begins as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the colorful night market, a treasure trove of trinkets and souvenirs waiting to be discovered. Observe the city’s nightlife come to life as it sparkles in all its glory. Following this, relish a delectable dinner that awaits you.
Day 7: Kota Kinbalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour
Location: Kota Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kota City Centre – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, we embark on a voyage to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, nestled in a secluded forest enclave in Kionsom, Inanam, just 25 minutes from the city. Upon our arrival, we’ll be guided through a diverse array of traditional homes representing Sabahan ethnic communities including the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Our friendly village guide will provide a comprehensive introduction to each house, revealing customs, and ceremonial practices that acquaint us with the distinct culture of each tribe.
By 1:00 PM, we’ll ensure your seamless return to your Kota Kinabalu hotel. The afternoon invites you to leisurely explore or unwind, setting the stage for a restful overnight stay.
Day 8: Kota Kinabalu, Nabalu Market, Mount Kinabalu National Park
Location: Kota Kinabalu, Nabalu, Kinabalu GeoPark
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Kinabalu Pine Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Prepare to depart as you head to the vehicle that will facilitate your transfer to Kundasang. Embark on a picturesque 2-hour journey to Kinabalu Park, tracing the mountainous roads that meander along the Crocker range. The route is adorned with charming villages and paddy fields that paint a captivating landscape.
En route, a brief interlude awaits at Nabalu Market. This vibrant gathering spot for the local natives showcases an array of regional produce, fruits, homegrown vegetables, and handicraft souvenirs. It’s also an opportune moment to capture breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu, rendering unforgettable memories.
The day transitions into evening, and your journey takes you to a hotel or resort in Kundasang.
Day 9: Mount Kinabalu National Park, Poring Hot Springs, Mount Kinabalu National Park
Location: Kinabalu GeoPark, Poring Hot Spring, Kinabalu GeoPark
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Kinabalu Pine Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Proceed on a drive to the rejuvenating Poring Hot Springs. Your midday meal will be served at the Poring Hot Spring Restaurant. After you’ve satisfied your appetite, an essential highlight awaits—the Canopy Walkway. A hike of approximately 20-30 minutes is required to reach this captivating structure, affixed to Menggaris trees.
The next captivating attraction on your itinerary is the Butterfly Farm. It encompasses a garden, nursery, and hatchery dedicated to education, research, and preservation. Following this, you have the opportunity to indulge in a soothing soak in an open-air Japanese-style bathtub. After a restful soak, we’ll transfer you back to your resort. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the resort at your leisure, embracing its offerings.
Day 10: Mount Kinabalu National Park, Kota Kinabalu
Location: Kinabalu GeoPark, Kota Kinabalu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kota City Centre – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy a satisfying breakfast. The day unfolds with the freedom to leisurely explore the resort and its environs. At 11:00 AM, we commence our journey back to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu City. Upon arrival, we’ll facilitate a seamless check-in process, ensuring your comfort for the night ahead. Rest well as you settle in for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 11: Kota Kinabalu
Location: Kota Kinabalu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Enjoy your free time at your own pace until it’s time for your departure transfer to Kota Kinabalu Airport, approximately 3 hours before your estimated time of departure. A
As your journey through the captivating landscapes of Malaysia and Borneo comes to an end, take with you a treasure trove of memories until your next trip!
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 star hotels & Lodges.
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Meals
10 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches & 6 Dinners.
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Transportation
A/C, modern coach or mini-bus.
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Airport Transfer
Arrival and Departure transfers on first and last day of the trip.
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced tour guides.
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Flights
Flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
What's Not Included
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Any flights not mentioned above
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Travel Insurance
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Meals not stated above
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Items of a personal nature
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Tips and gestures
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Entrance fees to the sights and museums
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Optional activities
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Other services not stated in the itinerary
Add Ons
Local Payment: £0
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
Average group size is around 12-42 people
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Are flights included in this tour?
Flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No passenger under the age of 18
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
Yes
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
Reviews of this Operator
Dates & Availability
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Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 24, 2024Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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