Borneo! What a cool tropical island destination! With the northern most territory being Malaysian and the southernmost Indonesian, Borneo is the best place in the world to see orangutans in the wild. Whilst orangutans are most definitely one of the main attractions, Borneo also has the added attraction of climbing Mt Kinabalu, beautiful beach relaxation, rainforest lodges, pygmy elephants and more.
Most Borneo safari holidays are a mixture of the highlights mentioned above spending some time in the capital of Kota Kinabalu and making your way eastwards. A much larger destination than you would anticipate, spend time enjoying the orangutans at Sepilok rehabilitation centre, explore the Kinabatangan River on a boat safari taking in pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and more, and then make your way to the largest tract of remaining rainforest Danum Valley, where wild orangutans and more abide.
For when to go to Borneo, we recommend between the months of April to December therefore avoiding the tropical storm months outside of this period. There is no ‘best time’ to see orangutans, it really comes down to where you go, with the best places to see orangutans being along the Kinabatangan River or the vast Danum Valley. Water and food sources such as fruiting trees is what attracts the orangutans so if pushed, maybe the months of April to August are marginally better.
Most properties are of similar standards in Borneo with our best places to stay including Sepilok Nature Resort for access to the rehabilitation centre, Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge for those awesome river safaris, Borneo Rainforest Lodge to access Danum Valley, and Bunga Raya for a slice of tropical island relaxation.
The safaris below showcase a few ways of combining the best of Borneo. Please note however these are intended as a guide only and can be completely tailored to your specific requirements. Contact us for a bespoke quote.
A Sample of our Borneo Safari Packages
Short Borneo Safari
Explore the ancient jungle in search of the swinging orangutans; this safari is perfect for families with just the right mix of wildlife and adrenaline.From $7,142 per person
Luxury Borneo Safari
This spectacular two-week luxury adventure takes you into Borneo’s ancient rainforests and along the Kinabatangan River in search of orangutans, proboscis monkey and pygmy elephants.From $17,360 per person
Borneo Rare Wildlife Safari
Embark on a tailor-made Borneo safari in search of the elusive clouded leopard, sun bears, and rare nocturnal species. Explore Deramakot, the Kinabatangan River, and Danum Valley on night drives and jungle treks for an unparalleled wildlife experience.From $17,500 per person
Borneo Photographic Safari
Join us on this photographic safari, specialist-led by a seasoned professional in the realm of photography, Charlie Ryan.From $8,910 per person
We will only work with the best guides and most eco-conscious operators and will always put the protection of the rainforest and its inhabitants above commercial interests. Visit the Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to learn about the work done to protect these endangered species.
Wealth of Experience
To sell Borneo well, you need to know it from the ground upwards; this unique destination is forever changing. Through our years of experience designing safaris and time spent on the ground, we are experts in putting you in the right place at the right time to witness the wildlife in its natural environment, be it orangutans in the misty rainforests or sea turtles in the turquoise waters
Tailored Safaris
Share your interests with our Destination Specialists and we will match you to the in-country experts, providing you with nothing but the best access and highly experienced wildlife trackers and guides. Using first-hand knowledge, we offer Borneo safari holidays that steer clear of the mass market. Our exceptional selection of personally and privately run jungle lodges and bespoke experiences allows you to create a unique itinerary tailored to your specific needs.