Classic Borneo

10 Days | Get ready to go wild on a journey through Borneo

4.9 out of 5 based on 115 reviews submitted.
Explorer
Wildlife
From
CHF  1,931
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Experience natural wonders and abundant wildlife you can only find in Borneo on this 10-day adventure. Head into lush rainforests, down scenic rivers and through the traditional villages of this beautiful region. Hang out with orangutans in Sepilok, cruise along the Kinabatangan River, chill out on the stunning Manukan Island and get a taste of city life in Kota Kinabalu. There's no doubt that this adventure in Borneo will find its way into your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Trip overview

Map of Classic Borneo including Malaysia
Start
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Finish
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Theme
Explorer, Wildlife
Destinations
Malaysia
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Comfort
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
TMKB
We’re in the process of figuring out how much CO2-e this trip generates. In the meantime, find out more about our climate commitments and carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Visit endangered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, a facility that provides care for orphaned and confiscated primates and other local wildlife.
  • One of the wildest places on earth, Borneo offers rare treats for the nature lover – see sun bears in Sepilok and proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay.
  • Visit the mountainous village of Kampung Kiau where you’ll meet the locals, learn about a social enterprise that empowers women and enjoy a traditional lunch of regional favourites.
  • Search for wildlife when you’re cruising the Kinabatangan River on a water safari and while you’re in the depths of the wilderness at your jungle lodge.
  • During two days on glorious Manukan Island, there's plenty of time to soak up the relaxed beach vibe and to get close to marine life on an included snorkelling trip.

Is this trip right for you?
  • As you travel across Borneo, you'll stay in a variety of different accommodation, from standard hotels, to jungle lodges. Some accommodation may have less amenities than a standard hotel, but the unique locations and proximity to nature make them stand out favourites.
  • This trip doesn't include climbing Mt Kinabalu. If this is something that interests you, check out our Sabah Adventure (TMSC).
  • This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It's all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. There are a few long days of travel, as you'll be covering a lot of ground. You will, however, make stops at interesting locations to break up the longer drives. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

Itinerary

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2024.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2023

Map of Classic Borneo including Malaysia

Inclusions

Meals

9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners

Transport

Boat, Plane, Private mini van

Accommodation

Lodge (1 night), Hotel (4 nights), Resort (4 nights)

Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Kampung Kiau - Coffee production house tour
  • Kampung Kiau - Community-based pineapple project
  • Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Spotting Cruise
  • Kinabatangan River - Morning wildlife spotting cruise
  • Sepilok - Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
  • Sandakan - War Memorial
  • Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
  • Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre
  • Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Manukan Island - Boat trip & snorkelling
Add on activities
  • Kota Kinabalu - Mari Mari Cultural Village (Entrance) - MYR100

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information
3. This trip includes a domestic flight. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. Excess luggage will incur additional fees payable at check in to the airline.
4. Some nationalities may have increased government travel warnings in place for Eastern Sabah. Please check your government’s travel advice and that your travel insurance covers you for travel to Eastern Sabah.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 115 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

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Michelle · Traveled August 2023
I recently took the 10 Day Borneo Comfort Wildlife tour with Intrepid. It was a fantastic adventure! We saw all types of Bornean wildlife including monkeys, birds, a Pygmy elephant and, of course, Orangutans. Our guide Edwin, was professional, knowledgeable and made every aspect of our adventure enjoyable. He took care of all the arrangements which made for a stress free trip. Our "Happy Hour" on the jetty at Manukan Island with wine, live music and a beautiful sunset was the icing on the cake! I highly recommend Intrepid as a tour group. Loved that we only had 12 people.
Review submitted 09 Sep 2023

Joanne · Traveled August 2023
An excellent trip that gives you an great insight into what life is like in Borneo. Full of wildlife and action packed! A must do trip.
Review submitted 30 Aug 2023

Christine · Traveled August 2023
Classic Borneo is an excellent tour showcasing the best of Sabah. Kinabatang River cruising and wildlife spotting, in combination with seeing rehabilitated wildlife at Sandakan and Sepilok are highlights. Mark J is a fantastic tour guide. Highly recommended.
Review submitted 22 Aug 2023

Malcolm · Traveled August 2023
As usual with Intrepid great likeminded adventurous company plus a fantastic fun loving knowledgeable guide in Mark Henson. Did think extra time spent in Kota kannimbula unwarranted though. Maybe a little more jungle hiking instead.
Review submitted 22 Aug 2023

Jeannie · Traveled August 2023
Borneo Classic - see bustling cities, amazing creatures in the jungle and the ocean, together with the solemnity of the history of the Sandakan memorial - all in Borneo - along with friendly, smiling and welcoming people - a truly delightful place to visit.
Review submitted 23 Aug 2023
Classic Borneo
From
CHF  1,931