Wild Borneo with Kuala Lumpur add-on

Day 2 Kota Kinabalu

On arrival this morning we'll transfer to our hotel. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, one of two Malaysian states on the exotic island of Borneo and our base for the next three nights. Tonight we gather with your fellow travellers to enjoy a sumptuous Malaysian welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll be able to try the iconic Kadaza-Dusun cuisine and try unique Malaysian foods. After dinner enjoy a lively cultural performance of Sabah dancers.

Meals included: D

Day 3 Kota Kinabalu

Today you will visit the beautiful countryside of Kiulu. Entering a local village via a hanging bridge, we will have a scenic walk along the trails in this countryside area away from the crowds of the city. We will take a break at Native Dusun House in Tombung Village where the friendly host will welcome you to the house, and a light refreshment will be served. Visit the farm to experience rubber tapping and its process, and afterwards share life stories and local delicacies. Crossing another bridge the driver will transfer you to a riverside café. The trip ends and lunch is served before relaxing or having a cool dip in the river. We return this afternoon, an evening free at your leisure and find a spot for dinner. As the sun sets, Kota Kinabalu's coastline comes alive with dazzling city lights. Meals included: B,L

Day 4 Papar

Today you’ll travel south towards Papar to a local market, where you will learn about and select fresh ingredients for your cooking session. You will be warmly welcomed into a local home and guided through preparing two traditional dishes commonly enjoyed by the locals. After savouring your own creations along with some tea, enjoy a brief stroll around Papar’s riverfront and a nearby local temple.

We’ll return back to the hotel, where you’ll have this evening at leisure.

Meals included: B,L

Day 5 Kinabalu National Park - Ranau

Kinabalu National Park is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna native to Borneo, including several hundred species that are found only in the park itself. We'll explore on our included guided nature trek along one of the many trails, and also catch a glimpse of Mount Kinabalu, which is South East Asia's highest peak. After a stop at Poring Hot Springs, where you can take a dip in the soothing waters (payable locally), there is the option to take a thrilling walk more than 40 metres up in the canopy of the Menggaris tree – the 'King of the Forest' – for fantastic views.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 6 Ranau - Sandakan

Enjoy scenic views of the Kundasang highlands as we travel by road to Sandakan. We'll stop for lunch in a restaurant before we visit Sandakan Memorial Park. This was built in honour of the Prisoners of War who died in the Sandakan Death Marches during the Second World War.

Meals included: B,L

Day 7 Sandakan - Abai

Borneo is one of two places in the world where the endangered orangutan still lives in the wild, and we'll visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to observe man's closest relative and enjoy a walk in the tropical lowland forest. We'll also head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to see these endearing animals, also known as honey bears, whose numbers are dwindling due to deforestation and poaching.
After lunch, we'll transfer to the jetty in Sandakan, from where we'll cruise up to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary. This wonderful journey takes us on the Sulu Sea and through magnificent mangrove forests. On arrival in Abai, we'll check in at the Kinabatangan Abai Jungle Lodge where later this afternoon we'll head off on a river cruise to search for wildlife. Watch the sunset whilst enjoying a cup of coffee and at night fall, continue the cruise to witness beautiful fireflies.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 8 Abai

Wake up to the wonderful sounds of the rainforest then cruise to the Pitas lake to observe wildlife. We'll head back to the hotel for breakfast.
Back at the lodge perhaps take time to explore the boardwalk behind the lodge, you may be lucky and spot wild orangutan, silver leaf monkeys and many other types of wildlife. We will round off the day with another cruise to see more wildlife.
Meals included: B,L,D

Day 9 Abai - Sukau

During a free morning at the lodge, perhaps join some of your travelling companions and head off to explore your surroundings; stilted paths up to 800 metres long stretch into the forest, and animals often venture quite close.
After lunch, our wildlife search continues as we cruise up river to our next destination, Sukau, for an overnight stay. Here we'll look out for primates, in particular orangutans, as well as pygmy elephants and exotic birds; some of the world's most spectacular species are resident in Borneo.
After checking in to our lodge, we'll take to the water again to enjoy wonderful views and search for exotic wildlife.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 10 Sukau - Sandakan

Today we depart Sukau by land and make our way back to Sandakan. This rest of the day is at leisure before meeting with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner.

Meals included: B,D

Day 11 Kuala Lumpur

Today we will arrive in Kuala Lumpur the vibrant capital of Malaysia, from Sandakan. Immerse yourself in the diverse culture and bustling atmosphere of this magnificent city.

Meals included: B

Day 12 Kuala Lumpur

This morning we embark on a comprehensive city orientation tour of Kuala Lumpur, delving into the rich history and cultural heritage of this dynamic city. Visit the King's Palace, National Monument, Independence Square, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Pasar Seni, and the picturesque Sin Sze Si Ya Temple. Explore the iconic landmarks and gain insights into Malaysia's fascinating past and present.

This evening we enjoy an after-dark city tour, starting with a visit to the tallest tower in Southeast Asia, offering a breath-taking view of the majestic Petronas Twin Towers. Proceed to the magical Saloma Link bridge, illuminated with captivating LED lights. Experience the enchanting ambiance as you stroll across. Then, observe the mesmerizing Lake Symphony water show from the floor of the Petronas Twin Towers. End the evening at the Skybar, where you can relax and enjoy a delightful cocktail before bidding farewell to the night. Meals included: B

Day 13 Kuala Lumpur

Today, is free for you to explore the city. This evening we gather together for a memorable farewell dinner, where you can savor delicious Malaysian cuisine and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your time in Kuala Lumpur. Meals included: B,D

Day 14 Kuala Lumpur - UK

We will transfer to the airport for our flight to the UK. Meals included: B

Day 15 UK

We arrive back in the UK today.

Additional Information

Please note - This tour requires a good degree of physical fitness and is not suitable for anyone with limited mobility. You will be required to board boats and walk a variety of terrain. Most walks take place on paths and tracks, but some will be slightly more strenuous and may involve moderate slopes, tracks, hills and foot bridges, which may be rough underfoot at times. Sturdy shoes are essential.   On the evening of day 6 in Sandakan, all guests will need to pack a small backpack with essential items for the next 4 days. Your main piece of luggage will be kept in the hotel luggage store in Sandakan. This is due to large luggage not being allowed on the boat from Sandakan to Abai.   Due to the incredible natural surroundings of Borneo, some of the hotels we have selected are basic and remote. However, the hotels we have picked are optimised for the itinerary.