Extraordinary  Borneo holidays & tours

Borneo’s tropical climate means that whenever you visit, you can expect high humidity, at around 80% throughout the year, and warm temperatures of around 27-32°c. The rainiest months are between November and February, so the best time to visit Borneo is usually from May to September when the weather is drier. These peak months tend to be busy, but April and early October are quieter without the worst of the rains, and with lush growth in April after the rainy season. It’s also worth checking when Ramadan takes place, although Borneo’s mix of cultures mean restrictions are limited.

With around 220 mammals and 420 species of bird alone, there’s almost too much to list! The big highlights on Borneo wildlife tours include orang-utans and proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo, as well as endangered sun bears, the world’s smallest bear, found in only a few places in South East Asia. Other rare mammals include the nocturnal Western Tarsier and Slow Loris, and the Bornean (or pygmy) elephant. You can also expect to spot long and short-tailed macaques, silverleaf monkeys, flying squirrels, hornbills, green turtles and more – a new bird species, the Spectacled Flowerpecker, was only discovered this century. 

UK citizens do not currently need a visa to Malaysia (including Borneo) for trips of 90 days or less, although you must submit an arrival card online in advance. Requirements can change, though – for the most up-to-date information on visas, please use the quick-check tool on our visa requirements page.

The highlight of most Borneo holidays is the chance to see the country’s astonishing wildlife, from orangutans and proboscis monkeys to sun bears, pygmy elephants and more. But you can also enjoy the tropical beaches on the South China Sea, hiking in the rainforest in the shadow of Mount Kinabalu, cruising along the Kinabatangan River and discovering Borneo’s rich heritage and culture in its cities, Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. 

Borneo’s tropical climate means you’ll want lightweight clothes for the high temperatures and humidity, as well as options which keep you covered up. This is because Borneo tends to be conservative in terms of dress, but also to protect your skin when walking in the rainforest and against insects. High-strength mosquito repellent is essential, particular for the rainforests, any night walks and river cruises, as well as high SPF for any time on the beaches around Kota Kinabalu. A water-resistant daysack and lightweight raincoat are also advisable, even outside the rainiest months.

Public transport is very limited in Borneo outside the cities, although you can get long-distance buses and taxis if you’re travelling independently. There are big distances involved, around 200miles from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, which takes around six hours. As a result, many visitors fly between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, with flight prices often similar to long-distance bus fares if you book well in advance. English is widely spoken which helps when making arrangements but private Borneo tours and escorted tours are the simplest way of planning Borneo holidays, especially if you have limited time.

There are no specific vaccination requirements to enter Borneo, unless you’re coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers are recommended to have the usual course of vaccinations for life in their home country, including boosters for diphtheria and tetanus. Those at higher risk should consider Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and typhoid vaccinations. There is a low risk of malaria in parts of Sabah, but only those at particular risk are recommended antimalarials. Other mosquito-borne diseases include dengue fever and Zika, which is most harmful for pregnant women and unborn children, so insect repellent is essential. 

Borneo society is generally conservative and traditional, although visitors can expect a warm welcome and allowances are made for unintentional mistakes. The two provinces of Malaysian Borneo include a mix of cultures, with the majority Malay followed by Chinese as the second largest ethnic group, then various indigenous groups, often known as Orang Asli (or ‘original people’). All celebrate their own festivals throughout the year, with a mix of religions including Islam, Buddhism, Christianity and Hinduism. Modest dress is advisable, although attitudes are generally more relaxed around beaches. It isn’t customary to tip, except for guides. 

Absolutely, it’s one of the highlights of a trip to Borneo and while you may be lucky enough to see them in the wild, a visit is usually one of the best ways to see these great apes, while also supporting work to protect and rehabilitate them. Not all orangutan sanctuaries follow the same best practices unfortunately, but Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is backed by various charities and ethical organisations, so is one of the top places to visit. If you’re visiting Sarawak, Matang Wildlife Centre near Kuching is another good alternative.