Borneo is the third largest island in the world and is located just north of Java and Sumatra. The island is divided between three countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Borneo is home to a wide variety of unique animals, including Orangutans, pygmy elephants, red leaf monkeys, and more. In addition, the island boasts some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world. My trip to Borneo is without a doubt in my top 3 trips of all time, and it’s one that I continually recommend to changemakers interested in connecting with nature. Borneo offers an ideal destination for outdoor adventures, from hiking and jungle trekking to snorkeling and diving, and in addition to its natural beauty, Borneo also provides an opportunity to experience and witness the impacts of pressing environmental issues such as palm oil deforestation. So, here’s a little run down of the highlights of a trip to Malaysian Borneo:
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state in the northern part of the island of Borneo. Often referred to as KK, it’s a coastal city partly surrounded by rainforest. In KK, you can jump on a ferry for a half-day trip to Manukan Island. Manukan Island is a popular tourist destination located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the area. There are also a number of beaches on the island where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Manukan Island is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a day.
While in Kota Kanabalu, you’ll want to hike up Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu is one of the tallest mountains in Southeast Asia, and hikers from all over the world come to test their mettle on its slopes. The summit hike is a challenging but rewarding experience, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. If you’re planning on hiking Mount Kinabalu, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take upwards of eight hours. Second, be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing; even if it’s sunny at the base of the mountain, it can be quite cold at the summit. Finally, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to acclimatise to the altitude; Mount Kinabalu is nearly 4 kilometers high, and altitude sickness is a real risk for those who try to ascend too quickly. With a little preparation, though, hiking Mount Kinabalu is an experience you’ll never forget.
Mulu National Park
Mulu National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, and it was definitely the highlight of my trip! Situated in the heart of the rainforest, the park is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life. You can explore caves, hike through jungle trails, and see rare animals in their natural habitat. One of the highlights of a visit to Mulu National Park is a trip to Deer Cave, the largest cave in the world. You can also take a boat ride down the Clearwater River to see some of the park’s unique rock formations. One of the highlights is watching the thousands upon thousands of bats flying out of the cave at sunset; the wavy formation that they create is quite a mesmerising spectacle!
Mulu National Park is a popular destination for jungle trekking and hiking, and there are a variety of trails to suit all fitness levels. One of the most popular attractions in Mulu National Park is the trek to the summit of Gunung Mulu, which offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. Another popular hike is to the Pinnacles, a series of limestone formations that rise up from the jungle floor. Whatever trail you choose to follow, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring the wonders of Mulu National Park.
Kuching
Kuching is the capital of the state of Sarawak, Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo. The city is renowned for its fusion of cultures, with a majority Chinese population and influences from Malay, Indian and indigenous Bornean cultures. Kuching is also a gateway to some of the most incredible natural attractions in Borneo, including rainforests, mountains and national parks. Here are just a few of the many reasons to explore Kuching on your next trip to Borneo.
To get a taste of Chinese culture in Kuching, head to the Chinese History Museum or the Kuang San Sze Ya Temple. For a glimpse of Indian culture, pay a visit to the Sri Lakshmi Narayan Hindu Temple. To learn more about the indigenous people of Borneo, take a tour of the Sarawak Museum or go on an Iban longhouse tour. And of course, no trip to Kuching would be complete without seeing some of the amazing wildlife that inhabits the rainforests of Borneo. You’ll want to add Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans in their natural habitat, which is truly magical.
Orangutans are gentle giants and intelligent apes that are native to this Southeast Asian island. There are two species of orangutans: the Bornean orangutan and the Sumatran orangutan. Both are endangered due to habitat loss from human activity, such as deforestation for palm oil plantations. However, there are still plenty of places in Borneo where you can see these incredible animals in their natural habitat. The best time to see orangutans is from April to October when they congregate near fruit trees. However, even outside of this season, you can often spot orangutans at rehabilitation centers and sanctuaries where they’re being cared for after being displaced from their homes. So, if you’re interested in getting up close and personal with one of our closest living relatives, add seeing orangutans in Borneo to your travel bucket list!
Bako National Park is also a great place to visit, and to spot proboscis monkeys! Bako National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, and it’s accessible from Kuching as a day trip. The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including monkeys, lizards, snakes, and over 150 species of birds. You can explore rainforests, mangroves, and sandy beaches, or take a boat ride through the park’s waterways. There are also several trails that wind through the wilderness, providing stunning views of the coastline. Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing nature walk, Bako National Park is sure to please.
