A haven for wildlife, surely Borneo’s most coveted attraction is its unspoilt rainforests. The island’s orangutans are its most famous inhabitant, but its rich cultural tapestry and fascinating history are also key incentives for travellers.
Where the jungle meets the coast you’ll discover pristine beaches and coral reefs, a paradise retreat in a natural, exotic location. This ‘off the beaten track’ island awaits your discovery.
Many rare species call Borneo home, from the wild orangutans that swing through the jungle canopy, through to the Asian elephants, turtles and Proboscis monkeys.
Encounter these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat and witness the magic of the island’s epic biodiversity up close and personal. Once such resort, as featured in Judi Dench’s Wild Borneo Adventure, is the Gaya Island Resort which offers unique ecological sights including the 7 wonders of Gaya.
Both green and hawksbill turtles are native to the waters of the South China Sea. Take a trip to Turtle Island, a National Park, designated to protect newly-laid eggs and hatchlings. Learn about the conservation programme and tour the island’s hatchery area.
Greig
Travel Specialist
Borneo travel information
When to visit Borneo
Jan
Feb
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Apr
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Best time
Good time
Ok time
- Time zone: GMT+8
- Flight time: 18-20 hours
- Recommended airlines: Malaysia Airlines
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
- Tipping guideline: 10% of total bill
- Health considerations: There is a risk of altitude illness when travelling to destinations of 2,500m or higher. There is a risk of dengue. There is a risk of Zika virus. There is a low risk of malaria in inland areas of Sabah and in the inland, forested areas of Sarawak. There is a very low risk of malaria in the rest of Borneo including the coastal areas of Sabah and Sarawak. There is no risk of yellow fever in Borneo, however, yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Capital: Pontianak
- Population: 23,720,000
- National languages: Malay, Indonesian, English
- Electricity and plugs: Type C / G, 220V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: You don't need a visa for Borneo if you have a British passport - for a maximum of 90 days
When to go to Malaysian Borneo
Travelling outside of the months of November to February is generally recommended. You’re more likely to see orang-utans from April and you can well expect humidity and some rain throughout the year; hence why the rainforests are so lush.
What to do in Malaysian Borneo
A haven for wildlife, surely Borneo’s most coveted attraction is its unspoilt rainforests. The island’s orangutans are its most famous inhabitant, but you’ll also discover pristine beaches and coral reefs, as well as plenty more unusual wildlife, like the cheeky Proboscis monkeys.
Would you like to speak to a Borneo expert?
Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
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For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
