Wild+ Wonderful Borneo + Kuala Lumpur

On arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and personally assisted through immigration, baggage claim and customs. Once through these formalities, our experienced resident guide will oversee your transfer and check-in to the luxury RuMa Hotel, ideally located in Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant and sophisticated Golden Triangle district. The balance of this day is yours to enjoy as you wish. 

After breakfast, join our expert guide to visit the iconic Batu Caves, an enlightening introduction to Malaysia’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Just beyond the city, this sacred Hindu site welcomes you with its towering golden statue of Lord Murugan, the ancient Hindu God of War and Victory. An exhilarating climb up 272 steps to the temple sanctuary is rewarded with panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur. Along the way, be on the lookout for resident monkeys—always in search of snacks! These awe-inspiring limestone caves remain a major pilgrimage site, especially during Thaipusam, the most significant Hindu festival in Asia.

Next visit Merdeka Square and the National Mosque are two iconic landmarks in Kuala Lumpur that offer a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Merdeka Square, where the country declared independence in 1957, is surrounded by colonial architecture and features one of the world’s tallest flagpoles, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography. Just a short walk away, the National Mosque (Masjid Negara) stands as a striking example of modern Islamic architecture, with its unique star-shaped dome and towering minaret. Open to visitors outside prayer times, the mosque offers a serene atmosphere and insight into Malaysia’s religious traditions.

Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore at your own pace. Later this evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring fine Malaysian cuisine. Meals B+L+D

Please note: Batu Caves is a religious site with a dress code. Women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts or pants below knee length. Men should avoid tank tops and short shorts. Sarongs are available for rent if needed.

Spend this morning immersed in the life, culture and traditions of the Temuan people, an ethnic group indigenous to peninsular Malaysia. Less than an hour’s drive outside the city, but seemingly a world away, Kampung Orang Asli Serendah is a tranquil community surrounded by lush tropical forests. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our native Temuan hosts, who will lead you on an enriching exploration through their ancestral homeland. As you explore along the forested path past Bukit Beruang (Bear Hill), your guide will share insight into the community’s daily life and the history of Serendah—from the era of tin mining and early British influence to the present day.

Then sit down to a traditional Temuan meal, prepared with time-honored recipes and fresh, jungle-sourced ingredients. Over the course of this congenial lunch, your hosts will offer insight into their daily lives. Hear from Pak Elok, a revered elder who has tended his community for decades, and the younger Anissa, who connects tradition with modern life through her savvy use of social media. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the community’s efforts to keep their indigenous culture thriving in the face of encroaching modernity.

Back at our luxury hotel, you can relax before this evening’s guided culinary tour. Spending time along the city’s famous Jalan Alor Food Street is a multi-sensory experience of colors, sounds and smells. Sample a variety of local specialties as our in-the-know guide shares insight into Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage. Meals B+L+D

Start your day with a boxed breakfast, convenient for an early transfer to the airport. We include this morning’s flight to Borneo, the third largest island on the planet and famous for its ancient rainforests and diverse wildlife. Upon arrival in the lively port city of Sandakan, you’ll be greeted and transferred to the Sepilok Nature Lodge, set amidst tropical jungle on the edge of a tranquil lake.

You’ll have time to refresh before setting out for the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, one of the best places to observe Borneo’s most charismatic primate—the proboscis monkey. Instantly recognizable, the males sport distinctive long noses, pot bellies, and striking reddish fur, while the smaller females have upturned noses and a sleeker build. Locally known as Orang Belanda—or "Dutchman"—these monkeys were humorously named for their resemblance to colonial-era Dutch settlers with their large noses and rosy cheeks!

We’ll be here in time for the afternoon feeding session, so you can witness these fascinating creatures up close as they emerge from the forest. Keep an eye out for other wildlife visitors as well—squirrels, silver leaf monkeys, and the striking oriental pied hornbill often make an appearance. After this unforgettable wildlife experience, return to your hotel for dinner and a free evening. Meals B+D

Our day begins with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you'll gain insight into the plight of these endangered primates. Start with a short documentary on the center’s vital rehabilitation efforts before taking a short walk along wooden boardwalks through the rainforest. At 10:00, witness the remarkable sight of orangutans emerging from the jungle for their scheduled feeding. Next, visit the nursery, where young orangutans learn the skills they’ll need to thrive in the wild.

Continue to the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to 36 rescued sun bears. Shy and elusive, this is the world’s smallest bear species; with their characteristic orange chest markings, they lead solitary lives and are expert tree climbers and strong swimmers. A highlight of our visit is a specially-arranged discussion with Dr. Wong Siew Te, the center’s founder. After a private presentation with Dr. Wong, he will take you on a guided tour of the facility.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and then explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Stroll along the Plant Discovery Walk, where traditional medicinal plants flourish, before ascending to the breathtaking canopy walkway. Winding through the treetops high above the jungle floor, this is a prime vantage point for spotting some of the 250+ bird species that inhabit northern Borneo. With luck on your side, you might even espy a wild orangutan. Back at our enchanting nature lodge, your evening is free to enjoy, dine and relax as you wish. Meals B+L

After breakfast, we’ll depart the hotel to visit the stunning Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple. Perched atop a steep hill, this ornate temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sandakan Bay and the town below.

Then head to the waterfront and embark on a two-hour journey up the Kinabatangan River. It’s a relaxing boat ride that will take you past peaceful villages and dense rainforest teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know what might emerge from the jungle!

Early afternoon finds us at the Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort, our comfortable wilderness lodge set on the edge of a vast nature reserve. After check-in and lunch, our naturalist guide will provide an informative briefing on the area and offer advice on what to bring for your upcoming excursions. Then set off on a guided river expedition along the Kinabatangan River, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The star attraction is the proboscis monkey, found only in Borneo, but we may also encounter pygmy elephants, hornbills, gibbons, and a variety of exotic birds.

After dinner, a guided stroll offers the chance to experience the nocturnal side of the rainforest coming to life. Look out for fascinating insects, night birds, and other elusive creatures of the dark. Meals B+L+D

Start your adventure with an early morning cruise to Kelenanap Oxbow Lake, a secluded haven teeming with wildlife. This tranquil ecosystem, distinct from the river, offers a perfect setting for spotting birds and other animals as the jungle awakens.

Continue your journey with a 45-minute boat ride to the Kulamba Field Centre, a haven for birding enthusiasts. You’ll also spend time in a village of the Orang Sungai, an indigenous group that resides primarily along the rivers of northern Borneo. Participate in a tree-planting project, a hands-on way to contribute to environmental preservation and support the local community. Then head to the Observation Tower, a prime vantage point for spotting orangutans, silver leaf monkeys, and exotic jungle birds.

Take a break for tea at the Tundun Bohangin Resthouse, where you can engage with the Orang Sungai and observe traditional activities like crab and prawn catching. If tidal conditions allow, you might even join the locals to try your hand at clam digging on the beach. Return to the Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort for lunch and time to relax before setting off on a late afternoon cruise, a prime time for wildlife spotting and photography. After dinner, a thrilling nighttime river safari offers another chance to hear and observe the jungle’s nocturnal denizens. Meals B+L+D

Early risers might enjoy a final nature walk around our wetlands resort before we head to the airport for our flight to Kota Kinabalu. On arrival, you’ll be met and escorted to the upscale Hyatt Centric Hotel. Later this afternoon, a guided walking tour reveals the history and culinary traditions of Kota Kinabalu. Formerly known as Jesselton, this lively port city is framed by the South China Sea and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, with the impressive silhouette of Mount Kinabalu creating a stunning natural backdrop.

Our sightseeing begins on Gaya Street, the heart of the city since 1902. Stroll past long-standing family-run businesses and stop at one of the city’s oldest coffee shops, renowned for its flavorful satay and traditional Roti Kahwin—a local favorite consisting of soft bread and a decadent coconut-based custard spread! Another must-visit is one of the city’s kopi shops where you can sample kopi, a traditional Southeast Asian coffee beverage. It pairs perfectly with a pineapple bun, another local favorite. Or you might choose a refreshing pandan coconut drink, blending the sweet creaminess of coconut with the fragrant essence of pandan leaves.

At the waterfront, we’ll mingle with locals at the bustling Filipino Market, filled with exotic fruits and fresh seafood. Our sightseeing ends at a waterfront bar where you can sip a cocktail or tropical fruit juice while watching the breathtaking Kota Kinabalu sunset. Finally, indulge in butter prawns, a rich and flavorful local delicacy, before returning to your hotel. Meals B+D

Today’s adventure begins after an early breakfast. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as you journey into Borneo’s rugged interior. Travel along winding roads, passing paddy fields and quiet villages, before arriving at Poring Hot Springs—named for the towering bamboo that surrounds it. Then visit Kipungit Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by verdant jungle. Feeling adventurous? Choose a thrilling trek to the Canopy Walkway, where a suspension bridge sways 130 feet above the shadowy forest floor. From this unique vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rainforest and distant rolling hills.

Take a midday break for lunch before continuing with your exploration. En route to Kinabalu Park, your guide will lead you in search of the elusive Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower—though sightings are never guaranteed. Finally, explore Mount Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site heralded for its diversity of flora and wide range of habitats from lowland rainforest to tropical mountain forest and even sub-alpine scrub. Enjoy a guided walk with a local naturalist, and delight in magnificent views of Mount Kinabalu; at more than 13,000 feet, this is the highest peak between the Himalayas and New Guinea. After sightseeing, return to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu where the evening is yours to enjoy and dine as you wish. Meals B+L

After breakfast, we’ll take you to the airport for your included flight to Mulu National Park. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to the 5-star Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, ideally situated just outside the vast expanse of the national park. Depending upon our arrival time, you may be able to do some exploring on your own, perhaps a gently paced walk to Pukau Waterfall or along the 1-mile Nature Heritage Trail.

Come midafternoon, our guide will be waiting to show you two remarkable natural wonders that have earned Mulu National Park a spot on the global list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Starting from Park Headquarters, a sturdy 2-mile boardwalk winds through the tropical forest to Lang Cave, heralded for its remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. Just a few minutes’ away, Deer Cave—over 1.2 miles long and up to 570 feet high—is the largest cave passage in the world open to the public.

As dusk falls, you’ll witness an unforgettable spectacle as swarms of bats spiral into the sky, forming mesmerizing patterns as they embark on their nightly hunt. Then follow your guide on a thrilling night trek through the jungle back to Park Headquarters. From the glow of luminescent fungi to the flicker of fireflies, the rainforest transforms after dark, revealing a hidden world of nocturnal creatures. Return to your hotel where you’ll have time to refresh before dinner. Meals B+L+D

Begin your day with breakfast—serenaded by the melodic sounds of the jungle coming to life! Then embark on a 15-minute longboat journey up the Melinau River to explore two of Mulu National Park’s must-see limestone caves: Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave. Both of these are integral parts of the world-famous Sarawak Chamber, the largest connected cave system on the planet. If water levels permit, an alternative to traveling by boat is a scenic 2.5 hike through the rainforest to reach the caves.

Your subterranean exploration begins at Wind Cave, where the aptly named King’s Chamber boasts intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites. From here, a plank walkway and a series of 200 steps bring you to Clearwater Cave. With over 135 miles of mapped passages, this is one of the world's largest interconnected cave systems.

Return to Mulu National Park Headquarters by boat and then experience the rainforest from a different perspective. Stretching more than a quarter-mile through the treetops and 80 feet above the ground, you’ll find one of the longest tree-based canopy walkways in the world. Explore through the lush tree tops with tranquil river views below, and discover the rich biodiversity of Borneo’s Mulu National Park. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore more of the Park at your own pace. This evening, you’ll dine at your hotel. Meals B+L+D

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we take you to the airport for your flight to Kuching. Upon arrival, you'll be met and transferred to the deluxe Riverside Majestic Hotel. Later this afternoon, join our expert guide for a walking tour of Kuching—a city steeped in history and culture, nestled along the south bank of the Sarawak River. Begin on vibrant India Street, lined with colorful century-old shophouses, and slip through a narrow alley to discover a hidden gem: a small Indian mosque tucked away from view.

Continue to the Old Courthouse, a handsome architectural legacy of the Colonial era, and The Pavilion, designed in the style of a New Orleans townhouse. Stop for a photo at the Square Tower, a distinctive landmark built in 1879, and then explore the Main Bazaar, one of Kuching’s oldest streets, known for antiques and local handicrafts. Next up are two important temples: Hong San Si Temple, dedicated to a child deity, and the colorfully decorated Tua Pek Kong Temple. Then, retrace the historic route of adventurer James Brooke with a serene sampan ride down the Sarawak River. Enjoy local snacks as you pass the Astana, Fort Margherita, and traditional Malay villages—all set against a backdrop of distant mountains. End your experience at sunset, returning to your hotel where the rest of the evening is free to enjoy as you wish. Meals B

After an early breakfast, depart Kuching for a scenic 45-minute drive to Bako Fishing Village. From there, hop aboard a motorized boat for a 30-minute cruise along Sarawak’s stunning coastline, arriving at Bako National Park—Sarawak’s oldest and one of its most biodiverse parks.

Though compact, Bako is bursting with ecological treasures. It’s home to the rare and endangered proboscis monkey, found only in Borneo, along with silvered langurs, bearded pigs, and giant monitor lizards. The park’s unique landscapes span seven distinct ecosystems, including mangrove swamps, cliffside vegetation, tropical rainforests, and secluded sandy beaches.

Explore the rainforest on well-marked trails, walking beneath towering 250-feet tall dipterocarp trees and through tangled mangroves. Bird lovers will delight in the chance to spot colorful species like the rufous-backed and stork-billed kingfishers, red-crowned barbet, and white-bellied woodpecker. During low tide, keep an eye out for lively mudskippers and blue fiddler crabs feeding along the shore. Weather permitting, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, soaking in the sights and sounds of this wild coastal paradise. Then return by boat to Bako Village and continue your journey back to Kuching. Meals B+L+D

Note: Depending on tidal conditions, boat landings will be alongside a jetty or directly on the beach.

Departing your hotel after an early breakfast, sit back and enjoy the scenery en route to the Semenggoh Orangutan Wildlife Centre—home to semi-wild orangutans, many of whom were rescued and rehabilitated after being orphaned or kept in captivity. For the past 50 years, wardens have been helping these amazing primates gain the skills needed to live independently in the wild.

Upon arrival at Semenggoh, a short walk through the rainforest will bring you to a platform where rangers lay out fresh fruit for the morning feeding. Though the semi-wild orangutans spend most of their time roaming the forest, they return frequently to this site. It’s an unforgettable thrill to witness these creatures emerging from the dense jungle to feed.

Afterward, journey through a verdant landscape of farms and dense jungle to a remote a village of the indigenous Bidayuh community. Join your hosts to gather wild herbs, fruits, and vegetables from the jungle before helping to prepare a traditional meal using these fresh ingredients and specially cut bamboo utensils. After this truly authentic farm-to-table experience, you’ll have time to relax at the farmhouse, cool off in a mountain stream, or join village residents as they work in their fields and gardens. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel in Kuching where you’ll have to refresh before dinner. Meals B+L+D

We include your transfer to Kuching Airport for your departure flight. Meals B