Malaysian Borneo offers Sepilok orangutan sanctuary, proboscis monkeys on the Kinabatangan River, Mount Kinabalu climbing and island-hopping near Kota Kinabalu. March to October is the driest.
Good to know
- Book Mount Kinabalu climbing permits months ahead.
- Pack insect repellent and rain gear for river cruises.
- Domestic flights connect Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Kuching.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Island hopping and snorkeling in the clear waters off the city.
Weekly market of crafts, plants and local snacks.
Pick your own fresh seafood to be grilled on the spot.
Ethnographic collection and heritage village with traditional houses.
Sunset over the South China Sea with seafood restaurants.
Learn about Sabah's ethnic groups with tastings and performances.
Watch orphaned orangutans learn to live in the wild at feeding time.
See the world's smallest bears at a rescue center next to Sepilok.
Canopy walkway, exhibits and bird hides explain Borneo's rainforest ecology, with shelter in rain.
Boat cruises for proboscis monkeys, hornbills, pygmy elephants and crocodiles.
Two-day summit hike to the tallest peak in Borneo, reaching 4,095 meters.
Hot sulphur baths and a canopy walkway in the rainforest.
Pristine primary rainforest with night walks and rare wildlife.