The third-largest island in the world, Borneo is also one of the least explored areas on the planet. Renowned for its primeval rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and incredible biodiversity, this island is a nature lover’s paradise. Spend your days trekking through lush rainforest and cruising along mysterious jungle rivers to discover a rich variety of colorful birds and wildlife, many of which are unique to this region. A highlight of this adventure includes close encounters with iconic species such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and a variety of hornbills.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Experience a cornucopia of sounds on your early morning boat ride in search of Wild Orangutans.
See and hear millions of bats as they leave the Deer Cave in Mulu National Park.
Hike the slopes of the highest mountain in Borneo and spot the famous carnivorous pitcher plants.
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DAY 1
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Arrive in Kuala Lumpur and transfer to the Sama Sama Airport Hotel. Gather at the hotel for a welcome briefing and dinner with your leaders and fellow travelers.
DAY 2
Kuala Lumpur / Mulu National Park
Transfer to the airport for our flight to Mulu National Park. Check in to the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa. After lunch, venture into the park for a scenic walk to the Bat Observatory. Witness the awe-inspiring bat exodus in the evening before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 3
Mulu National Park
Spend two full days exploring Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Deer & Lang caves, marveling at one of the world's largest cave passages and over 3 million Wrinkled Lipped Bats. Explore Lang Cave's stunning stalagmites and stalactites before returning to the hotel for dinner.
DAY 4
Mulu National Park
Embark on a scenic longboat journey along the Melinau River, stopping at a Penan settlement for unique handicrafts. Explore Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave, part of Southeast Asia's longest underground cave systems. Ascend 200 stairs to explore Clearwater Cave and marvel at the Monophyllaea Pendula, a unique plant endemic to Sarawak. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Clearwater Hut by the crystal-clear waters of Clearwater Spring. Return to the hotel for leisure time and dinner.
DAY 5
Mulu National Park / Kota Kinabalu / Mount Kinabalu
Transfer to the airport for our flight to Kota Kinabalu. After lunch and a brief city tour, continue to Mount Kinabalu. If time permits, go on an introductory walk in the park’s botanical gardens to learn about its biodiversity. Check in to the Sutera Sanctuary Lodges for dinner and overnight.
DAY 6
Mount Kinabalu
Embark on a day of adventure in the montane forest, descending to the Poring Hot Springs area. Enjoy panoramic views from the canopy walk and discover diverse wildlife, including squirrels, tree shrews, and various bird species.
DAY 7
Mount Kinabalu / Kinabatangan River
After breakfast, journey to Sandakan jetty, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. Board motored boats for a scenic voyage on the Kinabatangan River, renowned for its wildlife. Arrive at Sukau Rainforest Lodge, take a wildlife cruise, and enjoy a night walk.
DAY 8 & 9
Kinabatangan River
Experience sunrise safaris, wildlife exploration on the lodge's boardwalk, and a visit to Gomantong Cave. Witness over a million bats leaving the cave at sundown.
DAY 10
Kinabatangan River / Lahad Datu / Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Cruise to the jetty, then proceed to Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Explore the Lipad River area and trek to the active Lipad Mud Volcano. Conclude with a night safari.
DAY 11
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Visit the Sabah Ficus Germplasm Center for a tree-planting effort. Enjoy a safari drive, trek to Lipad Waterfall, and relax with a Tabin Rainforest Foot Soak. End the day with an evening drive and night walk.
DAY 12
Tabin Wildlife Reserve / Danum Valley
Depart early to Danum Valley via Lahad Datu. Check in to Borneo Rainforest Lodge surrounded by pristine rainforest. After lunch, explore nature trails and enjoy a spotlighting excursion to spot nocturnal wildlife.
DAY 13 & 14
Danum Valley
Awaken to the sounds of hornbills and gibbons. Spend two full days exploring the pristine surroundings, including the treetop canopy walkway, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.
DAY 15
Danum Valley / Kuala Lumpur
Enjoy a final walk around the lodge before flying to Kuala Lumpur. Check in to Sama Sama Hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 16
Kuala Lumpur / Depart
Depart on your homeward flight.
TRIP DETAILS
July 15 – 30, 2025
Departure
This trip starts and ends in Kuala Lumpur
“After being inspired by Alfred Russel Wallace’s The Malay Archipelago, I’m thrilled to delve into the biodiversity of the Old World tropics. Join me and Rich for an adventure filled with fascinating birds, primates, frogs, butterflies, and more, inspired by Redmond O’Hanlon’s expedition Into the Heart of Borneo.”
— MARK BRAZIL
“Borneo hosts some of the world’s most impressive rainforests, and on this expedition, we’ll observe its unique wildlife. I’m thrilled to co-lead this adventure with Mark Brazil, my longtime friend and outstanding naturalist. Join us as we discover the secrets of the Bornean jungle!”
– Rich Pagen
Marriott Mulu National Park
Nestled in Borneo's lush rainforest next to Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa offers stunning views and well-appointed rooms on raised wooden walkways. Each room features luxury bedding and a private balcony with picturesque views.
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges / Hill Lodge
Stay in cozy hillside bungalows within Kinabalu Park, a World Heritage Site, offering easy access to scenic walking trails and botanical gardens. The Hill Lodge, while basic, provides comfort with a king bed or twin singles and an en-suite bathroom with hot water.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Set along the Kinabatangan River, Sukau Rainforest Lodge blends comfort and luxury in the heart of Borneo's rainforest. Immerse yourself in nature's tranquility and vibrant wildlife while staying true to eco-friendly practices, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Tabin Wildlife ResorT
Explore Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Malaysia's largest, in eastern Sabah on Borneo Island, spanning 300,000 acres in the Dent Peninsula. Enjoy comfortable accommodations with various amenities, including a private balcony overlooking the Lipad River, amidst the reserve's untouched natural beauty.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Located in the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers diverse wildlife and lush vegetation with 5-star service and well-appointed rooms. Prioritizing sustainability, the lodge ensures a comfortable stay while preserving the rainforest's ecological integrity.
More Detail
PRICING
Per Person: $13,990
Single Supplement: $2,990
Deposit
$1,500
Group Size
14 travelers
What’s Included
15 nights accommodations
All meals including non-alcoholic drinks
All excursions, transportation, and local guides
Park fees
Taxes and permits
Gratuities
Arrival and departure assistance
Internal airfare: Kuala Lumpur / Mulu NP / Kota Kinabalu & Tawau / Kuala Lumpur
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
July 15 – 30, 2025
