Best Of Borneo

18 days - from $2630

We think that Borneo is one of South East Asia’s best-kept secrets, with incredible beauty and amazing diversity. On this 18-day adventure showcases the best that the region has to offer.

Our adventure begins in Sabah, a Malaysian state renowned for its abundance of flora, fauna and superb coral reefs. Our first stop is Sepilok’s orangutan sanctuary. The opportunity to see these amazing creatures swinging freely in the forest is an unforgettable experience. From Sandakan we travel to Sabah’s longest river – the Kinabatangan, where we take a boat ride at dusk through tropical rainforest and marvel at the wildlife. We then we make our way to trek up Mount Kinabalu, where the views from the summit are simply breathtaking.

An express boat takes us to Sarawak – truly an adventurer’s paradise. We begin with a stay in a traditional longhouse, as guests of the Iban people. Only last century these people were warring headhunters who killed their enemies with blowpipes! From here we trek along the ancient Headhunters Trail before making our way by boat into the pristine rainforests of Gunung Mulu National Park and exploring the massive cave systems. Kuching is one of South East Asia’s most attractive and charming cities and a launching pad for our trip to Bako National Park.

Highlights

• Kinabatangan River wildlife cruise
• Mount Kinabalu climb
• Culturally diverse Kuching
• Headhunters Trail trek - follow in the footsteps of Kayan warriors
• Sabah's capital Kota Kinabalu
• The bats and caves of Gunung Mulu National Park
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mount Kinabalu National Park
• Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre
• Stay with the descendents of Borneo’s legendary headhunters

Itinerary:

Day 1: Kota Kinabalu2: Sandakan3-4: Kinabatangan River - Miso Walai homestay5: Mesilau6: Mount Kinabalu (Laban Rata)7: Mt.Kinabalu (base)8-9: Kota Kinabalu10: Kota Kinabalu11: Limbang12: Iban Longhouse13: Headhunters Trail14- 15: Mulu National Park16: Kuching17-18: Bako National Park - Kuching

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

• Gecko’s expert English-speaking local tour guide throughout the tour, and local site guides at some sites.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where relevant): Sandakan Memorial Park;  MESCOT Eco-Tourism initiative; Mesilau Nature Resort; Gunung Mulu National Park - Wind and Clearwater Caves and the bats of Deer Cave.

• Orang-utan encounter at Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre, including an overnight stay in a lodge.

• Miso Walai home stay by Kinabatangan River, including a boat cruise in search of wildlife.

• Ascent of Mount Kinabalu via the Mesilau trail, with overnight accommodation in a basic hut (dormitory-style).

• Overnight stay in a traditional longhouse as guests of the Iban people.

• Trek on the Headhunters Trail – where few tourists venture, with an overnight stay in a jungle hut.

• Longboat trip down the Melinau River to Mulu.

• Day trip to Bako National Park.

• Time at a beach-side retreat on Kinarut’s seashore.

• Free time to explore Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

• Local flights from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, Mulu to Miri and Miri to Kuching.

• Ferry from Sabah to Sarawak.

International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.