Borneo Itinerary 10 Days: From Orangutans to Beaches
Looking for the best things to do when visiting Borneo? Look no further!
Visiting Borneo should be on everyone’s bucket list. We recently traveled to the area and explored much of its lush rainforests, stunning wildlife, and beautiful beaches. The island is shared by three countries- Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, each with its unique culture and attractions. With so much to explore using a Borneo itinerary for 10 days, can be helpful.
Our 10-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of Borneo. And if you have extra time, we’ve added a few additional places you can visit. So, get ready to explore the wild side of Borneo!
Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favorite Resources
We recommend:
👉 Tour Company – Viator and GetYourGuide
🛳️ Cruise Company – Expedia
👉 Book Accommodations – booking.com or Vrbo
🚗 Rental Car – DiscoverCars.com
👉 Travel Insurance – Insubuy
🛬 Flights – Kayak.com and WayAway
📱 eSIM – GigSky (great for cruises and on land)
Is Borneo Malaysia worth visiting?
Absolutely! Borneo is home to some of the most diverse and unique wildlife in the world. From orangutans and proboscis monkeys to pygmy elephants, you’ll be amazed at all that this special island has to offer. Plus, there are plenty of beautiful beaches for you to relax and take in the stunning views.
If you’re looking for the perfect Malaysia Itinerary, our 10-day itinerary is a great starting point to explore the best of Borneo!
12 Best Places to Visit for a Borneo Itinerary 10-day?
Here are the 12 best destinations to explore during a 10-day itinerary in Borneo:
1. Sandakan (4 Days)
Explore the amazing wildlife of Sandakan and its surrounding areas during the 4 days of your trip. From the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to Turtle Islands National Park, you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforests and wonderful wildlife. Besides exploring these incredible wildlife sites, take some time to relax and explore the city’s Memorial Park and other attractions.
Sandakan City Tour (1 Day)
Take a day to explore the beautiful city of Sandakan. Stroll through Memorial Park, admire the colorful murals and street art, visit the Buddhist temple, or take in the views from Bukit Gemok Hill. As you wander around town, be sure to chat with locals and learn more about their culture and history. You’ll also find plenty of delicious restaurants and cafés to sample the local cuisine.
👉 Book your City and Sepilok Orangutan Tour
Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Conservation Center (2 Days)
Fly to Sandakan, a town on the east coast of Borneo. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center to see the orangutans being fed. Then, head to the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Center, and the Rainforest Discovery Center to learn about their conservation efforts.
Spend the night at either Sepilok or Sandakan. Don’t miss the chance to go on a night walk at the Rainforest Discovery Center and spot nocturnal wildlife.
👉 Book your Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour
Selingan Island – Turtle Islands National Park (1 Day)
Take a trip to Selingan Island, part of Turtle Islands National Park. Spend the day snorkeling and spotting wildlife such as otters, dolphins, and sea turtles, and even see adult sea turtles lay eggs! End your day with a memorable experience, releasing baby turtles into the ocean.
It’s an amazing way to interact with nature and help protect these beautiful creatures. Spend the night on the island.
👉 Book Your Stay at Selingan Island
See 37 things to do in Sandakan for additional activities and attractions.
2. Kinabatangan River (2 Days)
Take a river safari along the Kinabatangan River, where you can spot Borneo’s elusive wildlife such as Proboscis Monkeys, Bornean Gibbons, pygmy elephants, and various bird species.
One of the best ways to enjoy your time on the Kinabatangan River is by staying at one of the many lodges that dot its banks. These lodges offer visitors a chance to get up close and personal with nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
Many lodges also offer guided tours through nearby wildlife reserves, giving you an insider’s look into some of Borneo’s most fascinating ecosystems.
Our favorite lodge along the river is the Bilit Adventure Lodge.
👉 Book Your Stay at Bilit Adventure Lodge
3. Kota Kinabalu (2 Days)
On the First Day, you can explore the city and visit attractions such as the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, Signal Hill Observatory, and the Sabah State Museum. In the evening, have a seafood dinner at the waterfront area.
👉 Book your half-day Kota Kinabalu City Tour
On the second day of your trip, you can choose to relax at one of the stunning beaches like Tanjung Aru Beach or Mamutik Island. Alternatively, you can explore the local markets to find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner.
👉 Book your Guided Snorkeling Day Trip
4. Danum Valley Conservation Area (2 Days)
Take a trip to Lahad Datu and discover the exceptional rainforest of the Danum Valley Conservation Area. Join guided jungle treks, traverse the canopy on a walk, and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife. Get ready to experience Borneo’s rainforest biodiversity. Spend the night in Danum Valley for a complete adventure.
👉 Book a 2-night Danu Valley Hiking and Wildlife Adventure
Additional Places to Add to Your Borneo Itinerary 10 Days
If you’re planning a 2-week itinerary in Borneo or have different interests, consider adding the following places and staying for 1-2 days at each location.
5. Tanjung Puting National Park (2 Days)
Located in Central Kalimantan, Tanjung Puting is home to endangered species like orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and clouded leopards. The park offers several trekking routes that take visitors through dense jungles and pristine riversides. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds like hornbills and kingfishers.
One of the highlights of any trip to Tanjung Puting is visiting Camp Leakey, a research station established by Dr. Birute Galdikas in 1971.
6. Kuching And Bako National Park(2 Days)
Kuching
To fully experience Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, you can take a flight there and explore its historical sites including the Sarawak Museum and Fort Margherita. For a relaxing activity, take a leisurely walk along the Waterfront Promenade.
Try local delicacies at the lively food stalls and spend the night in Kuching. Spend the night in Kuching and visit Bako National Park.
👉 Book your Kuching Bike and Cook Tour
Bako National Park
Bako National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Sarawak and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It’s unique for its variety of habitats, from lush mangroves to pristine beaches. There are numerous trails throughout the park that allow visitors to explore at their own pace, discovering hidden coves and waterfalls along the way.
👉 Book Your Bako National Park Tour
7. Batang Ai National Park (1 Day)
Batang Ai National Park is located in Sarawak and offers visitors a unique experience. It features lush rainforests, stunning water, and Iban longhouse culture. Visitors can take boat rides to see the rare proboscis monkeys living on the lake islands. This park is great for wildlife spotting and cultural experiences alike!
8. Tabin Wildlife Reserve (2 Days)
Spread over 122,500 acres of pristine rainforest in the eastern part of Sabah, Malaysia, this reserve offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most diverse ecosystems in Southeast Asia.
The Tabin Wildlife Reserve is home to an impressive array of wildlife species, including elephants, rhinos, orangutans, sun bears, clouded leopards, and many more. Visitors can embark on guided jungle treks or night safaris to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
For birdwatchers, the reserve boasts more than 300 species of birds making it an ideal location for bird-watching enthusiasts.
Apart from its rich wildlife diversity, Tabin Wildlife Reserve also has hot springs that offer visitors an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after long hikes or safaris.
👉 Book your 3-Day Adventure in Tabin Wildlife Reserve
9. Kinabalu Park (2 Days)
To experience Malaysia’s highest mountain and its diverse flora and fauna, visit the Kinabalu National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a guided tour of the park, and don’t forget to visit the Poring Hot Springs to take a dip in the natural hot baths. For a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight near the Kinabalu National Park.
👉 Book a Day Tour for Kinabalu National Park, Hot Spring & Canopy Tour
👉 Book a 3-day 2-night Mount Kinabalu Climbing Adventure
10. Dive in Kota Kinabalu (1 Day)
Fly to Tawau and take a boat to Sipadan Island, known for its world-class diving sites. Discover the underwater world with a dive or snorkel and witness the diverse marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and colorful corals. Spend a relaxing day on the beach before leaving the island.
👉 Book a Leisure Diving – 3 dives in TARP, Kota Kinabalu
11. Brunei Exploration (2 Days)
Visit the tiny country of Brunei and explore its rich culture and architecture. Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Royal Regalia Museum, and take a stroll at the popular Kampong Ayer Water Village. Enjoy a farewell dinner before flying back home.
12. Mulu National Park (2 Days)
Witness the beauty of limestone caves and indulge in a river cruise during sunset.
Visit Mulu National Park to see its renowned limestone caves, such as the Deer Cave and the Clearwater Cave. Marvel at the breathtaking sight of millions of bats exiting the Deer Cave. Stay overnight in Mulu to fully experience the park.
Take a challenging trek to reach the summit of Sarawak’s second-highest peak, Gunung Mulu. Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the rainforest and limestone pinnacles along the way.
👉 Book 3 Day 2 Night Mulu National Park Tour
What is Borneo known for?
Borneo is known for its biodiverse rainforests, stunning beaches, and unique wildlife. It is home to a wide variety of species, including the orangutan, proboscis monkey, and pygmy elephant. Borneo is also famous for its vibrant culture and fascinating history.
The island has many historic sites and is a great destination for adventure activities such as trekking, diving, and snorkeling. Best of all, the region is blessed with great weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for any time of the year.
Best Beaches in Borneo
Beneath its lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, Borneo is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the best beaches in Borneo that you shouldn’t miss on your next trip:
Tanjung Aru Beach, located near Kota Kinabalu
This white sand beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Tanjung Selor Beach, located in North Kalimantan
This beach is a great place to relax and enjoy stunning views of the nearby mountains.
Kapas Island Beach, located off the coast of Terengganu
This picturesque island beach features crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation.
Tanjung Puting Beach, located in South Kalimantan
The sandy beach is an ideal location for swimming and snorkeling.
Gaya Island Beach, located off the coast of Sabah
The white sand beaches and stunning coral reefs are features of this tropical paradise.
Turtle Islands, located off the coast of Sabah
This is a great spot for people who love the beach. It has peaceful surroundings and beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Best Time to Visit Borneo
The best time to visit Borneo depends largely on your interests. If you are looking to explore the wildlife and nature of Borneo, then April through October is generally the best time as it is the dry season, with clear skies and lower humidity.
However, for beachgoers, December through March is ideal as the weather is sunny and hot. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Borneo is sure to provide a memorable and rewarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Borneo Itinerary 10 Days
If you’re planning a Borneo itinerary for 10 days, here are some common questions and answers to help you get the most out of your trip.
The best way to explore Borneo in 10 days is by taking in as much of the wildlife, scenery, and culture as possible. This can be done by taking local tours, exploring cities and villages, visiting beaches, and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking or snorkeling.
When packing for your Borneo itinerary for 10 days, you should include a variety of clothing, comfortable shoes and sandals, sunblock, mosquito repellent, a waterproof phone case, and a camera for capturing all the amazing sights.
It is generally safe to travel around Borneo; however, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and to take the necessary safety precautions. You should also familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before arriving.
Best of Borneo
During your 10-day Borneo itinerary, make sure to visit the beautiful beaches of Borneo, explore the jungles and National Parks, experience the vibrant city life in Kuching, and take part in local tours to learn more about the culture and history of Borneo.
The best month to visit Borneo depends on what type of activities you plan to do during your trip. If you are looking for wildlife viewing and beach activities, the best time to visit Borneo is from March to October. For jungle trekking and climbing, the dry season of May through September is ideal.
Borneo is home to a variety of wildlife, including pygmy elephants, gibbons, sun bears, orangutans, clouded leopards, pythons, and monitor lizards. The island also provides habitats for many species of birds and marine life.
Borneo Famous for
Borneo is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Traditional dishes include rendang, a spicy coconut-based curry; laksa, a noodle soup dish made with shrimp or chicken; and sambal, an accompaniment of spicy chili sauce. Additionally, you can also find local seafood specialties such as grilled fish and squid.
Borneo is famous for its rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. It is also known for its adventure sports such as rock climbing, cave exploration, river rafting, and jungle trekking. Additionally, Borneo is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, making it a popular destination among nature lovers.
Borneo is an affordable destination for travelers. Accommodation and transportation are both reasonably priced, and there are plenty of budget-friendly restaurants and activities to enjoy. Additionally, if you plan your trip during the off-season, you can find great deals on flights and accommodations.
Location Information
Borneo is an island located in Southeast Asia divided between three countries: Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The majority of the island belongs to Indonesia (83%) and Malaysia (16%), with only 1% belonging to Brunei.
No, Borneo and Sabah are not the same. Borneo is a large island located in Southeast Asia divided between three countries – Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Sabah is one of the two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo (the other being Sarawak). It covers an area of 72,500 square kilometers and has a population of over 3 million.
Headhunting and cannibalism have long been part of the culture in Borneo, but these practices are not as common today. However, there are some remote areas where headhunting still occurs. It is important to respect local customs when visiting these areas and never take photographs or disturb locals without permission.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center is the best place to see orangutans in Borneo. Located in Sabah, Malaysia, this center provides a safe haven for rescued and orphaned orangutans. Visitors can observe the orangutans from a viewing platform and learn more about their natural behavior and rehabilitation.
Leech socks are a type of clothing made from a special fabric designed to repel leeches while walking in rainforests or wetlands. They cover the legs and feet, protecting you from these pesky critters. Leech socks can be purchased at outdoor stores and online.
Leeches can be found in certain areas of Borneo, particularly during the wet season. If you are planning to trek through rainforests or wetlands while visiting Borneo, it is advisable to wear leech socks for protection.
The Wrap-Up: Borneo Itinerary in 10 Days
Borneo is a beautiful island with diverse cultures and an abundance of wildlife. Our 10-day itinerary covers the best of Borneo in a short timeframe and provides an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax on the beaches of Borneo, there is something for every traveler. The best time to visit Borneo is from April to October when the weather is at its best.
We hope this itinerary helps you plan your own Borneo adventure! Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and enjoy the incredible sights along the way. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and friendly locals, Borneo is sure to leave you with lifelong memories. Now, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket and get ready to explore Borneo!
Finally, remember to always be mindful of the native wildlife and local culture when visiting Borneo. Show respect when photographing or interacting with locals, and never take photographs or disturb locals without permission.
Be sure to follow these tips so that everyone can continue to enjoy the beauty of Borneo and learn more about their natural behavior and rehabilitation.
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