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Wild Borneo with Singapore City Add-on

From £6,698
Duration 15 Days
Departures from: May 2024 - May 2024
Book now
From £6,698
Duration 15 Days
Departures from: May 2024 - May 2024

Tour Overview

Borneo's tropical rainforests and climate provide the perfect conditions for a huge variety of species to thrive, making this a paradise for nature-lovers. Head into mountainous landscapes and trek through forest in search of orangutan as well as numerous other remarkable creatures and incredible flora. Experience the Poring Hot Springs and take a shaded walk under tree canopy, visit World War II memorial. Cruise to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary and visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre & Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Then it's off to Singapore , starting on day 11 of your tour. where you can enjoy a tour of the city by night, sample a Singapore Sling cocktail and enjoy a half-day tour taking in Chinatown, the Malay quarter and Little India.

  • classic touring holiday Classic Touring
  • flight choices Flight Choices
  • meals included tour All Breakfasts
  • max group size Max Group Size 25

Your Holiday Includes

  • Just You Holiday Director as your host & Specialist Local Guide
  • Return flights from London
  • Use of an airport lounge in the UK
  • 12 nights in lodges & 3 & 4-star hotels plus 2 nights in flight
  • 26 meals: 12 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners including welcome drink & dinner
  • Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage

Included Holiday Highlights

  • Welcome Malaysian dinner & dance performance
  • Nature trek in Kinabalu National Park
  • Poring Hot Springs & tree canopy walk
  • World War II memorial visit
  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre & Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Cruise to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary
  • Night cruise to observe fire flies
  • Wildlife cruises & nature walks
  • Abai village and tree-planting ceremony
  • Sukau - where David Attenborough filmed
  • Tour Singapore after dark
  • Sightseeing tour of Chinatown, the Malay quarter & Little India

Itinerary

Day 1 UK

Today, make your own way to the airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu via Kuala Lumpur.

Day 2 Kota Kinabalu

On arrival this morning we'll transfer to our hotel. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, one of two Malaysian states on the exotic island of Borneo and our base for the next three nights. Tonight we gather with your fellow travellers to enjoy a sumptuous Malaysian welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll be able to try the iconic Kadaza-Dusun cuisine and try unique Malaysian foods. After dinner enjoy a lively cultural performance of Sabah dancers.

Meals included: D

Day 3 Kota Kinabalu

Today you will visit the beautiful countryside of Kiulu. Entering a local village via a hanging bridge, we will have a scenic walk along the trails in this countryside area away from the crowds of the city. We will take a break at Native Dusun House in Tombung Village where the friendly host will welcome you to the house, and a light refreshment will be served. Visit the farm to experience rubber tapping and its process, and afterwards share life stories and local delicacies. Crossing another bridge the driver will transfer you to a riverside café. The trip ends and lunch is served before relaxing or having a cool dip in the river. We return this afternoon, where you have the opportunity to join our optional evening Sunset cruise. Get ready to become acquainted with the charms of Kota Kinabalu on a whole new level. Your evening unfolds along the sultry sun-tinged South China Sea, cruising pass the islands and water villages that dot Sabah’s west coast. You are free to wander around the vessel. Panoramic ocean views, warmth of the setting sun and gentle sea breeze grace the upper-deck while a live band serenades the ethnic themed air-conditioned restaurant below with acoustic favorites. As the sun sets and the stars come out, Kota Kinabalu’s coastline now comes alive with dazzling city night lights. The North Borneo Cruise will glide across the Waterfront as you indulge in dessert or your next glass of wine. Meals included: B,L

Day 4 North Borneo

Today our adventure will begin as we head towards the north of Borneo, we will travel past vast oil palm and coconut plantations on our way. Once we arrive we will learn a little of the traditional Rungus menu which is based on pickling, poaching and preserving local food, and sit down to enjoy lunch. Afterwards we take a stroll towards the very tip of Borneo, where we have chance to enjoy the beach and take some photos of the incredible scenery. This evening return back to Kota Kinabalu and if you wish visit the local night market.

Meals included: B,L

Day 5 Kinabalu National Park

Kinabalu National Park is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna native to Borneo, including several hundred species that are found only in the park itself. We'll explore on our included guided nature trek along one of the many trails, and also catch a glimpse of Mount Kinabalu, which is South East Asia's highest peak. After a stop at Poring Hot Springs, where we can take a dip in the soothing waters, perhaps take a thrilling walk more than 40 metres up in the canopy of the Menggaris tree – the 'King of the Forest' – for fantastic views.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 6 Sandakan

Enjoy scenic views of the Kundasang highlands as we travel by road to Sandakan. We'll stop for lunch in a restaurant before we visit Sandakan Memorial Park. This was built in honour of the Prisoners of War who died in the Sandakan Death Marches during the Second World War.

Meals included: B,L

Day 7 Sandakan - Abai

Borneo is one of two places in the world where the endangered orangutan still lives in the wild, and we'll visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to observe man's closest relative and enjoy a walk in the tropical lowland forest. We'll also head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to see these endearing animals, also known as honey bears, whose numbers are dwindling due to deforestation and poaching.
After lunch, we'll transfer to the jetty in Sandakan, from where we'll cruise up to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary. This wonderful journey takes us on the Sulu Sea and through magnificent mangrove forests. On arrival in Abai, we'll check in at the Abai Jungle Lodge, where later this afternoon we'll head off on a river cruise to search for wildlife. As the sun begins to set we'll enjoy a cup of coffee on board, and as it gets darker we'll watch fireflies twinkling in the night sky.
We'll return to the hotel for dinner, after which we'll set off on another exciting cruise. This time we'll head through the jungle, with an expert nature guide telling us about the sights and sounds we experience.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 8 Abai

Wake up to the wonderful sounds of the rainforest before starting your explorations with a cruise to the Pitas lake to observe wildlife. We'll head back to the hotel for breakfast.
Back at the lodge perhaps take time to explore the boardwalk behind the lodge, you may be lucky and spot wild orangutan, silver leaf monkeys and many other types of wildlife. We'll round off the day with further cruise to see what types of wildlife we can spot.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 9 Abai - Sukau

During a free morning at the lodge, perhaps join some of your travelling companions and head off to explore your surroundings; stilted paths up to 800 metres long stretch into the forest, and animals often venture quite close.
After lunch, our wildlife search continues as we cruise up river to our next destination, Sukau, for an overnight stay. This area was visited by the highly respected naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough and his TV crew, who filmed here in 2011. We'll follow in his footsteps as we look for primates, in particular orangutans, as well as pygmy elephants and exotic birds; some of the world's most spectacular species are resident in Borneo.
After checking into our lodge, we'll take to the water again to enjoy wonderful views and search for exotic wildlife.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 10 Sandakan

Today we depart Sukau by land and make our way back to Sandakan. You can then spend the rest of the day at leisure. This evening we'll gather together to enjoy a farewell dinner.

Meals included: B,D

Day 11 Singapore

After breakfast we'll say farewell to Sandakan and transfer to the airport for our flight to Singapore via Kuala Lumpur. Modern Singapore was founded in 1819 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles. Established as a British trading post, the island went from strength to strength and today old colonial buildings sit alongside soaring modern skyscrapers on a patch of land no bigger than the Isle of Wight. On arrival we'll transfer to our hotel before setting off this evening on an included tour of Singapore after dark. A unique and scenic way of exploring Singapore is to hop on a bumboat - a traditional boat that ferries passengers along the Singapore River. From Clarke Quay Jetty, a 40-minute river journey takes one past iconic landmarks such as the Merlion, Marina Bay, Esplanade, and the Singapore Business District. Along the way, marvel at the contrast between the old and the new. Sip a cup of Singapore Sling – Singapore famous cocktail before we end the trip at the Marina Bay Sands, home to Skypark which towers some 200 metres above the city and offers stunning night time views. We’ll also enjoy a beautiful water show set against the dazzling Marina Bay Harbour.

Meals included: B

Day 12 Singapore

Around 5 million people from an eclectic mix of cultures live in Singapore and today we'll discover more about three of the city's major ethnic neighbourhoods. First we'll head to Chinatown, a fabulous blend of old and new where traditional medicinal halls sit alongside modern shops, bars and restaurants. We'll wander the streets and admire the breathtaking Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum before exploring Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Our next stop is Kampong Glam, Singapore's Malay district where we'll visit the must-see Sultan Mosque with its impressive golden dome. There's time to browse the stalls selling handmade perfumes and traditional Malay dresses on Arab Street before we head to Little India, where we'll experience vibrant culture, bustling food courts and unique shopping areas.

Meals included: B

Day 13 Singapore

Today you can choose to explore independently , maybe visit the spectacular Gardens by the Bay where two immense structures house the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories. Step inside and you'll discover the fragrant multi-coloured Flower Field, the world's tallest indoor waterfall and the incredible Supertree Grove, where a suspended walkway 22 metres above the ground offers spectacular aerial views of the gardens. This evening we gather together and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Meals included: B,D

Day 14 Singapore to UK

Enjoy a day at leisure before transferring to the airport for an evening flight back to the UK via Kuala Lumpur, arriving on day 15.

Meals included: B

Day 15 UK

You will arrive back in the UK today.

Additional Information

Please note - Due to the incredible natural surroundings of Borneo, the hotels we have selected are basic and remote. However, the hotels we have picked are optimised for the itinerary. On the evening of day 6 in Sandakan, all guests will need to pack a small backpack with essential items for the next 4 days. Your main piece of luggage will be kept in the hotel luggage store in Sandakan. This is due to large luggage not being allowed on the boat from Sandakan to Abai

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Horizon Hotel

This hotel is located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of the Sabah State and the international gateway to East Malasia.

This hotel is located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of the Sabah State and the international gateway to East Malasia.

Kinabalu Pines Resort

All of Kinabalu Pine Resort’s wooden cabins are fully built using the exclusive Selangan Batu hardwood. There are standard or deluxe cabins with blocks S & N at the resort’s crest. All rooms come with Wi-Fi internet access, satellite television channels, intercom facility, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer and coffee & tea-making facilities.

All of Kinabalu Pine Resort’s wooden cabins are fully built using the exclusive Selangan Batu hardwood. There are standard or deluxe cabins with blocks S & N at the resort’s crest. All rooms come with Wi-Fi internet access, satellite television channels, intercom facility, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer and coffee & tea-making facilities.

The Sabah Hotel

The deluxe 4-star Sabah Hotel is nestled in one of the worlds beautiful rainforests. Hotel facilities include outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Bedrooms include private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

The deluxe 4-star Sabah Hotel is nestled in one of the worlds beautiful rainforests. Hotel facilities include outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Bedrooms include private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

Abai Jungle Lodge

Situated on Borneo's famous Kinabatangan River, Abai Jungle Lodge is in the perfect position only one hour boat journey from Sandakan and the Sukau village further upriver. It is built entirely on stilts and can only be accessed by boat. The lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and rooms have private facilities.

Situated on Borneo's famous Kinabatangan River, Abai Jungle Lodge is in the perfect position only one hour boat journey from Sandakan and the Sukau village further upriver. It is built entirely on stilts and can only be accessed by boat. The lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and rooms have private facilities.

Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge

Located on the Kinabatangan River, the Sabah's longest river, the Riverside Lodge was set up in 1994, working with and hiring local people. At the back of the lodge is a jungle trail where birds, red leaf monkey and wild orantugan are often spotted. The lodge has just 33 rooms in total, all with private shower room and ceiling fan.

Located on the Kinabatangan River, the Sabah's longest river, the Riverside Lodge was set up in 1994, working with and hiring local people. At the back of the lodge is a jungle trail where birds, red leaf monkey and wild orantugan are often spotted. The lodge has just 33 rooms in total, all with private shower room and ceiling fan.

The Sabah Hotel

The deluxe 4-star Sabah Hotel is nestled in one of the worlds beautiful rainforests. Hotel facilities include outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Bedrooms include private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

The deluxe 4-star Sabah Hotel is nestled in one of the worlds beautiful rainforests. Hotel facilities include outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Bedrooms include private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

Park Regis Singapore

The 4-star Park Regis Singapore is centrally located within close proximity to the city’s popular entertainment, dining and cultural hubs of Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Chinatown. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and gym. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, coffee/tea-maker, mini-bar and hairdryer.

The 4-star Park Regis Singapore is centrally located within close proximity to the city’s popular entertainment, dining and cultural hubs of Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Chinatown. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and gym. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, coffee/tea-maker, mini-bar and hairdryer.

Optional Excursions

Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional excursions to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour.

Borneo - Kota Kinabalu - Sunset dinner cruise of the South China Sea

Borneo - Kota Kinabalu - Sunset dinner cruise of the South China Sea

Your late afternoon excursion begins at Sutera Marina Jetty where you will become acquainted with the charms of Kota Kinabalu from a different angle. You will sail to just outside the harbour where the captain will release the anchor and you can see views back to land where as the sun sets, the city lights up. Dinner is included and there is often local entertainment and games.
*PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO CAPACITY THIS EXCURSION MUST BE PREBOOKED IN ADVANCE, AND SPACES ARE LIMITED*
Sunset excursion - Minimal walking
Your late afternoon excursion begins at Sutera Marina Jetty where you will become acquainted with the charms of Kota Kinabalu from a different angle. You will sail to just outside ...

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