Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Borneo Island is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. As the third-largest island in the world, it’s packed with breathtaking landscapes, exotic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Shared by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, the Borneo Island location offers everything from dense rainforests filled with rare species to stunning beaches perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, spotting orangutans, or experiencing the traditions of Indigenous communities, Borneo Island tourism promises an unforgettable journey. Get ready to explore this incredible island and create memories of a lifetime!
Location
Photo: Eddie Yip / Wikimedia Commons
Borneo is situated in Southeast Asia’s Malay Archipelago, bordered by the South China Sea to the northwest, the Sulu Sea to the northeast, the Celebes Sea to the east, and the Java Sea to the south. The island is approximately 1,670 kilometres southwest of Manila, Philippines, and about 1,170 kilometres northeast of Jakarta, Indonesia. Its strategic location makes it accessible from major cities in the region, serving as a gateway to an array of natural and cultural attractions.
How To Reach
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are wondering how to reach Borneo Island, here’s a quick overview.
By Air: From Malaysia fly into Kota Kinabalu (BKI) or Kuching (KCH) from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, or take a direct flight from Indonesia or Brunei.
By Sea: Ferries connect Labuan (Malaysia) to Brunei and Nunukan (Indonesia) to Tawau (Malaysia).
By Road: Buses run between Sarawak (Malaysia) and Brunei and from Pontianak (Indonesia) to Kuching (Malaysia).
Places To Visit On Borneo Island
Here are a few places to visit on the Borneo Island.
1. Kinabalu National Park
Photo: Toni Wöhrl / Wikimedia Commons
Kinabalu National Park is a breathtaking escape where lush rainforests, rare orchids, and misty peaks create a paradise for nature lovers. Home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, the park offers thrilling treks, mesmerising waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife, from playful gibbons to exotic birds. Whether you’re hiking through cloud forests or soaking in the fresh mountain air, every moment here feels like an adventure waiting to unfold.
Location: Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
2. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
At Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Borneo, young and rescued orangutans swing through the trees, learning the skills they need to survive in the wild. Watching these gentle, intelligent creatures up close is both heartwarming and inspiring, as they climb, play, and interact in their natural habitat. The lush rainforest setting adds to the magic, making every visit a rare chance to witness conservation in action while supporting efforts to protect these endangered primates.
Location: Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM
3. Mulu Caves
Photo: Nora Yusuf / Shutterstock
Deep within Borneo Island’s Gunung Mulu National Park, the Mulu Caves reveal a mesmerising underground world of towering chambers, winding tunnels, and ancient rock formations. Home to the world’s largest cave chamber, Sarawak Chamber, and the breathtaking Deer Cave, where millions of bats create a spectacular dusk exodus, this natural wonder feels almost otherworldly. Suspended walkways, subterranean rivers, and limestone pinnacles add to the adventure, making it an unforgettable journey into nature’s masterpiece.
Location: Miri District, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Things To Do On Borneo Island
Here are some activities you can take part in when visiting Borneo Island.
1. Cruise Along The Kinabatangan River
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
The Kinabatangan River winds through the heart of Borneo Island, offering a front-row seat to one of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. As your boat drifts along its muddy waters, watch for playful probosci monkeys leaping between branches, pygmy elephants grazing by the banks, and vibrant hornbills soaring overhead. The misty jungle hums with life, creating a magical, ever-changing spectacle that makes every moment unforgettable.
2. Hike In Danum Valley Conservation Area
Photo: Mattingly Marinaccio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Danum Valley Conservation Area is a paradise for nature lovers, where ancient rainforests hum with life and misty trails lead to breathtaking views. Towering trees shelter playful gibbons while rare pygmy elephants leave their footprints along the muddy paths. The air is alive with birdsong, and every turn reveals something extraordinary—glowing fungi, rushing waterfalls, or the distant call of a wild orangutan. A hike here is an unforgettable journey through one of Borneo Island’s most untouched landscapes.
3. Discover The Rainforest World Music Festival
Photo: Asha Hairy / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Rainforest World Music Festival in Sarawak is a vibrant celebration of global and indigenous music, bringing together artists from around the world in the heart of Borneo’s lush greenery. With lively performances, interactive cultural workshops, and mesmerising rhythms, the festival blends tradition with modern sounds, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Surrounded by nature, visitors can dance, learn, and connect with diverse cultures in a setting unlike any other.
Where To Stay
Photo: dada _design / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Borneo Island has stays for every traveller, from budget hideaways to lavish retreats, all surrounded by rainforests, beaches, and rich wildlife. Budget explorers can stay at B&B@21 in Kota Kinabalu or Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, both offering nature-filled escapes. Mid-range options such as The Ranee Boutique Suites in Kuching and Sabah Hotel Sandakan blend comfort with local charm. For luxury, Bunga Raya Island Resort and Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort offer private beaches, stunning views, and world-class service.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Borneo Island is a dream for food lovers, bursting with fresh flavours and diverse dishes. Welcome Seafood Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu serves buttery prawns and spicy chilli crab, while The Junk in Kuching offers rich Sarawak laksa. Little Italy satisfies pasta cravings, and Aminah Arif in Brunei is famous for ambuyat. Enjoy nasi lemak at Nasi Lemak Bamboo, Hainanese chicken rice at Fatty Kee, soft-shell crab at Bla Bla Bla, and grilled stingray at Sri Lido Seafood—each bite is unforgettable!
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Suhendra / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Borneo Island is during the dry season, from March to October when the skies are clear and the dense rainforests burst with life. With warm temperatures and little rainfall, it’s the perfect time for wildlife spotting, island-hopping, and trekking through breathtaking landscapes. Borneo Island weather is generally tropical, so expect humid days, but the cool breezes in the highlands and along the beaches make every adventure refreshing.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Jimmy Chan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Budget travellers can expect to spend RM 135 to RM 220 (₹2,648-₹4,316) per day, while luxury stays may cost RM 665 to RM 1330 (₹13,047-₹26,095) per day, including accommodation, food, and activities.
Tips For Travellers
- Pack light & waterproof gear. Expect humid weather and occasional rain.
- Book permits in advance, especially for Mount Kinabalu and Sipadan diving.
- Respect local wildlife. Avoid feeding animals and maintain a safe distance.
- Get Vaccinated: Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Malaria precautions.
- Use Local Transport: Buses and ferries are the best ways to travel between regions.
Borneo Island is a paradise for adventurers, offering a mix of dense rainforests, rare wildlife, and some of the best diving spots in the world. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, coming face-to-face with orangutans, or diving into the crystal-clear waters of Sipadan, every moment here is unforgettable. The island’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for travellers craving unique experiences. So why wait? Pack your bags, embrace the wild, and book your trip with TripXL today for an epic adventure!
Cover Photo: Flanegan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
