As the third largest island in the world, Borneo lies at the centre of Maritime Southeast Asia. The island is surrounded by the South China Sea to the north and northwest, the Sulu Sea to the northeast, the Celebes Sea and the Makassar Strait to the east. The Java Sea and Karimata Strait surround the south of the island, which has an area of over 700,000 square kilometres.
Occupying the northern portion of Borneo and dominated by the rugged heights of Mount Kinabau, this remarkable region contains many natural and cultural treasures, including the Orang-utan Sanctuary at Sepilok. Featuring the highest mountains in Malaysia, one of the largest rainforests on the planet and ethnic diversity that comprises 31 different indigenious groups, it is truly one of the world’s most uniquely fascinating destinations.
Kota Kinabulu
The gateway in Sabah, Kota Kinabulu is a mix of European, Malay and Chinese influences, lying between the waters of South China Sea and the imposing shadow of Mount Kinabulu. Founded as a trading post for the British North Borneo Company, the city today is a bustling provincial capital and one of the most vibrant cities in Eastern Malaysia. The nearby islands of TAR National Park offer excellent diving and snorkelling.
Mount Kinabulu and Kinabulu National Park
Located amongst the stunning natural beauty of the Kinabulu National Park, Mount Kinabulu, at 4,095 metres is the third tallest peak in South East Asia. Its verdant slopes present a landscape of lush vegetation and prime rainforest, blanketed in giant ferns and orchids that make it one of the most important botanical regions on the planet. With over 800 species of orchid, 600 different varieties of fern and the most prolific collection of pitcher plants, it is a veritable paradise. It is possible to ascend to the summit of this natural wonder, although the clime involves a challenging, yet rewarding 2 day guided trek, stopping overnight en-route.
Sipidan Island
Considered one of the premier dive locations in the world, with reputedly the largest population of turtles, the tiny tropical island of Sipidan benefits from a reef system that can boast some of the most spectacular marine encounters anywhere. This tiny, volcanic atoll is especially good for walls, drop-offs and drift dives and you are likely to encounter a number of larger pelagic species, including shark and manta rays. Now a protected national park reserve, access to the island’s rich underwater wonderland is only possible from the neighbouring islands, such as Mabul and Kapalal.
Kinabatangan River, Sukau
The second longest river in Malaysia, the Kinabatangan stretches for some 560 kilometres, from the mountains of south western Sabah, to the Sulu Sea. Traversing a remarkable landscape of limestone caves, riverine forests and mangrove swamps, it is home to a staggering diversity of animal and birdlife, including crocodiles, snake and the highest concentration of orang-utans and probiscis monkeys in Malaysia. A stay in the Sakau region will enable you to fully explore the Kinabatangan River and its spectacular wildlife sancturay, a region whose staggering bio-diversity has seen it likened to a ‘mini Amazon’.
Sepilo Orang-utan Sanctuary
Founded in 1964 and covering 43 square kilometres of rainforest, this site was set up to preserve the lifestyle of orang-utans. Intended to rehabilitate and to educate, the reserve ensures visitor activity does not intrude on the process of reintroducing the apes back into the wild, whilst providing the opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Selingan Turtle Island
This proteced marine park is a renowned nesting ground for green and hawksbill turtles, both of which lay their eggs throughout the year. A speedboat transfer from Sandakan take approximately 1 hour, offering a unique experience to see these turtles in their natural habitats. Danum Valley One of the last preserves of primary lowland rainforest left in Asia and recognised as one of the most complex eco-systems, the Danum Valley is a haven for a diversity of flora and fauna. This rare landscape is home to the endangered Sumatran rhino, as well as rang-utan, probiscis monkeys, the elusive clouded leopards and over 275 species of birds.
Discover Borneo on our Heart of Borneo Cruise, on-board the RV Orient Pandaw, FROM ONLY £2700. Click here to see the full itinerary, or call our specialists now on 08456 345 115 to find out more.
