borneo malaysia travel blog

The perfect Borneo itinerary for 2 weeks

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2023

What’s the best Borneo itinerary for first-time visitors?

Borneo is the world’s third-largest island and is shared by three countries. Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.

We traveled for 2 weeks through Malaysia and The Malaysian part of Borneo and discovered beautiful nature, a mix of religions and cultures, and very friendly people.

In this Borneo travel blog post, we share a complete Borneo itinerary with the main attractions and highlights of our trip. Perfect for first-time Borneo visitors.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

A Borneo itinerary for 2 weeks

Day 1-2 kuala lumpur (kl).

We started our Borneo 2-week itinerary in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and an interesting city to spend a few days.

Although this city is not located in Borneo, it would be a shame not to take the opportunity to discover this city before we continued our journey to Borneo.

How to get from the airport to Kuala Lumpur city center

There are several ways to get from the airport to Kuala Lumpur (and vice versa).

The quickest way probably is the  KLIA Express,   this train brings you in 28 minutes from the airport to Kuala Lumpur central train station ( KL Sentral ).

From KL Sentral you can continue your journey to your hotel by metro, bus or taxi. The taxi rates at this station are fixed and you arrange your taxi at the counter.

To get a quote you need to give the name of your hotel and the preferred model of the taxi.

Beware that small cabs have small trunks and your bags may not fit.

The difference in the different taxi models is normally shown at the counter.

They will give you a ticket at the counter.  This ticket also contains the address where you’re going so you just need to show it to the taxi driver and you’ll be taken to your destination.

Another option to get from the airport to Kuala Lumpur is by taxi. It is the most comfortable way to get from the city center to the airport and back as it takes you directly door to door.

Depending on the number of passengers the taxi can be cheaper than the train.

The taxi will take approximately 45 minutes to get to the city.  It all depends on traffic and where your hotel is located.

The taxis use the same ticket system at the airport so you will also need to get a ticket at the ticket counter before you head to the taxi line.

The Cheapest way to travel between the airport and Kuala Lumpur city center is to board one of the buses that drive between the airport and KL Sentral.

Airport Coach is one of them.

They charge around RM18 to bring you to KLIA.

Places of interest in Kuala Lumpur

You can see the western influence very clearly throughout the city. You might as well be in Singapore or Hong Kong.

You can explore the highlights of this city in three days.

The main highlights are of course the Petronas Tower and Kuala Lumpur Tower – the two landmarks of this city. At 452 meters, the Petronas Towers are still the highest twin towers in the world.

You have a fantastic panoramic view of the city from here.

An absolute must-do when you’re in Kuala Lumpur.

Skip the line and buy your tickets here: Tickets Petronas Tower

This, however, is the modern Kuala Lumpur.

For a more authentic experience, have a wander around the typical Indian and Chinese areas.

And be sure to have a bite to eat in Jalan Alor, the top destination for tasty street food.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur

Many of Kuala Lumpur’s major attractions are located in a relatively compact part of the city.

That’s why the hotels we share are all located near the city center of Kuala Lumpur. 

Luxury hotel: JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur

The JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur lies very central, close to all the main tourist attractions. The hotel is a wonderful oasis for those looking for a place to relax in luxury after exploring Kuala Lumpur during the day. Very welcoming staff and excellent service.

Click here for reviews and the latest prices:

Booking.com

Premium Comfortable hotel : Impiana KLCC Hotel

The Impiana KLCC Hotel is a very comfortable location for sightseeing. Spacious and well-designed rooms. Very friendly staff. You can see the twin towers while swimming in the pool.

Comfortable hotel: Holiday Express Kuala Lumpur City Center

The Holiday Inn is a good hotel right in the middle of Kuala Lumpur close to the towers. Clean and well-kept rooms. Good value for the price.

They have several room types. Choose The big one with a sofa bed, even if you don’t need the sofa, because the room is much better.

Day 3-4 Kuching

Our first stop in our two weeks Borneo itinerary was Kuching.

Kuching itself is not one of the highlights of Borneo, there is not much to do in the city, but the many side attractions we can do from Kuching will keep us busy for these 2 days.

Points of interest to do in Kuching

We stopped here mainly to visit   Bako National Park .

We contemplated spending the night in the park but didn’t in the end as we found too many negative reviews about the accommodation.

It didn’t look too bad once we were there, but it was too late by then.

We had a beautiful hike and our day flew by.

Purchase here your organized day tour to Bako National Park: Bako Day Tour

The buildings in the park are beautiful, but we didn’t get a lot of information about them. The staff simply didn’t have enough knowledge of English, and that was a pity.

The cultural show, on the other hand, was definitely worth it.

As animal lovers, one of the highlights was, of course, our visit to the Semenggoh orangutan rehabilitation center .

They tell you about the animals, and you can observe them at a (relatively) close distance when they are fed.

Where to stay in Kuching

There are plenty of options to stay in Kuching. Here we share three of the best hotels.

Luxury hotel : Hilton Kuching hotel

Hilton Kuching is a very centrally located hotel with a beautiful view over the Sarawak river. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning. After a busy day, you can relax at the wonderful pool.

Check prices and availability: Booking.com

Premium Comfortable hotel : Imperial Hotel Kuching

The Imperial hotel is a modern hotel with very comfortable rooms and a big bathroom. The staff are super friendly and speak very well English.

It’s a bit out of the center of Kuching, however, it is barely a 10 rm ($3) roundtrip fee for a Grabcar ride and there are always cars available.

Comfortable hotel : Harbour View Hotel

The Harbour View Hotel is newly renovated and located in the middle of town. Spacious and clean rooms. Comfortable beds. Very helpful and friendly staff.

Book a high floor room that’s facing the Waterfront.

Day 5-7 Mulu

From Kuching, we continued our two weeks in Borneo to Mulu.

We chose to fly, which is the quickest, and surest option.

Sometimes you can take a boat down the river, but that is not an option if the water is too low.

We flew MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines. They offered 3 direct flights a week straight from Kuching to Mulu a few years ago but seem to offer daily direct flights at this point.

Check available flights here: MASwings

Things to do in Mulu

The reason for us, like many other tourists, to visit Mulu was the Mulu National Park . Historically, the area was very popular for hunting, so a lot of animals can unfortunately no longer be spotted here as they were killed, or have fled.

But there are lots of insects like dragonflies and butterflies, and the real stars of the park are the bats.

A visit to the caves in the park is absolutely worthwhile, and you can watch the bats take flight at dusk.

This was the ultimate highlight of our trip around Borneo.

Read our detailed post about Mulu here

Where to stay in Mulu

Accommodation in Mulu is very limited.  You basically have three choices.

Accommodation outside the park in rather basic hotels or homestays.  (dorms or very basic rooms with cold showers or no showers at all and electricity available 2 to 4 hours/day) : +/- 20-35MYR/pp

The Mulu national park accommodation  is more expensive at 200-250 MYR/night.  The hotel rooms in the park are more luxurious. They offer electricity all day, hot showers and comfortable beds.  We loved our room!

Mulu Marriott

Mulu Marriott  is a good option if you are looking for a luxurious treat and want to spoil yourself. The hotel has a swimming pool and a spa. Breakfast and dinner are served buffet style. The hotel is 10 minutes outside the park but has a free shuttle that takes you to the entrance. If we would go back,  Mulu Mariott  would be our first choice.

Check prices and availability: MARRIOTT

Day 8-10 Kota Kinabalu

We continued our Malaysian Borneo itinerary in Kota Kinabalu.

We were looking forward to snorkeling in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park .

This is a collection of five islands, mainly visited for their beautiful underwater world.

We were really looking forward to this after numerous fantastic snorkeling trips in Thailand, but it was very disappointing.

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu

During our 2 weeks in Borneo, we visited two islands In Tunku Abdul Rahman Park , Sapi, and Mamutik. On the way there we already sailed through a lot of rubbish (bottles, life jackets…) and the islands were full of rubbish too. A terrible shame really.

The water is shallow, and so a lot of the coral is broken because people damage it while snorkeling.

And because there are so many people, you bump into each other or you don’t see anything because of all the splashing.

The Rafflesia , a giant carnivorous flower with a diameter of up to 106cm, is the symbol of Sabah, the state of which Kota Kinabalu is the capital. Pictures of the flower looked amazing so we decided we had to see this flower while we were here.

I would suggest, however, that you go view it elsewhere if possible.

The flower is nice, but the trip we took into the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve was quite expensive and felt like a rip-off.

You can also see it in the Gunung Gading National Park or during a climb of Mount Kinabalu, but we couldn’t fit either of those into our itinerary.

Read our detailed Kota Kinabalu post here.

Would you like to discover the exotic flora and fauna of the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of Malaysia, and relax afterward in a nice hot water spring? Book this trip to the Kinabalu National Park, and don’t forget your swimwear. Booking.com

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Luxury hotel : le meridien kota kinabalu.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu lies right opposite the markets and just a short walk away from the riverside promenade. Spacious and Comfortable rooms. Beautiful pool.

Watch the sunset from the pool area.

Premium Comfortable hotel: Mercure Kota Kinabalu city centre

The Mercure Kota Kinabalu lies in a great location close to the Baywalk area with lots of stores and restaurants. Small but comfortable rooms. The hotel has a small swimming pool on the roof, with a great city and sea view. You can also enjoy a beautiful sunset from here.

Comfortable hotel: The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan hotel lies in a wonderful location. There are lots of restaurants and shopping within walking distance. Modern and comfortable rooms.Good buffet breakfast.  You can enjoy the sea view while having breakfast.

Day 11-14 Kinabatangan

From Kuching, we flew to Sandakan. This flight was once more with Air Asia.

Our Kinabatangan river cruise

The Kinabatangan river is an area with tropical lowland rainforest vegetation and unique ecosystems.

We booked a stay in the Borneo Nature lodge including an extra tour on the way to the lodge, and once again when leaving the lodge.

Our guide was waiting for us at the airport and brought us to the hotel with a stop at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre .

Compared to Semenggoh, the information was better and more plentiful, so if you only want to visit one center, I would suggest you choose Sepilok.

We took boat trips twice a day, leaving our lodge early in the mornings and again at four in the afternoon.

We spotted lots of animals like orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and of course many beautiful birds.

If you’re like us and get excited seeing animals in their natural habitat, then this is a place you certainly have to put on your Borneo itinerary.

We also did a night cruise, or technically an after-sunset cruise.

The advantage of such a cruise is that you can take beautiful photographs of the animals as you can get much closer. And it is exciting to go canoeing in the dark too.

Here you can read more about our Kinabatangan river cruise.

On the way back from our lodge we visited the Gomatong Caves. This is where they harvest the edible bird’s nests which are a delicacy in China.

Well, after being here, I don’t think I’ll ever try those as the cave was full of cockroaches, beetles, and other bugs, and in the middle was an enormous mountain of bat poo.

We still shudder thinking about it.

We finished our trip with lunch in the English Tea House, a colonial-style building from where we had beautiful views over the sea and could forget the horrors of the Gomantong Caves.

Kinabatangan riverside lodges

The price of your Kinabatangan river cruise package depends on many elements.  The level of comfort of the accommodation will make a difference but there will also be differences in what’s included in your package.

Some Kinabatangan river lodges offer all-inclusive packages (typically including all meals and 2 daily Kinabatangan River Cruises) but some only include your accommodation.

We advise taking an all-inclusive package. 

You will have nothing to worry about because your tours and your meals will be included.

As you are in the jungle there are no other restaurants around.

If you are just like us a big nature fan, opt for a 4 days/3 nights package so you can enjoy 3 full days in the Malaysian wilderness.

You will have more chances to see the orangutans and pygmy elephants. We saw different animals on each river cruise.

There’re many Kinabatangan river accommodations. Remember that you are in the jungle and that these river accommodations may not offer all the amenities that you are used to.

Here we share 3 comfortable hotels with air conditioning that offer all-inclusive packages.

Borneo nature lodge

We stayed in the  Borneo Nature Lodge one of the more comfortable Kinabatangan riverside lodges. It’s the only lodge in Kinabatangan rated 2 stars.  The manager took really good care of us and we were treated to delicious meals after every river safari.  We comfortably enjoyed the pleasures of the jungle :-).

Nature Lodge Kinabatangan

Click here for reviews and the latest prices: Booking.com

The Nature Lodge Kinabatangan offers basic clean rooms with air conditioning.  Incredibly friendly staff. The tours are good and the group sizes are considerably smaller than other tours.

The Bilit Rainforest Lodge

The  Bilit Rainforest lodge  offers spacious rooms with air conditioning.  They offer a reasonable selection of well-prepared food, Very friendly and helpful staff. The river safaris are excellent and the guides are good at spotting wildlife.

Borneo essentials

Here we answer the most frequent FAQ’s for Borneo.

What’s the best time to visit Borneo

The average temperature in Borneo lies between 27 and 32 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Borneo has a fairly humid climate, and it rains regularly.

The best time to visit Borneo is between April and September . The busiest months are from May to September.

We visited Borneo in July, and it was mostly dry, apart from the occasional shower.

Going independent or joining an organized tour

We found it easy and straightforward to create our own travel itinerary.  It was also fairly easy to travel through Borneo independently.

We traveled with our suitcases but Borneo is also a great backpacker’s destination. Here you will find a complete list of the best backpacking gear when you are planning on backpacking in Borneo.

But if you want the company of a group, don’t have the time to create your own itinerary, or just don’t want to go independent, you could also join an organized tour. TourRadar  is a trustworthy company where you can book an organized tour to Japan to make it easy on yourself.

Here you can find all organized tours to Borneo: Organized Tours Borneo

How to get to Borneo

Wondering how to get to Borneo? Since there are almost no international flights directly to Borneo our journey started with a flight to Kuala Lumpur before taking our Air Asia flight to Kuching, a route many other travelers use.

How to find cheap tickets to Kuala Lumpur

If you want to score  cheap flights  to Kuala Lumpur we advise you to have a look at  Momondo  and  Skyscanner. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

our full review about 10 booking sites here.

How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo

Air Asia is a low-cost airline, and as with all budget airlines, it means they are very strict when it comes to luggage and you have to pay for all extras.

Those are things I would rather avoid but if we ignore those typical low-cost aspects I must say their service was good and we had an enjoyable flight.

We had an hour’s delay on this flight and were spontaneously handed a discount voucher for a future flight. I still prefer to fly with the major carriers, but would consider Air Asia for another flight.

Air Asia operates 9 flights daily. Their flight to Kuching leaves from the low-cost terminal of KL airport .  (LCCT) Note that the low-cost terminal is far apart from the regular terminal. The low-cost terminal can be reached by taxi.

Another way is by KLIA Transit. There is a stop at Salak Tinggi station where special busses depart to LCCT.

There are also buses that transport passengers between the two terminals; though they are very cheap it also takes quite some time.

If you rather don’t fly with Air Asia you can choose Malaysia airlines. Malaysia Airlines offer more than 10 flights a day.

The flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo is around 1h40 minutes.

Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo are often very cheap.  The prices fluctuate depending on seasons but with four entry-point options, you can always get into Borneo somewhere for under $50.

Do I need travel insurance for Borneo?

We do not recommend traveling without travel insurance. Besides medical expenses, it covers lots more.

You can turn to your travel insurance if your camera, notebook, or smartphone gets damaged or stolen. Travel insurance will reimburse you if you can’t leave on your trip because of an emergency at home or if you need to end your trip early.

Drawing up a travel insurance policy may seem expensive at first but it can potentially save you a significant sum, significantly more than the small insurance fee.

Good travel insurance, such as the one from HeyMondo and SafetyWing, covers the things we mentioned above and even more.

Check prices and availability:

We think this is a fairly complete 2-week itinerary for  Borneo.

But as always, you have to make choices, and that’s what we did for this Borneo itinerary.

As nature lovers, we loved Mulu and our Kinabatangan river cruise the most.

This was absolutely the highlight of our Borneo itinerary.

If you have less time and aren’t going to climb Mount Kinabalu, we would suggest skipping Kota Kinabalu.

If you are looking for a 10 days Borneo itinerary and like snorkeling or diving,  we would advise adding Lankayan Island . It’s easy to reach with a private boat transfer from Sandakan. We didn’t do it ourselves because we went to the Perhentians. But we heard from other people that it is an amazing island.

If you are convinced of Borneo but are looking for a tropical destination, our Kerala in India might be something for you.

If you are wondering what to pack for Borneo, check out this Borneo packing list.

If you want to stay online while you are in Malaysia, check out this post about the best Malaysia tourist SIM card. 

Have you visited Malaysian Borneo, what were the highlights for you?  Would you change something in our itinerary?

Tuesday 9th of July 2019

"Well, after being here, I don’t think I’ll ever try those as the cave was full of cockroaches, beetles, and other bugs, and in the middle was an enormous mountain of bat poo."

"If you are just like us a big nature fan"

Clearly ;) Bat poo in the cave, who would've expected...

This was absolutely the most disgusting cave we ever visited. Can you imagine people are staying here for the night...

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Drifting Pretty

A travel and lifestyle blog dedicated to the jet-setting, wander-lusting, road-trippin’ life

Borneo Itinerary: The Perfect 2 Week Adventure Guide

January 20, 2021

By Simone Shomaker.

I don’t know about you, but the social distancing and time spent home on the couch has me daydreaming about past travel, and feeling hopeful about travel in the future. In light of that, I wanted to write a blog post about one of my favorite trips I have taken to date…Borneo, Malaysia. Keep reading for my full Borneo itinerary, the ultimate 2 week adventure guide!

From the reefs to the jungles…

Sepilok orangutan conservation center & bornean sun bear conservation center, borneo, malaysia.

You can imagine how excited I was when my fiancé Jacob said he wanted to take a big trip to celebrate finishing his PhD and officially becoming a doctor! After lots of research, we landed on Borneo, a rugged island in Asia boasting immediate access to remote nature. Borneo is the largest island in Asia and the third largest world wide, spanning across three nations: Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. Borneo is often featured on “Planet Earth” and is known for its pristine beaches, the oldest rainforests on the planet, extensive underground cave systems, and rare wildlife. It is home to rare species such as clouded leopards, pygmy elephants, orangutans and many more…. 

Borneo Travel Tips

Before I dive into the fun part, here are a few quick things to note about traveling to Borneo. This is not a trip I would recommend to anyone if you want luxury resorts or a “sipping tropical cocktails by the pool” vacation, this is very much a remote adventure travel destination…

SHOP OUR SUITCASE

1- You can not drink the water here. Bring a water filter or buy bottled water.

2- Bring insect repellent, and lots of it! Malaria and Dengue are a concern here, we stocked up on anti malarial prophylactics as a preventative measure.

3- Be careful what you eat, as with other countries lacking water purification capabilities, the food can also transmit waterborne bacteria, especially fresh fruit and vegetables. We recommend eating cooked veggies and fruit that has to be peeled.

4- People speak some English, but not everyone does and communication can be a bit tricky, especially if you are going off the grid as we did. 

5- Bring a rain jacket and tall socks to help prevent leeches when hiking in the rainforest. 

6- Time to unplug! Wifi is spotty. It does the soul good to disconnect for a while.

7- Borneo is a really huge island, traveling around takes time. Flights are the quickest way as buses can take 6+ hours or more in some cases. Also we were not able to make it to some of the places we wanted to because flights/boats/shuttles were only offered once a week. Plan accordingly!

9- Bring binoculars so you can see all the amazing wildlife- you will be happy you did!

Borneo Itinerary

While we were on Borneo we hopped around quite a bit. Here is our itinerary:

-Arrive at Tawau Airport, drive to Semporna, Sabah (1 hour drive)

-Go from Semporna to the water house by boat (30 min boat ride)

-Return to Tawau Airport and fly to Sandakan (spend 1-2 days in Sandakan)

-Sandakan to Kinabatangan Rainforest (stop along the way at Orangutan & Sun Bear Sanctuary)

-Kinabatangan River, in Bilit, spend 3-4 days

-Kinabatangan to Sandakan

-Sandakan to Selingan Turtle Island by boat (3 hour boat ride)

-Selingan Turtle Island Conservation Center, spend 2 days here

-Return from Turtle Island to Sandakan

-Sandakan to Mainland Malaysia stay tuned for another blog post about this!

Where to Stay in Semporna, Sabah, Borneo

Semporna was the highlight of our trip. We ventured off the beaten path and stayed in a traditional water house. This was a really unique experience, which I highly recommend to anyone who loves the ocean. You can see the water below your room through the cracks in the wood floor, and hear/feel the ocean rock you to sleep. The houses are built on stilts over the water off shore. Fair warning, it is a bit rugged, but you can’t beat jumping off your porch straight into the ocean on the middle of a beautiful coral reef. To get here, we were picked up by boat from the docks of Semporna by our  Airbnb host. It was about a 20 minute boat ride along the coast and out to the reef. We found this amazing Airbnb Maglami Lami Waterhouse which is owned by a lovely family who live there as well.  They cook three delicious meals a day for you which is included in the accommodation cost. They also can arrange to charter a boat for you for fun day trips! 

What to Do in Semporna, Borneo

Visit the bajau laut, sea gypsy community.

Each day we got picked up by boat  for various day trips. One of our highlights was getting to see the Bajau Laut, sometimes known as the sea gypsies or sea nomads. This was an amazing and humbling experience. These people are nomadic and live solely off of the ocean. They live in huts over the sea and have no connection to the modern world. They are highly skilled free divers who forage for their food underwater. The ocean is their sole source of food. Scientific studies have even shown that they have evolved larger spleens to help them more efficiently carry oxygen and hold their breath. They are said to potentially be the last generation of sea gypsies because of climate change, pollution and overfishing threatening their daily existence. Getting a glimpse of their world is a very touching reminder that our impacts span far across the globe to places and people most don’t even realize exist.

Bohey Dulang Hike

From the Bajau Laut, we took a short boat ride to the famous and picturesque Bohey Dulang hike. This was one of the views we looked forward to seeing the most. When we got there we were disappointed to see an overwhelming number of boats carrying tourists. The hike itself was extremely overcrowded and regimented, each group had a guide and it was a single file line all the way up. Despite the overcrowding, the views were absolutely insane and it is still worth a visit. After the hike, enjoy the day snorkeling and freediving around the beautiful island to cool off!

Island Hopping near Semporna, Borneo

Off the coast of Semporna, Sabah has no shortage of beautiful islands and great snorkeling/freediving. We highly recommend visiting as many as possible including Mataking Island, Pom Pom Island, Mabul Island, and our next favorite, Sipadan Island.

Scuba Diving in Sipadan Island

Widely touted as one of the top dives of the world, we had to go check it out. A little about me, I love scuba diving and my fiancé is a marine ecologist. We have dove all over the world, and have been lucky enough to dive at many highly regarded sites. Sipadan definitely lived up to the hype! You have to get a lottery permit to dive here, and the government only issues a limited number of permits per day. They do this in order to preserve the marine ecosystem. We were lucky enough to score a day-of permit at the last minute, but I recommend trying to book one well in advance through one of the local dive shops in Semporna, or on Mabul Island . It is a several hour boat ride from Semporna to get to Sipadan, however it was well worth it and you won’t be disappointed. It was a dive filled to the brim with huge megafauna! For those of you without a marine biology background, think of giant bumphead parrotfish, huge green sea turtles, underwater tornadoes of giant barracuda, and reef sharks galore, what a treat! In between dives we got to relax and explore the beautiful island above water. I recommend bringing your own dive computer if you have one, the resort has a very small supply!

What to Do in Sandakan, Sabah, Borneo

Sandakan is the second largest city in the state of Sabah, and is full of history. I recommend stopping over here for one full day to take in some of the sights. It is also the gateway to get to the Kinabatangan River and Selingan Turtle Island. This was not my favorite stop of the trip, but there are some worthwhile things to see and do, and the cutest street puppies live here! We hired a driver for the day through our Airbnb host who took us all around town. This was very convenient because there are many quick stops worth seeing, and we got a local tour! We stayed right in the downtown area along the river at a no frills Airbnb which was convenient to walk to restaurants and check out some of the vegetable and seafood local markets.

Visit the Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Center and Gomantong Cave

We visited the Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Center and Gomantong Cave. The cave was very breathtaking from the outside, but if you are anything like me (and are terrified of roaches) you won’t want to venture too far inside. We were lucky enough to spot wild Orangutans on the walk to the cave which was absolutely magical.

Sandakan Memorial Park

There is a lot of history from Word War II in Sandakan. Take a walk through the beautiful and eerie Sandakan Memorial Park, this is one of the locations where the infamous death marches took place when the Japanese invaded Sandakan. Nearby, is a historical house built before the war that has been converted into a museum, and after you stroll through there you can go visit the English Tea House and Restaurant for a lovely scone and the cutest street puppies roaming the grounds (I almost brought one home with me!). 

Sam Sing Kung Temple, Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple and the Buli Sim Sim Water Village

Our next stops on our Sandakan day tour were two temples that our guide recommended: Sam Sing Kung Temple and my personal favorite of the two, the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple. Both temples are beautiful and worth seeing. Sing Kung is a small local temple with rustic charm, compared to Puu Jih Shih Temple, which is perfectly landscaped and quite extensive. There is a large Chinese population in Sandakan, and they live in the Buli Sim Sim water village which is built on stilts over the water. This was very interesting to visit, but hard to see in some ways due to the pollution they were living in. They have a famous Sim Sim Seafood Restaurant here that is popular with tourists from Asia because of the rare items on the menu. I felt quite uncomfortable inside this restaurant to be honest but it was eye opening to see some of the seafood that was being served and considered to be a delicacy.

Have a Drink at Balin Roof Garden

After our full day of adventuring, we found a wonderful rooftop bar called Balin Roof Garden , they also double as a pizza restaurant (a welcome change up after having noodles for every meal!). The bar turned out to be my favorite one of the whole trip and they had incredible espresso martinis in the cutest atmosphere!

On the way to the Kinabatangan River, we stopped at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center . The Sepilok Orangutan Center was a wonderful experience. You can sit and watch orangutans up close and personal as they go about their daily life. We even got to see some wild ones out in the park as we walked around. Be sure to catch feeding time while you are there, it was quite a sight! Conveniently located across the street is the Sun Bear Conservation Center. The sun bear is the smallest bear on the planet, and quite adorable! They are the size of a large dog, and get their name for their love of lounging in the sun. Definitely a must see!

Kinabatangan River Cruise

Next up, we scheduled a multi day trip into the rainforest in search of monkeys, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards and crocodiles. We chose Bilit Rainforest Lodge for our accommodation, which was rustic and jungly but oh so cool, and built on stilts on the edge of the river (due to the high amount of rain/flooding the area experiences). It takes about 2 hours to get here from Sandakan by car, and then you cross the river by boat. The river is massive! Each day we went on several river cruises and even a nighttime cruise. As you boat down the river, your guide will point out all the magical wildlife. We never caught a glimpse of the rare pygmy elephant, but were blown away by so many different kinds of monkeys (orangutans & proboscis to name a few), crocodiles, pythons, many species of birds, and lush riverside landscapes. Be sure to pack your mossie repellent for this spot! During your down time there are many places to take a jungle stroll (don’t forget the leech socks!), or read a book while you sit in your private hammock!  

Selingan Turtle Island

This was one of my most favorite parts of the whole trip. We opted for a conservation based experience for our last few days on Borneo. This was quite fitting being that Jacob is a marine biologist/ecologist and my college degree was a Bachelors of Science in Marine Biology. The Selingan Turtle Island has been fully dedicated to turtle conservation. They offer packages for people to come learn about sea turtles and be a part of the conservation experience. While there, you can lounge on the beach while looking across the ocean at the neighboring islands of the Philippines. At night you are taken on guided and monitored missions to watch mama turtles lay their eggs using red lights that don’t disturb them. You then watch the process as they collect the eggs and take them to a protected hatchery. They have a guard who watches over the nursery 24/7 to make sure that no one poaches the eggs, and that no critters eat the eggs. When it’s time, they hatch into the cutest little babies and are released back into the wild. With all the threats that turtles face as a species, it was great to be a part of this and see locals who are so dedicated and invested in saving them.

Borneo Conservation

That concludes our wonderful time in Borneo. It was truly one of the coolest trips I have taken, so rugged, raw, and filled with rare wildlife. I hope that you get a chance to visit here someday! I want to take a moment to mention that deforestation is a huge concern here, and has decimated fifty percent of these ancient and biodiverse rainforests. Palm oil plantations and illegal logging are some of the biggest culprits. If you want to learn more and donate to the cause, check out World Wildlife Fund . Also consider donating to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center . I can only imagine how much these facilities are hurting with the lack of tourism from COVID-19. Thank you and stay tuned for my next post on mainland Malaysia!

I wanted to also thank my love Jacob Eurich @jacobeurich for all of the amazing photos he is always taking for me. If you are interested in marine conservation and photography give him a follow and check out his website https://www.jacobeurich.com/ . He is doing amazing things to change the world!

Have you been to Borneo and have any additional recommendations for us? Comment below!

Danielle and Simone

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Two weeks in Borneo: Your adventurous Borneo itinerary for the best things to do in Borneo

March 1, 2018 by Karen Turner 9 Comments

Visiting Borneo was a dream of mine ever since I was a child watching National Geographic video series about the biodiversity in Borneo.  Planning my trip to Borneo took quite a bit of time as Borneo is one of the world’s largest islands with three countries.

As I only had two weeks for Borneo, I had to choose carefully what to do in Borneo.  This was my itinerary for two weeks in Borneo, focusing on Malaysia and Brunei.  I tried to include the best things to do in Borneo, which makes it easy to stretch this Borneo itinerary to four weeks in Borneo depending on your interests.

• 1 A note on choosing Malaysia and Brunei instead of Indonesia for my Borneo itinerary
• 2.1.1 Optional trip from Sandakan or Kota Kinabulu: Sipadan for diving (1-3 days)
• 2.2 Optional 2-7 days side trip: Danum Valley
• 2.3 Kota Kinabalu: Three Days, including Kota Kinabalu National Park
• 2.4 Optional day trip from Kota Kinabalu: Paragliding in Ranau
• 2.5 Optional trip from Kota Kinabalu: Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata (1-3 days)
• 3.0.1 Bandar Seri Begawan (3 days)
• 3.0.2 Ulu Temburong National Park (1-2 days)
• 3.1.1 Optional side trip from Miri: Gunung Mulu National Park (2-5 days)
• 3.1.2 Optional day trip from Miri: Gua Pari fairy caves and wind caves (1 day)
• 3.1.3 Optional side trip from Miri: Kelabit Highlands / Bario (2-3 days)
• 4.1 Optional half day trip from Kuching: Sarawak Cultural Village
• 4.2.1 Day trip from Kuching (if you’re lucky enough) (1-2 days)
• 5.1 …And that’s it for my two week itinerary for Borneo!  
• 5.2 Have you been to Borneo? 

A note on choosing Malaysia and Brunei instead of Indonesia for my Borneo itinerary

I’m so excited to visit Indonesia, however I found that flights to/from the Indonesian part of Borneo were pricey.  SImilarly, I didn’t have the time to take slow boats around.

My friend Cherene had a fantastic experience after flying into Kalimantan seeing wild orangutans in Indonesia .  My aunt was able to take an in-depth tour to Kalimantan to learn about traditional weaving in the region and we met one person who had done some intensive jungle trekking in Indonesia. However, the Indonesian side has less infrastructure, which makes it more difficult to get around Borneo without a lot of time.

Borneo in two weeks itinerary

This itinerary can be easily flipped depending on where you fly into Borneo.  For me, it was cheaper to fly to Kuala Lumpur to start off my trip prior to taking an AirAsia flight to Sandakan rather than to fly into Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, or Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei).

You’ll find international flights to/from Europe and Australia into BSB (Brunei) although you’ll also find flights into Kota Kinabalu with a transfer.  I leave this part of your Borneo itinerary up to you, but this was how I organized my personal trip to Borneo to minimize backtracking as well as flights.  You can read my packing list for Borneo . This itinerary is not strictly for two weeks in Borneo, so I hope it inspires your holiday to Borneo no matter the length.

I’ve included a bit of side trips that are easy to do from different cities, so depending on your interests, you should be able to add/cut different things.  It might not be avoidable to go to certain cities if you want to do specific activities.  I was very interested in a number of these side trips, but I ran out of time.

I hope that this information about Borneo helps anyone planning their trip to Borneo by highlighting the best things to do in the Malaysian and Bruneian parts of Borneo!  You could easily expand this itinerary for four weeks in Borneo, focused on travel in Sabah and Sarawak.

Beginning of your Borneo trip: Sandakan & the Kinabatangan Valley (3 days)

You can fly into Sandakan from Kuala Lumpur for as low as $20 USD.  After doing my research into where best to see wildlife in Borneo, I realized that the Kinabatangan region would be the best option given my limited time in Borneo. I was hoping to see wild pygmy elephants, but unfortunately we didn’t get lucky.

Most wildlife safaris that are mid-range to luxury will pick you up from the Sandakan airport as part of their package price.  I paid ~$300 (per person) for my three day two night excursion in the Kinabatangan region.

During this time, we saw hundreds of wild monkeys [including silver leaf and proboscis monkeys], spotted THREE wild orangutans, jungle trekked, and cruised along the river.

The whole experience was out of a dream and why I came to Borneo.  Some people stay longer, however I felt three days in the Kinabatangan Valley was enough time.   You can read more about my time in the Kinabatangan Valley, including where I stayed here.

Optional trip from Sandakan or Kota Kinabulu: Sipadan for diving (1-3 days)

I still don’t know how to dive, however diving in Sipadan is a must for divers.  Sipadan is routinely rated as one of the best places in the world to go scuba diving.

Be aware that they strictly limit the number of divers that can visit Sipadan each day, so you must apply in advance for a diving permit (they go quickly).  You can take a six hour bus to Somporna from Sandakan or fly from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.   You might need to reorder your trip depending on whether you choose to take the bus to Sipadan or fly.

A related note: I skipped Sipadan as I do not know how to dive and depending on pirate activity, you might want to stay up to date on what’s going off the eastern coast of Borneo if you’ll be spending extra time in this region.

Optional 2-7 days side trip: Danum Valley

I did not include Danum Valley  in this Borneo itinerary as the prices were so exorbitant that I couldn’t justify paying it.  I heard incredible things about spending 3 days to a week hiking in Danum Valley, but it wasn’t in my budget unfortunately.  You can fly from Kota Kinabalu to Danum Valley.

Kota Kinabalu: Three Days, including Kota Kinabalu National Park

Kota Kinabalu is the largest city on Borneo and it has a lot to offer.  To see the main city sights, visit the spectacular Kota Kinabalu national park (which has its own ecosystem), learn about local culture, and snorkel/dive on Gaya Island, you’ll need about three days.

A must is going around the Kota Kinabalu night market, which is a great place to try local specialities, although I must say that I am taken with laksa.  You can read a good itinerary for three days in Kota Kinabalu here.

Optional day trip from Kota Kinabalu: Paragliding in Ranau

We spent a day going on a day trip to Ranau, which has a lot of tragic history from World War II relating to prisoners-of-war, with a day trip that we booked once we were in Kota Kinabalu.

I highly recommend stopping along the way to try fresh fruit and local indigenous specialities in the region.  Be sure to visit the memorial prior to going paragliding in the hills of Ranau.

Paragliding is one of those once in a lifetime experiences that I recommend that anyone should try out.  You’ll understand how it feels to soar in the air like a bird!

Optional trip from Kota Kinabalu: Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata (1-3 days)

If you’re considering climbing Mount Kinabalu to do the via ferrata , you’ll need at least 2-3 day extra days and quite a bit of cash as it’s a fairly pricey activity.

I chose not to climb Kinabalu due to the cost, but it’s recommended that you take a 3D2N trip to Mount Kinabalu as your trip might be cancelled if the weather is not right and you’ll have an extra night to summit to the top if the weather is not great the first day.  Not going is a big regret of mine.

At minimum, consider visiting Kota Kinabalu National Park as a day trip. 

Brunei Darussalam (3-5 days total)

There’s a good flight connection between BSB Brunei and Kota Kinabalu as well as Kuala Lumpur. We flew Royal Brunei Airways.

I’m always shocked to hear that people spend so little time in Brunei when I found Brunei one of the most fascinating places that I’ve visited in the world.

Brunei is a great place for cultural travel as Brunei as they have their own rich culture and history in addition to a water village that deserves UNESCO recognition  The mosques are pretty spectacular too !    You can read travel tips for Brunei here.

Bandar Seri Begawan (3 days)

A lot of people rush through their time in Bandar Seri Begawan as they find it boring . (I disagree.) The capital city of Brunei Darussalam has free attractions, a UNESCO-worthy water village that is living history, friendly people, lively night markets, and delicious food .

You may not find alcohol in BSB, but Brunei is perfect for the traveler ready to immerse themselves in a different culture.   You can read the best things to do in Bandar Seri Begawan here .

Ulu Temburong National Park (1-2 days)

You’ll need to book an excursion from Bandar Seri Begawan to get to Ulu Temburong National Park, one of the most well-maintained virgin rainforests  in the world .

In order to get to Ulu Temburong National Park, you’ll take a stunning ferry ride through the rainforest prior to taking a traditional longboat.  The area around the park is home to the Iban people, who have their own culture and history.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Iban people, I recommend spending more than a day here as a day trip to Ulu Temburong National Park means that you won’t have time to properly learn about Iban culture!  Be sure to visit in time for the Harvest festival if possible.   You can read tips for visiting Ulu Temburong National Park here.

Miri (1 day)

You can take a bus from Brunei to Miri.  You’ll find the bus departing daily in the mornings.  Ask any tourist information desk for bus departure information or book your tickets online.

Thanks to Ying Ying for the fantastic tour of Miri.  I was lucky enough to have a local guide to Miri, which is where Shell was founded.  Oil is a key industry in Miri still and Shell still has a very strong presence in this city (as well as a private beach club).

Miri isn’t too large although a car is essential as the bus from Brunei comes in at an inconvenient place. Miri is a great base for various trips around Sarawak and a great place to try Sarawak laksa in case you haven’t yet…

Miri is one of the only places in the world where you can try the Bario pineapple outside of Bario as well as Kelabit food.  You’ll need to visit  The Summit Cafe  to try Kelabit food.

Optional side trip from Miri: Gunung Mulu National Park (2-5 days)

Although the flight from Miri to Mulu National Park is only thirty minutes, this flight is often canceled and delayed due to visibility.  As a result, you need at least 1-2 days built into your Borneo itinerary to ensure that you have enough time to visit Mulu with taking into account possible flight delays.  (Flights are inexpensive.) Be sure to bring enough cash to cover food and tours.

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of Borneo’s gems without question although you need to have a more flexible schedule to visit this national park.

Gunung Mulu National Park is most famous for its pinnacles, which can be seen via three days/two night trek.  Similarly, each night, you can see the bat migration out of the caves of over three million bats.

It should be noted that most of the tours require at least two people.  If you’re into caving, you must do one of the adventurous cave tours at Gunung Mulu National Park, which can be booked online in advance.  There’s also trekking that can be done from the park headquarters as well as a canopy walk.

Optional day trip from Miri: Gua Pari fairy caves and wind caves (1 day)

The Gua Pari fairy caves and the wind caves are an easy day trip from Miri. Many tours will include both caves on a day trip from Miri.   Be sure to wear good footwear as the caves have many bats (which usually means bat poop) as well as many steps. It’s possible to visit both caves independently.

Optional side trip from Miri: Kelabit Highlands / Bario (2-3 days)

For those interested in cultural travel, Bario needs to be on your list.  I was lucky enough to try Bario pineapple and rice while I was in Miri.

Bario is a remote community that can be reached by plane from Miri.  It is the main settlement for the Kelabit tribe.   It’s a great base for adventure travel if you’re interested in cultural travel as well as trekking.

We heard amazing things about Bario and I want to go to Bario on my next trip, not just for the pineapple (which was pretty delicious).  I tried Kelabit food while in Miri and it was delicious as well as quite different than what I was used to. Bario recently got electricity.

Kuching (2 days)

I was entranced by Kuching, which has a mix of ethnic groups.  I loved the blend of cultures, the architecture, the cats ( Kuching means cat in Malay ), and the food .

Kuching is the gateway to Sarawak and anyone interested in learning about the many indigenous tribes of Malaysia will be fascinated by Kuching.  You’ll also find a lot of fantastic food in Kuching!

If you intend to visit Bako National Park, you’re better off staying in the city of Kuching prior to your departure. Kuching is perfect for 1-2 days of relaxing, non-stop eating, and admiring the city’s adorable shops.

Although I’m not a fan of Uber, it was very easy getting around Kuching via Uber with lots of friendly drivers.  Take the shuttle bus to Bako National Park from Kuching!   You can easily find budget flights from Miri to Kuching.

Optional half day trip from Kuching: Sarawak Cultural Village

Sarawak Cultural Village, very close to Taman Negara Santubong, is a “living museum” where you can see traditional architecture via seven traditional houses and learn about life in the longhouses.  It’s certainly a must-see if you’re interested in cultural travel as it’s a great introduction to the rich culture and history of the region’s ethnic groups.

Optional trip from Kuching: Taman Negara Santubong (2-3 days)

We stayed outside of Kuching.  The mountain and rainforest close to Kuching (Santubong National Park) is relatively untouched and great for trekking (you need a guide), however it’s best noted that it’s expensive getting from this area to Bako National Park without a taxi.

It’s possible to hire a boat to take you from Taman Negara Santubong to Bako National Park via most of the resorts, but this is not a cheap option.   I’d recommend doing this as a day trip from Kuching instead of staying overnight.

Day trip from Kuching (if you’re lucky enough) (1-2 days)

In  Gunung Gading National Park , you can see one of the world’s largest and rarest flowers in bloom.  We were told that you need to need to ask around carefully beforehand to ensure that the rafflesia is in bloom prior to going there.  You don’t have that much time to see them if they’re in bloom, so keep an eye out.

Bako National Park (3 days)

Bako National Park is one of the gems of Borneo and you must put Bako on your Borneo itinerary.  A lot of people come here as part of a day trip from Kuching, however if you don’t stay overnight, you’ll miss out on the most incredible experience of all: 10 ringgit ($2.50 USD) wildlife night walks with the experienced rangers who will help you spot flying lemurs and other creatures of the night.

The trekking in Bako National Park is fantastic, so even if you have limited time (and can only do a day trip to Bako National Park), be sure to go hiking.

The more remote parts of the island and longest hikes on Bako National Park require taking a boat with one of the rangers to the starting point of the hikes, so be sure to bring extra money for the boat ride to/from the park as well as any additional boat rides that you intend to take.

I think that Bako National Park is one of the easiest ways to experience nature in Borneo even if you’re not a big hiker as some of the trails are easy enough (boardwalk only ) that even non-hikers can enjoy some of the unique ecosystems on the island.

Within Bako National Park, you’ll find seven distinct ecosystems, remote beaches, amazing views, and  not that many people considering that this is one of Borneo’s most famous national parks.

It’s still rainforest, but I loved that the park had such drastically different ecosystems compared to other parts of Borneo that I visited during my trip.   After visiting Bako National Park, it’s easy to fly to a number of cities in Malaysia from Kuching via AirAsia as well as continue your trip deeper into Sarawak. 

You can read my tips for visiting Bako National Park here.

…And that’s it for my two week itinerary for Borneo!  

• Click for my tips on a realistic guide to pack for Borneo.
• Tips for visiting Brunei

Have you been to Borneo? 

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

March 10, 2018 at 10:44 am

Such an extensive list and research. I’m definitely saving this later. As I live in Thailand, I might actually be able to execute this in the not too distant future.

March 10, 2018 at 6:39 pm

Borneo looks incredible! Your photos capture the colors and vibe perfectly! Thanks for sharing.

March 10, 2018 at 6:50 pm

Borneo is so high on our bucket list! Dying to get there. Bako National Park looks insanely good – and the night walk sounds like a totally unique experience. Thanks for sharing!

March 10, 2018 at 11:30 pm

What an amazing collection of experiences, especially all the time with nature and animals. And the cultural village sounds like a great way to learn more about local history and perspectives. What an incredible way to explore Borneo!

[…] Click for tips on things to do in Bandar Seri Begawan, visiting Ulu Temburong National Park, my complete Borneo itinerary, or an insider’s guide to […]

[…] in mind that my itinerary for Borneo was a diverse one, including a mix of cities as well as trekking.  I’d say that I spent most of […]

[…] in Brunei? Click for general tips on travel in Brunei (including what to wear in Brunei), my itinerary for Borneo, and non-boring guide to things to do in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei with a unique […]

[…] Click for my complete itinerary for Borneo! […]

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Borneo Travel Guide

Hands down one of our favorite adventure destinations on the planet is Malaysian Borneo . 

The Legendary Rainforests of Borneo bring to mind images of towering trees, abundant wildlife and wild foreboding rain forests filled with raging rivers.

Only great explorers would dare to go there, it was home to the Headhunter after all.

This Borneo  travel guide  will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Things to do in Borneo
• The Pinnacles of Borneo

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Borneo

• Borneo power voltage is 230/240 V 50 Hz; Power sockets G.
• The island itself is divided among three countries:  Malaysia  and  Brunei  in the north, and  Indonesia  to the south.
• The Borneo currency is the Malaysian Ringett (MYR) and is around 4 MYR to 1 USD. In Brunei the Brunei Dollar and Singapore Dollar (notes only) are readily accepted. In the south the currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) and is around 13,000 IDR  for 1 USD.
• Air-conditioned  express buses  are the economical way to travel long distances within, and sometimes between, Borneo’s different states
• Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world – around 130 million years old.
• Brunei is a ‘dry’ country – alcohol cannot be purchased, however you are allowed an alcohol allowance to be brought in for personal consumption.

Things to See and Do in Borneo

• Hike Mount Kinabalu  – This 4095 metre mammoth is a 2-hour bus ride from Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo’s northern province.
• Trek the Pinnacles of Gunung Mulu  – a stone forest of white and grey limestone, jutting 45 metres out of the earth in razor sharp formations.
• Go on a Jungle Safari  – Take a boat up the The Sungai (river) Kinabatangan right into the heart of the jungle of Borneo, and stay in a rustic camp for a few days with  Uncle Tan Wildlife Adventures . 
• Visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre –  They are orangutans that have either been injured, rescued or orphaned that have been nursed back to health and let back into the jungle.  To make their transition easier, they can come back any time they want for a feast.

Borneo Travel Guides

• Great Things to do in Borneo – Malaysia’s Wild Jungle Island
• The Pinnacles of Borneo – Amazing Wonder of Gunung Mulu
• Mount Kinabalu – What it’s Really Like to Climb Borneo’s Highest Peak

Accommodation

Budget:  You can stay at budget hotels in Borneo for as low as $10 US per night. They may include free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and have air conditioning.

Mid Range:  There are mid-range hotels available in Borneo for around $30 US. They often include complimentary breakfast, are found in the city center, and have laundry service.

High End:  High-end hotels in Borneo start around $60 per night. They may include family suites, indoor and outdoor pools, and offer airport transfers.

Here are some of the foods you may find in Borneo:

Hinava –  A common dish found in Sabah with mackerel, spices, lime, and onion.

Clay pot soup  – A soup with a variety of ingredients including tofu, prawns, squid, noodles, and vegetables that are cooked over a high temperature.

Pinasakan sada –  A flavorful dish commonly found at restaurants with fruit, fish, salt, and turmeric.

The Best Ways to Get Around Borneo

Getting to borneo:.

Getting to Borneo:  There are no direct flights from Borneo from Europe or North America, so you’ll have to connect at an Asian city such as Singapore or Hong Kong.

You can check for the best flights to Borneo on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : You can take buses within the city as well as across the country starting at B$18.

Taxis:   Taxis are found in the major cities, but you’ll always want to confirm if the driver is using the meter or not so you know the price in advance.

Car Rental:  Car rentals in Borneo begin at B$60 a day. Check for prices and availability here.

When to go To Borneo

• March through October is the best time to visit Borneo, as this is when the weather is the most pleasant and driest. You also have the best chance of seeing wildlife during these months.

Where to Stay in Borneo

Seven Boutique Hotel  – This hotel is a great choice to stay at when you’re in Putatan. It’s only 3 miles away from the airport and the hotel offers a free airport shuttle service. They also are a few minute’s walk away from restaurants, bars, and a grocery store.

The Pacific Sutera Hotel   – This beautiful hotel in Sabah has stunning views of the water while being close to shopping, so there’s something everyone can enjoy. They also offer a pool, fitness center, and a private balcony.

Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa  – This resort is a great place to relax when you’re in Sabah. You have access to the beach, diving, and babysitters.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation in Canada.

What to Pack for Borneo

Borneo is hot and humid with a typically  tropical climate . Sarawak receives an abundance of rainfall during the  monsoon  season which falls between November and February of each year, whereas the dry season generally occurs from May to October. 

Heavy rains may cause cancellation of flights and riverboat trips into remote regions, so the dry season is best for activities.

• The protection basics  – Travellers should stock up on the essentials: sun block, mosquito/insect repellant containing DEET or a pyrethroid insecticide, sunglasses and a hat. If you will be spending time in national parks or upriver areas (e.g. Batang Ai & Nanga Sumpa), make sure to bring a strong mosquito repellent that contains 30-50% DEET.  Use this in the jungle and interior and bring it from home as it might be hard to find in Borneo.
• Pack for Humidity  – for humid weather it is best to pack fabrics that breathe as much as possible and natural fabrics, like cotton, linen or rayon (avoiding silk, wool and polyester). Clothing should be loose and comfortable to encourage the flow of air and allow moisture to evaporate.
• Sarongs  – From protecting yourself from the hot island sun, covering up at religious sites or keeping warm on a cool night, sarongs are a must-have.
• Raincoat / Jacket –  rain gear is always a good idea, as is a light jacket for the cooler temperatures at Mt Kinabalu.
• Water bottle –  Water is not potable in Borneo – do not drink or even brush your teeth with tap water.

Borneo Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

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Borneo Itinerary – Two Weeks in Malaysian Borneo

A Lovely Planet contributors Sarah and James offer their perfect two week Borneo itinerary.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Getting to Borneo

This two week Borneo trip starts and ends in Kuala Lumpur. You can fly direct to Kuala Lumpur from London and from Sydney. Book a return ticket to KL and then book your other flights in and out of Borneo separately.

Kota Kinabalu – Four Days

Getting to kota kinabalu.

Hop on an easy two and a half hour flight into Kota Kinabalu (KK) from Kuala Lumpur (KL). You can also do this itinerary in reverse by flying into Tawau first which is three hours from KL.

Arriving into KK, head to the city; a gateway to beaches, rainforests, watersports and so much more. The app Grab is widely used in Malaysia and Indonesia, so get a local SIM and you can travel all over the city easily and cheaply.

Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu

For a ‘splash the cash’ option stay at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa  , or for a comfy low-key stay with all you need, choose Homy Seafront Hostel .

Find accommodation in Kota Kinabalu

Get Stuck into Local Cuisine

KK is filled with busy streets, local eateries, shops and markets as per most Asian cities. What makes Malaysia unique is the fusion of Indian cuisine. The simple Roti Canai is a delicious no-frills dish, our personal go-to for a tasty snack.

This town is bursting at the seams with seafood restaurants! The harbourfront is packed with restaurants cooking fresh fish by the weight at reasonable prices.

Ice Tea or Teh Tarik can be found anywhere. Beer is harder to find as Malaysia is predominantly a Muslim country. Generally, you will only be served in high-end bars or hotels.

If you love coffee we recommend trying the local “Kopi”, however, we always find ourselves drawn to more western coffee places for a ‘treat’ and to enjoy the AC. But here you’ll pay western prices, so make sure it’s a good one. We vouch for Nook Cafe .

Diving or Island Hopping in Kota Kinabalu

For a day trip take a ferry from the harbour. Gaya, Sapi and Manukan islands are only a ten-minute boat ride away. We chose diving, joining Downbelow Adventures , a company with a base at Manukan and Gaya islands.

Meeting at the harbour, we were taken to Gaya Island, where the dives depart from. It’s a quiet island with beautiful views looking out into the ocean and back to the city. Here you can even spot the famous Proboscis monkeys hanging out in the trees.

The variety of soft coral here is impressive for reefs so close to the mainland. We highly recommend hiring a torch so you can experience these in all their colourful beauty.

Downbelow adventures also have an office at Manukan island resort. A perfect place for a lovely surface interval in their relaxing pool, bliss!

You can find huge Cuttlefish here along with colourful and interesting nudibranch.

What we particularly liked about the team at Downbelow adventures was their active involvement in preserving and protecting the marine environment by supporting the national park with clean-up operations such as ‘ghost nets’.

Kota Kinabalu Activities 

You can climb the famous Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia with a peak of 4095m. Or try whitewater rafting or take a wildlife tour to the Kinabatangan river to spot those famous Orangutans.

Sepilok – Two Days

Getting to sepilok.

Take a six-hour coach from KK to Sepilok.

Where to Stay in Sepilok

The Sepilok Edge Lodge is a beautiful stay amongst the trees. Their food is amazing with some great veggie and vegan options.

There’s a beautiful nature walk where you can spot monkeys, rainforest birds and creatures like this quirky guy below.

Find accommodation in Sepilok

Meet the Orangutans

The lodge is only a ten-minute walk from the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre .

Aside from the nursery area, this is an open rainforest area where the orangutans are free to roam. Food is left every day for those wanting to supplement their food from the wild, however, the rangers leave the same food (so they become bored with it) to encourage the Orangutans to rely on natural food sources in the rainforest.

The Orangutans are brought here for many reasons; sick, orphaned or because they are affected in some way by the reduction in their natural habitat caused by the palm oil industry.

We had a very close encounter when this curious Orangutan swung over to us to say hello. Like most people, we would always prefer a ‘wild’ encounter (which we had, luckily) however it was great to learn about the work the centre is doing.

Borneo is known for its Palm Oil. The government here has taken action in this area and for years palm trees have only been allowed to be re-planted in the same spot so that the rainforest isn’t being lost to more plantations.

Kinabatangan River – Three Days

Getting to kinabatangan river.

You can pretty much arrange a visit to Kinabatangan River from anywhere in Borneo. It took us around two hours in a minivan from Sepilok (included in the tour price).

Book a Kinabatangan River Tour.

Where to Stay in Kinabatangan River

We stayed at The Sukau Bilit Resort .

A two night/three day stay includes; a two night stay in a lodge in the rainforest, five river cruises, two night walks, one trek and all meals.

We’re here to spot the Borneo ‘Big five’:

• Pygmy Elephants
• Proboscis monkeys

We were very lucky to see all five! What a fantastic experience.

Sipadan & Mabul Diving – Five Days

About sipadan.

The main reason we were in Sabah was to dive Sipadan ! It’s one of the top ten dive locations in the world, so we were anxious to see if it lived up to the hype.

Diving here can be an expensive trip, and shopping around can be time-consuming and exhausting. Lucky for you we’ve done that for you!

Getting to Sipadan

Usually, you’ll need a night in Semporna, the closest airport is Tawau (a two-hour bus ride). Semporna is an unassuming stop before heading off to your chosen island. It’s not cheap for what you get here, but we recommend a stay at Sipadan Inn , which now has three hotels.

Staying here you’re surrounded by dive shops, and after lots of research and only two roads away from our hotel, we chose to dive with Billabong Scuba. It is one of the budget/middle options that received positive TripAdvisor reviews.

Where to Stay in Sipadan

The Billabong office in Semporna is a little underwhelming, but so are most others it seems as the dive accommodation is based on Mabul Island.

Mabul, a fishing town mainly home to the Baja Laut ‘Sea gypsy’ people, provides a variety of accommodation options from very basic to high-end.

Billabong Scuba was a great stay with simple cute bungalows perched out over the sea, which are all you need for a unique, comfy stay.

The huge buffet restaurant looks out onto open water and serves three meals a day (included in the price). It stretches out further than most other accommodation giving it one of the best outlooks for a sunset beer.

Fishermen and sellers appear from beneath your bungalows in boats selling anything from live lobsters, to crabs, coconuts and fruits.

A two night/three day package includes three dives around Mabul/ Kapalai Island and three dives on the famous Sipadan island including the permits and all meals.

Find accommodation in Mabul

Diving in Sipidan

Neighbouring Mabul and Kapalai islands are mostly for the macro (small) critters. We found the weird and wonderful here, which we absolutely love!

A rare moment caught in this picture as a Giant Frogfish yawns. Frogfish camouflaged as coral are difficult to spot, we’ve never actually spotted one ourselves, one day!

We were in awe of these unusual animals. We left these dive sites buzzing and wanting more!

Sipadan Island, however, is the main reason scuba divers come to these parts. Permits to dive here are limited to 125 people per day (divided between the various dive shops), so it’s wise to book your spot early.

The island formed from coral growing on an extinct volcano. Now surrounded by depths up to 600m, the island attracts large numbers of well…everything!

It didn’t disappoint, delivering what felt like fish soup…..everywhere!

It really did feel like you were in an aquarium with the sheer density and variety of fish! This included curious reef sharks and huge turtles passing by.

The coral and reef were in good health with huge sea fans and tubular sponges, an indicator of a mature healthy ecosystem.

During the time between dives, the island of Sipadan was relaxed and quiet, especially if you take a walk away from the ‘pit stop area’ where all the dive shops serve lunch.

To confirm….YES, this is a bucket list dive site.

This really is a place that pictures or videos cannot do justice to.

Malaysian Borneo is a nature lover’s dream and it is possible to do either on a budget or a ‘splash the cash’ vacation. It gets a huge thumbs up from us.

Thank you to Downbelow Adventures for hosting A Lovely Planet .

18 comments

Thank you for sharing this information.

This year we would like to do more or less the same trip, but I have a few doubts. Have you pre-booked everything (Sipadan tour) or is there a chance to do it directly in Semporna? Do you know how snorkeling looks like there?

Best Regards Krzysztof

Yes some of the dive companies in Sipidan offer snorkelling tours, and there are some beautiful things to see. It’s a good idea to book a package in advance as there are only a limited number of permits allocated per day.

Hi, I loved the article. When did you travel to Borneo please? I want to see the Pygmy Elephants so will book the same tour as you. Thank you Leanne

It was October/November time. Have a great trip!

Thanks for this great post! Did you worry about pirates at all? That’s my big concern while planning my summer trip…

As far as I’m aware I don’t think pirates are an issue in this area – but I would definitely check the local advice before you travel. Enjoy!

Hi, great post really enjoyed reading about your adventures! We are currently planning our trip around Borneo for a few weeks time. Did you travel straight from Kinabatangan River to Semporna? We have provisionally booked at diving package for Sipadan and Mabul and are wondering the best way to get to Semporna following the route you mentioned above? Is there a minibus or anything other than flying that you are aware of? Thanks in advance 😀

Thanks Susan. We flew from Sandakan airport (Kinabatangan) to tawau as it was really cheap at the time and then got a bus from tawau to Semporna which is the starting point for heading to Sipidan & Mabul Islands for diving. When we were there, there was no direct bus from the Kinabatangan river to Semporna unelss you have an organised private trip. It’s about 5 hrs drive. Perhaps you could speak with the company you have booked your diving with to see if a transfer could be arranged through them?

Hello, thank you for the info. We are visiting Borneo this September. I saw that you did some diving in Kota Kinabalu area and in Sipidan. We need to choose one and are torn between this two locations. Can you tell me which one you enjoyed more? Sipidan is more famous but as well more expensive and remote. Thanks!

Definitely Sipidan. Kota Kinabalu is more of a stop on the way to Sipidan. Have a great trip!

hey! thanks for providing this blog post. did you think to visit the turtle island at all? As a solo female backpacker would you think an itinerary similar to this would be safe/duable? Thanks in advance!!

Hi Niki, We didn’t visit turtle Island, we didn’t hear too much about it to be honest and it’s another flight and boat away. As a female traveller I would try and connect with a group. It really depends how much of a confident traveller you are. If you are doing things like diving you have the security of the dive shops etc.. but if not I would suggest getting in with a group or planning ahead definitely. Kota Kinabalu can be quite hectic as can around Mabul and Sipidan. The river on the other hand was absolutely fine, lots of people young and old doing the tours and can absolutely do as a solo. Hope you have a great trip!

Hi! Thank you so much for this. We are just starting looking at Borneo for our honeymoon. And this will be so helpful. One question about diving. Do you know if you need any diving qualifications? Or can we do the same dive you guys did as beginners? Thank you.

You would be able to do a try dive without a qualification but some dives require open water level and above so I really recommend taking the course before you go. Have a great trip!

Loved reading your itinerary, we’re doing simular trip in July/aug, would you recommend pre booking all accommodation, or do you think we’d go ok just turning, up and finding accommodation/guest houses? Thank you

Thank you! I generally prefer to pre book accommodation, unless you have lots of time to be flexible. I also feel in general since COVID, things seem to get much more booked up than before. Have a great trip!

Hello, thank you so much for your tips. I am travelling in august with my family to Malaysia, and I ma desperately trying to understand if going to Borneo is worth or if, having only 16 nights, it would be better to stay the whole time in the peninsular malaysia (we land and depart from Kuala Lumpur): we don’t scuba dive, but my husband is a free diving instructor and I and my two sons love free diving too so Sipadan looks like heaven to us. I already heard good things about Billabong Scuba but I cannot find any way to book it in advance: could you help me? All other resorts have too high prices and I the budget ones have terrible reviews. thank you so much for you help! Carlotta

You should be able to book through this website: https://www.sipadan.com/Billabong-Scuba.php . The experience of the Kinabatangan River and spotting the big 5 is a great thing to do with family. It is quite expensive to stay on Sipidan unfortunately. The reason to go to Mabul is for diving, there isn’t much else to do there. Not totally sure it accommodates free diving because of the currents and boats, so that would be a good thing to look into before hand. I hope you have a great trip!

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Borneo 7-Day Itinerary

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

So you’ve decided to visit the lush paradise of Borneo? This Borneo 7-day itinerary will give you a thorough taste of what Borneo has to offer. 

When it comes to Malaysian travel, Borneo stands out as a hidden gem, offering incredible experiences. Although, Borneo is huge and you can easily spend up to 2 weeks in Borneo. But after several requests on my custom itinerary business for a 7-day Borneo itinerary I decided to cram all the best Borneo attractions (at a decent pace) in what I call the best Borneo itinerary for first-time visitors.

From the city of Kota Kinabalu to the Sepilok Orangutan, my Borneo travel itinerary has it all. From bustling local markets to encounters with indigenous tribes, Borneo offers a glimpse into a world brimming with warmth and authenticity.

So, get ready to go on the ultimate 7-day Borneo travel experience. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and enchanted.

In This Post

Borneo itinerary

Day 1: kota kinabalu (arrival).

Welcome to Kota Kinabalu! As you step off the plane at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, get ready to dive headfirst into your Borneo trip. With this 7-day Borneo itinerary, your adventure begins now! Drop your bags, freshen up, and let the excitement of Borneo wash over you. I suggest getting a Malaysian SIM to stay connected while on your Borneo holiday.

The first of any trip generally starts slow, take this day to soak in the new culture. Visit the floating mosque of Kota Kinabalu to start your Borneo trip. As the day unfolds, catch a mesmerizing sunset from the Signal Hill Observatory Platform. This vantage point offers panoramic views of the city skyline. Find a cosy spot, sit back, and let the sun paint the sky.

Get ready for an exciting experience at Gaya Street in Kota Kinabalu! This lively thoroughfare is a must-visit, especially on Sundays when it transforms into the famous Gaya Street Sunday Market. Stroll through the stalls and discover unique handicrafts, traditional souvenirs, and delicious street food. Take your time to explore, chat with friendly vendors and buy unique Borneo souvenirs. For a vegan meal try living seed. 

With a belly full of delicious food and a heart full of excitement, rest up for the adventures that await you in the coming days. Tomorrow, continue your Borneo journey. 

Day 2: Kota Kinabalu & Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

Today is the day of sun, sea, and adventure! Explore the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, located just a short boat ride away from Kota Kinabalu, this island paradise is a must-visit during your 7-day Borneo adventure.

Catch a ferry to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a cluster of five breathtaking islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters. You can book a tour with the many operators available at the pier. Don’t forget to rent out snorkel gear. Or you can book a full-day snorkelling adventure , this makes it a lot easier to coordinate and move around.

There are many activities on the island, choose from kayaking, paddle boarding, jet-skiing, parasailing and snorkelling. The idea is to channel your inner adventurer and get ready to make a splash!

As the day draws to a close, head back to Kota Kinabalu. Grab a vegan dinner at Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu – Green Table. Tomorrow head to Sepilok. 

Day 3: Kota Kinabalu – Sepilok

Take an early morning flight to Sepilok as you continue your Borneo adventure. Today, you are heading deep into the heart of the Borneo rainforest to meet some of Borneo’s wildlife.

The first stop is the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre , where you’ll have the chance to witness the great Borneo orangutans up close. The entry cost is 30RM. 

Next up, make your way to the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre. It is an incredible facility that offers a chance to delve even deeper into the wonders of the Borneo rainforest. Go for a canopy walk, suspended high above the forest floor. As you explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre, keep your binoculars handy to spot some remarkable bird species.

After lunch, grab some Malaysian coffee and unwind before the next leg of today’s Borneo adventure. Come evening head back to the Rainforest Discovery Center for the nighttime wonders. The night walk starts at 6 pm, there are groups of 10 and you go with a guide and a spotter. The walk costs 30RM and lasts about 2 hours in total. I recommend reaching the location right before the closing of daytime walks (around 5:00 pm) to spot some flying squirrels while there’s still some daylight.

While this walk is famous for spotting flying squirrels you’ll still spot several nocturnal creatures here.  After the walk head back to the hotel and grab some dinner, Sepilok sleeps early. 

Jet-Set with My Bespoke Travel Plans

Get your perfectly personalized itinerary , day 4: sepilok – kinabatangan river.

It’s time for some more Borneo wildlife in your 7-day Borneo itinerary! In the morning head to Kinabatangan River, one of the must-visit Borneo attractions. Now, ideally, I’d recommend staying over at one of the Kinabatangan River Lodge for a couple of days. But if you are short of time, book a day tour. These tours generally start early from Sepilok and take you for an afternoon river cruise at the Kinabatangan River and you return post dinner to Sepilok. 

The river cruise is known for Proboscis Monkey, Leaf Monkey, Long and Short-Tailed Macaques, Gibbons and even the Orangutan. A few times a year you can even spot Borneo Pygmy Elephants at the riverbank. 

You can find several such operators on the ground, I do recommend the one offered by Borneo Dream , it costs about 200RM. 

Day 5:  Sepilok – Semporna

After the Borneo rainforest adventure, it is time to head back to the seafront! It is day 5 of your Borneo 7-day itinerary and today you are going to Semporna. It’s a roughly 5-hour drive to reach Semporna from Sepilok. First, take a taxi to Sandakan and then a public bus. You can also book a private cab to take you from Sepilok to Semporna. 

It is a long drive, so take the first day to unwind from the journey. To try a range of vegetarian food, head to Ocean King Restaurant and treat yourself to their signature vegetarian clay pot dish and stir-fried tofu. The town is rather small and you can explore it on foot. Get some good sleep, tomorrow is a Borneo island adventure! 

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• Best Japan Itinerary for First-Time Travellers
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Day 6: Semporna

When in Semporna you’ve got to take a day trip to the Tun Sakaran Marine Park expedition. This marine park is a cluster of islands- Bohey Dulang Island, Mantabuan Island, and Sibuan Island. The entry fee for the park is 10-20 RM. 

When it comes to exploring the Borneo islands on your own, Semporna Jetty is your best friend! Boats operate daily, offering transportation to and from the islands from 8 AM to 4 PM. If you do go this route purchase your tickets in advance as they sell quickly. The alternate plan is to book a tour here!

Start your morning with a leisurely hike up Bohey Dulang, which takes approximately one hour. After your hike, try some local food. Spend the rest of the time either snorkelling, diving or just relaxing by the beach. With that, we come to the last day of this epic Borneo trip! 

Day 7: Semporna – Kota Kinabalu (Departure)

As your Borneo itinerary comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to Semporna and head back to Kota Kinabalu. Catch a morning flight to Kota Kinabalu from Semprna. 

If time permits, you have the option to make a stop at the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Here you can find more about the heritage of Borneo indigenous tribes and Borneo culture. You’ll also find some unique souvenirs here of the Borneo handicrafts. 

That brings us to the end of Boreno’s 7-day Itinerary. Hope you found it helpful! Wondering where to go next? Check out this Vietnam 7-day itinerary . 

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2 WEEKS IN BORNEO ITINERARY (+ SINGAPORE & KUALA LUMPUR) 2024: THE ULTIMATE PLANNED GUIDE!

LOOKING TO PLAN THE ULTIMATE 2 WEEKS IN BORNEO?

Check out our blog post below to discover how to spend an unforgettable 2 weeks in Borneo (with short stops at Kuala Lumpur and Singapore) this year!

This is the travel itinerary we personally created and followed when we visited Borneo on our Honeymoon, and have since tweaked and now perfected it for you to use too!

We detail clearly how to get between destinations (flights and recommended airlines), when to use the best Borneo tour agency vs when to self-book, all accommodation and much more. What are we waiting for, let’s get going!

2 WEEKS IN BORNEO: THE ULTIMATE ITINERARY!

For our 2 weeks in Borneo itinerary, we first stop at the dazzling city of Kuala Lumpur before heading to the ancient rainforests Sabah, North Borneo and relax on the glorious Gaya Island. We then explore Singapore for a few days before heading home.

ARRIVE INTO KUALA LUMPUR (LATE DAY / NIGHT BEFORE)

ARRIVE INTO KUALA LUMPUR AIRPORT The best way to get to Kuala Lumpur is by flying directly into its main airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). Check SkyScanner for the best deals .

From here, you can jump into one of many taxi’s waiting outside KLIA airport, or jump onto the extremely convenient KLIA Ekspres train into the city centre .

Good To Know : Kuala Lumpur International Airport is very big, and is split into two separate terminals: KLIA and KLIA2 . You can travel between the two by shuttle. KLIA is the main terminal for all International flights, whereas KLIA2 is reserved for internal Malaysian flights. Make sure you check where you will be arriving / departing from on your flight confirmation.

SETTLE INTO YOUR KUALA LUMPUR ACCOMMODATION After a long flight to Kuala Lumpur and travelling an additional hour (either by taxi or train) into Kuala Lumpur city centre, finally settle into your accommodation, maybe go out for dinner and relax for the evening.

Our Kuala Lumpur accommodation top picks:

Budget (Below £60 per night):

• 💰 Expressionz Suites by V&C

Mid-range (£60-£99 per night):

• 🤝🏻 E&O Residences Kuala Lumpur

High-end (£100+ per night):

• 💎 Mandarin Oriental

DAY 1: KUALA LUMPUR BATU CAVES, TEMPLES & CULTURE TOUR & PETRONAS TOWERS

HALF DAY: BATU CAVES, TEMPLES & CULTURE TOUR We recommend booking this private Batu Caves, Temples and Culture tour to tick off the key sights of Kuala Lumpur, including Batu Caves, the National Mosque, a Sikh temple and Thean Hou Temple in approximately just 4 hours!

AFTERNOON: VISIT THE ICONIC PETRONAS TOWERS Head into Kuala Lumpur’s city centre to witness the infamous Petronas Towers! By day, get your ticket for the dual SkyBridge and Observation deck experience at the top! Book your E-Ticket in advance to avoid the long queues.

By night, head to the Simfoni Lake below Suria KLCC mall, the best spot to see the Petronas Towers lit up at night! There are also organised light shows on the Lake every evening at 7.30pm, 8.30pm and 9.30pm to enjoy.

EVENING: DINNER & COCKTAILS AT HELI LOUNGE Not ready to head back just yet? Why not visit one of Kuala Lumpur’s most unique rooftop bars – the Helipad Lounge , located on the 36th floor rooftop of an office building!

Still a working Helipad by day, by night it transforms into a quirky open-air bar, offering food and classic drinks such as beers, wine and cocktails. The main draw of this bar is its uninterrupted, jaw-dropping 360° views of Kuala Lumpur!

Top tip: You cannot reserve a table at Heli Lounge, so it is first come first served!

DAY 2: EXPLORE INNER KUALA LUMPUR & CATCH FLIGHT TO SANDAKAN, BORNEO!

MORNING: EXPLORE INNER KUALA LUMPUR Check-out of your hotel before your scheduled flight to Sabah, Borneo today. If you have a few spare hours (i.e. your flight isn’t until the evening), you could explore the KL Forest Eco Park .

If you don’t have much time, or are booked on an afternoon flight, head straight to Kuala Lumpur airport instead.

AFTERNOON: HEAD TO KUALA LUMPUR AIRPORT. CATCH YOUR FLIGHT TO SANDAKAN, BORNEO. Grab your bags and get back to Kuala Lumpur Airport by one of three ways:

1. Public transport: Jump on the subway to get back to KL Sentral station before catching the KLIA Ekspres train back to the airport.

2. Grab: Malaysia’s version of Uber. Set up an account in advance.

3. Private taxi: Arrange a taxi in advance with your Hotel Reception. Book an afternoon flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK) in Sabah, Borneo. The best direct flight is offered by AirAsia, with a flight time of just under 3 hours!

Top tip: As Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan flights via AirAsia airlines are classed as an internal Malaysian flights, you will need to go to terminal KLIA2 at Kuala Lumpur airport.

EVENING: ARRIVE INTO SANDAKAN, BORNEO On arrival, check into a hotel nearby to Sandakan airport for the evening (we recommend looking at the Livingston hotel ), and get some rest for an early start tomorrow!

Your Borneo adventure tour begins tomorrow with local tour company Sticky Rice Travel , a company we used to fully organise the Borneo mainland portion of this trip and would highly recommend. An alternative company to use is Borneo Eco Tours .

Whichever tour operator you end up using, let them know in advance what hotel to pick you up from in the morning.

DAY 3: SEPILOK ORANGUTAN REHABILITATION CENTRE, SUNBEAR CONSERVATION CENTRE & KINABATANGAN RIVER

MORNING: SEPILOK ORANGUTAN REHABILITATION CENTRE Get picked up early and head to your first destination: the World renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation centre.

Since 1964, the centre has been a pioneering force to rescuing, rehabilitating and eventually releasing orphaned, injured or displaced orangutans.

It attracts 100,000+ visitors a year, the main draw being to watch the orangutans who roam freely here descend to the feeding platforms twice a day.

You will arrive in time for the first feed at 10am, make sure you get a good viewing spot early at the feeding station!

After this, keep your eyes peeled for orangutans, cheeky macaques and other curious creatures along the boardwalk through the sanctuary, until you eventually reach the Orangutan Nursery building.

Here, watch adorable baby orangutans frolic and play, undisturbed and oblivious to you behind the one-way glass!

SUN BEAR CONSERVATION CENTRE Head next door into the Sun Bear Conservation centre and trail the elevated boardwalks to spot the World’s smallest bear species: The Bornean Sun Bear! Discover all about these beautiful endangered creatures as you meander through the forest canopies of the centre.

AFTERNOON: LUNCH & TRANSFER TO KINABATANGAN RIVER After an included lunch stop at a local cafe, drive 2 hours to Kinabatangan River to settle in at the idyllic rainforest haven, Sukau Rainforest Lodge (stay and transfer to Sukau Rainforest Lodge is part of your arranged itinerary).

Once all settled in, head out on your first 2-hour Kinabatangan River cruis e for your first chance of spotting incredible wildlife along this second longest river in Malaysia!

DAY 4: WILDLIFE CRUISES ON KINABATANGAN RIVER

DAY 4: FULL DAY OF WILDLIFE RIVER CRUISES Enjoy a full day of Kinabatangan River cruises at the luxurious Sukau Rainforest Lodge. Day 4 includes an early 6am morning river cruise and another 4pm afternoon river cruise. 

There is also the option for a late night cruise (additional cost), which you can book very last minute at the Lodge. 

During the time in between, take a stroll along the Nature Board walk, immerse yourself in the nature surrounding the Lodge (keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife!) or even just relax and take a plunge in their dip pools!

Enjoy your last evening at the luxurious Sukau Rainforest Lodge before your arranged transfer tomorrow with Sticky Rice Travel.

Spotted Wildlife on the Kinabatangan River:

Of course, it is down to luck and circumstance to what wildlife you will see during your visit. However, one of the best times to visit to see wildlife in Borneo between May to October.

This is when Borneo is at its driest and the trees begin to fruit, tempting Orangutans especially to lower parts of the tree canopies and increasing your chances of spotting them!

The wildlife we saw during our Kinabatangan River cruises were: Orangutans, Pygmy Elephants, Estuarine Crocodiles, Red Leaf Monkeys, Proboscis Monkey, Long-Tailed Macaques, Pig-Tailed Macaques, Hornbills (Pied / Oriental), Storks and countless small, colourful birds!

Did you know ? The Kinabatangan River is the only place where it is possible to see all of the Borneo Big 5 in the wild !

DAY 5: TRANSFER TO BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE, NATURE WALK & NIGHT BUGGY SAFARI

MORNING: TRANSFER TO BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE, DANUM VALLEY Arranged transfer and stay (with your chosen tour operator) from Sukau Rainforest Lodge to the enchanting Borneo Rainforest Lodge, set in the heart of the ancient rainforest of the protected Danum Valley Conservation Area.

First up is a 2 hour drive from Sukau Rainforest Lodge to the small town of Lahad Datu, stopping half-way at Borneo Rainforest Lodge’s main office to officially check in. Enjoy free refreshments here (hot and cold drinks with biscuits) whilst waiting for your next transfer straight to the Lodge.

The remaining 2.5 hour journey is along a gravel road to Borneo Rainforest Lodge , folding deep into the heart of the Danum Valley’s primary rainforest, untouched for 130 million years!

AFTERNOON: HANGING BRIDGES NATURE WALK Embark on a guided afternoon walk with your guide and small group high up in the forest canopies along hanging bridges. Keep your eyes peeled for the plentiful wildlife here, including orangutans, red leaf monkeys, gliding squirrels and more!

EVENING: Head out on a night-time buggy safari around the grounds in search for elusive nocturnal animals and sleeping birds before enjoying a delicious dinner (included in stay) back at the Lodge.

Top tip : We highly recommended booking a Deluxe Chalet with River View at Borneo Rainforest Lodge. The unfathomable views of the Danum river and towering rainforests with your morning coffee is something you cannot put into words and is worth every pennt. We stayed in Deluxe Chalet 7, which had a great view!

DAY 6: TREKKING DANUM VALLEY FOREST & NIGHT WILDLIFE WALKING TRAIL

MORNING: WAKE UP TO THE SOUND OF THE RAINFOREST Wake up to the sound of calling Gibbons at around 5/6am, enjoying a slow morning on your terrace listening to the magical morning melodies of the rainforest. Have a delicious breakfast at the Lodge (included).

AFTERNOON: TREK TO A DANUM VALLEY VIEWPOINT Guided day activities today include a deep rainforest trek to the Danum Valley viewpoint before taking a refreshing dip in a natural waterfall lagoon on the way back.

EVENING: GUIDED NIGHT WILDLIFE TRAIL Finish off an epic day with a guided night wildlife trail – when the other half of the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures, including reptile, insects and amphibians. If you’re lucky, you may even see the elusive Tarsier! Make sure you wear your leech proof socks on this trail, because the leeches will be out in force – especially at night!

DAY 7: FLIGHT TO KOTA KINABALU & TRANSFER TO GAYA ISLAND

MORNING: FLIGHT TO KOTA KINABALU (BKI) Early morning transfer from Borneo Rainforest Lodge to Lahad Datu airport (LDU), which is an approximate 2 hour drive. This tiny domestic airport is the closest to Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Here, you will catch a short domestic flight to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) , Borneo’s main International airport located on the other side of the island.

After this airport transfer, your organised itinerary portion with either Sticky Rice Travel or Borneo Eco Tours has ended, and your trip is now back to being self guided.

There are 3 direct flights every day, with a duration of just 55 minutes. We recommend booking the 13.35pm flight (latest) to allow sufficient time to be transferred to the luxurious Gaya Island Resort on the scheduled 4pm speedboat. Failing that, the last scheduled speedboat is at 6pm.

TRANSFER TO GAYA ISLAND RESORT FROM THE AIRPORT Arrange this transfer with Gaya Island Resort’s parent company YTL Hotels via e-mail , [email protected], contacting them directly prior to arrival for a seamless transfer on the day. You pay for this transfer service in advance, so it’s all sorted beforehand. From Kota Kinabalu airport (BKI), you will be picked up and driven 10 minutes to Jesselton Point ferry terminal, before boarding the next scheduled speedboat to Gaya Island Resort. The speedboat journey is around 10 minutes.

The scheduled speedboat timetable is as follows: From Jesselton Point:  10am  |  12pm  |  2pm  |  4pm  |  6pm From Gaya Island Resort:  11am  |  1pm  |  3pm  |  5pm  |  6.30pm If needed, it is possible to pre-arrange a private boat transfer (outside of the scheduled timetable) though this is much more expensive. To compare, a one-way scheduled transfer for 2 adults was MYR 169.90 (£34) when we visited, whereas a private land and sea transfer for 2 adults was MYR 530 (£106).

We know this as we needed a private transfer back to Kota Kinabalu from Gaya Island Resort to make the early 11.30am flight from Kota Kinabalu to Singapore (Day 12).

AFTERNOON: ARRIVE AT GAYA ISLAND RESORT Be welcomed with a beaming smile, cold flannel and a refreshing mocktail at the luxurious Gaya Island Resort and settle into your accommodation.

We highly recommend you book the Kinabalu Villa accommodation option at Gaya Island Resort. We had originally booked the cheaper ‘Canopy Villa’ option, but ended up changing during our stay as the views just didn’t compare. In fact, the Canopy Villa options basically have no view at all!

Request our Kinabalu Villa #821 (or failing that, Kinabalu Villa #822 above) for what we personally believe is the best view of distant overwater bungalows!

Gaya Island Resort: Our Honest Review

✔    Officially rated as one of the “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”. ✔    Unimposing and beautifully designed villas set into its ancient rainforest surroundings. ✔    An idyllic on-site spa village. Free daily yoga classes at 8am. Try the Malay massage (additional cost) for one of the best massages you’ll ever have! ✖    The food and drinks here are expensive, particularly the alcohol as it is heavily taxed. This is why we suggest a shorter stay at Gaya Island. ✖    As they are set up on the hilltop, it is at least a 5-minute uphill walk to most rooms, especially to the higher Kinabalu villas (you certainly work for the views!).

Click to reserve your stay at Gaya Island Resort with free cancellation! 🏝🐚🌅🥥

DAY 8 – 11: RELAX AT GAYA ISLAND RESORT

FULL 3 DAYS: For these next few days at Gaya Island Resort , you are welcome to do as much or as little as you would like! Either laze by the pool, or check out the daily activities available (includes but not limited to):

FREE ACTIVITIES:

• Morning yoga classes
• Guided nature walk
• Turtle talk on Tavajun Bay with marine biologist Scott, subject to whether they have any rescued turtles during your stay.
• Boat ride to Kota Kinabalu Sunday market
• Movie under the stars
• 1-hour of free kayaking use per day.
• Free scheduled boats to the resorts private beach, Tavajun Bay (3-minute ride).

ADDITIONAL COST ACTIVITIES:

• Kayaking through the Mangrove forests. *A must-do!
• Borneo craftwork sessions.
• Borneo tasting sessions.
• Sunset cruise.
• Treatments and massages at the Spa Village. *A must-do!

Top tip: Gaya Island is a hotspot for mosquitos! Though the resort provides natural repellent spray in your room, regardless of how much you put on most visitors receive plentiful bites! Just something to be aware of before you travel here.

DAY 12: FLY TO SINGAPORE & GARDENS BY THE BAY

MORNING: FLY TO SINGAPORE AIRPORT Early morning check out from Gaya Island Resort for your transfer back to Kota Kinabalu airport (BKI) for your flight to Singapore Changi airport (SIN) . Arrange this transfer back directly with the hotel.

You can fly direct with either Scoot Airlines, AirAsia or Singapore Airlines. The flight duration is approx. 2 hours 10 minutes.

SEE THE RAIN VORTEX WATERFALL AT THE JEWEL, T1 Just after clearing customs at Singapore Changi airport, you’ll most likely emerge in Terminal 1 in the new “Jewel” retail area. Make sure you see the World’s tallest indoor waterfall, the “Rain Vortex”, before you leave the airport!

Ride the MRT tram from Singapore airport into the city and bag drop / freshen up at your chosen Singapore hotel.

Top tip : Before you visit Singapore, look on Google Maps which MRT station is the closest to your chosen Singapore hotel. Then, use the MRT Map ( linked here ) to see the MRT route needed to get there from Singapore Changi Airport.

Our Singapore accommodation top picks:

• 🤝🏻 L Hotel at Bugis Ville
• 💎 PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay – Where we stayed and would highly recommend! If you can, select the “Signature Marina Bay King or Twin” room type for Marina Bay Sands views!

• 💎 The Clan Hotel Singapore
• 💎 Marina Bay Sands – An extra special stay!

AFTERNOON: GARDENS BY THE BAY & SUPERTREE GROVE After freshening up, make your way to Singapore’s infamous Gardens By The Bay, a 250-acre nature garden in the city full of paid horticultural attractions, including a Cloud Forest biome, Flower Dome and Floral Fantasy. The closest MRT station is Bayfront.

There is a free Garden Rhapsody light show at the Supertree Grove at 7.45pm and 8.45pm every evening. If you do anything in Singapore, make sure you do this.

We highly recommend trying to time walking along the OCBC Skyway, the yellow metal bridge between two of the Supertrees, at the same time as the Light Show. For us, this made it a truly special, immersive experience that brought Jordie to tears!

Top Tip : It is $8 per adult to walk along the OCBC Skyway.

Top Tip : Join the free WiFi (called GBTB-FreeWifi). Scan the large QR codes on posters directly next to all paid Gardens By The Bay attractions (including OCBC Skyway).

This enables you to buy your E-tickets online there and then for that attraction only. Your tickets will come through instantly on your e-mail, simply show them to the attendants at the entrances.

EVENING: CÉ LA VIE CLUB ROOFTOP LOUNGE AT MARINA BAY SANDS HOTEL! For the best panoramic view of Singapore’s dazzling CBD, head to the CÉ LA VI Club rooftop lounge at Marina Bay Sands hotel.

At CÉ LA VI, there is a restaurant (you must book way in advance for this), Observatory and Club Lounge bar. Ask to enter the Club Lounge bar, which is free admission.

If this very popular bar has space (arriving earlier is better), head up the lift to the 57th floor. There will be an attendant standing outside to give you a hand stamp marking your free admission.

Walk in and turn left to ideally sit near the bar and the incredible sight of Marina Bay sands hotel rooftop pool. The atmosphere is electric and must be experienced during your Singapore visit.

They serve light snacks and (obviously) drinks, but be warned it is slightly pricey! It’s crucial to note that no very informal clothing is permitted i.e. sleeveless shirts or sandals.

Top Tip : To get to CÉ LA VI Club Lounge from Supertree Grove, walk over Dragonfly Bridge to exit Gardens By The Bay. Go up the short escalator to cross the busy roads via an overpass bridge. Halfway along this bridge, you’ll see a lift on the right-hand side. Take this lift down and head forward until you see one of the entrances to Marina Bay Sands building. The entrance to the bar is below Tower 3.

DAY 13: EXPLORE SINGAPORE’S INNER CITY

The World is your oyster today, free to explore all of the delights of Singapore. Check out what Singapore paid tours and activities are on offer, or simply wander the inner city.

Make use of the cheap and efficient MRT lines to get between areas if needed. A few quirky areas we recommend to see are:

HAJI LANE: A narrow shopping street bursting with the quirkiest retail shops, bars, cafés all amongst an explosion of colour with its iconic street art murals. The closest MRT station is “Bugis”.

ARAB STREET & GOLDEN MOSQUE A trip to the Arab Quarter, directly adjacent to Haji Lane, is a must. It is like stepping into a scene of Aladdin with the grand golden Sultan mosque, vibrant textiles and authentic Middle Eastern cafés and eateries.

ANN SIANG HILL & PARK Get delightfully lost meandering into the old town of Singapore via the Ann Siang Hill Park and Gardens. Trail its quaint cobbles to cut through to the other side to reach Ann Siang Road.

Here, you will find bold bright colours on the walls, and quirky street art on neighbouring street Mohamed Ali Lane . Cross the main road to head directly into Singapore’s Chinatown.

LONG BAR @ THE RAFFLES HOTEL Head to the stylishly chic Long Bar at the exclusive Raffles hotel, a long-established luxury hotel in Singapore and the birthplace of the infamous cocktail – The Singapore Sling.

Here, try this classic cocktail for yourself (albeit at a small fortune of $35!) while eating Monkey nuts and littering the shells on the floor, a semi-rebellious activity dating back to a deeply rooted tradition from the 1900’s!

It is certainly a unique experience not to be missed.

DAY 14: YOUR 2 WEEKS IN BORNEO, KUALA LUMPUR & SINGAPORE COMES TO AN END!

MORNING: FLY BACK HOME Spend the rest of the time in Singapore before heading back to Singapore Changi airport (SIN) via the MRT for your flight home.

We hope you have the most incredible time, get in touch and let us know your favourite part!

Top tip : As Singapore Changi is a huge airport, be sure to double check your flight information for your required terminal before you arrive at the airport.

BORNEO PACKING LIST

BORNEO RAINFOREST PACKING LIST

• Loose comfortable clothing for hiking which covers your skin i.e. long sleeve tops and leggings.
• Leech proof socks ! * A must buy!
• Lightweight waterproof poncho
• Refillable water bottle .
• Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
• DEET based mosquito repellant.
• High factor sun cream
• After sun moisturising cream.
• A medical pouch / first aid kit.
• Powered battery pack (and cable) for your smart phone.

GAYA ISLAND RESORT PACKING LIST

• For Gaya Island, loose comfortable clothing, such as tank tops and shorts.
• Additional sun protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
• Your swimsuit.
• Protective beach shoes .
• A microfibre beach towel (fast drying & lightweight).
• A spare waterproof bag to store your wet towel / swimsuit .

KUALA LUMPUR & SINGAPORE PACKING LIST

• Lightweight comfortable walking shoes (i.e. trainers / converses).

2 WEEKS IN BORNEO: “KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S

What is the best time of year to go to sabah, borneo.

The best months for Sabah in Borneo are between the months of May and September. This is because of two reasons: FOR THE WEATHER: Firstly, Sabah’s northern location in Borneo means it escapes the majority of Borneo’s storms and can indeed be visited all-year round, with its dry season being May – September months. This doesn’t mean it will not receive rainfall, in fact it does still receive 2,000mm rainfall a year due to being surrounded by tropical rainforest. Temperatures in Sabah rarely deviate from 25-32°c throughout the year. FOR THE WILDLIFE: Secondly and most importantly, the native trees in Borneo will be producing fruit in these months. This encourages Orangutans (and other wildlife) to come much closer to the ground, highly increasing your chances of spotting Orangutans in the wild!

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN BORNEO?

Though Borneo has so much to offer that to see everything could take at least a few months, we believe you can see the key hotspots of Sabah in a short amount of time, so roughly 8 to 10 days is enough time to spend in Sabah.

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

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Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

Borneo 1-week itinerary

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and the largest in  Asia . The island is politically divided among three countries:  Malaysia  and  Brunei  in the north, and  Indonesia  to the south. Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Perfect place to do some Jungle safari.

Our first stop in Borneo is Kota Kinabalu. A large city with beautiful islands nearby. Very different from what we expected (namely much more modern and not jungle-like). However, it’s a great place to spend a few days. In this travel guide, we tell you more about Kota Kinabalu.

The main reason to visit Sandakan is to catch a glimpse of the orangutans and honey bears. This is possible at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and the adjacent Sunbear Conservation Center. All are located about 25 kilometers north of Sandakan.

The Kinabatangan River flows through Sabah on the island of Borneo. It is Malaysia’s second-longest river, 560 kilometers. Perfect location to do some river safaris.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge is the go-to lodge within Sabah’s Kinabatangan River Wildlife Sanctuary. David Attenborough and his BBC team stayed here in 2011. It was designated a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World in 2015!

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Itinerary Malaysian Borneo: 2 and 3 weeks of traveling through Sabah & Sarawak!

In this blog, you will find the best itineraries through Malaysian Borneo. With a 2-week Sabah itinerary , we take you through the highlights of Borneo. Do you have more time for Borneo? Then go for the 3-week backpacking itinerary through Malaysian Borneo. This 3-week Borneo itinerary takes you through the two states of Sarawak and Sabah.

Malaysian Borneo

The island of Borneo is the 3rd largest island in the world. It consists of Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. The two itineraries we describe run straight through the Malaysian part of Borneo . This beautiful island is a true paradise for nature lovers, adventurers and divers . Borneo is known for its pristine rainforests, colourful coral reefs, white beaches and has a population with ancient traditions. Above all, Malaysian Borneo is the place to go to see wild orangutans or climb Southeast Asia’s second-highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu .

Itineraries & regions in Malaysian Borneo

Scroll down to find the two itineraries for Borneo. The 2-week itinerary  is completely focused on Sabah . Sabah is the northernmost region of Malaysian Borneo.

During the other backpack itinerary, of 3 weeks, you combine Sabah and Sarawak . Sarawak is the southern region of Malaysian Borneo.

The last region in Malaysian Borneo is Labuan . This area, consisting of seven small islands, is not included in the itineraries below. It is primarily a tax haven (where you can buy cheap alcohol) and thus more of a business district than a highlight to visit when backpacking.

Below the two possible itineraries, the destinations and highlights of Borneo are described. Including tips!

Wondering if Malaysia is an expensive country to travel in? Then read our blog about prices and budget in Malaysia !

Itinerary Borneo in 2 weeks

This itinerary focuses on Sabah, the northern region of Borneo. In two weeks you will see all the highlights of Sabah and enjoy everything that Borneo has to offer.

Your journey through Borneo starts in Kota Kinabalu , the capital of the state of Sabah. Kota Kinabalu is a large city and a great base from which to explore Sabah further. Take a trip to the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park . Your next stop is the Tip of Borneo where you have pristine beaches. A nice place to relax, snorkel or surf. Then you will travel to Sandakan where you will visit the Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation centre. In this centre, orangutans are taken care of that have lost their habitat. The next day you will cruise the mighty Kinabatangan River where you will look for exotic birds, pygmy elephants and Borneo’s other famous resident, the Proboscis monkey.

The next destination on your itinerary through Sabah is Danum Valley . Here it feels like stepping into Disney’s Jungle Book. This place has perhaps the best-preserved tropical rainforests in the world and you can see that immediately. This is one of the few places in the world where you can see the orangutan in the wild. From this paradise above water, you go to another unique paradise underwater: Semporna . One of the best dive sites in the world. This is where you spend the last days of your tour in Borneo.

This 2-week itinerary through Sabah looks like this:

Kota Kinabalu – Tip of Borneo – (Sandakan) Sepilok – Kinabatangan River – (Lahad Datu) Danum Valley – Semporna – Kota Kinabalu

Day schedule tour Borneo 2 weeks

Day 1: Kota Kinabalu (arrival) Day 2: Kota Kinabalu & Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Day 3: Kota Kinabalu – Tip of Borneo Day 4:  Tip of Borneo Day 5: Tip of Borneo – Sepilok Day 6:  Sepilok – Kinabatangan river

Day 7: Kinabatangan river Day 8:  Kinabatangan river – Lahad Datu – Danum Valley Day 9: Danum Valley Day 10: Danum Valley – Semporna Day 11: Semporna Day 12: Semporna Day 13: Semporna – Kota Kinabalu Day 14: Kota Kinabalu (departure)

Itinerary Borneo in 3 weeks

Are you going backpacking through Borneo for 3 weeks ? Then consider this itinerary that covers both states of Sarawak and Sabah. The route starts in Kuching , the capital of Sarawak. Kuching is a nice city to discover. From here you can visit traditional longhouses in Annah Rais and the Semenggoh Nature Reserve . The latter is an orangutan rehabilitation centre. Then you fly on to Gunung Mulu National Park where you get to know one of the largest cave systems in the world.

Your itinerary continues as described above. From Gunung Mulu National Park you travel to Kota Kinabalu. Then you have the choice between Tip of Borneo or climbing Mount Kinabalu .

This tour then takes you via Sandakan to the Kinabatangan River . A boat safari is the best way to spot noses here. At your next destination, you try to photograph bears, (small) leopards and the orangutans in the famous Danum Valley during the many hikes. Finally, you can go snorkelling or diving with large turtles, sharks and enjoy the beautiful underwater world around Semporna .

This 3-week itinerary through Malaysian Borneo looks like this:

Kuching – Gunung Mulu National Park – Kota Kinabalu – Tip of Borneo / Mount Kinabalu – (Sandakan) Sepilok – Kinabatangan River – (Lahad Datu) Danum Valley – Kota Kinabalu

Day schedule tour Borneo 3 weeks

Day 1:  Kuching (arrival) Day 2: Kuching & Semenggoh Nature Reserve Day 3: Kuching – Gunung Mulu National Park Day 4: Gunung Mulu National Park Day 5: Gunung Mulu National Park – Kota Kinabalu Day 6: Kota Kinabalu & Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Day 7: Kota Kinabalu – Tip of Borneo Day 8: Tip of Borneo Day 9: Tip of Borneo Day 10: Tip of Borneo – Sepilok

Day 11: Sepilok  Day 12:  Sepilok – Kinabatangan river Day 13: Kinabatangan river Day 14: Kinabatangan river – Lahad Datu Day 15: Lahad Datu – Danum Valley Day 16: Danum Valley Day 17: Danum Valley –  Semporna Day 18:  Semporna Day 19: Semporna Day 20:  Semporna – Kota Kinabalu Day 21: Kota Kinabalu (departure)

Click here for the ultimate 3 week Malaysia travel itinerary .

Destinations & highlights of Borneo

Below you will find an overview of all destinations and highlights of Malaysian Borneo. Also handy, they are in the order of the above itineraries, including travel time between the destinations.

Kuching (Sarawak)

Kuching is a nice town to discover. It is the capital of the state of Sarawak . In this city, which translated means ‘cat’, there are statues of cats in all kinds of places. There is also a special cafe dedicated to cats and a cat museum.

Half an hour’s drive from Kuching, you can easily visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve where orangutans are taken care of who have lost their natural habitat due to deforestation. These orangutans are fed at fixed times. During feeding time, the chances of spotting these beautiful animals are high.

Another highlight near Kuching is the traditional longhouses . Entire families have lived under one roof in these large bamboo houses for generations. Annah Rais is a Bidayuh (indigenous tribe) settlement that happily welcomes tourists. The Bidayuh take you into their ancient traditions. Think of hunting with a blowgun, their collection of human skulls, traditional dance and tasting rice wine. Annah Rais is approximately 1.5 hours drive from Kuching.

Hotel tip: The Ranee Boutique Suites

Gunung Mulu National Park (Sarawak)

Gunung Mulu National Park is an immense cave system in the Malaysian part of Borneo. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its pinnacles (series of sharp rocky points). The landscape of Gunung Mulu National Park was created by extreme erosion. Adventurers visit the rainforest for several days and walk the famous Headhunters Trail , visit the many caves or climb the top of the Gunung Mulu .

Hotel Tip: AA Homestay

Kota Kinabalu (Sabah)

Kota Kinabalu is a large city in western Malaysian Borneo, located in the state of Sabah . KK (Kota Kinabalu’s nickname) is used as a base for Malaysian Borneo. From here you can climb Mount Kinabalu (4095m high), or go island hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park .  Two days is enough time for Kota Kinabalu.

Click here for the free travel guide about Kota Kinabalu in Borneo !

Hotel tip: Bed&Breakfast@21

Travel time Mulu National Park to Kota Kinabalu: 50 min by plane.

Tip of Borneo!

Long stretched beaches, towering palm trees and green dense jungle. The northernmost part of Malaysian Borneo, called Tip of Borneo, is an unexplored area where you feel like a real explorer. Away from busy cities, this is Borneo as you imagine it: an oasis of peace and nature. Here you will find the best beaches in all of Borneo. A nice place to relax. You can also snorkel and surf here. Read all about Tip of Borneo in this blog.

Climbing Mount Kinabalu is not included in the suggested itineraries through Malaysian Borneo. If you want to climb this sacred mountain, consider skipping Tip of Borneo or another destination.

Hotel tip: Hibiscus Villa Borneo

Note: Tip of Borneo is not that easy to reach. We recommend that you rent a car (via Sunny Cars ) and drive there yourself via the well-maintained roads of Sabah.

Super handy: the best hostels, hotels and lodges per destination at a glance. Read our guide to the best hotels in Malaysia !

Sepilok & kinabatangan river.

Sepilok has an orangutan rehabilitation centre . A place where you have a very high chance of seeing the beautiful orange apes. The orangutans that live here have been rescued from the wild. The main reason for this is the deforestation of their habitat. Especially during the feeding time of these apes, there is a big chance that you will see them. Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation centre is a half-hour drive from Sandakan . A few hours are enough for this activity. Then you can continue your journey towards the Kinabatangan River .

The Kinabatangan River is about 2 hours from Sepilok. Kinabatangan River is the second-longest river in Malaysia and is surrounded by many palm oil plantations. The river is known for its immense biodiversity. This means that you can spot a lot of wildlife here. In addition to the famous proboscis monkeys, you can see crocodiles, gibbons, the Borneo dwarf elephant and many bird species here. Here you can do cool treks, but the best way to see and photograph all the animals is by boat trip. There are several villages along the river. But Bilit and Sukau , these are the villages with plenty of accommodation options.

Hotel tip Sepilok : Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat Hotel tip Kinabatangan river : Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Eco-Resort

Danum Valley, Borneo

Danum Valley is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and chock-full of wildlife. In this magical paradise, we went in search of wild orangutans . A trip to Danum Valley is a great adventure where you go back to basic. It is a beautiful area for hikes and to spot birds, animals, reptiles and all kinds of insects. Before you go to Danum you often stay overnight in Lahad Datu . This is also the place where you travel by bus or plane and then continue on to Danum Valley. We recommend a minimum of 3 days for this dense paradise on earth. If you want to know more about orangutans in Danum Valley on Borneo, read our blog !

Hotel tip: Bike & Tours B&B

The Semporna archipelago is a great dive spot. This reef still has a great bio-diversity. You will find here colourful coral, turtles and sharks. In short, an ideal place for scuba diving or snorkelling. Near Semporna is also the famous island of Sipadan . This island is a perfect base for all your diving trips.

Hotel tip : ND Divers

Transportation in Malaysian Borneo

The roads and bus connections on Malaysian Borneo are often very good. However, if you have little time, you will have to fly. The destinations on Borneo are far apart and some places are difficult to reach by public transport.

If you have the time, travel by bus! With good roads and low prices, buses are a pleasant and budget-friendly means of transport. Also nice, renting a car yourself! It is not difficult at all to drive a car in Borneo and the gasoline prices are low.

Click here for all my blogs about Malaysia .

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More blogs about Malaysia

Melaka trip: the eight best things to do in melaka, malaysia, itinerary malaysian borneo: 2 and 3 weeks of traveling through sabah & sarawak, visit danum valley in borneo: bornean orangutans and a primary rainforest, george town, penang in 3 days: the best activities in this vibrant city in malaysia, langkawi: all you need to know about this beautiful island in malaysia, cameron highlands: three days at the teaplantations of malaysia, kuala lumpur: eight awesome free activities in the capital city of malaysia, malaysia itinerary: the ultimate itinerary for 3 weeks of backpacking in malaysia.

Thank you so much for this blog! Great pics and great input. My husband and I love to travel the world and Borneo is one spot we would love to explore. We definetely want to see the junlge and the Kinabatangan River. I´ve read that the eastern part of Sabah (the islands between Borneo and the Philippines including the mainland eastern coastal area) is kind of dangerous because of terrorism. How was your experience?

Hi Katrin, Happy to have helped you! We have heard the same stories but were always asured by locals that the "islands with tourism on it" were safe. We have traveled to Lahad Datuh and its surroundings but never felt unsafe. However that is just our perception. It might be wise to inform at the hotel you intent to stay or to have contact with a local agency on the subject in case you intent to book any activities. kind regards, Charlotte

Hello Charlotte! I am now reading your blog as we travel through beautiful Borneo. Thanks for all your nice tips :-) However, what struck me in your blog is the sentence ‘Borneo is known for its pristine rainforests, colourful coral reefs, white beaches, palm plantations and has a population with ancient traditions.’ Maybe you don't mean it that way, but it comes across as if the palm oil plantations are something beautiful, while in fact it is extremely harmful how much rainforest has been cut down to put palm oil plantations in its place...

Hi Noor, Thanks for sending us a message and you are absolutely right. The Palm Plantations are not a good thing from Borneo but indeed very harmful for the rainforest. We will adjust the text! Kind regards, Charlotte

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Ultimate Guide to Sabah, Borneo: Top Places & Itineraries

Sabah is one of the most diverse places we have ever visited. It is located in Malaysia , on the northern half of the island of Borneo. We were enticed to go to Sabah to see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat. There are very few places in the world to see these creatures in the wild. 

Orangutans are on the critically endangered list and can only be seen in the wild in Sumatra and Borneo. Reminding me of the creepy dude at the bar, proboscis monkeys are endemic to Borneo. These unique monkeys are so amazing to see in real life. However, due to palm plantation deforestation, they are losing their homes at alarming rates.

Sabah also has so much more to offer. It is teeming with exotic wildlife, beautiful beaches, an epic mountain hike, and world-class scuba diving. Sabah is perfect as part of a bigger Malaysia trip or for a Borneo wildlife holiday! Whether you plan to come for a family vacation or a backpacking trip, Sabah is a wonderful destination nestled in Southeast Asia.

Check out this guide to Sabah as it covers all the best places to visit to help you plan your trip!

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Best Time to Visit Sabah, Borneo

The best time to visit Sabah is not as cut and dry as most places. There are different rainy seasons for the east and west of Sabah. When one has more rain, the other is drier. Overall though, March through October is the driest part of the year. Most of Sabah is rainforest, so it is possible for rain at any time of the year.

Currency in Sabah, Borneo

The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is the national currency in Malaysia and Sabah. As of April 2022, the Ringgit is worth:

• $1 USD = 4.35 RM
• €1 = 4.60 RM

Religion and Language in Sabah, Borneo

Sabah is not as conservative as West Malaysia, such as the Kuala Lumpur area. The majority of people are Muslim, but there are also small pockets of practicing Christians. Malay is the official language of Malaysia. However, English is widely spoken in Kota Kinabalu and the majority of tourism and hospitality businesses around the island.

As always, a few phrases in the native language are good to learn. We found that just saying “thank you” in Malay brings a very friendly response.

• Hello – Helo
• Good morning – Selamat pagi
• Good evening – Selamat petang
• How are you? – Apa khabar
• Thank you – Terima kasih
• I am – Saya
• Your welcome – Sama-sama

Food in Sabah, Borneo

There are typically three types of food you can find in Sabah – traditional Malay, Indian/Bangladeshi, and Chinese. Many of the dishes in Sabah are heavily influenced by Chinese cuisine. Most of the population and places to visit are on the coast, so seafood is widely available.

Malay food is not the best for vegetarians. However, roti canai, similar to a flaky naan beard, was our lifesaver and so delicious. We ate it every day, typically for breakfast and snacking. Also make sure to try teh tarik, a frothy delicious tea.

Some common dishes in Malaysia with typical prices:

• Roti canai – traditional bread with dipping sauces 4 RM – 6 RM
• Telur mata – sunny side eggs 4 RM – 6 RM
• Telur dadar – omelette 8 RM – 10 RM
• Thosai – similar to Indian dosa 12 RM
• Mee goreng – fried noodles 12 RM – 20 RM
• Nasi goreng – fried rice 12 RM – 20 RM
• Teh Tarik – Black tea with condensed milk (frothy) – 4 RM – 6 RM
• Teh “O” – tea with sugar – 4 RM – 6 RM
• Kopi – coffee 4 RM – 6 RM

A few useful words on food/drinks in Malay

• Panas / Sejuk – Hot/Cold for drinks
• Sayur – vegetables
• Tidak ayam – no chicken

Accommodation in Sabah, Borneo

The accommodation is expensive relative to the rest of Southeast Asia. Budget hostels and dorms start from 20 RM to 36 RM ($5 – $8 USD) depending on the area. Basic private double rooms start from 70 RM ($16 USD) per night. A budget room in Sabah also typically means really poor standards. Not all hotels charge it, but legally, hotels and guesthouses are required to charge a tourist tax of 10 RM per night.

One thing we noticed was that prices were ALWAYS higher as a walk-in. We would book ahead, or walk in to check out the room, and if we decided to stay, book the room online. The best prices typically were on  Booking.com .

Transportation in Sabah, Borneo

Getting to Sabah is best with AirAsia, a budget airline based in Kuala Lumpur. They have cheap flights to Sabah from different airports in Asia. A flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sabah is 120 RM ($30 USD) when booking 4+ weeks in advance.

Bus Transport  in Sabah is available between all major cities. Bus departures typically leave from Kota Kinabalu each hour to destinations, such as Sandakan, Semporna, or Tawau. There are several bus companies with similar fares. At the time of writing, the fares were as follows:

• Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu 25 RM
• Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan 45 RM
• Sandakan to Semporna 45 RM
• Semporna to Tawau 20 RM

Motorbikes  are available for rent in Kota Kinabalu for 45 RM/day.

Car hire companies  are located near the airport in Kota Kinabalu. The price for a small car, such as a Viva, is around 100 RM/day, or a larger Toyota SUV for 200 RM/day.

Grab Car  is excellent and available in all cities in Sabah. When traveling with multiple people, it is often the same price or cheaper than the bus. For example, a Grab Car from Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu for 80 RM, or from Semporna to Tawau for 65 RM.

Top Places to Visit in Sabah, Borneo

1. what to do in kota kinabalu.

The main city in Sabah – Kota Kinabalu – is filled with hotels, restaurants, and lively night markets. The Filipino market and night market, both centrally located by the waterfront, have local produce, meat, fish, and freshly prepared dinners. There are local BBQ restaurants that cook fresh seafood. Make sure to negotiate.

Gaya street has many bars and Chinese and Malay restaurants. Definitely stop by Yee Fung Laksa on Gaya Street for the best Laksa in all of Malaysia. For 19RM, you get a steaming hot bowl of the good stuff. Trust us on this one! It is worth a stop outside of town to the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. The reflection of the mosque on the moat is a really awesome photo opportunity.

High-End Stay:   Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort  is located near the city and with a private beach. Rooms start at 800 RM ($190).

2. The Best Beaches in Sabah at the Tip of Borneo

The Tip of Borneo is a picturesque spot on the northernmost point of Borneo. The rocky shoreline is a perfect backdrop for sunset. Some of the best beaches on mainland Borneo are located just south of the tip. The large Kalampunian Beach has several beach cottages and a few restaurants, although a bit rundown. We preferred a smaller more private beach and tent camping at the Secret Place.

High-End Stay:   Kudat Riviera Beach Villas  is located at private beaches with three stunning villas to choose from starting at 1380 RM ($330).

3. Hiking Mount Kinabalu 

Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and one of the highest in Southeast Asia. The hike is expensive at $350 – $400 per person and with limited permits. However, the views from the summit are some of the best of any mountain in SE Asia. Mount Kinabalu is a strenuous hike ascending over 2,200 meters (7,300 feet) and was one of our highlights in Sabah.

Check out our full post on  hiking Mount Kinabalu  for more information.

High-End Stay:   Sutera Sanctuary Lodges Kinabalu Park  is located in the national park with rooms starting at 200 RM ($50 USD).

4. Borneo Wildlife in Sepilok & Sandakan

Sandakan is the gateway to visiting several attractions in the area. We found the waterfront to be quite dirty and pretty smelly. Sepilok is popular for animal sanctuaries to visit. The well-known Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center should not be missed.

The orangutan nursery is just too cute and the twice-daily feeding is a great way to get up and close to adult orangutans. The feedings are at 10 AM and 3 PM, the latter of which is less crowded. Located next door is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Sun Bears are the smallest bears in the world and are threatened by deforestation and illegal hunting. This center is home to 42 sun bears and is open between 10 AM and 3 PM.

There is a proboscis monkey sanctuary in Labuk Bay. However, we do not recommend visiting this attraction. The owner of this “sanctuary” owns the palm plantation surrounding the park, which displaced the monkeys in the first place. Proboscis monkeys can easily be seen in the wild elsewhere in Sabah (see  Kinabatangan River ). From Sandakan, it is possible to visit Turtle Island to see nesting turtles in June.

Entrance Costs:  The entry to the Orangutan and Sun Bear conservation are both 30 RM.

High-End Stay:   Sepilok Forest Edge Resort  is located next to the sanctuaries and has chalets starting from 290 RM ($70 USD).

5. Borneo Rainforest Tours at the Kinabatangan River

Borneo is known for its superb wildlife. The Kinabatangan River is one of the best places in Borneo to see wildlife due to its easy accessibility. Here you can easily see proboscis monkeys, orangutans, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, snakes, exotic birds, and many more in just a couple of days.

Most homestays and resorts are located near Sukau, a village upriver next to palm plantations. There are a few resorts located downriver that are more remote. While staying on the Kinabatangan, resorts usually have an all-inclusive package rate that includes meals, river cruises, and jungle walks. There are a few budget backpackers and homestays on the Kinabatangan, and there are several high-end resorts, leaving few options in between.

Mid-Range Stay :  Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort  has all-inclusive packages for two people at one of their cottages for 1,060 RM ($250 USD/room).

6. Stunning Beaches and Views at Bohey Dulang

An amazing day trip to the beautiful Bohey Dulang island is definitely worth it. The views are incredible and the beaches are some of the best in Sabah. You can arrange a trip from the port town of Semporna, which is the gateway to Bohey Dulang and Sipadan.

However, if it weren’t for these two things, there is absolutely no reason for anyone to ever visit Semporna. It is a filthy city with no redeeming qualities. Streets are littered with trash and an absurd amount of pollution/plastics in the water. I would avoid the cheapest backpackers here, they are truly horrible. Semporna is the necessary evil to get to some amazing places, so get in and out as fast as possible!

Mid-Range Stay :  The Village  is a new and modern hotel with private rooms for 180 RM ($40 USD).

7. Scuba Diving at Sipadan

Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. Doesn’t it seem like you hear that in so many countries? With over 150 combined dives in some incredible places, we can attest to it being one of our favorites! With stringent laws for the protection of the marine environment, there are now only 120 daily permits for diving at Sipadan.

Sipadan is known for its incredible marine diversity. The island is an inactive volcano, with a sloping wall that has a drop-off of 600 meters (2,000 feet) to the seabed. It is home to green and hawksbill turtles, massive schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally, manta rays, reef sharks (white tip/blacktip/grey), as well as an occasional spotting of whale sharks and hammerhead sharks.

Several websites state it is cheaper to stay in Semporna, and maybe it is, but we recommend staying on Mabul Island. Mabul Island has diving as well, which is subpar relative to Sipadan, but it’s inexpensive and has tons of massive turtles.

Mid-Range Stay :  Billabong Scuba  has overwater chalets for 150 RM per person including all meals (price for divers) ($35 USD).

One-Week Itinerary for Sabah, Borneo

Day 1  – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu and check out the Filipino night market and nearby KK night market.

Day 2  – Take a bus to Mount Kinabalu, enjoy views of the park and pick one of the nine shorter hikes near the base of Mount Kinabalu.

Day 3  – Transport to Sandakan/Sepilok, and check out the sun bear conservation and afternoon orangutan sanctuary feeding.

Day 4  – Transport to Semporna.

Day 5  – Bohey Dulang day tour.

Day 6  – Scuba diving at the world-famous Sipadan (permits required).

Day 7  – Return to Semporna and take a flight from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu to finish your one-week trip!

Two-Week Itinerary for Sabah, Borneo

Day 2  – Stop at the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque on the way to Kudat. Spend the afternoon at the beach, and watch the sunset at the tip of Borneo.

Day 3  – Beach day.

Day 4  – Travel to Mount Kinabalu.

Day 5  – Hiking day one up to Labuan Rata Guesthouse  (permits required) .

Day 6  – Summit Mount Kinabalu and descend the mountain, staying the night in Ranau.

Day 7  – Travel day from Ranau to Sandakan. Go to the sun bear conservation and the 3:30 pm feeding at the Orangutan Sanctuary.

Day 8  – Travel day from Sandakan to Semporna.

Day 9  – Boat to Mabul Island, scuba diving at Mabul Island.

Day 10  – Scuba diving at Mabul Island.

Day 11  – Scuba diving at the world-famous Sipadan (permits required).

Day 12  – Return to Semporna.

Day 13  – Day trip to Bohey Dulang, afternoon transport to Tawau, flight to Kota Kinabalu.

Day 14  – End your two-week holiday in Sabah!

That’s it – we hope you enjoy exploring Sabah, Borneo!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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Global Gallivanting

The ultimate backpacking malaysia itinerary & route (including borneo).

Ancient rainforests, unique wildlife, and a diverse melting pot of cultures and food. Backpacking Malaysia is an amazing adventure. As the country is split into two; Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, it can be difficult figuring out how to fit all the best places to visit in Malaysia into one trip.

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate Malaysia itinerary, or ideas for an epic Malaysia backpacking route, then you’re in the right place! I’ve put together this blog post after several trips around this amazing, yet still underrated, country to help you out.

I’m going to share all my tips for backpacking in Malaysia, from where to go, where to stay, what to do and how to get there. I hope it will help you plan an unforgettable trip and that you’ll fall in love with this country as much as I have.

The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Malaysia

Why I Loved Backpacking in Malaysia

Malaysia is so diverse and has so much to offer. From vibrant and multicultural modern cities, to charming, historic towns, tropical islands, scenic tea plantations, the oldest rainforest in the world, and Borneo !

I love the captivating fusion of Malay, South Indian and Chinese cultures, religions and food all over Malaysia. The people are really nice, many speak English, and are always happy to help you out.

Multicultural Malaysia is one of the most underrated countries in South East Asia. It’s no way near as touristy as neighbouring Thailand , but it ought to be with the diverse amount of incredible things to see and do here.

Backpacking Malaysia is easy, fun, affordable and safe – even for solo female travelers. There are plenty of cheap backpacker hostels, amazing and cheap street food, and lots of free things to do.

Malaysia is one of the easiest countries to travel around, with a modern and efficient bus and flight system. You’ll find taxis and Ubers in some of the bigger cities, along with metros and boats.

Tips for Planning Your Malaysia itinerary

Before you start planning your trip to Malaysia, keep in mind that Malaysia is divided into two parts, Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. The two are connected with low cost flights but it’s still like visiting two different worlds.

Entering Borneo from Peninsular Malaysia is like arriving in another country, with its secluded beaches, orang-utan sanctuaries, and national parks with caves and dense jungles.

If you’re not fussy and prefer to go with the flow you could probably wing it in the popular places in Peninsula Malaysia. However, if you want to visit the National Parks in Borneo accommodation and transport can be limited so you should book in advance.

How Long Should You Backpack Malaysia

The amount of time you have to backpack Malaysia will determine the best itinerary for you. Here’s some suggestions depending on how much time you have:

If you want to see everything and follow this ultimate Malaysia backpacking route you’ll probably need about 1 month to travel the length of Peninsula Malaysia and then travel across Borneo. You could do it quicker,  if you don’t mind traveling at a faster pace.

1 month is ideal though and this will allow you spend a few days at each destination. This way you are not limited to just seeing the main sights but you can relax and really soak up each place and get off the beaten track to find some hidden gems and meet interesting people.

If you only have time to spend 2 weeks in Malaysia and don’t want to rush around too much then chose either peninsula Malaysia or Borneo Malaysia to explore and just follow half of this epic Malaysia itinerary.

Another option to see the best of both sides in only 14 days would be to just visit Kuala Lumpur and Penang and then head over to Kota Kinabalu and explore the North of Borneo.

7 – 10 Days

If you have planning a 1 week/ 7 days or 10 days Malaysia itinerary I would recommend sticking to one side and choosing three or four destinations to explore. You can take some day trips from Kuala Lumpur or domestic flights to enable you to see more in a short time too.

Or you could create your own Malaysia itinerary using the destinations and parts of my backpacker route that appeal to you the most.

Essential Info for Backpacking Malaysia

Best time to visit malaysia.

The weather differs on the west coast and east coast of Malaysia. It’s recommended to visit the west coast during the winter months of December to February, while islands on the east side are better during summer, from June to August.

The driest months in Kuala Lumpur are during summer, May to August, while in Penang it’s driest during November to January. Borneo has the best weather during the summer months, June to August. More info here.

Getting to Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a popular flight hub with plenty of transport connections. You can also reach Malaysia by bus, train or boat from Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand.

The huge Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLCC – the low cost carrier airport have cheap flights from around the world, so getting to Malaysia is really easy.

Visas for Malaysia

Many nationals from countries such as U.K., U.S.A., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand get 90 days visa free entry to Malaysia.

Getting around Malaysia

Malaysia’s transportation system is comparable to Western standards. Kuala Lumpur has a metro, and there are hundreds of flights every day around the country and some trains too.

Modern, high speed rail services connect Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Thailand on the West Coast. You can also take the Jungle Train to explore the less developed East Coast.

Luxury buses reach every part of peninsular Malaysia, and Uber operates in both peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. You can book buses and trains in Malaysia easily online using 12 Go Asia

Malaysia Backpacking Budget

From $25/day. Read More: My Malaysia backpacking budget.

Backpacker Accommodation in Malaysia

You’ll find everything from backpacker hostels and campgrounds to luxurious resorts in Malaysia. Backpacker hostels are great ways to meet other travellers and stay on a budget.

The best backpacker hostels often have a choice of dormitories and private budget rooms. There’s usually a communal area to hang out and make friends and a shared kitchen so you can save some money by cooking your own food.

Cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur have everything from tiny guesthouses to modern hotels and upscale resorts. While more offbeat places like Borneo and the Cameron Highlands have mostly cosy guesthouses and budget hotels.

I use Hostelworld and Booking.com to find accommodation, check reviews and book at affordable prices online.

Tours of Malaysia

Day tours and trips.

City tours are popular in Malaysia; you’ll find tons of them in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, ranging from street food and history tours, to rainforest and tribal adventures. Having a local guide can bring the history to life and help you understand more about the culture.

Sometimes, public transport won’t get you everywhere so you might need to book a boat trip or jeep tour. You can book tours, trips and tickets online with Klook, a popular Southeast Asia travel site with affordable prices. Klook Passes offer good deals if you want to see multiple attractions.

You can also use Viator or GetYourGuide.  Good backpacker hostels can often help to arrange tours too.

Multi Day Small Group Tours

If you want to join a group of like minded people to travel with (and let someone else do all the organising)  then you could also join a small group multi day tour.

This is especially worthwhile if you are solo traveler and don’t want to travel alone. Taking a tour also allows you to see more in a shorter time without any stress. You can see all the Malaysia tours available and check reviews on Tour Radar .

Peninsular Malaysia is well developed, safe and easy to travel independently, but Borneo is a bit more difficult. Intrepid Travel run an amazing and affordable 10 day Real Borneo adventure tour from Kota Kinabalu specifically for young travellers and backpackers.

If you want to fun way to travel across mainland Malaysia with a young, fun group check out the 8 Day Malaysia to Singapore Highlights with Contiki.

Volunteering in Malaysia

Malaysia is an amazing country but there are still many poor communities who could really do with your help. Instead of paying 1000’s to volunteer sign up with Worldpackers and you can exchange your skills and time for free accommodation, food and many other benefits. Read more about volunteering for free with Worldpackers here. 

By volunteering when backpacking in Malaysia you can get immersed into the local culture, make friends with the locals, learn new skills all while helping those in need and saving yourself money so you can travel for longer.

I prefer Worldpackers over other platforms as they offer great support and customer service, all hosts are verified to ensure they offer a safe and rewarding experience and you can also take advantage of the Worldpacker’s insurance should anything go wrong with your host.

If you want to join, click on this link and use my discount code GLOBALGALLIVANTING to save $20 on the membership fee.

Best Guide Book: The  Lonely Planet Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Guidebook is packed with loads of essential information for pretty much every tourist destination in Malaysia.

The Ultimate 1 Month Malaysia Backpacking Route

Most Malaysia itineraries will start in the capital Kuala Lumpur (KL.) But this Malaysia backpacking route gives a more relaxing introduction to Malaysia by starting on Langkawi island in the north.

My Malaysia backpacker route includes: Langkawi – Penang – Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur – Taman Negara National Park – Melaka/ Malacca – Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan – Kinabatangan – Semporna and the Sipadan islands – Mulu National Park – Kuching.

This is the best route because it fits in all the highlights and avoids traveling back on yourself. This route is ideal if you are backpacking Malaysia after Thailand. (Check out the ultimate Thailand backpacking route here )

You can literally island hop your way from Thailand to Malaysia! Just get a boat from Koh Lipe island in Thailand to Langkawi in Malaysia. It only takes about 1 hour and you can book it on 12 Go Asia here.

If you’re not coming from Thailand don’t worry, just connect to a quick domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi’s airport. If you are coming from Singapore then simply take a bus to Malacca and start there instead and reverse the route.

Carry on reading and I’ll go through the route in more detail, letting you know what to do, where to stay and how to get to each destination.

Peninsula Malaysia

Langkawi island: 2 – 3 days.

Why not start your Malaysia backpacking trip on a beautiful tropical island!

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands surrounded by turquoise seas, abundant nature and a dramatic mountainous jungle interior that glistens with a hundred shades of green.

Unlike some of Thailand’s islands, Langkawi has not been ruined by tourism and still has a lot of natural beauty to explore and wildlife to spot.

One of the best ways to see the archipelago is with an island hopping boat trip for a fun day out on the sea visiting the beautiful islands and beaches and seeing the eagles soar over the water.

Another thing not to miss is a Mangrove Boat Trip in Kilim Geoforest Park where you’ll be able to spot wildlife and be immersed in the unique ecosystem.

You could spend a week or more chilling out on Langkawi island, but a couple of days is enough to relax, explore the beaches, jungles, national park and main attractions.

The most popular attraction on the island is the Langkawi Sky Bridge , a suspension bridge high above the jungle. It’s reached via the Langkawi Sky Cab, the steepest cable car in the world.

You get amazing views over the jungle and ocean from the cable car and the sky bridge feels like you are walking in the clouds. There’s also a waterfall and other attractions up here. (The cable car gets busy so book your tickets in advance here to avoid the queues.)

Where to stay in Langkawi:

The best place to stay in Langkawi is Cenang Beach which has plenty of eating options and accommodation for all budgets. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Bed Attitude Hostel Cenang : A huge, sleek, modern hostel with a lively vibe and a coworking space on Cenang beach. Choose from luxurious dorms or private budget rooms. Check Prices and Book Here.
• The Cottage Langkawi: If you prefer something more low key and relaxed I loved The Cottage Langkawi. They have cute beach huts, dorms and budget rooms in tropical gardens with plenty of hammocks and lovely owners. It’s a short walk from Cenang Beach. Check Review and Book here.
• Telaga Terrace Boutique Resort: A lovely little budget friendly resort with a swimming pool in a peaceful area near Cenang beach. Check Availability and Book Here.

How to get to Langkawi:

Langkawi island is about 1 hour by speedboat from Koh Lipe in Thailand and about 2 and a half hours by ferry to Penang. Book your ferry ticket here with 12 Go Asia .

Langkawi also has an airport with flights to Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other cities in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Penang: 3 – 4 days

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia is Penang Island – a melting pot of Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian culture, food and tropical natural beauty that is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

The main town in Penang is UNESCO world heritage listed George Town – a compact, walkable, historic colonial trading port that boasts the best and most diverse cuisine in Malaysia.

There’s so much to do in Penang that you should spend at least 4 days here roaming the historic lanes, admiring the cool street art and eating yummy street food in George Town.

Head to the hawker centres or Chulia street night market for the best and cheapest street food. Or join the Georgetown Food Tour for a fun and tasty way to explore and learn about the city and it’s interesting fusion of cultures, food and heritage.

Wander around George Town exploring the historic houses, museums, cafes. Don’t miss Harmony Street where temples, churches and mosques can all be found on one street, and look out for the street art.

Also check out Fort Cornwallis, the Penang Botanical Gardens, and stroll down the Esplanade. The clan jetties – traditional stilt houses on the waterfront where Chinese communities still live are also interesting to see.

It’s also worth making a short trip out of the city to see the amazing Kek Lok Si temple – the biggest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.

Penang Hill is one of the top attractions on the island. Hike up or take the funicular railway – avoid the long queues by booking your ticket in advance here .

You can spend all day at Penang Hill soaking up the spectacular views of the city and exploring the nature trails. Don’t miss The Habitat – a rainforest discovery center, you can also check out the art galleries, temples, mosques and cafes.

If you want to spend more time in nature go trekking through the jungle to the unspoiled beaches of Penang National Park.  Or just chill out at Batu Ferringhi beach which has cafes, bars and tourist amenities.

If you want an adrenaline rush brave Gravityz – the world’s highest rope course. And if you want to see ‘ real Malaysia’ a great way to explore the lush tropical countryside and traditional villages around Penang is on this Penang cycling tour . You even get to try goat milk ice cream!

Where to stay in Penang:

The best place to stay in Penang is Georgetown where there are plenty of backpacker hostels and affordable boutique hotels. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Red Inn Court: Located in an old shophouse in the heart of Georgetown, this popular backpacker hostel offers female and mixed dormitories and private rooms with shared bathrooms. There’s also a shared kitchen and a sociable friendly atmosphere which makes it the best place to stay for backpackers in Penang. Book here.
• Aayu Chulia: One of the best value accommodations in all of Malaysia. They have clean and comfortable dormitories and private rooms in a great location close to all the best parts of Georgetown. There’s a shared kitchen a lounge and the owner is super helpful. Book here.
• Muntri Mews: A beautiful boutique heritage hotel in the heart of Georgetown if you want something a bit more upscale. It’s decorated with artwork from local artists. Book here.

How to get to Penang:

From Langkawi, the best way to get to Penang is by short flight or ferry. You can also get to Penang from Singapore or Thailand by land, or neighbouring islands via boat

Penang island is easily accessible from the mainland via two bridges. You can reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur via a short flight, bus or train via Butterworth Station. Sungai Nibong is the main bus station in Penang. Book your tickets online with 12 Go Asia.

Cameron Highlands: 2 – 3 days

Rolling green hills, tea plantations, and valleys make up the Cameron Highlands , where you’ll find the freshest and coolest climate in all of Malaysia.

If you enjoy beautiful nature and the humid, tropical heat is getting to you then don’t miss the Cameron Highlands from your Malaysia itinerary.

Some of the best places to visit here include the Mossy Forest, BOH Tea Garden and Factory, and Strawberry Farms. There’s limited public transport so I visited these places with this   fun Jeep Tour .

You can also pick your own fruit, enjoy fresh strawberry ice cream at the strawberry fields, taste honey at the honey farm, and see colourful butterflies at the butterfly farms. If you love flowers check out the new, and very instagramable, Cameron Flora Park.

There are also tons of treks and hiking trails in the Cameron Highlands to choose from, the most popular is trail 6- 10. In the evening there is a night market in Tanah Rata.

Where to stay in the Cameron Highlands:

The main town in the Cameron Highlands is Tanah Rata which has a range of budget guesthouses, hostels and luxurious vintage country resorts like The Cameron Highlands Resort.

Here’s my top picks for backpackers:

• Traveller Bunker Hostel: Sociable backpacker hostel in Tanah Rata with well equipped dorms, a common area and cafe. They organise free morning hikes too. Book here.
• Backyard Glamping Cameron Highlands: Stay immersed in nature at this cute campground just outside Tanah Rata. They have furnished bell tents with a shared bathroom, kitchen and lovely views. Book here.
• Highlanders Garden Guesthouse: This peaceful guesthouse is surrounded by nature yet still within easy walking distance to the center of Tanah Rata. There’s a variety of private rooms, a communal lounge and kitchen, plus friendly owners who will help you out. Book here.

How to get to the Cameron Highlands:

Multiple daily buses leave from Penang to Tanah Rata for the Cameron Highlands. The bus takes about 5 hours. Book your bus online here.

Kuala Lumpur: 3 – 4 days

No Malaysia itinerary or backpacking trip is complete without a visit to the capital Kuala Lumpur, often simply called KL.

Malaysia’s capital is a business oriented, multicultural modern city with interesting skyscrapers, mosques and temples, lively nightlife and a diverse food scene.

One of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur is simply to walk around soaking up the city’s mix of cultures. It’s quite easy to walk around the main sights. Start by exploring places like Petaling street in Chinatown, the Central Market, Merdeka Square and Little India.

You’ll see beautiful Chinese temples, mosques, Hindu temples, colonial architecture and churches, all within walking distance of each other. There’s plenty of street art to spot and street food to try too. Take the Sambal Streets – Kuala Lumpur food tour to discover where and what the locals eat.

My favorite experience in KL was visiting the Batu Caves , one of the largest Hindu temples outside of India. The cave temple is accessed by 272 rainbow coloured steps which are guarded by a huge golden statue. Also don’t miss the most impressive Chinese temple, the six tiered Thean Hou Temple. 

If you want to understand more about the different cultures and religions, take this  Batu Caves and Cultural Tour which visits the most important places of worship.

The landmark of the city is the famous Petronas Twin Towers, once the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers. You can go up to the skybridge and observation deck for amazing views.

If you want to go up the Petronas Towers or the KL Tower you can save money and skip the queues if you buy your tickets in advance here .  A Klook KL Pass could be better value if you want to see several attractions.

It’s also great to just admire the towers from KLCC park below. There is a free sound, light and water show every evening and the towers are illuminated at night. KL is also now home to the new second tallest building in the world – Merdeka 118.

For nightlife, check out the bars and clubs at Bukit Bintang, treat yourself to cocktails at one of the rooftop bars, or have dinner with 360 degree views in the revolving restaurant at the Menara / KL Tower. 

Kuala Lumpur also has many parks and museums. The KL Forest Eco Park has nature trails and canopy walks. There’s also a huge botanical gardens near the National Museum of Malaysia.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

The best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur for backpackers is Chinatown or Bukit Bintang. This is where you’ll find plenty of backpacker hostels and budget hotels, street food and nightlife with easy access to the rest of the city via public transport.

• China Town Hostel by Mingle : Friendly, laidback backpacker hostel in a super convenient location. It has a cafe and a cool rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi where it’s easy to meet other travellers. Choose from shared dorm rooms or affordable private rooms. Book here.
• La Vista @ Regalia Residence: Sociable hostel located in a luxury penthouse apartment with amazing views of the skyline from the rooftop infinity pool. Choose from dorms or private rooms and share the lounge, kitchen and pool. Not the most central location but the views are worth it. Book here.
• Eaton Suites KLCC: Apartments with iconic Petronas Tower views from the pool! These private fully equipped modern apartments and suites are conveniently located for KLCC and Bukit Bintang. The stunning views from the infinity swimming pool on the 52 nd floor are the highlight. Rates start at only $45 making it amazing value, but book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Book here.

See more recommendations – The 5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Kuala Lumpur.

How to get to Kuala Lumpur:

KL is 5 hours by bus from the Cameron Highlands. Click this link to book tickets. 

KL is easily accessible via flight from hundreds of international locations, as well as domestic locations over the entire country. The city has a good public transport network making it easy to get around.

There are two main international airports in Kuala Lumpur, KLIA and KLIA2. There are buses from KL sentral to and from Singapore and Thailand.

Taman Negara National Park: 2 – 3 days

Taman Negara National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It’s an astonishing 130 million year old tropical rainforest , older than the Amazon!

If you’re a nature lover, this is somewhere not to miss when backpacking Malaysia – especially if you aren’t able to make it over to Borneo.

The national park boasts exotic wildlife, flora, and fauna, and some of the best opportunities for trekking in the entire country. You’ll find tigers, elephants, rare birds, and more in Taman Negara.

There’s loads to do in Taman Negara National Park. It’s home to the longest canopy walkway in the world where you can walk above the rainforest amongst the towering trees. There is also river safaris and rapids, ziplines, indigenous villages and floating restaurants.

You can also do multi-day trekking trips in Taman Negara where you sleep overnight in a tribal village or cave, or you could climb Gunung Tahan, the highest mountain in peninsular Malaysia.

The easiest way to see the highlights is to visit Taman Negara on a day tour from Kuala Lumpur. But if you have time it’s cheaper and less rushed to spend a few days here.

Where to stay in Taman Negara:

The small town of Kuala Tahan is the gateway to the national park and has some hotels and restaurants along the riverside. Accommodation is limited so book in advance.

• Tekoma Resort: Affordable resort near the riverside with an outdoor swimming pool, simple private chalets, dorm rooms and a restaurant. Book here.
• Tebing Guest House: Great family run guesthouse with a restaurant overlooking the river and comfortable private rooms. Book here.
• Mutiara Taman Negara Resort: The only accommodation within the national park offers cute jungle chalets and can arrange trekking tours and activities. Book here.

How to get to Taman Negara:

Getting to Taman Negara can be a bit of an adventure.

From Kuala Lumpur, you’ll need to take a bus to Jerantut , which takes 3 hours. Then take another 1 hour bus to Kuala Tahan.

There’s also a bus from the Cameron Highlands but it takes 6 hours.

Malacca/ Melaka: 2 – 3 days

The charming, old colonial trading port city of Melaka (also known as Malacca) shouldn’t be left off your Malaysia itinerary.

Like Penang, it has a UNESCO World Heritage old city . You can see, taste and feel the multicultural history of Malacca by exploring the historic lanes, colorful street art, mosques, temples and churches of the old town.

The best thing to do in Melaka is taking a river cruise and wandering around the historic old town. The Dutch Square is full of red colonial buildings and churches including Stadthuys and Christ Church.

Explore the ruins of A’Famosa Fort and St. Paul’s Church and check out the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum to learn more about Malacca’s unique culture and history.

You can also ride on a colorful trishaw, or go up the Menara Taming Sari for panoramic views. The Melaka Straits Floating Mosque is also worth a visit.

In the evening head to Jonker Street night market to try Nonya food and check out the cute cafes.

Where to stay in Melaka:

The best place to stay in Melaka is inside the old town where there are hostels, boutique heritage hotels and plenty of cafes and street food stalls. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Sleep Here Hostel: Good backpacker hostel with comfortable dorm beds and a basic breakfast within short walking distance from everything. Book here.
• The Rucksack Caratel: Unique, funky place with a pool near Jonker Street. Choose from ‘caravan style’ cabins and private rooms with floor to ceiling windows. Book here.
• Gingerflower Boutique Hotel: Charming, centrally located, heritage guesthouse with private rooms. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the river. Book here.

How to get to Melaka:

There are many buses that leave from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca and takes 2-3 hours. You can get tickets here.

You can do day tour to Melaka from KL, but I would recommend staying a few days and soaking up the relaxed vibes if you have time.

Malaysian Borneo

Any Ultimate Malaysia itinerary wouldn’t be complete without Borneo! Many travellers only see Peninsula Malaysia but don’t miss you chance to explore Borneo – one of the last remaining really wild places on earth.

To continue your epic backpacking Malaysia Itinerary head back to Kuala Lumpur and get a cheap Air Asia flight over to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo – check Skyscanner for the best prices.

The massive island of Borneo is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. The Malaysian section is split into two states, Sabah and Sarawak.

Borneo is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. Backpacking Borneo offers an off the beaten path adventure through exotic natural landscapes, ancient rainforests, incredible dive sites, and pristine beaches.

You can take a river safari to spot wildlife, visit orangutan sanctuary, trek to the island’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu, met tribal warriors and mysterious head hunters.

Venture deeper into the jungle to dive at Sipadan Island, or take a propeller airplane to Mulu National Park to trek to bat caves and waterfalls.

The best place to start your Borneo backpacking adventure is in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah or north Borneo.

Kota Kinabalu: 2 – 5 days

Kota Kinabalu (also refereed to as simply KK) is the capital of Sabah state. It’s a great city to fly into and start the Borneo part of your Malaysia itinerary as you’re near most of the best places to visit in Borneo.

There’s plenty to do in Kota Kinabalu , stroll the waterfront, see the impressive waterfront mosque, visit bustling markets and beaches. To learn about Borneo’s indigenous culture visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to meet tribal people and see a traditional longhouse.

Just off the coast, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park consists of 5 paradise islands with amazing underwater life only 15 mins boat ride away from the city. They make easy day trips or you can stay on Gaya Island for a tropical island escape.

This snorkelling trip takes you by boat to three amazing spots and includes lunch on the beach on one of the islands. If you’re lucky you may even see whale sharks.

If you don’t have time to go further into Borneo, it’s even possible to do a river cruise day trip from KK to spot wildlife and fireflies in the Klias Wetlands.

In the evening stroll along the waterfront, choose your dinner from the seafood markets who will grill it for you, and then check out the bars and nightlife.

About 2 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu is the starting point for the famous trek to Borneo’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu. A steep 2 day climb where you watch the sunrise above rolling clouds. You need to register before climbing and take a guide.

This G Adventures small group 5 day Trek Mount Kinabalu Tour . Just bring your hiking shoes and arrive in Kota Kinabalu and they will sort everything else out. It’s quite a tough trek so it’s better to have the support and camaraderie of a like minded group.

Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu:

The best place to stay in Kota Kinabalu is along the waterfront or near Gaya Street. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Homy Seafront Hostel : Cosy, centrally located waterfront hostel with friendly, helpful staff. Offers dorms and private rooms – some with sea views. Book here.
• TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu: Large colorful, modern backpacker hostel on the outskirts of the city. Choose from dorms or delux private rooms and enjoy the social vibe, rooftop bar, hang out areas and games. There’s even an indoor slide! Book here.
• Horizon Hotel : Good value centrally located hotel with a pool and multiple dinning options. The more expensive rooms even have sea views. Book here.

How to get to Kota Kinabalu:

Air Asia and Malaysian Airlines operate daily domestic and international flights from KL to Kota Kinabalu, you can also fly from places like Brunei, Jakarta, and Taipei.

There are many buses leaving from Kota Kinabalu to various destinations around the island, as well as a port to take boats to neighbouring islands as well as Brunei.

Sandakan: 2 – 3 days

Sandakan is the former capital of Sabah and makes a great base for exploring some of Borneo’s best wildlife sanctuaries.

Just outside the city is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre . This renowned sanctuary is a haven for orphaned and injured orangutans. You can see these amazing animals up close during feeding time and support their conversation.

Next to the orangutan sanctuary is the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Rainforest Discovery Centre . The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is also in the area. This Sandakan Tour visits all three wildlife sanctuaries and includes a city tour and lunch.

Sandakan is also the jumping off point for Selingan island, better known as Turtle Island , a conservation project for endangered green and hawksbill turtles.

Stay at Turtle Island Resort and witness turtles laying eggs on the beach at night and help to release the hatchlings into the ocean to help their survival odds.

Where to stay in Sandakan

There’s no hostels in Sandakan, there are some nice jungle resorts and some budget hotels along the waterfront of Sandakan City. Here’s the 3 best options:

• AeCOTEL: Decent budget hotel with comfortable rooms and helpful staff.
• The Elopura Hotel : Popular mid range hotel on the harbour in the heart of Sandakan City with music and movie memorabilia and a great restaurant with sea views.
• The Sabah Hotel : Great resort with landscaped pools, bars and eateries, surrounded by rainforest just above Sandakan City.

How to get to Sandakan

Sandakan is about 7 hours bus ride from KK It’s also possible to fly between the two in less than 1 hour. See the options and book on 12 GO Asia. 

Kinabatangan: 2 – 3 days

One of the best ways to spot wildlife in Borneo is on a river cruise through the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary , about a 2 hour drive from Sandakan.

This is one of the highlights of Borneo, so stay a few days in a riverside rainforest eco resort and do a couple of river safaris in the early morning and sunset time.

This gives you a good chance of seeing Borneo’s Big 5:– The great hornbill, proboscis monkey, orangutang, crocodile and pygmy elephant. You can also do a guided night walk to see all the nocturnal creatures.

How to do it

Most people take a 3 day 2 night Kinabatangan package which includes transfers from Sandakan, accommodation in a rainforest eco resort, meals and river safaris.

Book in advance because places are limited and this is the highlight of most travellers Borneo experience.

Some other accommodation options include:

• Sukau Backpackers B&B : Good budget choice on the river with basic air-conditioned rooms. Meals and boat rides can be arranged.
• Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge : Good value jungle lodge. AC rooms have big windows with nature views.
• Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort: Lovely river eco resort on stilts in the jungle with an open-air riverside restaurant. They offer packages for both dorms and wooden cottages.

I didn’t find any public transport into the wildlife sanctuary. You might be able to get a taxi, but better to ask your accommodation to provide transfers – most do as part of a package.

Semporna and The Sipadan Islands: 2 – 3 days

Semporna, on the eastern coast of Sabah, is the gateway to some of the most beautiful islands and diving sites in the world.

Nicknamed the Maldives of Malaysia, you can go island hopping and snorkelling in the Tan Sakaran Marine Park and see  visiting islands like Timba-Timba, Pom Pom and Mataking Island

Sipadan island is one of the best scuba diving sites in the world where you’ll see turtles, sharks and huge schools of fish . There are limited dive permits issued each day which are issued by dive resorts and tour operators so book in advance.

You need to have an Advanced Open Water certification to dive at Sipadan, but you can try scuba diving without any previous experience at other dive sites in the area.

Check out this guide to diving Sipadan on a budget for more info.

Where to stay in Semporna and the Sipadan Islands:

Semporna town is the cheapest place to stay but for an island escape you can stay in an overwater bungalow or resort on the islands.

For conservation reasons, you’re no longer allowed to stay on Sipadan island, but there are a couple of options on the nearby Mabul island or Kapalai islands.

Here’s my top picks:

• Island Backpackers : Friendly, clean, hostel with dorms and privates centrally located in Semporna.
• Mushroom Inn : Stay in your own toad stall room in a cute mushroom village!
• Dragon Inn Floating Resort : Basic hotel and restaurant on stilts over the water by Semporna jetty.
• Maglami-lami Water House : Top rated reasonably priced over water resort on Bum Bum island
• Sipadan Kapalai Resort: Best dive resort in the area located on Kapalai island.
• Mabul Backpackers: Basic, budget dive resort built on stilts over the water on Mabul island.

How to get to Semporna:

From Sandakan the bus to Semporna takes about 6 hours. Boats to the islands leave from Semporna jetty.

To return to Kota Kinabulu, the quickest way is by a short flight from either Tawau or Lahad Datu.

In KK either change to a plane back to KL or head deeper into the jungle to Mulu National Park – only accessible by flight.

Mulu National Park: 3 or 4 days

Home to Gunung Mulu National Park , Mulu offers spectacular outdoor adventures. From trekking through jungle to climbing through caves, this national park is one of the most unique in the country.

The National Park is home to the biggest underground cave chamber in the world, Sarawak Chamber, as well as Mulu caves and the Deer Cave, the entrance to the largest cave passage in the world.

You can also trek to the Pinnacles at Gunung Api or summit Gunung Mulu Mountain , both multi day treks.

Where to stay near Mulu National Park:

There is a small village around the airport with a handful of homestays. Accommodation is limited and it’s a very remote area so book well in advance.

• Mulu Village : Friendly homestay just outside the national park with incredible hosts.
• The Benarat Lodge: Jungle lodge with air conditioned rooms, a restaurant and refreshing swimming pool.
• Mulu Mariott Resort: The only upscale option. It’s located along the riverside with a beautiful restaurant in the middle of the jungle.

How to get to Mulu National Park:

Getting to Mulu is quite the adventure as it’s not accessible by road. You’ll have to take a small propeller airplane for the 1 hour flight from Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. Check current flight times and prices here.

Kuching: 2 – 3 days

The capital of the state of Sarawak, Kuching is a diverse city located along the beautiful Sarawak River. that’s a mix of colonial and modern architecture. You’ll find massive buildings as well as tiny old houses in this city, which is located along the beautiful Sarawak River.

You can take a two-day trip to Bako National Park for trekking and wildlife, or visit Fort Margherita, The Astana, or even the Kuching Cat Museum.

You should also take a trip to the incredible orang-utan sanctuary, Semenggoh Nature Reserve , where you will get to watch these massive creatures climb the trees and eat.

Where to stay in Kuching:

• Treehouse Hostel: Homely BnB style hostel in a good location near the waterfront. Budget rooms have shared bathrooms and there’s also a kitchen and small terrace.
• Kuching Waterfront Lodge: Good value heritage hotel in an atmospheric old Chinese building on the Sarawak River. Great location close to night markets and everything in Kuching.
• The Borneo Hotel: Modern, mid range hotel if you’re craving mod cons and comfort after your jungle explorations.

How to get there:

Kuching is home to one of Borneo’s busiest airports. You can fly to Kuching from Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur and many other destinations.

There are also buses from Kuching that operate around various places in Sarawak.

If you’re Malaysia and Borneo trip ends here then take a flight back to Kuala Lumpur to catch your onward flight home.

Read More: My Ultimate Thailand Itinerary and Backpacking Route.

Final Thoughts on Backpacking Malaysia and Borneo

Wow, that was a long blog! But there’s just so much to see and do in Malaysia. Make sure your itinerary or backpacking route contains a bit of everything this amazing country has to offer.

Visit the buzzing, multi-cultural cities, taste the diverse food, wander historic old trading ports, relax on tropical islands, explore ancient rainforests and spot wildlife – backpacking through Malaysia is sure to be an amazing adventure!

I hope this blog has helped you plan your Malaysia backpacking trip – if you have any questions leave a comment below.

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Perfect this is exactly what I was looking for!

Awesome! Glad it helped 🙂

Nice blog.Thanks for sharing

There is just so much to see in South East Asia! I love travelling this part of the world, and hope to see as much of it and as many countries as possible.

Hello! Finally planning a trip for May 2022 and this has been so so helpful, thank you x

really a amazing post about malaysia thanks for sharing

Hi, Thank you for sharing with us your amazing experiences in Malaysia. I can’t wait to explore these amazing destinations and experience all that Malaysia has to offer.

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• BORNEO , CAMERON HIGHLANDS , KUALA LUMPUR , LANGKAWI , MALACCA , PENANG , PERHENTIAN ISLANDS

2 Weeks in Malaysia – The Best Malaysia Itinerary

• January 23, 2024
• 12 Comments

2 weeks in Malaysia is a good amount of time to appreciate all this beautiful country has to offe r. In this guide, I’ll be sharing a recommended two-week Malaysia Itinerary, including the best places to visit, where to eat, sleep, & party, as well as all of our top tips for visiting.

When it comes to the best South East Asia travel destinations, Malaysia is a country that rarely makes the hotlist. Sure, it might not be as wild as Thailand or as trendy as Bali , but after spending quite some time backpacking in Malaysia, I can confidently say that it is fiercely underrated.

The thing we love most about Malaysia is its diversity. It is a cultural melting pot, and the multi-ethnic influence of Malay, Indian, Chinese and European concocts a culture (and cuisine) unlike no other in the region.

There’s also an abundance of things to see and do. From pulsating urban cities and charming heritage towns to sweeping rainforests and pristine islands, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

This Malaysia itinerary combines a little bit of all these things. We cover the country’s West and East Coast, including Malaysian Borneo. It will allow you to experience the very best of Malaysia in two weeks.

So let’s get to it and plan your perfect two-week Malaysia itinerary.

If it’s your first time travelling or backpacking Malaysia, I recommend checking out our First timers guide to travelling Malaysia . It’s jam-packed with useful information that will help you prepare for a fantastic, and safe, trip of a lifetime.

Is Two Weeks in Malaysia Enough?

Malaysia is a massive country with plenty to see and do. It’s impossible to experience it all in two weeks, so I encourage you to plan your Malaysia itinerary wisely and prioritise what you want from your trip.

This might include deciding between the east coast or the west coast of Malaysia. While you can combine the two, it would mean doing quite a lot of travel which can eat into your valuable exploring time.

Personally, with just two weeks in Malaysia, I would choose one or the other and make the most of my time in that region. That way, you have an excuse to come back again as well!

In the next section, you’ll find a more detailed explanation of what you can expect from each region.

East or West Coast Malaysia Itinerary

When planning your Malaysia itinerary, it’s important to understand there are 2 ‘sides’ to the country.  

First of all, you have Peninsular (West) Malaysia.   This region is more developed, boasting the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, along with other popular tourist destinations.  

You can look forward to a diverse and exciting itinerary in West Malaysia, from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the natural wonders of Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands.

Then you have East Malaysia.   Sparsely developed in comparison, the East attracts your more adventurous travellers. Those looking to explore the jungles of Borneo, or experience World-Class diving on the East Coast Islands.  

Up until now, we have only explored the West of Malaysia.   Though we know enough about the East that not only makes us desperate to go, but allows us to share some travel inspiration with you.

So with this in mind, below you can find two separate 2-week Malaysia Itineraries .   The first is a West Malaysia Itinerary and the second is a Borneo & East Malaysia Itinerary .

The Best of Malaysia in 2 Weeks

We have a lot to cover in this Malaysia Itinerary, so if you’re short on time, here are some of the highlights you can enjoy over your 14 days in Malaysia.

• Visit the mystical Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
• Encounter wild orangutans in the jungles of Borneo
• Trek to find the rare Rafflesia Flower in the Cameron Highlands
• Go on a street art hunt in Georgetown
• Sample delicious traditional Malaysian food .
• Visit some of the best beaches in Malaysia on Langkawi Island
• Experience world-class diving in Borneo
• Discover paradise islands on The Perhentians.
• Hike Mount Kinabalu National Park

Tips & Advice for this Malaysia Itinerary

Before I show you how to spend a perfect two weeks in Malaysia, here are some of my top tips for visiting. 

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia has two peak seasons – from December to the end of January and from June to mid-September.

However, You will want a clear idea of what you want to do when planning your Malaysia itinerary, as the weather patterns differ in West and East Malaysia. 

The best time to visit Peninsular (West) Malaysia is between November and August. September and October see the peak of monsoon season, and severe downpours consume the region.

If you’re planning a trip to the east coast, the best time is between March and September. Late November to mid-February brings the arrival of monsoon season on the east coast.

Other than that, stable tropical temperatures and high humidity are to be expected all year round. You should also prepare for the occasional downpour. 

Getting Around in Malaysia

After covering most of Peninsular Malaysia, we found the easiest way to travel from place to place was by tourist bus.  

It is by no means the quickest way; however, the buses are comfortable and you do get to see some pretty epic scenery along the way.  

It is worth noting that the road conditions are generally very good in the tourist regions of the West.   Although, once you start travelling East to Borneo, they become more treacherous.  

We recommend avoiding bus travel in these areas as there is a history of accidents on the roads.  

You can also travel via train or air to most regions, but prices are much more expensive and routes are limited.

*Tip – We recommend using 12go Asia to book your bus travel around Malaysia.

In our experience, the easiest way to explore big cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang is through the bus and rail networks.   As well as being reliable, they are also super cheap.

The metro system in Kuala Lumpur puts the London Underground to shame with comfortable, air-conditioned carriages and routes to the must-see spots across the city.  

There are even ladies-only carriages for female travellers who may feel uncomfortable in the mixed.

Grab Taxis operate in most cities and are a safer, cheaper alternative to a local taxi.   If you do take a local taxi, be sure they use the meter.   Or agree on the fare in advance to avoid being ripped off.

Staying Safe in Malaysia

Despite being a lesbian couple in a country that still has anti-gay laws, we can honestly say that we have always felt safe while travelling in Malaysia.

Of course, we do not publicly showcase our relationship; however, Malaysia is a modest country, and any form of PDA is frowned upon – even for straight couples.

Other than the odd pickpocketing incident, crimes against tourists are extremely rare. You can minimise the risk of this happening by keeping valuables secure and out of reach.

Of course, exercising precaution is always wise when travelling in unfamiliar territory. Be pragmatic with your choices, follow these steps for staying safe in Malaysia , and you’ll be just fine.

If you are an LGBTQ traveller visiting Malaysia, I recommend reading this Gay in Malaysia guide and these safety tips for LGBTQ+ travellers .

Travel Insurance

There are a lot of fun activities to do on this Malaysia itinerary; however, with adventure always comes risk. With this in mind, you will want to have adequate travel insurance that covers you for any tricky situations.

We always recommend Heymondo for travel insurance . They are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add-ons, and you get 5% discount using our link! (discount applicable for non-American citizens). 

Internet in Malaysia

While taking a trip to Malaysia is the perfect time to unwind and disconnect, it’s also handy to have online access when you need it.

In our experience, most accommodations, cafes, and restaurants have free wifi available. However, we also like to access the internet when out exploring to access maps, find local restaurants, etc. 

We always travel with a  GlocalMe portable wifi hotspot  that allows us to access the internet pretty much anywhere in the world. We also buy a local sim card which are easy to pick up at airports or local malls.

Finally, we always use a VPN when we travel. Using a VPN is very important these days to make sure that all your data is safe and secure.

Also, it helps while travelling for safety reasons and unlocks geo-restricted content such as Netflix and helps avoid demographic price discrimination while looking for a flight or a hotel.

In my experience,  Surfshark is the best VPN for travel .

2 Weeks in West Malaysia Itinerary

The following 2 week Malaysia itinerary starts and ends in the capital city Kuala Lumpur. It focuses on popular west coast destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang and Langkawi Island.

I’ve included some of my favourite things to do in each location, as well as recommended places to stay.

• Days 1-3: Religious Sites, Nature Parks & Shopping in Kuala Lumpur
• Day 4 : Day Trip to the colourful city of Melaka
• Days 5-6: Trekking, Culture, and Tea Plantations in Cameron Highlands
• Days 7-9: Street Art, Street Food, and Colonial Buildings in Penang
• Days 10-13: Beaches, Waterfalls, and Watersports in Langkawi
• Day 14 : Return to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur: 3 Nights

Your Malaysian adventures will begin in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.   Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts might be tempted to move out of the city right away.   But hold your horses, as you might find there is more to KL than meets the eye.

I’d be lying if I said that Kuala Lumpur doesn’t take some time to digest.   It can be a sensory overload to people like us who warm more towards natural landscapes.   However, after spending quite some time in KL over the past two years, it’s become one of our favourite cities in Asia.  

There are in fact, a ton of cool and unique things to do in Kuala Lumpur .   Whether you are into culture, shopping, architecture, nature, or food, you are sure to find something you love about the city.  

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

Below is a list of some of my favourite things to do in Kuala Lumpur, but for a more comprehensive guide on how to plan your time see this 2 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary .

1.  Batu Caves

The Batu Caves should be a priority on your list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur.   The caves are a whopping 400 million years old and built amidst limestone cliffs are a sight to behold.

As well as a popular tourist attraction, the caves are a significant religious landmark, housing numerous Hindu temples and shrines.  

What’s more, following a recent upgrade incorporating a striking rainbow staircase, the caves are one of the most Instagrammed places in Kuala Lumpur .

2.  Mosques and Temples

As expected from such an ethnically diverse nation, mosques and temples are abundant in the capital city.

In addition to the Batu Caves, you should check out the Thean Hou Buddhist Temple and the grandeur Federal Territory Mosque .

Both are architectural gems, with the design of the Federal Territory mosque inspired by the Taj Mahal and Mecca.

Take the stress out of planning and cover the KL cultural highlights with an organised tour. Click the link below to read hundreds of positive reviews regarding the tour which includes the Batu Caves, Thean Hou Temple, and the National Mosque. At just $25 it’s insane value for money, but be sure to book in advance as it sells out fast!

Book Your Tour: Group Tour: Batu Caves & Cultural Exploration Tour

3.  KL Eco Park

From sweeping jungle to concrete jungle, it’s hard to believe that Kuala Lumpur was once nothing but rainforest.

When you look at today’s skyline, you’ll only see towering skyscrapers and air pollution. But, in fact, some effort has been made to preserve the city’s’ routes.

The  KL Eco Park  is a 200m squared area of protected rainforest in the heart of the city. Home to various endangered plants, birds, and monkeys, it’s rare to encounter such raw nature in a modern metropolis. 

The park boasts several nature trails, including canopy walkways amid the treetops. With the glistening skyline in the background, it makes for awesome photo ops.

4. Enjoy the Food

One of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur is to enjoy the amalgamation of cuisine on offer. 

Food Halls in China Town. Banana Leaf specialities in Little India. Cheap but delicious Roti Canai. The list is truly endless.

One place I do highly recommend that you visit for an evening, though, is  Jalan Alor Street . This area bursts into life at night, with countless food vendors serving a variety of culinary delights. 

Conveniently located in the Bukit Bintang area, it’s the ideal place to grab a beer and watch the bustling Kuala Lumpur world go by.

If you’re stuck on what to order, check out these  15 dishes you must try in Kuala Lumpur .

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Hostel – Mingle @Chinatown – Mingle  is located in the heart of Chinatown – The chic decor is a big attraction here.

Budget Private –   Step Inn Guesthouse – A great choice for budget travellers, Step Inn Guesthouse offers modest but affordable accommodation in central KL.

Luxury –   The Face Suites – Spacious and modern apartments with a fitness centre, bars, restaurants and jaw-dropping infinity pool.

For a full list of places to stay in Kuala Lumpur, you can check the latest prices here .

Malacca: Day Trip

For the next stop on your Malaysia travels, I recommend taking a day trip to the UNESCO Heritage city of Malacca.

This charming historic city doesn’t find its way onto most Malaysia itineraries – which is a pity, as it has a lot to offer.  

Malacca has a rich colonial history. You’ll find the influence of Dutch, Portuguese and British throughout the city. It helps provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of Malaysia. 

If you’re looking to explore somewhere a little bit unique, you should, at the very least, consider a day trip to Malacca which is easy to do from Kuala Lumpur.

You can travel there yourself using the local bus network. Or to make things easier, you could take a tour like this one and have everything organised for you.

Top Things to do in Malacca

Below I’ve summarised some of the top things to do in Malacca, For a more comprehensive guide be sure to check out our Malacca itinerary .

Windmill Dutch Square

Windmill Dutch Square is probably the most iconic area of Malacca. It’s certainly one of the most photographed places in Malaysia and with its striking architecture, I can see why.

You’ll find many significant attractions surrounding the square, including Stadthuys. Historically, Stadthuys served as residence to Dutch governors. Today, it houses a collection of museums.

Then there’s the beautiful Christ Church. Its terracotta colonial architecture reminded me of the Franciscan Church in Ljubljana.

One of the simpler things to do in Malacca, but also one of my favourites, is a gentle stroll along the river. 

The river is the focal point of the tourist centre. On both sides, you can enjoy the multitude of beauty that Malacca has to offer. 

Look out for the vibrant street art that adorns many of the buildings. You’ll also find popular landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Ghost Bridge.

I also suggest stopping at one of the riverside bars or cafes where you can watch the gentle pace of the city go by.

Melaka Straits Mosque

Melaka Straits Mosque might be one of our favourite landmarks in all of Malaysia.

Built on a man-made island just off the coast of the Malacca Strait it is a truly awe-inspiring structure. When the tide comes in high, it appears to be floating on water.

The best time to see the mosque is at high tide, or during sunrise or sunset. 

Malacca is a city bursting with museums. Like I said earlier, this is the place to educate yourself on Malaysian history.

If you’re keen to learn more about the Peranakan culture that is unique to Malacca, check out the  Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum . 

Then there’s Stadthuys which houses the museum of history and ethnography. Inside you can find all kinds of significant artefacts that tell the history of the city.

Villa Sentosa is also popular as its one of the best preserved traditional homes in the city. The museum inside depicts the life of a wealthy family in the early 20th century.

Jonker Street Night Market

If you can plan your trip to Malacca for the weekend, you’re in for a real treat. 

Jonker Street Night Market is one of the most entertaining things to do in the city. Set in the shopping capital, the street comes alive with a variety of stalls and heaps of entertainment.

Here is the best place to try delicious street food staples like satay celup, chicken rice balls, and nyonya laksa!

Cameron Highlands: 2 Nights

Just a 4-5 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands are a picturesque rural region in the West of Malaysia.  

Boasting verdant nature, scenic views, and a bunch of adventure opportunities, the highlands are a worthy contender for your 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary.

The highlands are named after the British explorer who discovered them.   To this end, the fact that they are famous for their sweeping tea plantations is quite ironic.  

In keeping with British culture, you can also enjoy strawberry picking and traditional cream teas.

Things to do in the Cameron Highlands

Here’s a list of some of the Cameron Highlands highlights. Or for further travel inspo, check out these 25 Things to do in the Cameron Highlands .

1.  Jungle Trekking

Located next to one of the world’s oldest rainforests, Jungle Treks and hiking in the Cameron Highlands is the number 1 activity.  

With tours starting from half a day up to 7 days plus, there are options to suit all interests and capabilities.  

On these tours, you get to experience some of the incredible scenery encompassing the highlands.   As well as learning about the region’s diversified flora and fauna.

2.  Hunt for the Rafflesia Flower

The Rafflesia flower is known to be one of the largest flowers in the world, and Malaysia is one of the few countries where you can find it.  

Growing up to 3ft in diameter, the extraordinary specimen is also known as the corpse flower thanks to its pungent odour!

*Tip – Your best chance of sighting the Rafflesia flower is during the rainy season and with the assistance of an experienced guide.

3.  Orang Asli Villages

Orang Asli, meaning ‘original people’ in Malay, refers to the indigenous groups living in Malaysia. The Cameron Highlands is one of few places where you can visit traditional villages.  

While these tours provide a fascinating insight into indigenous culture , it is a grey area whether or not it’s entirely ethical to visit them.  

We would say it’s ok, so long as you remain respectful at all times. It also helps if you buy something from the locals – handmade souvenirs make lovely keepsakes and it’s a way of giving back.

Places to Stay in the Cameron Highlands

Hostel –   Hikers Sleep Port – Conveniently located for those looking to explore all of the local attractions. Provides tour bookings and a free buffet breakfast for guests.

Budget Private –   Fathers Guesthouse Resort – Offering modest but comfortable private rooms . Enjoy nearby hiking trails and villages.

For more places to stay in the Cameron Highlands, you can check the latest prices here .

Penang/Georgetown: 3 Nights

If you are the slightest bit interested in Malaysian history, you should make Penang a priority on your two-week Malaysia itinerary.  

An island located along the west coast of Malaysia, the island once served as a major trading hub. However, it isn’t the beaches that attract visitors to come here.

Most tourists come to Penang to experience the capital of George Town. Famous for its heritage houses, street art, hipster cafes, and street food, UNESCO declared the city a world heritage site in 2008.  

Since then, Georgetown has flourished into a hub of creativity and culture. To ensure you hit all the best historical spots in town, you could consider the ‘ Explore Georgetown Half Day City Tour ‘.

Things to do in Penang

Here are some of our favourite things to do in Penang. Or for a more comprehensive guide, you can check out this Penang itinerary.

1.  George Town Street Art Hunt

The street art in Georgetown has become an iconic attraction among the backpacker crowd.   Created by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic in 2012, the unique works injected a new lease of life into the city.  

Hidden throughout a labyrinth of lanes and alleyways, searching for the famous murals makes for quite the fun treasure hunt. Or use this map and guide to locate the best ones.

2.  Tour the Heritage Houses

The pre-war heritage homes found all around Georgetown serve as a true reflection of the city’s colonial history.

Oozing charm and authenticity, it almost feels like you have stepped back in time to another era.  

You can also visit more affluent properties such as the Pinang Peranakan Mansion – once home to a 19th-century Chinese tycoon.

3.  Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si or the ‘Temple of Happiness’, is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.   The complex serves as a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists throughout SE Asia.

In true Buddhist fashion, the intricate design of the temple is tremendously impressive.   And if you’re not ‘templed-out’, we recommend this day trip from Georgetown.  

4.  Take a Penang Food Tour

A Penang food tour is an absolutely essential thing to do during your 2 weeks in Malaysia.  The food here is some of the best in the country, and you are sure to leave with a very satisfied tummy.

Furthermore, Georgetown is known to be the street food capital of the country, and you are never more than a few metres away from a hawker stand.  

There are so many delicious street foods you must try in Malaysia –  Satay, noodles, Lok Lok, Apom Balik…   Try it all I tell you!  

Places to Stay in Penang

Hostel –   The 80s Guesthouse – The 80s Guesthouse is one of the most popular hostels in Penang.  The chic industrial design is a crowd favourite .

Budget Private –   Rainbow House – Modest but super comfy rooms, Rainbow House is the perfect budget accommodation option in the heart of Georgetown.  

Mid-Range –   The Boutique Residence Hotel – Offering a touch of luxury in the heart of Georgetown – Facilities include an indoor swimming pool and a la carte restaurant.

For places to stay in Penang, you can check the latest prices here .

Langkawi: 4-5 Nights

Your final stop on this 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary is Langkawi.   Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands located off the west coast.

Famous for their endless natural landscapes, the islands boast some of the best beaches in Malaysia.  

As a token of its beauty, Langkawi was declared a Unesco World Geo Park in 2007.   The interior of the main island is made up of lush rice paddies, majestic waterfalls, and sweeping rainforests.

All things considered, it is no surprise that   Langkawi is a popular choice among holiday goers and backpackers, alike.   The harmonious combination of relaxation and adventure appeals to all kinds of travellers.  

Things to do in Langkawi

Let’s look at the top things to do in Langkawi. Or for a more comprehensive guide, check out this Langkawi Itinerary .

1.  Beaches

Langkawi boasts some of the best beaches in Malaysia , so naturally, this is the number 1 thing to do here.

With many incredible beaches to choose from, it is worth renting a scooter for a day and discovering which one you like best.  

For all the action, Pantai Cenang is where it’s at.   Here you will find bars, restaurants, watersports, and shopping.  

Or for a quieter atmosphere, we can recommend Tanjang Rhu or Pantai Tengah .  

2.  Skytrex Adventure

One for the intrepid travellers, Sky Trex Adventure is an adrenaline-pumping assault course in the heart of the Langkawi Rainforest.  

With a choice of circuits depending on your capabilities, brave participants are faced with a number of challenging obstacles and zip lines.   Don’t look down!

3.  Waterfalls

There are a number of waterfalls to be found on Langkawi; though, Telaga Tujuh is arguably the most beautiful.  

The name, meaning ‘Seven Wells Waterfall’, refers to the seven connected natural pools.  

Adventurers can climb to the peak of the waterfall where magical views support a local legend that the area is home to fairies.

4.  Mangrove Tours

Mangrove Tours are a fiercely popular attraction in Langkawi which allow visitors up close and personal to some of the island’s most extraordinary nature.

As well as lush mangrove forests, you can expect to see plenty of wildlife.

You can either opt for a guided boat tour through the mangroves or if you are feeling more adventurous, why not try kayaking instead?

Places to Stay in Langkawi

Hostel –   Tubotel – Tubotel boasts sea views from their unique concept-style cube and tube-shaped accommodations.  

Budget Private –   Bohok Guesthouse – A cosy family-run establishment, Bohok Guesthouse offer great value for money in Pantai Cenang.

Mid-Range – The Smith House – The Smith House is perfect for those seeking a little extra comfort.  Facilities include a rooftop swimming pool, an on-site restaurant and a bar.

For more places to stay in Langkawi, you can check the latest prices here .

Day 14 – Return to Kuala Lumpur

See ya Malaysia, it’s been a blast!

2 Week East Malaysia Itinerary (Includes Borneo)

• Days 1-2: Religious Sites, Nature Parks & Shopping in Kuala Lumpur
• Days 3-8: Orangutans, Rainforests, & Diving in Malaysian Borneo
• Days 9-14: Snorkelling, Beaches, & Relaxation on the Perhentian Islands.

Kuala Lumpur: 2 Nights

Your East Cost adventures will inevitably begin in Kuala Lumpur, so it’s worth taking some time to adapt here and check out the highlights of the city.

See our section on Kuala Lumpur above for more information, or check out our suggested 2 Day Kuala Lumpur itinerary .

Malaysian Borneo: 6 Nights

Borneo, the world’s 3rd largest island, is divided among 3 countries – Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.

  Boasting sweeping rainforest, world-class dive sites, towering mountain ranges, and some of our planet’s most unique wildlife, it is a location that screams adventure.  

While 73% of the island is dominated by Indonesian territory, Malaysian Borneo comprises of 2 states – Sawarak and Sabah.  

To experience all the attractions that Borneo has to offer , you will want to spend time in both states.    

Top Things to do in Malaysian Borneo

1.  encounter wild orangutans.

There are only two places in the world where you can encounter endangered orangutans.   The first is Borneo, and the other is Sumatra .  

Sadly, with deforestation for palm oil plantations proving catastrophic to the orangutan population, it is uncertain how much longer the species will survive.  

There are rehabilitation centres throughout Borneo working to protect the future of the species. While visiting one of these centres gives you the best chance of a sighting, you can also take your chances of seeing them in the wild.  

Trekking through the rainforest or a river cruise on the Kinabatangan River both come with a good chance of spotting wild orangutans .    

2.  Scuba Diving

Encompassed by some of the most pristine oceans in the region,   Sabah boasts some exceptional diving opportunities .  

Despite the high demand, only a limited number of dive permits are issued each day to help protect the fragile ecosystem.

Although diving here is expensive, the rare opportunity to encounter flourishing coral reefs, several species of sharks, turtles, and other tropical marine life, makes it worth the money.

3.  Climb Mount Kinabalu

At 4095m, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia.   To endure this climb will require both mental and physical strength, not to mention money to spare.  

The cost of a permit alone is £85/$110, and you will need to hire a guide. You can   a pply for your Mount Kinabalu permit here .

An alternative to the strenuous climb is to spend the day at Kinabalu Park. Kinabalu Park boasts jungle trails, beautiful plants, and views of the prodigious mountain.

4.  Spot Wildlife on the Kinabatangan River

Considered a highlight when visiting Borneo, river cruises along the Kinabatangan River allow visitors the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife.  

These include the endangered proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, pythons, and elephants.

5.  Rainforest Trekking

The national parks in Sarawak provide unbeatable trekking opportunities, and with camping available in most places, makes for one hell of an adventure.  

Some parks require that you hire a guide, therefore be sure to do your research before you head out.

Perhentian Islands: 6 Nights

I’ll start by saying that travel from Malaysian Borneo to the Perhentian Islands isn’t exactly the easiest affair. However, after a week of adventuring in Borneo, it’s worth the journey to enjoy some downtime on the paradise islands.

The easiest way to travel from Borneo to the Perhentian Islands is to take a connecting flight through Kuala Lumpur.

Located off the East Coast of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are famous for their pristine beaches, azure waters, and spectacular diving conditions.

The largest island, Perhentian Besar, is a quieter and less crowded island. While Perhentian Kecil is livelier and more popular with backpackers.

Other than diving and snorkelling, there isn’t much else to do on the islands other than to immerse yourself in the tranquillity such conditions provide – heaven!

Additions to this Malaysia Itinerary

If you are spending more than 2 weeks in Malaysia, we would recommend taking your time through the itinerary and spending longer in the places you like the most.  

Alternatively, there are some lesser-known islands to consider such as Redang Island , Tioman Island, and Pangkor Island . Or visit Taman Negara National Park – the oldest rainforest in the world.

Budget for 2 Weeks in Malaysia

Travelling West Malaysia is suitable for all budgets and if you are sensible with your cash you can comfortably live on £20/25$ a day.  

Decent hostels can be found for as little as £5/7$ and often include breakfast, while budget private rooms are available for £10-20/15-25$.  

Food costs in Malaysia can also be very cheap.   Noodles or fried rice can be picked up at hawker stalls for as little as 5 MYR (£1/$1.20), while a good meal at a food court will set you back 10-15 MYR.  

If you want to dine at restaurants, expect to pay between 30-50MYR for a meal.

Entry prices for attractions will heavily depend on your interests.   Most of the mosques/temples, museums, and nature areas, are very cheap if not free to enter.  

But if you wanted to experience the view from the KL Tower, for example, it would set you back around £15/$20.

Alcohol in Malaysia can be almost prohibitively expensive for budget-conscious travellers.   It’s best to limit your consumption if you want to keep your daily spending down.  

If you are thinking of heading East to Borneo, you should consider that your daily spending will double if not triple, if you want to make the most of the attractions in the region.

Don’t forget, if it’s your first time travelling or backpacking Malaysia, check out our First timers guide to travelling Malaysia . It’s jam-packed with useful information regarding entry requirements, currency, safety, and all that jazz.

Enjoy your 2 Weeks in Malaysia!

Well, that concludes our recommendations for a 2 week Malaysia itinerary. I hope you’ve found it helpful and that you’re looking forward to your trip! 

We love hearing from you!  If you have any questions or feel that we’ve missed anything, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can  drop us a message  or leave us a comment below.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Check out our Malaysia series to help plan your trip.

Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here  where we share more travel tips and advice.

Stay adventurous and happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

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12 Responses

This is a great article. Very inspiring and informative too. Thanks for sharing!!

Hi Robbin, thank you so much, this has made our day!

Super helpful article. I’ve been planning a trip to Malaysia for my wife and I for a while and I really appreciate the input you have. It’s very challenging to balance the time, budget and seeing all the things.

Hi Daniel, we’re so glad you found our article for Malaysia helpful! With so much to see and do, there is something for everyone. I hope you and your wife have a wonderful time in Malaysia!

Thank you this was actually really helpful. Did you prefer east or west?

Hi Sarah, we’re so glad you found this article helpful! I think East Malaysia, just because we prefer nature and adventure ♥

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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

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Visit Borneo is a global Borneo portal, focusing on orangutans and other endangered species , unique wildlife and nature, sustainable development, conservation projects, responsible travel and sustainable tourism information, holidays, sports and leisure activities.

Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations on the island of Borneo.

• Mulu Caves in Malaysia – These limestone caves are located in the Gunung Mulu National Park and are a popular destination for adventure-seekers. The park offers a variety of cave-related activities, including the famous “Headhunter’s Trail,” a challenging hike that takes visitors through a series of dark and narrow limestone caves.  
• Sandakan Memorial Park in Malaysia – This park is dedicated to the memory of the prisoners of war who were held in Sandakan during World War II. The park features a museum and a number of monuments, including a replica of the original Sandakan camp. It is a place of historical significance and a powerful reminder of the atrocities of war.  
• Ulu Temburong National Park in Brunei – This park is known for its untouched rainforest and offers visitors the chance to explore the rainforest canopy via a system of elevated walkways. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Proboscis monkey, which is native to Borneo.  
• Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Indonesia – This center is located in the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation and is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the endangered orangutan population. Visitors can observe the orangutans being rehabilitated and learn about the work being done to protect these amazing animals.  
• Tanjung Puting National Park in Indonesia – This park is located in the heart of Borneo and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Bornean elephant, the Bornean orangutan, and the clouded leopard. Visitors can take a traditional “Klotok” boat trip along the Sekonyer River to explore the park and see the wildlife up close.  

Wildlife and Nature

The island of Borneo is home to many unique and endangered species, such as the orang utan, proboscis monkey, the Borneo Rhino, the Pygmy Elephant, as well as the Green and Hawsbill Turtle. More wildlife is discovered by the scientists who live and conduct research in the many national parks, rainforests, mountains and remote regions on the island. Several conservation projects have been set up in Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak, and Kalimantan in collaboration with local governments, the WWF, research institutions, nature and other wildlife and nature and environmental not for profit organisations.

Borneo Travel and Tourism

Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and Kalimantan are easily reachable by plane from abroad. Borneo has several international airports. More distant travel within Sabah, Sarawak, Kalimantan, or Brunei mostly takes place by plane or boat. There is a wide selection of hotels, resorts, inns, guest houses and backpackers available to cater for tourists, business travellers and expatriates alike.

Borneo Holidays

Borneo has become a very popular holiday destination in recent years. Polular Borneo holidays include adventure holidays, jungle trekking holidays, beach holidays, orang utan and wildlife safaries, bird watching, and diving. Many visitors spend their honeymoon, Chinese New Year, Easter or Christmas at one of the many top resort hotels. Many popular tourist hotels and resorts are located only a few miles outside Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, as well as outside Kuching or Miri in Sarawak, which are great starting points for many Borneo tours to its wildlife, nature and cultural attractions.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Borneo offers great opportunities for scuba diving, particularly off East Sarawak and off the islands of Sabah, mountain climbing, caving, golf, fishing, and rafting. Borneo tour operators may be able to help in arranging a sports holidays, particularly diving, fishing, golf and adventure treks.

Conservation and Sustainability

Visit Borneo also provides resources for expats and people relocating to Sabah and Sarawak on Malaysian Borneo , Kalimantan on the Indonesian Borneo , and Brunei Darussalam.

• The Ultimate Backpacking Guide To...

The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Borneo

The number of young ecotourists backpacking in Borneo grows every year – most heading to Sabah and Sarawak in the Malaysian part of the island, while few visit Brunei or the Indonesian Kalimantan. Want to join them? Here are the essential tips on being a backpacker in Borneo, including the must-have experiences, where to visit and how to stay safe.

Keen to backpack in Borneo but not up for the planning? Join Culture Trip’s expertly curated 10-day trip through the spectacular landscapes of Sabah. Led by our Local Insider, you’ll join a small-group of culturally curious travellers and experience the best natural wonders the island has to offer.

What’s the backpacker scene in Borneo like?

Backpacking in Borneo isn’t on the same scale as in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi in West Malaysia. Relatively few take the two-hour flight to Sabah and Sarawak and even fewer visit Brunei and Kalimantan. But those who do make the journey are often lured by the ecotourism and chance to see the awesome native wildlife in Borneo . Most towns and cities are near the jungle, national parks and cultural heritage sites. But don’t expect late nights and a party scene outside Kota Kinabalu in Sabah or Kuching in Sarawak. That’s particularly true for Brunei, which adheres to Sharia law. However, you should expect to have nature-based experiences like nowhere else in Southeast Asia.

How to make the most of backpacking in Borneo

Get into the rainforest.

From the Danum Valley and Maliau Basin in Sabah to the jungle covering 80 percent of Sarawak, Borneo is best discovered through nature. When the rainforest is accessible, make the most of it by hiking near Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, or visiting reserves such as Bako National Park in Kuching.

Take your time

Experiencing the best ecotourism activities and wildlife in Borneo takes time and patience. It may take several hours to reach the secluded homes of wild proboscis monkeys, or to visit orangutan rehabilitation centres and world-class diving spots.

Embrace the ethnic diversity and culture

Borneo is among the most diverse regions for wildlife, landscapes and culture on the planet. The Dayak people, or the indigenous peoples of Borneo, include the Iban and Murut, the Bajau Laut ‘Sea Nomads’ and formerly pagan/animist Kadazan-Dusun. The Cultural Village in Kuching and the Monsopiad Cultural Village near Kota Kinabalu showcase their customs and traditions.

How to stay safe while travelling through Borneo

Avoiding theft.

Most people backpacking in Borneo encounter fewer risks compared to West Malaysia. But you shouldn’t let your guard down. Cities transform after dark. Foreigners might get unwanted attention and petty theft is a concern. Be vigilant with possessions at all times. Drive-by bag snatching on motorbikes is common too, especially after dark. Solo female travellers are also likely to experience catcalls and unwanted male attention throughout Malaysian Borneo, especially in some parts of Kota Kinabalu.

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Security concerns in East Sabah

The eastern part of Sabah from Kudat, the northernmost tip of Borneo, to Lahad Datu towards the southeast is designated as the Eastern Sabah Security Zone . Ongoing territorial disputes between Sabah and Sulu culminated when around 100 armed insurgents attempted to invade in February 2013. Regional security is high and land and sea travel restrictions apply as of 2018. Foreign tourists have been targeted as hostages for ransom in Eastern Sabah too. Piracy is a concern in the waters off the coast of Sabah and through the Straits of Melaka. While this is unlikely to affect anyone backpacking in Borneo, consult your foreign office for travel warnings before making any plans.

Food and accommodation

Cheap stays in borneo.

Affordable accommodation that’s suitable for backpackers in Borneo is easy to find in towns and cities. Hostel beds in major cities such as Kota Kinabalu start from as little as RM40 ($10.20) or less per night, while budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses often begin at RM80 ($20.40). Be aware that non-Malaysians need to pay RM10 ($2.60) per room per night as a tourist tax. Finding budget accommodation in Brunei is more challenging. Anticipate spending two to three times more than in Sabah and Sarawak. As Kalimantan is relatively unexplored, cheaper options are often more limited.

Affordable food in Sabah, Sarawak and Kalimantan

Sabah and Sarawak offer the typical selection of Malay, Indian and Chinese dishes as well as Dayak specialities in some restaurants. The cost of meals in Sabah tends to be slightly higher than in Kuala Lumpur, but will still come to less than RM20 ($5.10). Sarawak, especially Kuching, has a reputation for delicious and ultra-affordable meals. Expect a dish in some restaurants to cost as little as RM5 ($1.30). Foodies backpacking in Borneo can enjoy street food and meals at family-owned restaurants and food courts. Anyone crossing the border into Brunei will find a meal is much more expensive while Kalimantan offers spicy Indonesian favourites at prices similar to Sarawak.

How to make friends in Borneo

If you want to chat to the local people, cultural events (especially those with few foreigners) are gold mines – just make sure to learn a couple of Malay phrases before you go. Drivers, restaurant staff and coffee shop customers are excellent sources of information too. In Malaysian Borneo, take advantage of Meetup.com , a website where locals advertise activities such as hiking trips. Backpackers tend to hang out in hostels and bars. Tourists visiting Brunei and Kalimantan might face more challenges.

What to do with your money in Borneo

Exchange your cash.

All tourists need to change money into ringgits, and it’s better to do this in the country. Rates in Malaysian Borneo, Kalimantan and Brunei tend to be quite good and probably better than back home. Change some at the airport and exchange the rest in the city.

Bring larger denominations and major currencies in Sabah and Sarawak

Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo offer different rates for different denominations. You’ll get better value by changing a $100 bill than a $20, and not all accept lower-value notes. Unlike other Southeast Asian destinations, such as Cambodia or Laos, it’s not advisable to go backpacking in Borneo with $1 bills.

Take all the cash you need when exploring nature

Tourists want to explore the vast rainforests and exotic islands of Borneo. But don’t expect to find ATMs or currency exchange offices in the jungle, on islands or in rural villages. Anyone backpacking in Borneo who plans to go off the beaten path should bring plenty of ringgits.

Where to go when backpacking in Borneo

Tunku abdul rahman marine park and pulau tiga, sabah.

The first port of call after arriving in Kota Kinabalu is to jump on a speedboat and hop between the islands visible from the shore. Tunku Abdul Rahman is a group of five islands, with Manukan the favourite for beaches and snorkelling. Pulau Tiga, a little further away, was featured on the first season of TV series Survivor . Expect a desert island with an unusual mud volcano in the centre.

Danum Valley Conservation Area, Sabah

Deep in the Sabah jungle lies the Danum Valley, an ecotourism paradise. Approximately two hours west of Lahad Datu, the conservation area combines research facilities with the chance to experience the rainforest. Wildlife, including orangutans and pygmy elephants among many others, call this area home. Hostel beds and chalets are available for overnight stays.

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, is best known for its cave systems. Unesco-listed Gunung Mulu National Park has a series of jagged limestone cliffs and caves, including the most voluminous chamber in the world: the Sarawak Chamber. Three summits of the surrounding mountains exceed 1,500m (4,921ft).

Niah National Park, Sarawak

Archaeologists discovered what are believed to be some of the earliest human remains in Asia dating back approximately 40 millennia inside caves in Niah. The national park, one of 25 in Sarawak and a popular day trip from Miri, has rock art, boat-shaped coffins and an abundance of edible bird nests.

Derawan Island, Kalimantan

In east Kalimantan, Derawan is a relatively unexplored island with white beaches, thousands of turtles and a reputation for world-class diving. Expect to see stone fish, grouper, snapper as well as ghost pipefish and a plethora of colourful corals. Both day and night dives are available. Most tourists stay in the overwater bungalows.

Bucket-list experiences in Borneo

See an orangutan.

Everyone recognises the orange-haired primate of Borneo and Sumatra. But, with increasing deforestation and human activity, seeing one in the wild isn’t easy. Lucky tourists might catch a glimpse at Danum Valley, along the Kinabatangan River or in Bako National Park. If not, head to rehabilitation centres such as Sepilok near Sandakan in Sabah and the Matang Wildlife Centre in Sarawak to see baby or orphaned orangutans nursed back to health.

Dance at the Rainforest World Music Festival

The Rainforest World Music Festival is an annual three-day cultural event in the jungle near Kuching. With Mount Santubong in the background, musicians from around the globe descend on Sarawak in July. Activities include mini-concerts, folk and traditional music, plus other arts and culture-related activities. Tickets aren’t cheap and it might feel like a splurge if you’re budget backpacking in Borneo. But attending a jungle concert isn’t an everyday experience.

Scuba dive to see underwater wonders

Head from the shores and find dozens of islands and hundreds of diving spots. From snorkelling in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park near Kota Kinabalu to spending a day diving at Sipadan, both in Sabah, the diversity of coral and marine life is stunning.

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Ultimate Borneo Backpacking Guide to Sabah, East Malaysia

How much does it cost to backpack Borneo, Southeast Asia? How should I plan my trip? What kind of gear should I bring? Is Borneo worth backpacking? These questions will undoubtedly cross your mind before you backpack around Sabah, Malaysia. However, this Borneo backpacking guide will help you prepare for your trip to Malaysian Borneo so that you have an incredible journey. 

Borneo Backpacking Guide Contents

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Where is Borneo, Malaysia? 

Borneo is the world’s third-largest island located between Malaysia and Indonesia. The island has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. It also offers excellent adventure activities such as trekking, rafting, mountain climbing, diving, and snorkeling.

Many people don’t know that Borneo comprises three countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam). One of the most popular regions to backpack in Malaysian Borneo is Sabah, divided into East and West districts. Most backpackers will cover just one of the regions (typically East Sabah), but you could cover more ground if you have a Sabah 2 week Itinerary.

When to Visit Borneo, Malaysia

The best time to visit Borneo is during the high season of May to September. However, due to the vast rainforest terrain, temperatures are usually around 32c with 80% humidity throughout the year. I travelled around Borneo in September, and the weather was perfect, with little to no rain. The rainy season is January / December, and if you’re planning treks, hikes, or wildlife observation, it would be best to avoid these months. 

How Safe is it to travel Borneo, Malaysia, 

Most Borneo Backpacker guides will say the same thing: Borneo is very safe to travel. Whether you backpack Sabah with friends or go travelling around Borneo solo, the country has low instances of crime and great hostels and shared accommodation where you will meet fellow travelers. 

How to reach Borneo, Malaysia 

If you’re wondering how to reach Borneo, the most common way is by connecting to Kuala Lumpur or Penang airport and flying to Kotu Kinabalu or Kuching airport. International flights may include this connection already, but if you’re travelling on a shoestring then I advise you to price up separate journeys’ as you can get cheap flights via Air Asia .

Check out my handy page with easy access to a huge selection of travel resources below:

How much money to take to Borneo

People often ask “is Borneo expensive for backpackers” and “how much money to take to Borneo”. In general, travelling around Borneo is a very affordable. The average daily wage for a worker in Malaysia is about $2 per hour, so Borneo is cheap for most tourists. It is wise to budget around $1000 – $1500 for your trip, but you can save a lot of money by staying in hostels or cheaper hotels. You should be able to find accommodation for about $30 per night.

Before you set yourself a budget, consider how long you plan to stay in Borneo, as well as what activities you want to do while you’re there. Of course, the most considerable cost will be the activities, but these are the most incredible part, and it is worth budgeting them in. 

You can, of course, spend much more; however, this is a Borneo backpacking guide, and the costs above reflect this type of trip. 

Where to stay in Borneo, Malaysia 

Borneo doesn’t have the same backpacking scene as South East Asia. However, it does entice people far and wide with ecotourism. The positive of this is that a visit to Sabah is more of a culture trip and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Don’t expect a late-night party scene outside of the capital city. 

The limited nightlife can make it harder to meet people, but great hostels and sociable hotels/resorts are available. You can also use the meetup.com website to find locally-hosted activities and experiences, which is great to get to know local people and culture. 

Borneo Backpacking Guide to Where to Visit/Stay: 

Kuching  – home of the beautiful Sarawak river, there are many lovely places to stay, some of which include a pool to relax by. Kuching is also an excellent location for a day trip to Bako National Park by bus or taxi. 

Baku National Park  – if you want to stay longer in Baku, you have the advantage of early or late wildlife safaris and beautiful sunsets. 

Kota Kinabalu –  the capital of Sabah, has many accommodation options. Of course, staying near the riverside will mean you’re close to the market, restaurant, and bars, but there are also plenty of hotels and hostels further back that are only a short walk away from the promenade. Be sure to read my guide on things to do in Kota Kinabalu if you plan to visit here.

Kinabatangan River  – the best place to stay in this area is the nature lodge as it offers meals, river cruises, guided hikes, and transfers included within the price. This is one of my personal favourites and you will see why in my guide to travelling Kinabatangan.

How to Get Around Borneo, Malaysia

Backpacking Malaysia is surprisingly easy as the majority of Malaysians speak English. Public buses are easy to catch between cities, and there are even night buses if you’re traveling long distances and looking to save money on accommodation. However, while travelling around Borneo is straightforward, it will be slow due to the tropical terrain and underdeveloped roads. You will also be likely to catch a boat or two when you backpack Sabah.

In bigger cities like Kota Kinabalu, you can also catch taxis and even Uber. However, if you’re traveling from Miri to the Gunung Mulu National Park (an immense cave system), you will need to get a short domestic flight from Kota Kinabalu. Use the Kiwi search engine to help you find suitable flights.

Borneo Tips on What to Pack

What to pack depends on whether you’re backpacking one week in Borneo or have a Sabah 2 week Itinerary. However, regardless of the duration of your trip, see the following Borneo Travel Tips for packing essentials below. 

Lightweight Walking or Hiking Shoes 

Having comfortable shoes with a good grip is essential for walking around the national parks, caves, beaches, and major cities. If you’re planning on hiking the island’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu, then one of my Borneo invest in hiking boots with good ankle support. 

Breathable Clothing

Like West Malaysia, Islam is the most common region, followed by Buddhism and Hinduism. Therefore it is best to pack t-shirts, shirts, longer skirts/shorts, etc., to respect the culture. The weather is hot and humid so ensure you have breathable, lightweight clothes to remain comfortable. Also, ensure you pack more than enough. If you hit rain, you will want dry spare clothes to change into. You will also need lots of long trousers / high socks if you’re trekking through jungle terrain to deter those pesky leeches. 

Even in the capital city, some roads at night can be dark, so a small torch is advised. You can, of course, use your phone, but this relies on you having charge and runs the risk of advertising your valuables. 

Insect repellant / Antimalarials

If you’re backpacking off the beaten track, you will likely stay in jungle or mountainous locations with a higher number of mosquitos and other bugs. Insect repellent is a must, but your local health service may also recommend antimalarials that you should purchase in advance. 

Night Vision Binoculars 

It would be amiss if a Borneo backpacking guide didn’t advise you to take binoculars on your trip. One of the most incredible things about Borneo is the diverse wildlife within this beautiful natural habitat. Whether wild orangutans in the trees or wild elephants along the river cruise, you will want to see these fantastic animals up close and personal. There are many night jungle treks you can do, too, so one of my Borneo travel tips is to buy a pair with night vision!

Hiking Backpack

It would help if you had a decent backpack for backpacking Borneo. However, the same goes for your day-pack. Buy something spacious, supportive, and ideally, gear with hydration tubes so you can hike or walk and quench your thirst hands-free. 

Tip : my backpack didn’t arrive, and I had no clothes for two days. Ensure you keep some essential items and clothing in your hand luggage just in case.  

Borneo Backpacking Guide Summary 

There are many must-see things to do in Borneo, from climbing Mount Kinabalu to a safari down the Kinabatangan River. The pace of life in Sabah is relaxed and welcoming, and you’ll experience nature and tranquility throughout your journey. Visit the many national parks, dive around Mabul Island or enjoy the city living in Kota Kinabalu.

I hope that this Borneo Backpacking Guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. Be sure to check out my pick of the best travel resources online to get quick and easy access to the links you will need for booking all aspects of your trip. 

After reading my Borneo tips, you might consider a group tour. I highly recommend G Adventures for organised tours. Check the different Sabah backpack tours available which will help you get the full experience without the stress.

Beyond Borneo Malaysia travel, you might also like to read these posts:

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• Feeding Deer in Nara, Japan | A Unique Wildlife Encounter
• 10 Day Costa Rica Itinerary | Ultimate Trip Planner & Guide
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• Awesome Things to do in Arenal Costa Rica

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About the author

I'm Kerry, a Veggie travel enthusiast with a passion for adventure, nature, wildlife and the good old outdoors. I write about exciting bucket list travel destinations to give you inspiration and ideas for your next trip.

You are so brave to travel to such an exotic destination. I can see why you like it though. It’s beautiful and affordable.

I love all of your tips on Borneo. I think an essential one is packing at least one day of clothing and meds in your hand luggage. I have been without my luggage before and planning ahead makes a huge difference.

Borneo was not really on my travel radar so it was good to learn more about it. Always good to get personal input on the safety of a new place. And to know that there is enough English to make moving around easier. I think I must consider adding night vision binoculars to my travel packing list!

I knew nothing about Borneo before reading this. It was never on my list of places to visit but the way you describe it makes it seem safe and fun. Adding it my list to look more into. Thanks for sharing!

It is such an excellent guide and hints for planning your trip to Borneo. I would like to see it one day because of the beautiful wild nature. I would love to stay at the Kinabatangan River Nature Lodge. A charming, simple place surrounded by nature.

Wow, this is so interesting! I’ve been to the Malayan peninsula twice but never made it to Borneo. It’s high on my list since I believe that it’s even more exotic – and even beautiful – than the peninsula. However, my travels to Asia are on hold due to….you know what 😉

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Museums to Visit

Best Beaches

Where to Go Scuba Diving

Best Hiking in Borneo

National Parks

Where to See Orangutans

Events & Festivals

Food to Try

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in Borneo

Best Hotels in Borneo

Staying at an Iban Longhouse

Driving in Borneo

One Week in Borneo

Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

Sarawak vs. Sabah

Guide to Kuching

Visiting Kalimantan

Guide to the Derawan Islands

Brunei Travel Guide

Top Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

The Top 8 Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

Anup Shah / Getty Images

Borneo is one of those rare places where you can sense the adventure in the air, along with the fresh air from thousands of square miles of rainforest just waiting to be explored. The third-largest island in the world is a virtual paradise for anyone who has a love for plants, wildlife, and adventure.

The island of Borneo is divided among Malaysia, Indonesia, and the small, independent nation of Brunei . The Indonesian part of Borneo, known as Kalimantan, covers about 73 percent of the island, while Malaysian Borneo occupies the rest along the northern edge, along with tiny Brunei.

Malaysian Borneo has two states, Sarawak and Sabah , that are separated by Brunei. Sarawak's capital of Kuching and Sabah's capital of Kota Kinabalu are the usual entry points, with the two cities acting as bases for exploring Borneo's wild attractions.

Trek Your Way Through a Rainforest

From monkey encounters and poisonous snake sightings to waterfalls and hidden beaches, trekking in Borneo is the real deal. Most of Sarawak's national parks can be explored without a permit or mandatory guide, while others will require you to hire a guide. Camping is available in most places, as are simple longhouses that offer accommodations while you take day hikes and explore the area.

Visit Bako National Park for an almost guaranteed chance to spot wildlife like monkeys (silver leaf and macaque species are quite commonly seen here), monitor lizards, squirrels, and wild boar. Birding is also popular, with a variety of Kingfishers and Bluebirds, among other species calling the area home. See if you can spot Borneo's elusive proboscis monkey; visit the Telok Paku or Telok Delima trails or the Telok Assam mangroves early in the morning or in the late afternoon and be as quiet as you can.

Pay Your Respects at Sandakan Memorial Park

John W Banagan / Getty Images

History buffs and those interested in WWII history should visit Sandakan Memorial Park , which honors the more than 2,300 Allied prisoners of war, mostly Australian and British, who were captured by Japanese forces and perished in a series of death marches in 1945 toward the end of the war.

The park is located just outside the Sandakan POW camp's former site in the Taman Rimba neighborhood. Stop by to learn more about the area's WWII history and to pay your respects, especially if you're visiting during anniversary events on August 15 or happen to be there on ANZAC Day, an Australian day of remembrance, held each year on April 25.

See Orangutans in the Wild

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Borneo is one of two places on Earth ( Sumatra is the other) where endangered orangutans can still be seen in the wild . Orangutans are among the smartest primates; they make medicine, craft tools, and even exchange gifts. Unfortunately, because of habitat loss caused by massive palm oil plantations, their numbers are dwindling; now is the time to see them while you still can.

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in East Sabah is the most popular place to view orangutans in Borneo. A better option is the cheaper and less crowded Semenggoh Nature Reserve located just outside Kuching. While there are never guarantees, you'll have a pretty good chance of seeing semi-wild orangutans at both refuges during feeding times.

Alternatively, you can chance a real orangutan encounter in the wild by taking a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, mentioned below.

See Exotic Wildlife Along the Kinabatangan River

Although the name is a mouthful, the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary in Sabah, which can be reached via minibus from the city of Sandakan, is often the favorite highlight for visitors to Malaysian Borneo.

Lodges along the tiny, single-path village of Sukau offer accommodations and guides who take people up the muddy river by small boat. A quiet approach by boat allows visitors the opportunity to spot highly endangered proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, pythons, and elephants when they are in season.

Go Scuba Diving

Not all of Malaysian Borneo's natural attractions are found on land. Sabah boasts some of the world's premier scuba diving sites. Compared to diving in places such as Malaysia's Perhentian Islands , diving in Borneo is indeed not cheap. But since you'll get to see turtles and macro life, along with hammerhead and whale sharks, it's worth the extra money.

The diving in Sipidan is so famous that conservationists only issue 120 permits per day to preserve the fragile reefs, so make sure you organize your diving trip well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Mabul, a nearby alternative to Sipadan, offers arguably some of the best muck diving in the world and is considered to be the best dive site for underwater macro photography.

Climb Mount Kinabalu

At 13,435 feet tall, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and one of the highest peaks in the region that can be climbed without technical equipment.

Reaching the summit of Mount Kinabalu requires only the stamina and heart to do so. About 40,000 people per year come to try the grueling, two-day ascent; many don't make it to the top. The last part of the climb requires a rope-assisted scramble through the clouds to the peak.

Aside from one impressive mountain, 300-square-mile Kinabalu National Park has a mind-boggling amount of flora and fauna. Meeting international biologists and botanists who have come to study the estimated 4,500 plant species is an everyday occurrence on the trails.

Chill Out at a Beautiful Beach

Malaysian Borneo is not at all just about sweating and swatting insects in the jungle . Miles of pristine and wild beaches will give you plenty of opportunities to unwind after a few days of trekking.

Tiny Mamutik Island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Par k, only 20 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu, allows camping directly on the beach. Alternatively, pay a visit to Tanjung Aru, which has more of a local's beach scene with very few tourists, just a few minutes south of Kota Kinabalu.

Stay in a Longhouse

Visitors to Sarawak can stay in an Iban longhouse to see what it's like to live like the island's Indigenous peoples. While some longhouses are strictly tourist experiences, it is possible to visit authentic ones that are far removed from city life and only accessible by the river. You'll get to sample authentic food, see a traditional dance performance, and master the art of shooting a blowpipe gun.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

Your Trip to Borneo: The Complete Guide

Where to Go in Malaysian Borneo: Sarawak or Sabah?

A Guide to Airports in Borneo

9 Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

The 12 Best National Parks in Borneo

One Week in Borneo: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 10 Best Hikes in Borneo

5 Places to See Orangutans in Borneo

The Top 12 National Parks in Malaysia

Guide to Sandakan, Malaysia's Gateway to Nature

The Best Time to Visit Borneo

Weather in Borneo: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

The 10 Best Places to Scuba Dive in Borneo

Malaysia Travel Guide

A melting pot of faiths, landscapes, and flavors, Malaysia combines skyscrapers with desert-island beaches and fresh highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

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Malaysia has tropical weather for most of the year, meaning high humidity. Although it has a monsoon season, this takes place in different areas at different times, so there’s always a dry time to visit. The southwest monsoon season is May-September and the Northeast November-March.

Destinations in Malaysia

15 things to do in kuala lumpur (3-day guide), 9 best things to do in ipoh, malaysia, colorful cities, how to rent a car in malaysia, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Malaysia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Malaysia worth visiting?

The new and the old exist side by side in diverse Malaysia! Witness cutting-edge designs intertwined amongst heritage buildings and UNESCO-protected sites, with a sprinkling of street art and plenty of beautiful beaches and islands in between.

Is Malaysia cheap to visit?

Malaysia is an affordable place to travel in Asia, with beautiful hotels costing around $30-80 per night. It’s also home to fantastic street food and local eateries, where you can pick up a delicious meal for anywhere between $2-5. Bargain!

Can I drink tap water in Malaysia?

Although drinking tap water in the major cities is considered safe, it is not recommended for more remote destinations in Malaysia. While traveling in rural areas, choose an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle with an in-built filter system or refill at hotels and restaurants with treated water.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Malaysia?

Great news! Most tourists can enjoy a Malaysia adventure visa-free for up to 90 days. However, we recommend checking your country’s entry requirements well in advance, as some places are subject to stricter visa rules.

What language do they speak in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a melting pot of different cultures, meaning numerous languages are spoken, such as Chinese and Tamil. However, the primary language is Malay, also known as Bahasa Malaysia; it’s worth learning a few phrases to connect with locals as you travel. Don’t worry too much, though, as English is spoken widely in urban areas.

Do I need travel insurance for Malaysia?

Travel insurance is your safety net for your adventures in Malaysia, protecting you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care. Hike up the mountain peak, go open-water diving, or sail the high seas worry-free!

Is Malaysia safe?

Malaysia is generally a safe country to travel to, although some petty crime occurs, especially in bigger cities. Consider leaving valuables at home, keep your belongings close, and watch out for scams and distraction techniques. Keep up to date with travel advisories, particularly for the regions bordering Thailand which see ongoing violence.

What power plug type does Malaysia have?

Malaysia uses type G (the same as in the UK), a three-rectangular-pronged electrical plug. The general voltage is 230V, so consider bringing an adaptor if you use a different plug type or voltage.

Why do people love Malaysia?

Malaysia is loved by travelers for its cultural diversity, which creates a unique blend of influences seen in its varied cuisine, architecture, and landscapes. It’s an unforgettable vacation experience, stargazing on paradise islands in one moment and savoring cocktails from the iconic Petronas Towers in the next.

Traveling in Malaysia

A vacation in Malaysia is unforgettable; the country is home to incredible nature that survives even in urban areas. As such, travelers can be shopping at a bustling street market or sipping a drink at the top of a skyscraper and never be far from luscious jungles, forests, or tea plantations that are bursting with wildlife. 

How to Plan Your Trip to Malaysia

Follow our Malaysia travel guides to plan a perfect trip with a mix of all the cultural and regional highlights. Malaysia is an excellent destination for backpacking because of its lively cities and buzzing backpacker hostels. However, it’s also perfect for luxury vacations, particularly on islands like Langkawi , which often welcome honeymooners. Discover all the best places in Malaysia by following our complete 2-week Malaysia itinerary . 

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Need to choose the best time for your Malaysia holiday ? Find out about the climate in Malaysia with this seasonal information.

Hot Season (April-August): These hot and humid months in Malaysia can be a great time to visit the beaches and islands, especially on the east and south coast, for example, in places like Perhentian and Malacca . However, be aware that temperatures rise to over 30 °C during this time, so it’s not ideal for city sightseeing. Additionally, weather conditions may be hazy and air quality low because of forest fires from other neighboring countries.

Tip: The driest conditions are on the west coast from June to August.

Wet Season (March-November) : Malaysia might see heavy rainfall and humidity during this time, but this is what makes the jungles so lush and green. Because of that, it’s the perfect season for trekking when waterfalls are at their most powerful and nature is thriving. Head for the Borneo Rainforest or up into the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands . This is also a good time for backpacking in Malaysia as it’s the low season with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. 

Cool Season (December-February): The cool season is the best time to visit Malaysia, which means it is also the most popular time of year for tourism. Temperatures are a milder 25 – 35 °C, and humidity is lower, making it great for city sightseeing in places like Kuala Lumpur and Penang . It’s also an excellent time for outdoor activities and soaking up the sun on the beaches of islands like Langkawi . Please note that as it’s the highest season, accommodation and tours can be slightly more expensive, so make sure to book well in advance.

Coastlines and Beaches in Malaysia 

Malaysia boasts one of the most stunning coastlines in Asia, home to pristine beaches, with paradise islands lying just off the shore. These are some of the best places to visit in Malaysia and the perfect spot to enjoy white sand, crystal-clear waters, coconuts, and abundant marine life. Whether you want to enjoy the seafood delights of buzzing night markets in Georgetown , spot eagles above the mangroves in Langkawi , or simply relax in a luxurious island resort on the East Coast, there’s a sandy spot for every type of traveler.

Langkawi, in the north of Malaysia, is an archipelago made up of 99 islands, so there’s plenty to choose from! On the main island, find stunning resorts, sweeping bays, and rice paddies, perfect for exploring by motorbike. Although a little more built up than some other parts of the Malaysia coastline, Langkawi still offers perfectly preserved nature; here, you’ll find UNESCO -protected mangroves, which form an essential part of the ecosystem and are teeming with diverse and unusual wildlife. 

For true desert-island life, head to the remote islands off the east coast of Malaysia, such as the Perhentian islands, Tioman, or Redang. In these places, going without wifi and phone signal is normal, allowing travelers to completely switch off on their vacation in Malaysia. Spend your days here swinging in a hammock under palm trees that brush the soft white sand, or make the most of the Caribbean-like waters for diving and snorkeling; the marine life is fantastic!   

Wherever you choose, the endless coastline of Malaysia and the hundreds of islands nearby have proved to be the perfect environment for sea life and coral to flourish. Experience adrenaline adventures, ziplining through the coastal jungles, plunging into waterfall pools, or simply take it easy as you soak up the sun. Malaysia is not to be missed!

Food, Culture, and Religion in Malaysia 

With a long history of colonization and immigration, Malaysia has become a melting pot of different influences; it’s a harmonious place where different religions, cultures, and languages exist side by side, making Malaysia travel a truly fascinating experience. 

Religion: Although with a predominantly Islamic population , Malaysia is home to many religions , including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. Because of this, travelers will see a diverse range of temples dotted throughout the cities and landscapes, from colorfully decorated Hindu temples to expansive domed mosques. The rich tapestry of religions in one place creates an incredible calendar of festivals from Ramadan to Chinese New Year.

Food: The varying influences in Malaysia have also contributed to delicious cuisine, with plates celebrating all faiths, cultures, and nationalities. Malaysian recipes mix Malay, Chinese, Indian , Thai , and Indonesian influences; some of the most famous dishes are the warm and comforting noodle soup, Laksa, delicious Roti flatbreads, and coconut rice dish, Nasi Lemak. All of these can be found in upscale restaurants, buzzing night markets, or hawker centers, where Malaysian families and friends come together to eat and catch up. Join them and dine on some of the nation’s favorite offerings — one of the best things to do in Malaysia ! 

Tip: Make sure to try the somewhat strange dessert named Cendol, made from coconut milk, green jelly worms made from rice flour, and palm sugar, and often accompanied with a serving of red azuki beans. 

Culture: The culture in Malaysia is one of a kind, with so many languages, faiths, and nationalities living together in the same area. This creates a warm, hospitable nation where it isn’t strange to see a group of friends speaking various languages, whether it’s English, Chinese, or Tamil. With all this diversity, customs and traditions are respected and embraced by all, with festivals like Eid, Diwali, and Chinese New Year a vital part of the annual events calendar. It’s also a great place to witness traditional dance and theatre, like shadow puppetry, where silhouettes cut from leather are projected onto a screen to act out a performance (believed to be of Thai or Javanese influence). 

The intertwining of religion , culture , and gastronomical delights creates an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard to beat, making traveling in Malaysia a one-of-a-kind experience!

Why You Should Travel to Malaysia

It’s not often that a country offers such an incredible kaleidoscope of cultural and natural activities, creating exciting contrasts in everything from the landscapes to the architecture and food. With so much to explore (each region is fantastic in its own right), there’s always more to see on another vacation in Malaysia !

From the luscious rainforests of Borneo, teeming with wildlife — and home to the endangered orangutan — to tiny paradise islands off the east coast, there’s a remote and wild landscape for both adventurers and relaxed beach bums. For the city slickers, there are exciting metropolis’ dotted in between, such as Kuala Lumpur with the iconic Petronas Towers and Malacca with its Dutch , British, and Portuguese colonial architecture –  some of the best places to visit in Malaysia . This diversity is infectious, seen in places like the Cameron Highlands , where rolling tea plantations form the backdrop to old-fashioned English tea rooms and Victorian-style lodges. 

From mossy forest trails and wildlife spotting among the rainforest canopy to stargazing on uninhabited islands and cocktail tasting on skyscraper terraces, this infectious nation offers everything and more on your Malaysia holiday .

Safety and Travel Advice in Malaysia

Although Malaysia is generally very safe, travelers should take the necessary precautions to enjoy a safe trip. The following information helps visitors get the most out of their journey. 

Natural Disasters: Because of the heavy rains in the monsoon seasons throughout Malaysia, the country can be prone to natural disasters like flooding and landslides. Stay informed by registering with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip, and be particularly careful in low-lying, flatter areas where flooding can happen unexpectedly.

Crime and safety in Malaysia: While Malaysia is a safe place to travel, petty theft like pickpocketing can happen. Exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night, sticking to well-lit spots with more people, and being extra vigilant in crowded places and when withdrawing cash at ATMs. 

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic in Malaysia: While the infrastructure in Malaysia is very good, the roads can be chaotic and are often congested, especially in the cities and outer ring roads. Drivers can be erratic, and traffic rules are loosely followed, so remain cautious. For example, always wear a seatbelt (or a helmet for scooters), and don’t drive over the speed limit. During the rainy season, be aware of road conditions, as the tarmac can be slippery.

Cultural Sensitivity: Malaysia has an incredibly diverse range of faiths, and everyone lives harmoniously and respectfully. Adhere to their customs and traditions by covering up when visiting places of worship, removing shoes before entering, and asking permission to take photos of local people. Please note that public displays of affection are more frowned upon than in some other Asian destinations. 

Drugs and Drinking: Malaysia has very strict drug laws, which can see you imprisoned for small amounts of substance. Severe drug offenses can even lead to the death penalty. Always consume alcohol responsibly and look out for your travel buddies on nights out.

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things you need to do before your Malaysia holiday is purchase travel insurance. This gives you assurance for unexpected accidents – for example, an injury, canceled flight, or lost baggage. Check out these best travel insurances .