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7-Day Adventure in Borneo Islands

Viewed by 69 travelers
Saturday, December 23: Exploring Kota Kinabalu

In the morning, embark on a city tour of Kota Kinabalu and visit the iconic Sabah State Mosque. Afterward, head to Signal Hill Observatory Platform for panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Gaya Street Sunday Market, known for its local handicrafts and delicious street food. In the evening, enjoy a seafood feast at the popular waterfront area.

  • Sabah State Mosque: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Signal Hill Observatory Platform: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Gaya Street Sunday Market: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs

Start your day with a scenic drive to Kinabalu Park, home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Explore the park's lush trails, visit the botanical gardens, and admire the stunning flora and fauna. In the afternoon, make your way to Poring Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. End the day with a visit to the Canopy Walkway for a thrilling treetop adventure.

  • Kinabalu Park: Cost estimate: $15 entrance fee, Time spent: 4-6 hours
  • Poring Hot Springs: Cost estimate: $5 entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Canopy Walkway: Cost estimate: $5 entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25: Wildlife Encounters at Sepilok

Embark on a journey to Sepilok in Sandakan, known for its orangutan rehabilitation center. Witness the morning feeding session and visit the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Center. In the afternoon, explore the Rainforest Discovery Center and take a canopy walk amidst the lush greenery. Spend the evening at the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, observing the unique long-nosed monkeys.

  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center: Cost estimate: $7 entrance fee, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Sun Bear Conservation Center: Cost estimate: $5 entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Rainforest Discovery Center: Cost estimate: $10 entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: Cost estimate: $15 entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Exploring Mulu National Park

Fly to Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its limestone caves. Begin your adventure with a visit to Deer Cave and Lang Cave, marveling at the impressive rock formations and colonies of bats. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to Clearwater and Wind Caves, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters and explore the underground passages. End the day with a relaxing night walk to observe the park's nocturnal wildlife.

  • Deer Cave and Lang Cave: Cost estimate: $5 entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Clearwater and Wind Caves: Cost estimate: $5 entrance fee, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Night Walk: Cost estimate: $10 entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Sipadan Island Dive Experience

Head to Semporna and embark on a diving adventure at Sipadan Island. Explore the vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life including turtles and sharks, and experience the unparalleled beauty of underwater landscapes. After an exhilarating day of diving, unwind on the white sandy beaches. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • Sipadan Island Dive: Cost estimate: $300 for three dives, Time spent: Full day
  • Beach Relaxation: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: Flexible
Thursday, December 28: River Safari in Kinabatangan

Travel to Kinabatangan River for a thrilling river safari. Cruise along the river, spotting proboscis monkeys, orangutans, elephants, and a variety of bird species. In the afternoon, visit the Gomantong Caves, renowned for their edible bird nests and ancient rock formations. End the day with a mesmerizing firefly cruise, witnessing the magical display of thousands of fireflies illuminating the night sky.

  • Kinabatangan River Safari: Cost estimate: $100 for a full-day tour, Time spent: Full day
  • Gomantong Caves: Cost estimate: $10 entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Firefly Cruise: Cost estimate: $20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 29: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Embark on a boat ride to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of five picturesque islands near Kota Kinabalu. Spend the day snorkeling or diving amidst vibrant coral reefs, relaxing on pristine beaches, and enjoying water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Indulge in a beachside picnic lunch before heading back to Kota Kinabalu for a farewell dinner.

  • Snorkeling/Diving: Cost estimate: $30-50 for equipment, Time spent: Full day
  • Beach Relaxation: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: Flexible
  • Water Activities: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: Flexible

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One of the hidden gems in Borneo Islands is the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This pristine rainforest is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including orangutans, gibbons, and pygmy elephants. For adventure seekers, a trek to Mount Trus Madi offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Don't miss the chance to try traditional local delicacies, such as hinava (marinated raw fish) and ambuyat (sago starch dish), for a true taste of Bornean cuisine.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices and availability on Kayak.

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