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Borneo Rainforests & Villages Family Adventure Tour

Wondrous Encounters in a Biodiverse Haven


With untouched rainforest, ribbon-like rivers, and incredible plant and wildlife, Borneo is an unforgettable adventure destination for the entire family! So pack up the kids and journey with MT Sobek to the very heart of biodiversity in Malaysian Borneo. Explore mysterious caves, swim under hidden waterfalls, take easy jungle walks in Sepilok Nature Reserve, and enjoy beach time on stunning Gaya Island. Culture abounds, too, as you meet and dine with Murut villagers. And no trip to Borneo is complete without wildlife encounters — which you have in every way possible, from conservation center visits to nighttime forest walks.

9 Days

From: $6,995

$250 Discount for Children 17 & Under

With untouched rainforest, ribbon-like rivers, and incredible plant and wildlife, Borneo is an unforgettable adventure destination for the entire family! So pack up the kids and journey with MT Sobek to the very heart of biodiversity in Malaysian Borneo. Explore mysterious caves, swim under hidden waterfalls, take easy jungle walks in Sepilok Nature Reserve, and enjoy beach time on stunning Gaya Island. Culture abounds, too, as you meet and dine with Murut villagers. And no trip to Borneo is complete without wildlife encounters — which you have in every way possible, from conservation center visits to nighttime forest walks.

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Experience the very best of Borneo's nature, wildlife, and culture on this family-friendly adventure

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Activities, from walking and wildlife-watching to safari cruises and snorkeling, are suitable for everyone

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Sleep comfortably in luxury resorts, traditional longhouses, and stretcher hammocks in a jungle camp

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Highlights


  • Experience the very best of Borneo's nature, wildlife, and culture on this family-friendly adventure
  • Activities, from walking and wildlife-watching to safari cruises and snorkeling, are suitable for everyone
  • Sleep comfortably in luxury resorts, traditional longhouses, and stretcher hammocks in a jungle camp

Borneo Rainforests & Villages Family Adventure

Start: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysian Borneo  End: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysian Borneo

Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Itinerary


  • Arrive in Kota Kinabalu

    Day 1

    Welcome to Borneo! Upon arrival in Kota Kinabalu International Airport, meet your MT Sobek guide and driver at the arrivals hall and transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring Kota Kinabalu, a coastal city in Malaysian Borneo known for its bustling markets, modern boardwalks, beaches, and waterfront esplanade. Tonight you are treated to a sumptuous welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

    Accommodation: Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort

    Meals: Dinner

  • Experience Murut Hospitality in Orou Sapulot

    Day 2

    Transfer to Orou Sapulot and on to Labang village, where you are immersed in local culture with the Muruts, the last of the ethnic groups in Sabah to renounce headhunting. After lunch at Orou Sapulot, embark on a short walk to discover the virtually unexplored Tinahas Caves, with an underground stream and beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations. Return to camp for a refreshing swim in the river. Enjoy a traditional Murut meal for dinner and admire the starry sky before falling asleep on a stretcher hammock to the sounds of the jungle.

    Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp Pungiton Camp

    Transportation: 4.5-hour transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore Orou Sapulot

    Day 3

    After an early breakfast, spend the morning swimming at the hidden, multi-tiered Kabulongou Waterfall, accessed via some easy jungle trekking. Later, continue to a modern village house at Romol Village. This longhouse sits high above a valley, overlooking the forest and surrounding areas. Spend the afternoon learning about local traditions and customs, and have the opportunity to participate in community work with villagers, such as planting trees on their farm or teaching English to the local children. Tonight, feast on traditional Murut food while enjoying cultural dance performances.

    Accommodation: Modern Longhouse Orou Sapulot

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Make Your Way to Sepilok

    Day 4

    After breakfast, say goodbye to your lovely Murut hosts and return to Kota Kinabalu, then transfer to the airport for a flight to Sandakan. Upon arrival, meet your driver, who transfers you to Sepilok Nature Resort. This quaint collection of wooden chalets surrounding a lake is set in an impressive landscaped area of manicured lawns and hills. After dinner, retire for the night.

    Accommodation: Sepilok Nature Resort-Sepilok, Malaysia

    Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer and 1-hour flight

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Be Amazed by the Wildlife of Borneo

    Day 5

    Walk to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a wildlife conservation and research center for the world's smallest bear. After a private tour, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to meet rescued orangutans being trained to survive again in the wild. Transfer to Sandakan for lunch, then boat to the Kinabatangan River, home to Borneo's highest concentration of fauna; look for orangutans, pygmy elephants, hornbills, and proboscis monkeys. After settling into your riverfront chalet, take a dusk wildlife-watching river cruise. Follow dinner at the lodge with an optional night walk in search of nocturnal forest residents!

    Accommodation: Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort

    Activity: Wildlife-watching, dusk river cruise and forest walk

    Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer and 2-hour boat transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Take River Safari Cruises & Help Restoration Efforts

    Day 6

    Spend today exploring the remarkably biodiverse, 340-mile-long Kinabatangan River, a haven for native wildlife. Start with an early-morning river safari cruise, and then visit a local village where you are treated to a home-cooked breakfast. Next, tour a local forest restoration project site and participate in tree planting while learning about the community's restoration efforts. After lunch and a rest, embark on another river cruise searching for wildlife just before a magical sunset. Seek even more critters on another night walk or river cruise after dinner at the resort.

    Accommodation: Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort

    Transportation: Two 1.5-hour river cruises

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Enjoy a Gaya Island Beach Day and Date Night

    Day 7

    Rise early for breakfast and your journey to Gaya Island, via Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu. Spend the afternoon seaside, snorkeling, kayaking, or going for a jungle walk. Come evening, resort staff take the kids for fun activities while the parents have a romantic seaside dinner on their own!

    Accommodation: Bunga Raya Island Resort

    Activity: Beach activities

    Transportation: 2-hour boat transfer, 30 minute private van transfer and 1-hour flight

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Discover Gaya Island

    Day 8

    Relish an entire day on the remarkably biodiverse Gaya Island, a natural conservation area rife with jungle and marine life. Spend hours at your leisure, relaxing at the beach, lounging at the resort, or exploring the island. Tonight celebrate your memorable Borneo adventure with a group farewell dinner.

    Accommodation: Bunga Raya Island Resort

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Kota Kinabalu

    Day 9

    After breakfast and a relaxing morning on Gaya Island, say goodbye to the group and depart to the Kota Kinabalu airport for your flight back home.

    Meals: Breakfast

Why Travel With Us?


  • Borneo is the quintessential family destination and MT Sobek knows how to do Borneo

  • With expert guides leading the way, you'll enjoy the excitement of wildlife watching, river cruising, cultural encounters and beach time on Gaya Island

  • Only MT Sobek combines a village visit with the Muruts, swimming in waterfalls, sleeping in hammocks and the opportunity for community work

Dates & Prices


  • 2023
  • 2024
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

2023

Scheduled Dates


The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

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View 2024 Departure Dates

2024

Scheduled Dates


The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

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Go Private

Go Private


Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.


Looking for a private family adventure?


This trip can accommodate guests with a
minimum age of 6.

Private Trip Pricing:


2023 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $6,295 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $5,995 per person double occupancy

8 to 10 guests from $5,895 per person double occupancy

2024 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $7,695 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $7,295 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $7,195 per person double occupancy

10 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy

*Seasonal rates may apply.

Additional Costs:


Internal Airfare: $145

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Take Over One of These Dates


Make Your Own Dates in These Months


Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides


The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Charlie R.

Charlie R.

Charlie's passion for outdoor adventure, traveling, and nature has been strong his entire life. Hawaii's lush jungles first caught his attention, Central America's rainforests broadened his horizons and, finally, he found Borneo. Well-rounded in the ecology of the Bornean rainforest, he is experienced with species identification of mammals, birds, amphibians, and snakes. He has strong leadership abilities and is comfortable in any situation. He is also certified in Wilderness First Aid and has a good understanding of wilderness survival. Charlie lives in Borneo, speaks Bahasa Malay, and has strong connections with people working to save this beautiful region.

Dean J.

Dean J.

Not many people can say they've introduced the royal couple to an orangutan and her baby, but Dean can! Fueled by a curious personality, with the jungle as his classroom, Dean started guiding in his late teens. From nature novice to jungle guru, Dean quickly excelled, which led him to win the esteemed Best Specialized Tour Guide award at The Sabah Tourism Awards in 2015. His knowledge and passion for the rainforest are contagious when traveling with him. Meet Dean on MT Sobek's Borneo adventures.

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After breakfast, say goodbye to your lovely Murut hosts and return to Kota Kinabalu, then transfer to the airport for a flight to Sandakan. Upon arrival, meet your driver, who transfers you to Sepilok Nature Resort. This quaint collection of wooden chalets surrounding a lake is set in an impressive landscaped area of manicured lawns and hills. After dinner, retire for the night.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 4-hour private van transfer and 1-hour flight [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 5.50 N [Longitude] => 118.07 E ) [4] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 5 [DayTo] => 5 [Headline] => Be Amazed by the Wildlife of Borneo [ActivityOverview] => Wildlife-watching, dusk river cruise and forest walk [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Walk to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a wildlife conservation and research center for the world\'s smallest bear. After a private tour, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to meet rescued orangutans being trained to survive again in the wild. Transfer to Sandakan for lunch, then boat to the Kinabatangan River, home to Borneo\'s highest concentration of fauna; look for orangutans, pygmy elephants, hornbills, and proboscis monkeys. After settling into your riverfront chalet, take a dusk wildlife-watching river cruise. Follow dinner at the lodge with an optional night walk in search of nocturnal forest residents!

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 30-minute private van transfer and 2-hour boat transfer [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 5.5149 N [Longitude] => 117.57 E ) [5] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 6 [DayTo] => 6 [Headline] => Take River Safari Cruises & Help Restoration Efforts [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Spend today exploring the remarkably biodiverse, 340-mile-long Kinabatangan River, a haven for native wildlife. Start with an early-morning river safari cruise, and then visit a local village where you are treated to a home-cooked breakfast. Next, tour a local forest restoration project site and participate in tree planting while learning about the community\'s restoration efforts. After lunch and a rest, embark on another river cruise searching for wildlife just before a magical sunset. Seek even more critters on another night walk or river cruise after dinner at the resort.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => Two 1.5-hour river cruises [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 5.88 N [Longitude] => 118.05 E ) [6] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 7 [DayTo] => 7 [Headline] => Enjoy a Gaya Island Beach Day and Date Night [ActivityOverview] => Beach activities [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Rise early for breakfast and your journey to Gaya Island, via Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu. Spend the afternoon seaside, snorkeling, kayaking, or going for a jungle walk. Come evening, resort staff take the kids for fun activities while the parents have a romantic seaside dinner on their own!

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 2-hour boat transfer, 30 minute private van transfer and 1-hour flight [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 6.15 N [Longitude] => 116.27 E ) [7] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 8 [DayTo] => 8 [Headline] => Discover Gaya Island [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Relish an entire day on the remarkably biodiverse Gaya Island, a natural conservation area rife with jungle and marine life. Spend hours at your leisure, relaxing at the beach, lounging at the resort, or exploring the island. Tonight celebrate your memorable Borneo adventure with a group farewell dinner.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 6.15 N [Longitude] => 116.27 E ) [8] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 9 [DayTo] => 9 [Headline] => Depart from Kota Kinabalu [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

After breakfast and a relaxing morning on Gaya Island, say goodbye to the group and depart to the Kota Kinabalu airport for your flight back home.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 0 [Dinner] => 0 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 5.5641 N [Longitude] => 116.03 E ) ) [ActivityHighlight] => This is a family trip designed for children six and up. You will enjoy leisurely walks through rainforest and nature reserves. There will also be opportunities to swim, kayak and snorkel. [Trip_Level] => 2 )

Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 2. This is a family trip designed for children six and up. You will enjoy leisurely walks through rainforest and nature reserves. There will also be opportunities to swim, kayak and snorkel.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 5

Wildlife-watching, dusk river cruise and forest walk

Day 7

Beach activities

Accommodations


Remote and luxurious eco-lodges and rustic camps, allowing you to access some of the most rare and endangered wildlife on the planet.

Sepilok Nature Resort-Sepilok, Malaysia
Sepilok Nature Resort-Sepilok, Malaysia

Sepilok Nature Resort is a luxurious outpost beside the world-renowned Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve. Wild orangutans reside in the backyard of this tranquil property, and the sounds of wildlife serenade guests day and night. Jungle bungalows combine beautiful organic architecture with high-end comforts. Enjoy tremendous service and comfort on the property while a rich wildlife experience lies mere steps away.

Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort

Just 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu lies Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort, a tranquil retreat and tropical getaway that doubles as a base for adventures in the area and beyond. Its nearly 500 rooms are decorated in the spirit of Borneo's natural colors and textures. Guests enjoy access to seven restaurants and bars, the CHI spa, free Wi-Fi, and unlimited natural beauty.

Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort
Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort

A boutique lodge situated on the banks of the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River, this charming resort is an exclusive nature retreat surrounded by a forest reserve. Spacious deluxe chalets offer privacy, comfort, and direct access to the resort's raised boardwalk and jungle trails, perfect for getting up close and personal with the locals - native wildlife.

Bunga Raya Island Resort
Bunga Raya Island Resort

Where can you find top-notch accommodation on the edge of pristine rainforest, mangroves, and coral reefs? At Bunga Raya, a luxury resort on spectacular Gaya Island, a natural conservation area ten minutes from Kota Kinabalu. This secluded hideaway is the epitome of tropical paradise, with timber villas overlooking an empty white-sand beach, a hilltop spa, and an underground wine cellar.

MT Sobek Camp Pungiton Camp
MT Sobek Camp Pungiton Camp

This is an open air jungle camp located deep in the jungle near a river bank. Each night, travelers enjoy nighttime jungle sleeping experience as the camp utilizes stretcher hammocks and mosquito nets. Delicious local produce and dishes are served at each meal. There are wonderful views of the jungle from all around the property, and the proximity of diverse range of wildlife makes this accommodation feel immersive and authentic. The service is consistently reviewed as very friendly and welcoming, which is highlighted by staff's passion and attention to detail. This is fully on display as they prepare local cuisine and drinks for the camp's guests on a daily basis, and even sometimes share dinnertime dance rituals

Modern Longhouse Orou Sapulot
Modern Longhouse Orou Sapulot

Orou Sapulot is a very comfortable traditional family home, equipped with Western toilet and showers. Sleeping is in a communal room with mattresses on the floor complete with full bedding. Purposefully built to blend in with the villagers' farms, your stay will be complimented with a grand feast prepared by the different families in the village.

Weather


Temperatures stay around 80°F year round, with an average of 80% humidity. Expect quick changes in weather and be prepared for rain.

 
Jun
Jul
Dec
Gaya Island 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Gaya Island
91
75
90
72
90
72
Kota Kinabalu 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Kota Kinabalu
90
76
89
76
88
75

FAQs


Who will meet me on arrival?

Our MTS representative will meet you at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Do I need a visa for Borneo?

No, American citizens do not need a visa for Malaysian Borneo.

How do I get to Kota Kinabalu?

You will need to connect through Hong Kong, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, and the main airlines that fly to Borneo from the U.S. are Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines and Air Asia.

Do we need to bring leech socks?

No, as our guide will provide them for you.

What kind of wildlife will we see on this trip?

Although no wild animal sighting is ever guaranteed, Borneo's rainforest are teeming with animals. You have very high chances to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, langurs, macaques, hornbills, and much more.

What makes this trip family friendly?

This trip is designed for ages 6 and up to include plenty of adventure, but with slightly shorter days than our normal MT Sobek trips. Family trip leaders have plenty of experience guiding families, and enjoy adventures with children.

Does this trip contribute to any local conservation efforts?

Yes! This trip helps support a local foundation that funds community projects in the village of Sayap. Palm oil is a main source of income in this area, which contributes to deforestation. The foundation's community projects provide skill training and jobs for locals to replace traditional palm oil plantations.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The minimum age is 6 years old.

Guest Reviews


"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."

Bob J.
MT Sobek Guest

"MT Sobek took care of everything for our extended family vacation. Not a hiccup in the planning, the itinerary, the lodging or the guide. Everything in life should be so easy."

Kathy J.
MT Sobek Guest