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Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. It is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. This island is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Whether you're exploring lush jungles, diving into crystal-clear waters, or wandering through bustling cities, Borneo offers a myriad of unforgettable experiences. Here are ten things you can't miss while visiting Borneo.
Borneo is located in Southeast Asia and is divided among three countries: Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), Indonesia (Kalimantan), and Brunei. The island is known for its extensive rainforests, which are some of the oldest in the world, and its incredible biodiversity. Visitors to Borneo can expect to encounter unique wildlife, ancient cultures, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia, is a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to Borneo's natural wonders. The city offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, waterfront esplanades, and a lively food scene.
Dive Kota Kinabalu with Scuba Junkie! We provide daily dive and snorkel trips to the KK area including the world famous KK Marine Park (Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park) which features five amazing islands including Gaya Island and Sapi Island. The marine park is home to beautiful reefs, colourful fish, reef sharks, turtles and even whalesharks in the right season!
One of the highlights of Kota Kinabalu is the weekly quiz night at El Centro Restaurant. This popular event brings together locals and tourists for a fun-filled evening of trivia, delicious food, and great company. It's a fantastic way to unwind and meet new people after a day of exploring the city.
Kinabalu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. This park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a range of activities from trekking and bird watching to exploring its diverse flora and fauna.
The climb to the summit of Mount Kinabalu is a challenging but rewarding adventure, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Even if you don't make it to the top, the park's lower trails and botanical gardens are equally impressive, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Borneo.
Located near Sandakan in Sabah, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can observe these incredible creatures up close as they are rehabilitated and prepared for release back into the wild.
The center offers an educational experience, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in preserving the orangutan population. Watching the orangutans swing through the trees and interact with each other is a truly heartwarming and unforgettable experience.
The Kinabatangan River is one of Borneo's most famous wildlife hotspots. A river cruise with River Junkie Hornbill Lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and an array of bird species.
The lodge provides comfortable accommodations in the heart of the jungle, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Guided river cruises and jungle treks offer the chance to explore the diverse ecosystems and witness the incredible biodiversity of Borneo up close.
Danum Valley is one of the most pristine and untouched rainforests in Borneo. This conservation area is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including orangutans, clouded leopards, and the elusive Bornean pygmy elephant.
Visitors can stay at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, which offers luxurious accommodations and guided tours of the surrounding jungle. Activities include canopy walks, night safaris, and jungle treks, providing ample opportunities to experience the rich biodiversity of the rainforest.
Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak is famous for its spectacular limestone karst formations and vast cave systems. The park is home to the world's largest cave chamber, Sarawak Chamber, and the stunning Deer Cave, which houses a large colony of bats.
Exploring the Mulu Caves is an adventure like no other, with guided tours taking you through underground rivers, towering stalagmites, and immense caverns. The park also offers a range of other activities, including jungle trekking and canopy walks, allowing you to fully experience its natural beauty.
Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and bustling waterfront.
One of the highlights of Kuching is its diverse food scene, offering a mix of traditional Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cuisines. Be sure to visit the local markets and food stalls to sample dishes such as Sarawak laksa and kolo mee. Kuching is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Bako National Park and the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, also known as the Tip of Borneo, is located at the northernmost point of the island. This stunning location offers breathtaking views of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, as well as beautiful sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.
Visitors can relax on the beach, take in the scenic views, and explore the nearby Rungus longhouses to learn about the local culture. The Tip of Borneo is a perfect spot for a peaceful getaway and a great place to watch the sunset.
Sipadan Island is renowned as one of the best diving destinations in the world. The island's crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are home to an incredible variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.
Diving and snorkeling in Sipadan offer an unforgettable underwater experience, with opportunities to explore dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and coral gardens. Due to its protected status, the number of daily visitors to Sipadan is limited, ensuring that the island's pristine beauty is preserved.
When traveling around Borneo, it's essential to be prepared for a diverse and unique experience. The currency used in Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), while Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan) uses the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND).
Borneo is home to a mix of religions, with Islam being the predominant religion in Malaysian Borneo and Brunei, while Christianity and indigenous beliefs are more common in Sarawak and parts of Kalimantan. It's important to respect local customs and traditions, particularly in more conservative areas.
The food in Borneo is diverse and delicious, with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences. Be sure to try local dishes such as nasi lemak, rendang, and various seafood delicacies.
Borneo's culture is rich and varied, with a strong emphasis on community and tradition. Take the time to learn about and appreciate the local customs, whether it's through visiting traditional longhouses, participating in cultural festivals, or simply interacting with the friendly locals.
Borneo is a destination that offers something for everyone, from thrilling adventures and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty. By embracing the island's unique offerings, you'll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
