Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kuching to Kota Kinabalu
Selamat Datang, welcome to Borneo!
On arrival, please make your own way from the airport to your hotel.
Your journey through this captivating land of contrasts starts in Kuching, the charming capital city of Sarawak. With its colonial-era architecture and hints of its history as the Land of the White Rajahs, Kuching exudes old-world allure. Wander through its historical landmarks, explore narrow streets brimming with antique and craft shops, visit fascinating museums, and enjoy the lively waterfront where sampans glide along the Sarawak River.
This evening, meet your tour leader and embark on an orientation walk.
Special Information
If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 2pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings.
Please meet in the hotel lobby for your welcome meeting at 6:00 pm to discuss tour logistics and to give you a chance to meet your fellow travellers.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Day 2 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kuching to Kuching - Sarawak Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
After breakfast, we'll set off on a scenic 45-minute drive to Bako village, where we'll then embark on a 30-minute boat ride across the river to Bako National Park. As the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako is celebrated for its breathtaking limestone and sandstone formations, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. You may encounter Borneo's renowned proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, wild boars, and a variety of reptiles including snakes and monitor lizards. The park features a network of trails, each offering different levels of difficulty and highlighting various aspects of its natural beauty. Along the coastline, you'll find a series of enchanting bays, hidden coves, and pristine beaches perfect for exploration. We will conclude our adventure and return to Kuching in the mid-afternoon, wrapping up a day filled with natural splendour.
Inspiring Highlights
Bako National Park
Special Information:
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours. Please note that the schedule may change depending on the tide.
Day 3 - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kuching to Kota Kinabalu
In the morning, you'll have free time to explore Kuching at your leisure. After checking out, we'll transfer to the airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. Your flight will be unescorted, but you will be escorted to the airport. Upon arrival, your Sabah tour leader will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Kota Kinabalu, a vibrant waterfront city surrounded by natural beauty—including coral islands, lush hills, scenic rivers, and the majestic Mt. Kinabalu—awaits your discovery. Check in and enjoy some relaxation time before our evening activities including a sunset cocktail and a visit to the vibrant local night market.
Inspiring Highlights
Kota Kinabalu Night Market
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately a 1.5 hour flight, plus travel time.
Your internal flight for this day is arranged by our local partner. Specific flight details will be provided by your Tour Leader upon arrival and cannot be provided in advance. Please note that these group flights cannot be upgraded, amended, or checked in online. Your Tour Leader will manage the check-in process for the group.
Please meet in the hotel lobby at 5:30pm for your evening's activities.
Day 4 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
Today, embark on a 40-minute boat trip from Kota Kinabalu to Dinawan Island, a hidden gem known for its secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters. Dinawan Island, or Ara Dinawan, stands out for its untouched and pristine beauty, making it one of Sabah's most breathtaking islands.
Upon arrival, your boat will dock near the vibrant coral reefs where an experienced snorkelling guide will lead you to the best spots to discover the underwater wonders. For those who prefer a different perspective, kayaks are available for a serene paddle through the transparent waters. This island offers a perfect escape for the day, providing a tranquil setting to unwind and rejuvenate.
After a day of exploration and relaxation, return by boat to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Dinawan Island Snorkelling or Kayaking
Special Information:
Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Day 5 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
After breakfast we'll take a scenic two-hour drive to Kinabalu Park. Standing at 4,095 metres, Mt. Kinabalu is the highest peak on Borneo and one of the youngest non-volcanic mountains, still growing at a rate of 5 millilitres per year. En route, you will stop at Pekan Nabalu town market for a break, local snacks, and souvenirs before continuing to the park.
Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 754 square kilometres and boasts a rich array of wildlife, including over 800 species of orchids, 600 species of ferns, 326 bird species, and the diverse Nepenthes pitcher plants. We'll take a leisurely walk to admire the stunning mountain views and search for birds and snakes, followed by a visit to the Botanical Garden.
Next, we'll head to the Kundasang War Memorial, dedicated to those who perished during the Japanese occupation in WWII, especially during the Sandakan Death March. The memorial features beautiful gardens and a small visitor centre. Afterward, explore the charming town of Kundasang, known for its fresh vegetable produce, before heading to your accommodation for the night.
Inspiring Highlights
Kinabalu National Park
Kinabalu Botanical Garden
Kundasang War Memorial
Special Information:
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 6 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
After breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to our next adventure, the Kinabatangan River. Stretching 560 kilometres, this river meanders through a lush floodplain rich with diverse wildlife, including large mammals, primates, birds, reptiles, and insects. Enjoy a riverboat cruise for easy wildlife spotting and bird watching, or venture deeper into the riverine forest on foot to seek out more elusive species. Upon arrival, a short 10-minute boat ride will take us to our lodge. Upon arrival at the rainforest lodge, check into your accommodation before going for an evening river cruise in search of wildlife.
Inspiring Highlights
Kinabatangan River Cruise
Stay amongst the dense rainforest of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
Special Information:
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 7 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
Today, immerse yourself in Borneo's natural wonders with early morning and afternoon river safaris.
Begin your day with an early river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, where you may spot rare wildlife such as the Bornean gibbon, pygmy elephant, orangutan, and proboscis monkey, alongside an array of captivating bird species. After returning to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, venture out for an invigorating jungle walk.
In the afternoon, join another river cruise to further explore the diverse ecosystem. For an optional adventure, consider another night cruise or a nocturnal walk around the resort to discover the intriguing creatures that come alive after dark.
Inspiring Highlights
Morning and Afternoon Kinabatangan River Safaris
Day 8 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
Start your day with breakfast while taking in the stunning morning views of the Kinabatangan River. Afterward, we'll head back to Sandakan town and visit the Sandakan War Memorial to pay tribute to its historical significance. Following the visit, you'll be dropped off at your Sandakan hotel.
Sandakan, a picturesque coastal town in Sabah, seamlessly blends historical charm with natural beauty. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You might choose to immerse yourself in local culture at the Central Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, handicrafts, and regional delicacies. Alternatively, unwind with a serene sunset at Sandakan Harbour.
Inspiring Highlights
Sandakan Memorial Park
Special Information:
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Day 9 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan - Sabah Portion - Allocation 26 - Current
After breakfast we'll visit one of the most popular locations in Malaysia - The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The centre was set up to help re-introduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or having been orphaned.
From one animal to another, The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is within walking distance. This visit offers a unique opportunity to see the world's smallest bear species in their natural habitat. Explore the centre's educational exhibits and viewing platforms to observe sun bears up close as they play, forage, and interact. Learn about ongoing conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these endangered bears and their rainforest home, gaining insight into the challenges they face and the critical work being done to ensure their survival.
Return to the hotel where the rest of the afternoon is free.
Inspiring Highlights
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Day 10 - Intrepid Malaysia DMC - Borneo & Sarawak Uncovered - Sandakan Departure no flights - Current
Today marks the end of your spectacular journey through Borneo.
At the appropriate time please make your own way to the airport for your flight home or embark on your own independent onward journey.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information:
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
