Kuala Lumpur, Borneo & Beach

Days 1-3  Kuala Lumpur  
Arrive in Kuala Lumpur, an exciting city with a rich blend of modern skyscrapers, historic architecture, and religious monuments. See the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and head up to the observation deck for panoramic city views.  Visit the Batu Caves, a Hindu temple built inside limestone caves reached by 272 multicoloured stairs, with an impressive gold statue towering in front. At Merdeka Square, discover this significant site where the country declared its independence, surrounded by historic buildings.  

Day 4  Kuala Lumpur to Sepilok  
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Sabah, Borneo. Land in Sandakan and take a transfer to your hotel in Sepilok.  

Day 5  Sepilok        
Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to see this little-known bear species – named after the golden crescent-shaped patch of fur on their chests resembling the rising sun. Continue to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and observe the morning feeding session from a viewing platform. See the conservation in action and learn about the fantastic work they do helping reintroduce orangutans back into the wild. After, head to the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre and explore the canopy walkway, nestled high amongst the rainforest tree line. Home to 250 bird species, search among the trees for these vibrantly coloured birds and keep your eyes peeled for wild orangutans.  

Day 6  Sepilok to Kinabatangan River          
After breakfast depart for the Kinabatangan River. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge and head out on a scenic cruise to discover some of the river’s diverse wildlife. This evening, explore the rainforest in search of nocturnal animals.

Day 7  Kinabatangan River          
Enjoy an early morning boat trip as the sun rises over the rainforest. Return to your lodge for breakfast and some time at leisure before your second river cruise to search for pygmy elephants, orangutans, and the endemic to Borneo proboscis monkeys.  

Day 8  Kinabatangan River to Poring Hot Springs  
Today begin your journey towards Sabah Tea Garden, visiting Tagal Moroli River en route where you can enjoy a natural fish ‘pedicure’ and stop at Sabah Tea Garden for a tea tasting before arriving at your hotel.

Day 9  Poring Hot Springs to Gaya Island        
Admire the stunning views from the suspended canopy walkway or soak yourself in the springs. After, transfer to Kota Kinabalu and take a shared speedboat over to Gaya Island.  

Days 10-12  Gaya Island  
Spend a few days unwinding at your beautiful island resort. Set in a protected marine conservation area, snorkelling opportunities are exceptional and you can be guided here by a marine biologist to discover the labyrinth of colourful reefs that surround the island. Other flora and fauna on the island can sometimes be spotted along trails through the lush jungle, including proboscis monkeys, flying squirrels and the unusual looking elephant foot yam. When not discovering the diverse wildlife, lay back on the beautiful beach or treat yourself with a visit to the excellent spa village.

Day 13  Gaya Island  
Take the speedboat back to Kota Kinabalu, where you will transfer to the airport for your flight back home.