thepinkginpassportBorneo is a dream destination for many nature lovers, thanks to its incredibly rich biodiversity and rare wildlife. What many don’t realise is that Borneo is divided between three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. This guide focuses on Malaysian Borneo, specifically the state of Sabah, home to wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants.
Whether you’re planning a wildlife adventure or a quick stopover from Kuala Lumpur, here’s everything you need to know.
How to Get to Malaysian Borneo
To reach Malaysian Borneo, the most convenient route is to fly into Kuala Lumpur (KLIA), then take a domestic flightto either Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan. The flight from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo takes approximately 3 hours.
If your focus is wildlife, I recommend flying straight to Sandakan, which is closer to Sepilok and the Kinabatangan River, two of the best spots to see animals in their natural habitat.
✈️ Tip: Malaysian Borneo is often referred to as East Malaysia, while Kuala Lumpur and Penang (George Town) are located in West Malaysia.
What to Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Before or After Borneo)
If you’re stopping over in Kuala Lumpur, spend a day or two exploring this vibrant city. Here are some must-see attractions:
Top Attractions in Kuala Lumpur:
- Petronas Towers – Visit at night for stunning skyline views.
- Chinatown – Explore the street art around Petaling Street and hunt for souvenirs.
- Batu Caves – A sacred Hindu temple built into a limestone cave.
- International food scene – KL is a paradise for foodies.
Must-Try Food Spots:
- Ray Power Corner (Famous Fried Rice) – Delicious local street food.
- Bun Chop Restaurant in Chinatown – Known for fresh dim sum and egg tarts.
The Best Way to See Wildlife in Malaysian Borneo
The highlight of any trip to Malaysian Borneo is spotting wildlife in the wild. The best way to do this is by booking a multi-day river safari along the Kinabatangan River.
3-Day / 2-Night Kinabatangan River Tour with River Junkies
I highly recommend the River Junkies tour, which includes:
- Pickup from Sepilok or Sandakan
- Visits to the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre on Day 1
- River safaris to spot wildlife over the next two days
Where to Stay Before the Tour
- Sepilok: A quiet jungle area perfect for nature lovers. Great for early access to the orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries.
- Sandakan: Offers more urban amenities. If staying here, I recommend the Sabah Hotel
Solo Female Travel Tip: I chose accommodation with safety in mind over price. Some travelers have reported safety concerns in Sandakan town at night, so stay in well-reviewed, reputable places if traveling alone.
Wildlife Spotting on the Kinabatangan River
This tour was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Over 3 days, I saw:
- Wild orangutans
- Proboscis monkeys
- Pygmy elephants
- Crocodiles
- Hornbills
- And even rare animals like red-bellied squirrels and otters
What to Pack for a Borneo Wildlife Safari
- Lightweight, breathable long-sleeved clothing
- Strong insect repellent
- Binoculars – spotting animals from a distance is key
- Torch/flashlight – for jungle walks or power outages
- Smartphone with a good camera – a newer iPhone is perfect; wildlife moves quickly, so you’ll want something fast and easy to shoot with
Final Thoughts
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a trip to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo will exceed your expectations. From cruising the Kinabatangan River to visiting orangutan sanctuaries, this is truly one of the most biodiverse and rewarding travel experiences in Southeast Asia.
Whether you have a short stopover in Kuala Lumpur or a full week to explore the jungle, this guide should help you plan your ultimate Malaysian Borneo itinerary.
