From Kuala Lumpur to Kinabalu: A Malaysian Adventure
This extraordinary tailor-made tour through Malaysia and Borneo offers an immersive blend of culture, wildlife, adventure, and relaxation. Begin in the dynamic capital of Kuala Lumpur, where gleaming skyscrapers rise beside colonial architecture, and the scent of sizzling street food fills the air. Then, leave the city behind and delve deep into the untamed wilderness of Sabah, Borneo. Staying in a remote river lodge, you’ll embark on daily boat safaris to seek out the region’s ‘Big Five’ — orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and hornbills — in their natural habitat.
The journey continues with a visit to a respected conservation centre where you’ll meet rescued orangutans and sun bears, learning firsthand about vital preservation efforts. For the adventurous, there’s the chance to climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia, offering sweeping views from its summit. Your unforgettable journey ends in blissful style at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria, a beachfront resort where golden sands and exceptional service provide the perfect finale. Wild, diverse, and deeply rewarding — this is Borneo unwrapped.
All the things you need to know
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Kuala Lumpur.
On arrival in Kuala Lumpur, you will be met and taken to your hotel, with the rest of the day to relax and start exploring the capital. This evening you might like to visit the Petronas Towers for views across the city.
The next day, you will embark on a privately guided tour of the city. Explore the eclectic architecture of Kuala Lumpur, see some of the key sights of the city and learn about KL’s fascinating mix of cultures.
An early morning flight to Sandakan, where you’re met and taken to the jetty to start your exploration of the Kinabatangan River. Here, you will have two days at a remote yet comfortable lodge, with the chance to see some amazing wildlife. Having arrived at the lodge, you will have lunch before heading back out on the water, with the chance to see a huge amount of wildlife. Proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and nesting orangutans are all regularly seen, and a whole host of magnificent birdlife.
After breakfast, you will travel back to Sandakan by boat and transfer to the Sepilok Nature Resort. In the afternoon, you can stroll over to the world-famous sanctuary and have the chance to explore the Sun Bear Sanctuary and Orangutan Nursery as well. Evening at leisure.
Early morning flight to Kota Kinabalu. You will be met at the airport by a representative from Sutera Sanctuary Lodges (who operate the climb packages) and transferred to Kinabalu National Park for an afternoon exploring the park, followed by an overnight stay.
The next morning, you start the trek up Malaysia’s highest peak. The walk starts in the lush temperate rainforest which surrounds the park HQ. As you ascend you will see the environment dramatically change due to the altitude. In the afternoon you will reach Laban Rata, where you will stay for the evening.
You will set off in the early hours while it is still dark for a final push to reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu, where you can enjoy a spectacular Borneo sunrise. You will then trek back to the park HQ, a challenge in itself as this part can be tough on the legs. On arrival, you will be met and transferred back to Kota Kinabalu for a well-earned rest at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria beach resort.
International return flights from the UK
Internal flights and all in-destination transfers
Carefully selected accommodation throughout the itinerary
Daily activities and excursions as detailed in the tour
Expert local guides in key locations
Entrance fees to parks, conservation centres, and attractions
Some meals included (as specified per itinerary)
24/7 in-destination support from local partners
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