Photo: Contiki
Borneo is a land of endless adventure, a place where lush rainforests meet sparkling turquoise waters, where rare wildlife roams free, and where every corner seems to offer something incredible. If you’ve been looking for inspo for your next big adventure, look no further. You have got to visit Borneo. And we’ve got the top 10 reasons why you need to visit Borneo and experience its wonders firsthand.
1. You’ll see rarer than rare wildlife up close
Borneo isn’t just a tropical paradise; it’s also a haven for some of the world’s rarest and most fascinating wildlife. Pygmy elephants, sun bears, proboscis monkeys (yup, the monkey with the flat, long nose) – they’re all only found in that part of the world, and are unfortunately endangered. So when I say that the wildlife encounters you’ll have in Borneo are rare, I really do mean it. Plus, these animals live freely in their natural habitats, meaning you’ll get a real, unfiltered view of their lives – something you just can’t experience at a zoo.
Image source:Tim Morgan / unsplash
2. You can witness turtles laying eggs
Not joking. Another reason to visit Borneo is the incredible Selingan Island AKA Turtle island, famous for its marine life. It’s one of the best places in the world to witness sea turtles laying their eggs in the wild. On our trip, Borneo Adventure, you can see these ancient creatures make their way up the beach at night to bury their eggs in the sand. It’s rare and truly, truly magical. Plus, you also get to see the sight of baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. Awww!
3. You can spot Orangutans in the wild
Borneo is one of the few places where you can see orangutans in the wild, swinging gracefully from tree to tree in the dense jungle canopy. These incredible apes, with their bright orange fur and intelligent eyes are very human-like (at least according to me). While sightings are never guaranteed, spending time in the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre will give you a good chance of encountering these gentle creatures in their natural environment, and up close too!
Image source:Contiki
4. You can climb the highest mountain in Southeast Asia
If you’re an adventurer at heart, then Mount Kinabalu should be at the top of your Borneo to-do list. Standing tall at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet), it’s the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. The trek to the summit is challenging, but boy, are the views absolutely worth it. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush tropical forests, alpine meadows, and rugged landscapes. And then enjoy them all from a bird’s eye view once you’re at the top. Unforgettable.
5. The beaches are absolutely stunning
After a long day of jungle trekking or diving, there’s nothing better than visiting Borneo’s stunning beaches for some R&R. Seriously, the island is home to some of the whitest sands and clearest waters in the world! Selingan Island & Kota Kinabalu are both famous for their crystal-clear waters, and are perfect if you wanna go snorkelling too! The combination of turquoise water, white sand, and palm trees is the perfect tropical paradise of your dreams.
Image source:Contiki
6. There’s so much history to learn
Borneo isn’t just about stunning landscapes, there’s a lot of history here too. The Sandakan Memorial Park in Malaysian Borneo is a powerful site dedicated to the memory of the Sandakan Death March, where more than 2,400 Australian and British prisoners of war lost their lives during World War II. The memorial’s museum and walking trails through the park help you understand this tragic chapter in history, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the history of Southeast Asia during WWII.
7. You can do a river safari!
Borneo’s jungle is often described as otherworldly, and for good reason. The dense, mist-covered forests are filled with towering trees, sprawling vines, and the constant buzz of wildlife. And when you’re cruising down the Kinabatangan River, you’ll have the chance to spot rare wildlife from the canopies – straight out of a movie!
Image source:Contiki
8. Borneo’s countryside is incredible
Borneo’s countryside is the kind of place where nature seems to be on a permanent holiday. Think vast rice fields, stunning mountain ranges, and lush valleys (perfect escape if you need to “touch grass” – literally). On Borneo Adventure, you can ride a bike through the countryside and meet the Dusun people to learn about their culture & rubber tapping techniques before enjoying a local lunch.
9. You can explore one of the world’s largest caves
If you love exploring caves, Mulu National Park should be on your radar. It’s home to some of the largest cave systems in the world, including the famous Sarawak Chamber (the largest cave chamber in the world by area). You’ll also encounter stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and ancient fossils. No wonder it’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Image source:Contiki
10. You can learn about conservation and biodiversity at the Rainforest Discovery Centre
Nature enthusiast? The Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sabah is a must-visit. It’s nestled in the heart of the Sepilok Forest Reserve and has a huge canopy walk (87 metres high!) from where you can spot colourful birds, rare orchids, and elusive wildlife. There are over 250 bird species here, so keep an eye out! You’ll also get to learn about the flora and fauna as you tour with park rangers, and get to see what they’re doing to keep the island sustainable and conserve its unique wildlife.
With its breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife, and unforgettable experiences, Borneo offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you’ll find it on this stunning island. So, wanna visit Borneo? Check out our Borneo Adventure trip.
