Borneo is a fantastic and diverse place that's perfect for people who love adventures. It's a big island shared by Malaysia and Indonesia, and it's a bit wild in the Indonesian part called Kalimantan. You can explore its jungles by traveling on rivers and seeing places that not many tourists know about.
There are great places in the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak with wildlife reserves, excellent dive resorts, and challenging mountain treks. One should also explore the Indonesian part called Kalimantan.
This guide is here to help you have an amazing trip in Borneo and make choices that will keep its incredible plants and animals safe for the future. Take your time to explore all the fantastic things Borneo has to offer and use our guide to plan your adventure in one of the most exciting places on Earth.
About Borneo
Borneo is a really big island in the far southwest part of the Pacific Ocean. It's the third largest island in the world, after Greenland and New Guinea.
If you look southeast of the Malay Peninsula, you'll find Borneo as part of the Greater Sunda Islands in the Malay Archipelago. It's surrounded by the South China Sea to the northwest, the Sulu Sea to the northeast, the Celebes Sea to the east, and the Java Sea to the south.
Borneo is separated from Java by the Java Sea, and from Celebes (Sulawesi) by the Makassar Strait. There are also shallow seas and straits that keep Borneo apart from Sumatra to the west.
Indonesia is the main country on Borneo, known as Kalimantan in Indonesian. It's divided into five provinces:
- Central Kalimantan
- East Kalimantan
- North Kalimantan
- South Kalimantan
- West Kalimantan
Sarawak and Sabah, two states of Malaysia collectively known as East Malaysia, are located on the northwest coast and northern tip. Brunei, an Islamic sultanate, is situated between them.
Early History of Borneo
People have lived in Borneo for a really long time. In a cave called Neah Cave in Sarawak, they found old things like bones, tools, and drawings on the walls. This shows that there was a busy community on the island around 150 CE, as mentioned in a book by Ptolemy.
Around the 2nd or 3rd century CE, there were connections with places like Rome and Java, as shown by items like Roman beads and artifacts. There was even a Hindu kingdom in Kutai in the 5th century, as seen in writings on stones.
In the 14th century, Europeans, like Friar Odoric, started to learn about Borneo. Then, in the 16th century, Portuguese and Spanish people came for trade. However, the Dutch became more influential in the 17th century, and the British also had a role, especially in the north and west.
During World War II, Japan took over Borneo from 1941 to 1942, and British and Dutch forces had to leave. They came back and took back the island in 1945. After the war, Sarawak and North Borneo became part of the British empire, but Dutch Borneo became part of Indonesia in 1950.
In 1963, Sabah and Sarawak became part of Malaysia, and there were fights with Indonesia until they reached an agreement in 1966. Brunei, except for a period when Japan took over, was under British protection until it became fully independent in 1984.
Borneo Rainforest
Borneo is a huge island, about 220,000 square kilometers in size, with mountains. It's home to 10 kinds of monkeys, more than 350 types of birds, and 150 types of reptiles and amphibians.
In the swamps, mangroves, and different kinds of forests on the island, there are around 15,000 plants. Surprisingly, 6,000 of these plants are only found in Borneo and nowhere else in the world. The Heart of Borneo alone has about 10,000 unique plants.
Borneo used to be connected to the Asian mainland in the past due to changes in the Earth's surface and climate. As the climate changed over time, Borneo separated from the mainland. This separation led to the extinction of some species and the emergence of new ones.
The tropical rainforest in Borneo is very complex, creating various homes for a diverse range of animals. These animals have figured out ways to live together by taking on specific roles to avoid competing for resources. They achieve this by eating different types of food, residing in different parts of the forest, and having different daily habits.
For example, when it comes to vertebrate animals like birds and mammals, they can be categorized into six communities based on where they are in the rainforest:
- Small mammals and birds that stay on the forest ground floor and underground.
- Large herbivores and carnivorous animals that roam the ground floor, searching for food, shelter, and breeding grounds.
- Omnivorous and carnivorous mammals that move up and down tree trunks, covering the forest floor to the canopy.
- Volant mammals, such as bats, and birds that use the middle canopy.
- Top canopy birds and mammals that feed on leaves, fruits, nectar, and insects.
- Fast-flying birds and bats that use the upper canopy area.
This separation into different "communities" helps them coexist and thrive in the diverse Bornean rainforest.
Discovering the mysteries and encountering the unfamiliar are two opportunities presented by exploring Borneo's jungle. Spending time in this lush environment is a one-of-a-kind chance to see the amazing variety of life and the interesting ways that animals have changed to fit their environments.
It's an exciting and amazing journey as you make your way through the layers of the rainforest and find the secrets hidden in its diverse ecosystems.
Culture and Customs
Malaysia's society in Borneo is made up of different kinds of people: Malays (50%), Chinese (24%), Indigenous groups (11%), Indians (7%), and others (8%). The mix of cultures is interesting, influenced by the old Malay culture and connections with Chinese and Indian cultures. There are also many indigenous tribes living in Borneo's forests and coastal areas.
Around 11% of the population is made up of tribal people, often called "Orang Asli" in peninsular Malaysia. In Sarawak, the main groups are the Dayak (Iban or Sea Dayak, and Bidayuh or Land Dayak), while in Sabah, many tribes are grouped under the term Kadazan.
Even though people go to the same schools, hang out together, and share public spaces, it's not common for people from different ethnic groups to marry each other. Families usually stick to socializing within their own ethnic groups to keep their traditions alive. Each ethnic group follows its own religions and customs, and they celebrate important festivals that often become public holidays.
Family is important for everyone, no matter their ethnicity. It's like the center of their social structure. They believe in staying together, being loyal, and showing respect to elders. Families are there for each other emotionally and financially when someone is facing challenges. When there are money problems, other family members pitch in to help. This shows how strong the bonds are within Malaysian families.
Planning Your Trip to Borneo
Planning a trip to Borneo is fun as the island has a lot of different landscapes, interesting cultures, and unique animals. Borneo has something for everyone, whether you like to go on adventures, enjoy nature, or learn about other cultures.
To help you plan your trip, here are some steps:
1. Best Time to Visit
There is a tropical climate in Borneo, which means that it is hot, muggy, and rains a lot all year. From March to September is the driest time for Sarawak, and from January to May is the driest time for Sabah. Along with Balikpapan and the Derawan Islands, East Kalimantan has the fewest wet months from July to October.
Knowing about these weather patterns can help you plan your activities, since some areas may be better for travel during certain months when it rains less, making your Borneo journey more enjoyable overall.
2. Budget
Borneo can cater to different budgets depending on the experiences that you seek. Mountaineers come here to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, some come to simply explore the beauties of the rainforest.
Borneo's currencies are the Indonesian rupiah, the Malaysian ringgit, and the Brunei dollar.
3. Flights and Transportation
When planning your trip to Borneo, start by checking flights to big airports like Kuching International Airport (KCH) or Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI). KCH is in Sarawak, and BKI is in Sabah. Figure out the dates and prices that work for you.
Once you choose the airports, see if you can use internal flights or buses to get around Borneo, depending on how far your destinations are. Compare flight options for the best deals and convenient times.
Also, consider ground transportation like taxis or rental cars based on your preferences and how easy it is to reach your desired places.
For an efficient and connected trip, book your transportation in advance, especially during busy times, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring Borneo's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
4. Currency and Finances
When you visit Borneo, pay attention to your money. In the part of Borneo that belongs to Indonesia (Kalimantan), they use Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). In the Malaysian part of Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak), they use Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
Make sure you have enough cash for your stay by either exchanging money or taking out cash before you go. Tell your bank about your trip so your credit or debit cards work smoothly.
While many popular places take credit cards, it's wise to bring some local money, especially in more remote areas. Learn about exchange rates and any fees so you can make good money decisions during your trip. This will help you have a hassle-free time in Borneo.
5. Language
If you're visiting Borneo, it's a good idea to learn a few local words even though many people speak English in tourist areas. Borneo has different languages like Malay, Indonesian, Chinese, Tamil, and English.
Malay is used in Malaysian Borneo, and Indonesian is spoken in Indonesian Borneo. There are also about 170 indigenous languages, like Bajau, Kadazan-Dusun, and Murut. The biggest non-Malayic language is Central Dusun, mostly in Sabah.
Being respectful to their culture and language is nice when you visit. It helps people connect and makes the cultural exchange more special. Saying hello, thank you, and asking simple questions can make your interactions friendly. This shows that you care about and respect the local culture, making your trip to Borneo more enjoyable.
6. Activities and Tours
Plan your Borneo adventure by mapping out specific activities. Borneo has many activities and tours, including adventure tours, sightseeing tours, and bird watching.
To learn more about Borneo's varied ecosystems and rich cultural history, you might want to go on a guided trip. Borneo has activities for all kinds of travelers, whether they are interested in wildlife, want to try new things, or want to learn more about other cultures.
Do some research and book these activities ahead of time to make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to one of the world's biologically and culturally varied places.
Things to Do
Even though parts of Borneo have been harmed by cutting down a lot of trees, it's still one of the most varied places on Earth. There are mountains, rivers, healthy coral reefs, and a rainforest with lots of different animals. Some of these animals are in danger of disappearing. Borneo is a great place to have exciting adventures and see many amazing things.
So, whether you're interested in wildlife, adventure, or cultural experiences, Borneo offers a diverse range of activities. Here are some things to do in Borneo:
1. Visit Kinabalu Park
Kinabalu Park is a special place in Sabah, Malaysia. It's open every day from morning to evening. The park is really big, about 754 square kilometers! It has four different weather zones. There are lots of plants and animals—over 4,500 of them. You can find 326 kinds of birds, more than 100 types of mammals, and even over 110 kinds of land snails.
The best part of the park is Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia. To get to Kinabalu Park, you can take a bus, taxi, car, or join a tour. The cheapest way is by sharing a bus, and it costs 30 ringgit for one person.
There are many fun things to do in Kinabalu Park, like watching birds, riding bikes, playing golf, and going on farm tours.
2. See Orangutans in Sepilok
Explore the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Sabah, Malaysia, to see the amazing work being done to protect orangutans.
The center was created to help orangutans that have been abandoned or hurt get better. It gives these smart primates a somewhat wild setting to live in. Visitors can watch the orangutans go about their daily lives, see them being fed, and maybe even see young orangutans learning important survival skills.
The end goal is to get these monkeys ready to go back to their native habitat. Sepilok gives you a one-of-a-kind chance to get close to these threatened animals while also helping to protect them. The center's dedication to recovery, education, and study is very important for protecting biodiversity in Borneo as a whole.
3. Explore the Mulu Caves
In Borneo's Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia, you can visit the beautiful Mulu Caves. The park is famous for its beautiful limestone karst formations and huge cave network, which includes one of the world's biggest passages, the huge Deer Cave.
You can walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site and see beautiful stalactite and stalagmite sculptures that are lit up by their own ecosystems. Here are some of the other caves in the Mulu Caves:
- Clearwater Cave Believed to be the world's largest interconnected cave system by volume, and the eighth longest at 222 km. The cave is also part of the Clearwater system, which includes the Wind Cave.
- Lang Cave The smallest cave in Mulu, but one of the most beautiful. The cave is named after a guide who led an expedition in the late 1970s to research the caves.
- Wind Cave Part of the Clearwater system, the cave is named for the cool breezes that can be felt in the narrower parts.
The Mulu Caves offer a wide range of activities, from the thrilling tour of Clearwater Cave to watching millions of bats leave Deer Cave every night.
Visitors can explore the depths of Borneo's amazing Mulu Caves by following well-marked trails or going on a guided tour. They will be amazed by the caves' natural beauty and ecological importance.
4. Take a River Safari in Kinabatangan
The Kinabatangan River is the second-longest river in Malaysia. It flows for 560 kilometers through the tropical jungles of Sabah on Borneo. It starts in the mountains in the southwest of Sabah and flows into the Sulu Sea.
There are two ways to get to the Kinabatangan River from Sandakan: by car with a boat ride at the end, or by boat straight from the Sandakan pier.
Both take about two to three hours. You can enjoy the countryside of Sabah on the land path, which stops at the Gomantong caves. The straight boat trip, on the other hand, gives you more chances to see wildlife and shows how the mangrove forests at the river's mouth change into dense rainforest. The town of Sukau is close to most of the riverside lodges.
5. Discover Bako National Park
Arguably the oldest national park in Borneo, Bako National Park is located close to Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. This nature sanctuary is known for its wide range of ecosystems and wide range of landscapes.
There are many hiking trails that let tourists discover dense rainforests, mangrove swamps, and beautiful coastal areas. Many animal species, such as wild boars, bird species, and proboscis monkeys, can be found in the park. Its unique flora and fauna make it a beautiful place for wildlife lovers to visit.
Bako National Park also lets you see the unique plants and animals of Borneo, which makes the trip more immersive and educational in one of Malaysia's natural gems.
6. Experience Cultural Heritage in Kuching
Kuching is a city in Sarawak, Malaysia, and its rich cultural history draws people in. Kuching is on the island of Borneo and has a mix of old-world beauty and modern energy. The city has museums that explore Sarawak's rich history, and the colonial-era buildings and busy markets in the Old Town make it a great place to explore.
Kuching, Malaysia has many places to experience cultural heritage, including:
- Upside Down House Kuching: A quirky attraction with upside-down decorated rooms and displays that's popular for fun photos
- The Old Court House Kuching: A historical landmark and tourist attraction that some say is one of the more recognizable and accessed heritage buildings in the city
- Square Tower: A riverside structure built in 1879 that once served as a prison and fortress and offers scenic views from the top
- Cat Museum, Petra Jaya, Sarawak: An offbeat attraction with hundreds of exhibits, photos, and art related to cats, plus a souvenir shop
- Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara Orchid Garden: A landscaped garden with pathways, known for a wide variety of rare orchids and a greenhouse
Kuching is a mix of different cultures, as shown by its colorful street art, old Chinese temples, and Malay kampong houses. Travelers can experience Kuching's unique cultural mix by getting involved in local customs, trying a variety of foods, and taking a stroll along the Sarawak River.
7. Trek through Gunung Leuser National Park
Gunung Leuser National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is a massive forest area that holds the title of being the largest in Southeast Asia. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it plays a crucial role in safeguarding endangered species such as orangutans, Sumatran tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. This park contributes significantly to global efforts in wildlife conservation.
With about 10,000 plant types, including the tallest and biggest flower in the world, the park has an unmatched variety of plants.
As an important part of Sumatra's tropical rainforest history, Gunung Leuser National Park offers amazing wildlife viewing and shows how important it is to protect these ecosystems for future generations. The park is appealing because it is a safe place for both well-known and less well-known species to live in beautiful natural surroundings.
Treks through Gunung Leuser take visitors deep into the jungle, where they can see a wide range of plants and animals, including rare and unusual animals. Trekkers can see unique animals like gibbons, rhinoceros hornbills, and Thomas's leaf monkeys, as well as the charming orangutans.
The trip through Gunung Leuser National Park offers an unforgettable exploration of one of Southeast Asia's last remaining wilderness areas, which will help you understand how important the area is for the environment.
Getting There in Borneo
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo are surprisingly cheap. Where you start your trip matters a lot. For a great orangutan and rainforest experience, consider flying into Sandakan in East Sabah. Jakarta is the best choice for connecting to different parts of Kalimantan.
- Kuching (KCH): Kuching is a nice city and the best starting point for exploring Sarawak. But if your first stop is Mulu National Park, it's better to fly into Miri (MYY).
- Kota Kinabalu (BKI): This is often the busiest airport in Borneo, located in the heart of Sabah. It's the top pick for reaching Mount Kinabalu or connecting to other places in Borneo.
- Sandakan (SDK): Fly into Sandakan in East Sabah for quicker access to orangutans, rainforests, and the Kinabantan River.
- Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN): If you want to explore Brunei and the impressive Ulu Temburong National Park, flying into Brunei’s capital is the obvious choice.
- Balikpapan (BPN): Balikpapan is a lively city in Kalimantan and a hub for taking smaller planes to remote areas.
- Tanjung Redeb (BEJ): Flying into Kalimarau Airport in Berau, East Kalimantan, is usually the best for accessing the Derawan Islands.
What to Eat and Drink in Borneo?
Borneo is a fantastic place to enjoy delicious and affordable seafood due to its extensive coastline and rivers. People gather in large food courts and waterfront seafood restaurants. Don't miss trying empurau, a pricey fruit-eating fish from Sarawak. It's one of the world's most expensive edible fish. You can find it in live tanks.
Another must-try is Sarawak laksa, a satisfying and addictive version of the popular noodle soup enjoyed in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. This dish is super tasty. It's a spicy soup with chili paste, coconut milk, and thin noodles called "mee hoon." On top, you'll find beansprouts, chicken, and prawns. If it's too spicy for you, add a bit of fresh lime to make it milder and even more delicious.
Even if you're a vegetarian, finding food in Borneo is not a problem. There's a tasty street food called Tahu Sumbat, meaning 'stuffed tofu,' perfect for vegetarians. Look for it in local markets and food courts. Tahu Sumbat is made by slicing open fried tofu cubes and stuffing them with cucumber and bean sprouts. Then, it's topped with spicy chili sauce for an extra kick.
Another good option for vegetarians is Nasi Campur, meaning 'mixed rice.' It varies by region, but it usually includes rice mixed with tofu, jackfruit, or veggie fritters.
For a unique and healthy green, try midin, a jungle fern that stays crunchy after cooking. It's a local specialty not easily found outside of Borneo. So, there are plenty of delicious choices for everyone.
Finally, exploring Borneo's fruits is a treat, especially those that might be hard to find back home. Look out for mangosteens, rambutans, red dragon fruit, longans, salak (snake fruit), and langsat in local markets. If you're feeling adventurous, don't miss the chance to sample durian during its season, which is roughly from June to August.
Where to Stay in Borneo?
Looking for hotels in big cities like Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, and Bandar Seri Begawan is easy, but in smaller, remote places, you might need to be more creative. Homestays and eco-lodges are popular in Sukau and the Derawan Islands where there are fewer dining options.
Dive operators often offer accommodations on Mabul Island, and you can sometimes book simple huts and longhouses in national parks.
Many bungalows and guesthouses aren't listed online, so you may need to book them in person or through an agent. In cities, consider these two hotels:
Things to Buy in Borneo
Malaysia is a wonderful country that values its traditions and customs. When you visit, you'll discover a wide range of products to buy at the local markets. Here's a list of the best things to purchase in Malaysia.
1. Traditional Handicrafts
In Borneo, people make beautiful things with their hands, like special crafts. These crafts are made by indigenous communities, which means they have been passed down through generations.
You can find amazing items like detailed wood carvings, colorful beadwork, and special woven baskets. They also make traditional fabrics called Iban Pua Kumbu.
These crafts are not only pretty but also have stories and traditions connected to them, making them extra special to buy and take home as a souvenir from Borneo.
2. Batik Clothing
People in Borneo make colorful clothing using a special method called batik. They paint designs on fabric with wax, dye it, and then remove the wax to reveal beautiful patterns.
This traditional art form is seen in clothing, scarves, and wall hangings. When you visit Borneo, you can buy these unique batik items to take home as souvenirs.
Each piece tells a story and showcases the island's vibrant culture through its distinctive and handcrafted designs.
3. Local Pottery
You can buy handmade clay and ceramic items, known as pottery, from local markets. These items include traditional cooking pots, decorative pieces, and utensils. Local artisans craft each piece with care, creating unique and culturally rich products.
Purchasing pottery is a great way to bring home a piece of Borneo's artistic heritage while supporting the local community.
From functional cookware to decorative items, these handmade pottery pieces showcase the island's traditional craftsmanship and add a touch of Bornean culture to your home.
4. Rainforest Herbs and Spices
You can buy special things like herbs and spices that grow in the rainforest. People make tasty foods using them. Sarawak pepper is famous here. It's a type of spice that adds flavor to your meals. Also, you can find wild honey, which is a sweet treat.
These items are unique to Borneo and can be great to bring back home, reminding you of the delicious and exotic flavors of the region.
5. Unique Souvenirs
When you're in Borneo, look for one-of-a-kind gifts that show off the culture there. Have fun collecting traditional masks, keychains, or magnets. Each one tells a story about the island's history.
These small but important things will remind you of your trip and make great gifts. Find local markets to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs that show off the skills and artistic styles of Borneo's many communities.
Pick out pieces that speak to you and show off the rich traditions and culture details of this beautiful island.
6. Pearls and Jewelry
The famous pearl farms in Borneo are a one-of-a-kind place to find beautiful pearls and jewelry. With a reputation for making high-quality pearls, the island shows off gems that were found there and then made into beautiful jewelry by skilled craftspeople. Because of their unique shine and authenticity, these pearls make great gifts or memories.
Borneo's pearls, whether set in traditional or modern styles, capture the essence of the area's rich natural and cultural heritage. They give tourists a tangible and lasting link to the island's unique charm.
Final Words
Borneo is a wonderful place to visit that lets visitors do a lot of different things. Borneo has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and rich cultures to lush jungles full of unique animals. This travel guide has useful information about the island's natural sights, exciting things to do, and unique traditions. Borneo is a great place to go if you want to have exciting experiences with orangutans, explore old caves, or just relax on the beach. When you visit, remember to be kind to the surroundings and the people who live there. Borneo is a must-see for anyone looking for an unforgettable and immersive travel experience. Its natural beauty and variety make it a world heritage site.
FAQs
What kinds of animals are only found in Borneo?
Borneo is famous for its unique and varied wildlife, such as the rare Bornean rhinoceros, orangutans, and pygmy elephants.
What is Mount Kinabalu in Borneo important for?
The native people of Borneo hold cultural significance for Mount Kinabalu, which is the highest hill in Southeast Asia. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity.
As an adventurer, why is Borneo a great place to go?
Borneo has a lot of exciting things to do, like hiking through lush jungles, exploring huge cave systems, and scuba diving in places like Sipadan Island that have some of the best underwater ecosystems in the world.
What does Borneo do to deal with problems in conservation?
Deforestation and biodiversity loss are bad for the environment in Borneo. Sustainable practices, reforestation projects, and efforts to protect rare species like orangutans are all parts of conservation efforts.
What makes the traditional ways of life of Borneo's native groups unique?
Borneo is home to many different native tribes, each with their own practices and cultures. The Iban, Dayak, and Kadazan-Dusun tribes all have their own unique art, music, and ceremonies that show off their Bornean roots.