Borneo | Best Wildlife Safari Destinations in Malaysia
Borneo and Rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia are biodiversity hotspot. For the best luxury wildlife safari destinations in Malaysia, your first choice must be Borneo. Borneo island spans across three countries – Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.
With its all exclusive, elusive, charismatic wildlife and endemic Bornean species, Borneo is the perfect place for the best wildlife safari holiday in Malaysia. And it is perfectly fit in for Luxury Family Safari holidays, locals are polite, great hosts, they take care of guests very well, the food of Borneo is delicious, the weather of Borneo is fantastic. Most of the popular safari travel destinations in Borneo and nature parks in Borneo are kid and elder-friendly.
Where in Borneo for the best Wildlife experience
There is a million years old primary rainforest in Danum Valley accessible from Lahad Datu Airport by 4WD. You will feel Borneo’s extravagant rainforest and exoticness in Danum Valley. And more so, when you stay with us in the ultra-luxurious Borneo Rainforest Lodge located in Danum Valley’s remote core area. Many also mistakenly call this lodge as the Danum Valley Rainforest Lodge.
From this same airport, one can also visit Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the largest reserve forest in whole Malaysia. Tabin offers visitors the unique experience of mud volcano.
Deramakot Forest Reserve, in between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan airports, is the best kept secret of Borneo. Undoubtedly, in recent times, Dermakot Forest Reserve is counted as the best wildlife safari destination in Borneo and also in the whole Malaysia.
Finally, the mighty Kinabatangan River is the best safari destination to see most of the popular Wildlife of Borneo with ease. The river can be easily accessible from Sandakan Airport. We suggest not to go for a daytrip, rather stay overnight for the best Kinabatangan River experience.
All these four destinations, regarded as the best wildlife travel destinations of Borneo, fall into the Sabah state of Malaysia.
Danum Valley
Primary Rainforest, undisturbed, pristine!
Deramakot
Borneo's hidden gem and mammal haven!
Tabin
Largest Reserve, unique Mud volcano!
Kinabatangan
River system, popular wildlife attraction!
Best time to visit Borneo in Malaysia
- Dry Season: March to October, for more favorable weather and outdoor activities.
- Rainy season: November to February, which may bring lush scenery but more rain and potentially limited outdoor access.
Although the best season to travel to Borneo in Malaysia may be in March to October, the other months still offer a unique experience if you are prepared for rain. The rainforest is at its most lush and vibrant, with frequent rain showers that enhance the area’s beauty. While some trails may become slippery, the wet season is still a great time for visitors who enjoy the rainforest in its natural, misty atmosphere. The wet season also means fewer tourists, providing a quieter and more intimate experience.
We also offer some exclusive deals in this low season.
Wildlife Encounter to Cherish in Malaysia
We organise the best luxury wildlife family safari holidays in Malaysia to observe and photograph the unique animals, birds, reptiles and insects of Malaysia in its mystic rainforests. Nocturnal wildlife is the most interesting character of these destinations, so we focus on night walks on forest floor, night safaris in four wheel drive through unpaved challenging terrain to track down jungle cats on road and also on trees. We also organize night boat cruises alongside the river in search of larger mammals and nocturnal birds and primates.
List of some of the interesting and exotic animals that one can see on a safari holiday in Malaysia with us contains:
Wild Orangutan | Proboscis Monkey | Pygmy Elephant | Asian Elephant | Clouded Leopard | Leopard Cat | Marbled Cat | Flat-headed Cat | Bay-cat | Pittas | Slow Loris | Flying Lemur | Flying Squirrel | Malayan Civet | Otter Civet | Banded Civet | Binturong | Sun Bear, among others.
How to Safari in Malaysia
We provide guided jungle treks for a close encounter with nature, offering an immersive experience in the wild. Night walks and night drives are available to observe slow lorises, leopard cats, pygmy elephants, flying squirrels, civets, clouded leopards, and a wide variety of insects and frogs. This is a true paradise for birdwatchers, as is any rainforest. Private guides and safari vehicles can also be arranged upon request in advance. Ample comfort in such remote rainforests of penninsular Malaysia and Borneo are provided. Be it chalet rooms in Research Field Centres or at Park Headquarters, or in carefully selected our partner ultra-luxurious Lodges. All arrangements for an adventurous night stay in a Hide (Watch Tower) deep inside the forest is also offered.
What is so Special about Borneo in Malaysia
Unique Wildlife Encounters: Borneo offers one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, where visitors can spot rare and endemic species like the orangutan, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards, and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat. The region’s dense rainforests, mangroves, and wetlands provide the perfect backdrop for witnessing these extraordinary animals up close, making a safari here an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Night Safaris and Nocturnal Wildlife: The safari experience in Borneo is unique not only during the day but also at night. The island’s rainforests come alive after dark, with night safaris offering the chance to see elusive nocturnal creatures such as slow lorises, flying squirrels, and civets. This opportunity to observe the hidden, nighttime side of Borneo’s wildlife adds an exciting dimension to the safari adventure.
Luxury Travel blended with sustainability in Borneo
Our Borneo Wildlife travel program invites you to indulge in the ultimate luxury at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, a sustainable haven nestled in the heart of Danum Valley and in Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort or Sukau Rainforest Lodge in the popular Kinabatangan river area. The newly built Utan Rainforest Lodge, the Lankayan Island Dive Resort are complete luxury. These eco-conscious retreat offers a perfect blend of modern comforts and nature-inspired design, with spacious rooms, locally inspired decor, and environmentally friendly facilities. The lodge features beautifully crafted chalets and suites, thoughtfully built with local materials to minimize environmental impact. While you unwind in style, you can immerse yourself in guided wildlife tours, conservation initiatives, and eco-friendly activities, creating a seamless fusion of luxury and sustainability.
Featured Lodges
BORNEO with Safari Acacia: Useful Information
- Exquisite Accommodation: Stay in premium cottages or suites blending modern comforts with natural aesthetics.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in freshly prepared local and international cuisine with bespoke dining experiences.
- Wildlife Safaris: Exclusive boat safaris, canopy walk, nature treks, night drives and night walks offering guided exploration of the rainforest and its unique wildlife.
- Eco-Luxury: Resorts often prioritize sustainability, featuring eco-friendly architecture and practices.
- Recreational Activities: Relax by the pool, enjoy nature walks, or participate in cultural performances.
- Personalized Service: High-end hospitality with tailored amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable stay.
- Connectivity: Limited internet connectivity can be expected due to the difficult terrain especially while on safaris.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I reach Borneo?
To reach Malaysian Borneo from overseas, fly into the nearest major international hubs like Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, which offer frequent connections to Borneo’s main cities—Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan (Sabah) or Kuching (Sarawak). Direct international flights to Kota Kinabalu are also available from Singapore, Jakarta, Manila, and Hong Kong. Once in Borneo, domestic flights, buses, or private transfers can take you to specific destinations. Most of the wildlife attractions are located around Sandakan and Lahad Datu.
What makes Borneo a unique destination for wildlife and nature tours?
Borneo is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, featuring ancient rainforests, rare wildlife species like orangutans and pygmy elephants, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s also home to unique ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, and highland cloud forests.
What to pack for a luxury Borneo Tour?
For a luxury Borneo tour, pack lightweight, breathable clothes, long-sleeved shirts and pants for jungle treks, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and a rain jacket. Bring essentials like a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, and a daypack. Don’t forget your camera, binoculars, power bank, and travel adapter. Pack travel documents, a water bottle, and personal items like toiletries and a lightweight scarf. Luxury accommodations often provide basic amenities, so focus on packing for comfort and adventure.
Is Good guide important in a luxury Borneo Tour?
Your senior guide is your key to the forest, so listen carefully to their instructions. They are treasure troves of information regarding Borneo and its wildlife and culture, heritage. They will ensure you have the best chance to observe wildlife and navigate the forest safely.
What are the accommodations like on a luxury Borneo tour?
Accommodations typically include high-end eco-lodges, boutique resorts, and luxury rainforest chalets. Most of these resorts offer private suites with plunge pools, gourmet dining, and panoramic views of the jungle or ocean. The in-house private guides are knowledgeable and they are the best part of the Borneo Tour. The dietary requirements are respected on advance notice in every lodges.
One can read our Blog post for more details:
Luxury Family Holidays in Borneo
What is the best time of year to visit Borneo for wildlife tours?
The dry season, from March to October, is the best time for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. However, Borneo is a year-round destination, with some regions offering excellent experiences even during the wetter months.
What activities can I do in a luxury Borneo Tour?
Visitors can enjoy 4WD game drives, night safaris, guided night walks, guided nature walks on forest trails early morning and in the evening, and bird watching. These trips offer an opportunity to observe rainforest-adapted wildlife in their natural environment, with both daytime and nocturnal wildlife viewing.
Can I really see wild orangutans in Borneo?
Absolutely! Bornean Orangutans are regularly seen during our tours in several destinations in Borneo. And guests also visit the Sepilok Conservation centres to observe the semi-wild population of orangutans during feedign time.
Do I need vaccinations or special preparations?
Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations (e.g., typhoid, hepatitis A) and discuss anti-malarial precautions. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes.
Is it possible to customize my luxury wildlife tour?
Most luxury tour operators offer customizable itineraries to suit your interests, fitness level, and travel style. This can include private guides, exclusive wildlife encounters, and tailored activities. In Safari Acacia, we do not like to sell pre-defined itineraries at all, you may find some sample itineraries on our website, but our main selling point is to listen to our guests patiently before we design a suitable trip itinerary according to your preference. Just fill up our contact form and let our expert tour consultatnts take care of everything.
How physically demanding are these tours?
The physical demands vary. Some activities, like river cruises, are low-effort, so is 4WD game drives and Night Drives, while jungle treks can be more challenging depending on which route your guide selected for you. We often offer options for different fitness levels. We always recommend hiring private guide for more flexibility if you are worried about physical fitness.
Is Borneo safe for tourists?
Yes, Borneo is generally safe for tourists and is a popular destination known for its friendly locals, natural beauty, and vibrant wildlife. While petty crime can occur, taking standard precautions—such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings—ensures a smooth experience. Most tourist areas, including national parks and wildlife reserves, are well-managed and safe. It’s always a good idea to follow local guidelines and travel updates for added peace of mind.
Lahad Datu and Semporna are generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas and when part of organized tours. However, both towns are close to the eastern Sabah coast, where there have been occasional reports of security incidents, including kidnappings in the past. The Malaysian government has implemented strict security measures, such as the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), to safeguard the region. Tourists are advised to stay informed, follow local advice, and avoid isolated areas or night travel in coastal zones for added safety.
Can I combine wildlife tours with other activities?
Yes, many itineraries combine wildlife exploration with cultural visits, beach relaxation, or adventure activities like canopy walks and mountain climbing. In Safari Acacia, we always listen to our guests and design the complete itinerary according to their preference.