Safari Tours & Trips in Borneo
Explore a wide diversity of safari tours through Borneo. We have 6 adventures that vary from 3 days to 16 days. With the greatest number of departures in August, this is also the most popular time of the year.
6 best safari Borneo tours
Compiled by
MelissaBorneo travel expert at TourRadar
Wildlife viewing excursions along Kinabatangan River reveal pygmy elephants and orangutans. The natural wonders of Tabin Wildlife Reserve's mud volcanoes await, while visits to Sepilok Orangutan Center and proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay round out the adventure. Dawn safaris at Kelanap Oxbow Lake offer prime viewing opportunities.
No departure dates availableDuration 16 days Destinations Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Tambunan, Kundasang, Kinabatangan, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Dinawan Island Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Physical Rating Easy Distance 1439 mi Operator DIAMIR Erlebnisreisen Sandakan Orangutan Experience 4D/3N
“From start to finish we had the best time. The orangutans were amazing as well as everything else we saw.”
Brett, traveled in March
Rare wildlife sightings await on Kinabatangan River safaris, including pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys. The famous Sepilok orangutan sanctuary and sun bear conservation centre showcase rehabilitation efforts. Guided treks through Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve reveal pristine rainforest ecosystems.
Duration 4 days Destinations Sandakan, Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Age Range Ages 10+ Distance 118 mi Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$745
Borneo – East Sabah Adventure
“A great experience throgh the amazing Borneos nature. Everything was just perfect.”
Gabriela, traveled in February
Kinabatangan River safaris showcase diverse wildlife, from proboscis monkeys to pygmy elephants and wild orangutans. A visit to Sepilok's rehabilitation centers pairs with turtle conservation activities on Libaran Island. Guided oxbow lake walks and evening jungle cruises provide optimal wildlife viewing.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang, Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Sandakan, Pulau Libaran Age Range Ages 12+ Physical Rating Easy Distance 323 mi Operator G Adventures From $1,699
17% Off- US$1,410You save $289
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
“It was amazing. We were lucky to see several wild orangutans as well as those in the sanctuary.”
Tracy, traveled in September
Close wildlife encounters unfold at Sepilok Orangutan Centre and Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. Proboscis monkeys gather at Labuk Bay, while pygmy elephants roam the Kinabatangan River. Wild orangutans thrive in Danum Valley Conservation Area, where expert naturalist guides lead tracking expeditions.
Duration 15 days Destinations Kuching, Bako National Park, Gunung Mulu National Park, Kota Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu National Park, Sepilok, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sandakan Age Range Ages 16+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 813 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $5,593
10% Off- US$5,040You save $553
Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu
“The Sepilok Center, Turtle Island and Mount Kinabalu two very unique and amazing experiences.”
Anca, traveled in August
Borneo's wildlife comes alive during Kinabatangan River safaris, where proboscis monkeys and crocodiles roam freely. The Sepilok Orangutan Centre and Sun Bear Conservation Centre offer close encounters. Jungle lodges serve as base camps for oxbow lake expeditions and turtle conservation work on Libaran Island.
Duration 11 days Destinations Kota Kinabalu, Kota Belud, Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Sepilok, Pulau Libaran, Sandakan, Mount Kinabalu National Park, Poring Age Range Ages 12+ Distance 458 mi Operator G Adventures From $2,949
20% Off- US$2,359You save $590
3D2N Orangutan in Tanjung Puting with Overnight on the Boat
“Amazing experience, such a peaceful trip, the guides and all crew members were wonderful.”
Anne, traveled in April
A 3-day safari through Tanjung Puting features orangutan feedings at Camp Leakey and Pondok Tanggui. Sekonyer River's ecosystem teems with proboscis monkeys and hornbills. Evening firefly viewing adds magic to nights aboard a traditional riverboat.
Duration 3 days Destinations Tanjung Puting National Park Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Easy Operator Pesona Indo From
20% Off- US$350
What our customers ask about Safari Tours & Trips in Borneo
What types of accommodation can I expect on a Borneo safari tour?
The accommodations on Borneo safari tours range from well-appointed lodges to simple yet functional facilities. Most visitors stay at properties strategically placed near wildlife areas such as the Sepilok Jungle Resort which sits close to the orangutan sanctuary or Nature Lodge Kinabatangan along the river banks. The Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley represents the higher end of available options. A TourRadar traveler notes "While the jungle lodges are modest they're strategically located for wildlife viewing and offer an authentic rainforest experience." Standard amenities at most properties include private bathrooms air conditioning or fans and protective mosquito nets.
What are the best times of year to see wildlife in Borneo?
March through October marks the dry season which offers prime wildlife viewing conditions especially in areas like Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and Sepilok. A TourRadar traveler reports "We were lucky to see orangutans proboscis monkeys pygmy elephants and various birds during our river safaris." The Danum Valley Conservation Area maintains consistent wildlife activity throughout the year with the Borneo Rainforest Lodge providing access to primary forest areas where wild orangutans frequently appear.
What differentiates various Borneo safari tours?
The main differences between tours lie in their focus length and comfort standards. High-end experiences such as stays at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge feature upscale accommodations and exclusive access to primary rainforest areas. Mid-range options typically combine Kinabatangan river safaris with time at Sepilok. One TourRadar traveler notes "The combination of different areas - Kinabatangan River Sepilok and Danum Valley - provides diverse wildlife experiences and perspectives on conservation efforts."
How close can we get to the wildlife?
Wildlife viewing distances follow safety and conservation guidelines. At Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre visitors observe from platforms positioned 5-10 meters from the animals. River cruise boats maintain safe but often close positions near wildlife. A TourRadar traveler shares "We got incredibly close views of proboscis monkeys in the trees along the Kinabatangan River while maintaining safe distances from crocodiles."