Malaysian Borneo and Tabin Reserve Adventure Tour

HIGHLIGHTS

Visit the Sandakan War Memorial and Agnes Keith House
Experience the incredible Rainforest Discovery Centre within the Kabili Forest Reserve
Stopover at Gomantong Cave to experience the bat exodus and search for orangutans along the boardwalk
Cruise along the mangrove and riverine forests of Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary in search of species adapted to this unique waterworld
Trek deep within the primary tropical rainforest of the Tabin Wildlife Reserve where most Bornean biodiversity resides
Visit a local village to experience the local culture, including traditional food, crafts and music
Explore one of the largest limestone cave systems in the world within UNESCO World Heritage listed Mulu National Park and experience the unique culture of the remote Penan tribe
Enjoy Mari Mari Cultural Village that is home to 5 ethnic tribes
And more....

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EXPEDITION OVERVIEW

Embark on an extraordinary expedition through the natural wonders of Malaysian Borneo. Journey along Sabah's eastern coast and explore the majestic Kinabatangan Floodplain, Malaysia's second-longest river, in pursuit of pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys. Witness a spectacular bat exodus from a remarkable limestone cave and venture into the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot beneath towering tropical trees, where you can seek out iconic wildlife such as orangutans, tarsiers, red leaf monkeys, gibbons, and clouded leopards.

Your adventure continues westward to Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's largest limestone cave systems a true geological marvel of Borneo. Immerse yourself in the unique cultures of the remote Penan tribes and over five other ethnic groups who inhabit this captivating island.

Join us for an intrepid journey off the beaten path and uncover Borneo's incredible and enduring diversity.

If you seek an authentic and thrilling adventure, look no further.

EXPEDITION GOALS

Our goal is to provide our guests with a unique experience, to observe wild tropical biodiversity in their natural habitat. We will provide you with a safe platform to observe many endemic, rare and unique species of wildlife throughout Borneo. We will also provide you with comprehensive information about the destination you are in so that you are fully informed of your surroundings prior, during and following your expedition.

Furthermore, Orangutan Odysseys has partnered up with The Orangutan Project which supports conservation programs in Borneo - so travelling with us you are directly supporting their orangutan conservation efforts and environmental programs. And finally by supporting ethical and eco-tourism you are helping support the locals and the environment.

ITINERARY

Get ready for an incredible 12-day, 11-night adventure through Malaysian Borneo and the Tabin Reserve! (Just a heads-up, things might shift a bit depending on local conditions.)

Day 1: Arrive Sandakan - Nature Resort (Meals: L, D)

We'll pick you up from Sandakan Airport or your hotel and, if time allows, we'll dive into history at the Sandakan War Memorial and the Agnes Keith House before enjoying lunch at the English Tea House. Then, it's off to Nature Resort for check-in. In the afternoon, we'll explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), walking along the canopy walkway. We'll head back to Nature Resort for dinner, and if you're up for it, join an optional night walk in Kabili Forest Reserve.

Day 2: Sandakan - Kinabatangan River (Meals: B, L, D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out from Nature Resort. Then, we're off to Hornbill Lodge along the Kinabatangan River for lunch. Get ready for an awesome afternoon river cruise to spot all sorts of incredible wildlife. Dinner's at the lodge, followed by an included night walk. (We'll adjust the cruise spots based on where the animals are hanging out, and if you're feeling extra adventurous, a night cruise can be arranged!)

Day 3: Kinabatangan River (Meals: B, L, D)

Rise and shine for another exhilarating early morning river cruise! After breakfast, we'll hit the jungle trails (weather permitting) and climb the wildlife observation tower for some epic panoramic views of the Kinabatangan River. Head back to the lodge to relax and enjoy lunch overlooking the river. Then, get ready for another fantastic river cruise in the afternoon. Dinner's waiting, followed by an included night walk or an optional night cruise.

Day 4: Kinabatangan - Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Meals: B, L, D)

One last dawn river cruise and breakfast, then we're off to Tabin Wildlife Reserve! Our first stop: Gomantong Caves, where you'll see traditional bird's nest harvesting and might even spot orangutans and bat hawks. We'll grab lunch and check in at Lahad Datu, then it's full steam ahead to Tabin, arriving by mid-afternoon. After settling in, join your guide for an exciting walk along the Elephant Trail to the Lipad mud volcano. After a delicious dinner, we'll embark on an included night drive to seek out giant flying squirrels, civets, leopard cats, ungulates, and so much more!

Day 5: Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Meals: B, L, D)

Start your day with an early morning bird walk Tabin boasts nearly 300 bird species! After breakfast, we'll drive to the core area, climb the bird-watching tower, and learn about the orangutan release center. Then, it's a trek through the rainforest to the stunning Lipad Waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, treat yourself to the Tabin Rainforest Foot Soak pure bliss for tired muscles! As the sun dips below the horizon, we'll do a dusk drive to spot nocturnal creatures before dinner and a night walk on the nature trail nearby the resort.

Day 6: Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Meals: B, L, D)

Enjoy a well-deserved lie-in, or if you're up for it, join an optional dawn drive to catch wildlife in action during sunrise (RM100 per person). Join morning and afternoon jungle walks with your expert nature guide. After dinner, hop onto one of our vehicles for an exhilarating night safari, seeking out even more incredible nocturnal wildlife.

Day 7: Tabin Wildlife Reserve - Lahad Datu - Kota Kinabalu (Meals: B, L)

Enjoy a final early morning bird walk and breakfast before transferring to Lahad Datu Airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. While waiting for your flight, your driver/guide can take you for lunch in Lahad Datu. Upon arrival in Kota Kinabalu, you'll be met by your driver and transferred to Mercure Hotel for check-in and overnight. Dinner in town is at your own arrangement and cost.

Day 8: Kota Kinabalu - Mulu (Meals: B, D)

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and head to Kota Kinabalu Airport for your flight to Mulu. Upon arrival in Mulu, you'll be greeted by our friendly representative and transferred to Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa for check-in. In the afternoon, embark on a 3-kilometer plank walk to reach Deer Cave and Lang Cave. After exploring the caves, proceed to the bat observatory to witness the spectacular bat exodus (weather permitting). Return to the hotel by plank walk. Lunch is at your own cost, but there's a restaurant at Mulu Marriott.

Day 9: Mulu (Meals: B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then transfer by longboat to Batu Bungan - Penan Settlement, where you can observe the tribe's lifestyle and browse handicrafts for sale. Continue by longboat to Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Clearwater summer huts, and later, you can swim in the Clearwater spring. After lunch, return by longboat to the hotel.

Day 10: Mulu - Kota Kinabalu (Meals: B)

Savor breakfast at the resort and enjoy some free time at your leisure until it's time to transfer back to Mulu Airport for your departure flight back to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival, transfer back to Mercure Hotel for a relaxed afternoon and evening. Lunch and dinner are at your own arrangement and cost.

Day 11: Kota Kinabalu (Meals: B, L)

Around 9 am, we'll pick you up from Mercure Hotel and take you to Mari Mari Cultural Village, about 30-40 minutes outside Kota Kinabalu. You'll receive a warm welcome to the homes of 5 different ethnic tribes of Sabah. Each home was built by descendants of the tribes they represent, showcasing fascinating differences in architecture, costumes, and traditions. You'll witness demonstrations of ancient activities like blowpipe making, starting a fire from bamboo, and even tattoo-making! Return to your hotel and enjoy your last evening free to explore Kota Kinabalu city. Dinner is at your own arrangement and cost.

Day 12: Kota Kinabalu Departure - Tour Ends

Be met by your driver and transferred to the airport for your onward travel. Your amazing tour ends here!