- Join a small group in the wilds of Borneo to experience the natural world in full bloom
- Enjoy multiple chances to see wild orangutans and visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
- Visit Mulu National Park in time to see the incredible bat exodus from Deer Cave
- Take a dawn cruise along Kinabatangan River – the perfect time to spot wildlife!
- Stay at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, an award-winning jungle resort in the Danum Valley
![Borneo Wildlife Discoverer](https://res.cloudinary.com/enchanting/q_80,f_auto,c_lfill,x_w_mul_0.41,y_h_mul_0.5,g_xy_center,w_360,h_270/exodus-web/2018/09/WOH-Orangutan-1.jpg)
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
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Reviews
Add your own reviewBorneo Wildlife Discoverer
What can I say – what an amazing trip. From start to finish we were incredibly lucky with what we saw and the encounters we had. Starting in Bako NP, we saw wild proboscis monkey and were treated to a rare sighting of a Colugo (flying lemur) taking flight over our heads during the day. On the way back on the boat, we were even treated to a viewing of pink dolphins.
In Mulu, the caves were beautiful and great fun to walk through. Although we were supposedly there during the ‘dry’ season, climate change has made the weather much more unpredictable. We had lovely weather both mornings, but torrential rain in the afternoons and overnight, so much so that the bats stayed inside the cave on the first night. Patience and a willingness to walk in the rain with crossed fingers paid off on the second night, and we were treated to a spectacular bat exodus during sunset. The weather is very changeable in Mulu (and Borneo in general) so even if it looks as though it may be too wet for the bats, I would recommend heading to the viewing area anyway as you never know! Even in the rain, the air temperature is warm and you dry off quickly.
Moving to Sabah, the highlights have to be the Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley. Both were so rich in wildlife and we had such amazing viewings in both locations. The Orangutan and Proboscis monkey sanctuaries are great and do fabulous work, but nothing compares to seeing these animals truly out in the wild. We were incredibly lucky with our sightings and saw not only the Borneo Big 5 (orangutan, proboscis monkey, crocodile, rhinoceros hornbill and pygmy elephant) but a huge array of other primates and birds (long and short tail macaques, gibbons, silver and red leaf monkeys, flying squirrels, owls, civets, slow loris, eagles, deer and many more) . Particularly in Danum Valley, take the opportunity to do as much as possible. There are a couple of places on the track and boardwalk that you can go independently providing the sun is up. A few of us in the group met up at 6am on both mornings in Danum and we were rewarded with a group of gibbons eating and playing in the trees on both mornings – a sight not repeated during the day. Seize every opportunity and just explore and enjoy.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the wild mother orangutan with her 1 year old baby up close in Danum Valley. We were the only group on that particular trail at the time and we were able to observe the two eating fruit up in the tree, before coming down and crossing over to a different tree right in front of us. The gentle and relaxed attitude of the mother was such a pleasure to experience and we were able to observe and photograph the two together in their natural habitat for an amazing time. I also personally loved seeing the red leaf monkeys (or maroon langurs). These guys were an incredible flame red and moved through the trees so quickly - such a joy to see. Our guide in Danum (thanks Hairie) did such an amazing time in spotting the wildlife for us, and even managed to find two groups of red leafs on the different days. At Kinabatangan River on our last river safari, we got to see a full herd of pygmy elephants crossing the river right in front of our boat which was just incredible.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had two leaders for the trip - Nizam in Sarawak and J in Sabah. Both were excellent guides and went out of their way to accommodate any requests and ensure that the entire group got the most out of the trip possible. In Sarawak, Nizam was such a lovely, bubbly guide - always looking for things to show us and little extras to do, be it wild swimming in Mulu or going to see the sea stacks (and accidentally finding pink dolphins) in Bako. In Sabah, J took over and quickly learned the group's preferences and desires for the trip. He was excellent at adjusting our schedule or activities to best fit with the group and was able to maximise our wildlife viewings and time spent in nature. I understand that this is the first trip Exodus have operated with the new model of split guide duties. We were lucky that both our guides were amazing, and our group of 7 all gelled really well. It seems to me that it could be difficult for the second guide (and the group) when you switch, having spent the first 5 days bonding and getting into a rhythm with the first guide, only for this to then change on arrival in Sabah. It must be hard for the guide too, to come into an already formed group, but J did a fantastic job.
Advice for Potential Travellers
As mentioned in a previous review, you really do not need much in way of long trousers and tops. It is very hot and humid, so quick-dry shorts and t-shirts are the way to go. It is easy to wash these out in the hotels each evening and they dry quickly in the air conditioning. Almost all the places we stayed (the longhouse excluded) had good air-con and so you could wash and dry clothes quickly and easily. Whilst Borneo is a Muslim country, it is not nearly as conservative as some and shorts and t-shirts are generally fine throughout. Even in Danum, most of us had short-sleeves on; although you definitely do need long trousers and socks there for the leeches. Be prepared that it can and will rain with little to no warning, so if you are carrying expensive camera gear or anything you do not want to get wet, ensure you always have a dry bag or something waterproof to wrap your equipment up in if necessary. I found it far too hot and humid to even consider putting on a poncho or raincoat on during the rain, so just accepted I would get wet. Even after a good soaking in Mulu, I was dry within 15 minutes of the rain stopping. Pack light - you are moving around a lot and do not want to be struggling with a large bag.
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
great tour leader, nice traveling group, great trip
Most Inspirational Moment
our time in Mulu. The caves, the rain forest, the ambiance of the village we stayed in and the locals.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Rony was a great leader, he went out of his way to make sure we got the best experience he could offer. he was so happy that we got to see the big 5 of Borneo. No request was too much to ask for and he went out of his way to make sure that questions and requests were all taken care of.
Advice for Potential Travellers
this is a great trip to take if you are of average fitness or not that young, yet be warned, to be prepared for high temperatures and high humidity, in the 90% range. We have done many trips into 3rd world countries and I must say that this trip was the safest feeling one that I've ever been on.
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
This was a very interesting and enjoyable holiday in the tropical rainforest. Monkeys and birds were plentiful.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing an orangutan mother and baby in the wild and many other monkeys and birds.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Rony enthusiasm and knowledge of wildlife contributed hugely to the success of the holiday. He brought his telescope which allowed us to get very close views of the animals and birds.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Kuching where the tour starts is a very relaxing and interesting place to spend a one/ two extra days.
Introduction to the island, its people and the wildlife.
We saw a lot of wildlife due to the skill of our guides. By the end of the holiday we were able to spot the birds and animals ourselves. Kept busy with many activities and group meals. We felt privileged to see such rare animals in their own habitat in disappearing rainforest.
Most Inspirational Moment
On the river Kinabatangan we were able to see the orangutans, horn bills, prob is us monkey and many birds in the wild. It was much better than seeing them at the feeding platforms.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Rony was excellent throughout being helpful, sociable and knowledgeable. He had the skill as group leader which meant he included everyone in all the activities. I am profoundly deaf but was able to take part and with support hear the talks. He explained the culture and context of the wildlife as well as the bare facts. We really felt looked after.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It was not necessary to have leech socks if you had long socks to tuck your trousers into. It was essential however to have insect repellent and to pack a light suitcase. You are moving regularly and the packing needs to be minimum.
BORNEO WILDLIFE
An excellent introduction into Borneo wildlife. We were a group of 8 and spent a fascinating two weeks discovering the birds and animals of Borneo. Great accommodation and and excellent guide.
Most Inspirational Moment
Snorkelling near KK - beautiful fish and coral plus a large turtle
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roni was great - always informative and incredibly enthusiastic. Took us to lots of interesting places to eat and made sure we saw a huge variety of wildlife.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take two water bottles - it is hot and humid. Walking poles also useful. Be prepared for long and often bumpy rides - the roads outside the cities are not great. While this trip concentrated on wild-life spotting, there is also amazing vegetation with flowers and funghi - don't just look up, there is a lot to see when you look down as well!
Borneo - A must visit in your Exodus trips list
I would recommend this trip, in fact I would say it’s a must, especially if your interested in wildlife and get a better understanding of the socio-economic reasons why rainforests are being replaced by agriculture. From countless up-close wildlife experiences (I would say guaranteed) deep inside the rain forests to amazing natural geological wonders of the world, this trip just keeps on giving. As always our Exodus leader or guide was just excellent on every level. Jay helped up to understand the natural world and its unique symbiotic relationships and the recent balance and regulation to help protect the remaining rain forests. We always felt safe and often important as Jay was well known as a long standing guide in the area. I’ve come away feeling lucky to experience such a country and keep replying my memories so they become indelible ones.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jay was always thinking of the group. I would go as far to say the reason why the group got on so well was due to Jay and his constant consideration for other, which rubbed off on us all. Jay is a major asset to Exodus and if I could book him again on another trip, I would.
Brilliant Borneo
We can thoroughly recommend this tour. The itinerary meant a fair amount of travelling but it was well planned and well supervised by Nostalia our guide. In two weeks we ticked off all the creatures on our pre-tour wish list apart from pigmy elephants, more than compensated by brilliant encounters with bats, orangutans, monkeys, hornbills, and flying squirrels. In between we had time to explore the cities of Kuching and Kota Kinabalu and sample great local food from restaurants and hawker stalls.
Most Inspirational Moment
The first came in Mulu National Park where we witnessed literally millions of bats leave Deer Cave at dusk to begin their evening search for dinner on the wing, twisting and swirling like endless murmurations of starlings. The second came from repeated sightings of orangutans and proboscis monkeys in trees along the Kinabatangan River and in Danum Valley, showing that they can thrive in the wild in areas where their natural habitat is being conserved. A pre-breakfast walk in the Danum Valley lasted less than 100 metres before we encountered orangutans that we joyfully watched for the next 90 minutes as they played and fed in the fruit trees near our lodge.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Nostalia was an excellent leader throughout our tour. She provided clear briefings with everything we needed to know about timings, where we were going, what we could expect to see, and what to wear on different occasions. As expected from an Exodus leader, she proved very knowledgeable on all wildlife matters . She was also a great source of information in the towns and cities we visited, advising us where the locals go to eat excellent food at very reasonable prices.
Advice for Potential Travellers
From the trip notes, we surmised that we would be clad in long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and boots most of the time. In practice, this proved necessary for only four days (Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley) near the end of the trip. For the rest of the time, shorts, t-shirts and trainers/sandals worked very well as long as our exposed limbs were well treated with insect repellent. On the bird-watching front, we had delightful sightings of hornbills, eagles and kingfishers but the vast majority of Borneo's 300+ species proved elusive. If bird watching is a priority, you probably need to seek a specialist birding tour rather than a general wildlife tour like this one.
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer Trip
Really enjoyed the trip. It was very expensive but was worth it for all the wildlife seen. Saw Orangutans, proboscis monkeys, other monkeys and bats and lots of birds and insects. Really enjoyed Bako National Park, Mulu, the snorkelling, Sepilok and Danum Valley. The accommodation overall was good but the food was amazing at Danum Valley (Borneo Rainforest Lodge) which made up for the food at Kinabatangan which a bit plain. The trip was the correct length as well, wouldn’t want it any shorter.
Most Inspirational Moment
Really enjoyed Danum Valley after a difficult walk with the humidity seeing orangutans close up. Also really enjoyed the snorkelling and got my confidence back after a bad experience on another holiday.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roni was a good leader, very organised and he coped very well when one of our group had a fall. Everything was organised properly and I felt he really enjoyed his job.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It is a busy trip and you don't get much free time but really thought I got my monies worth. Leeches weren't as bad as I thought, luckily only got 1 bite that I know of and I didn't buy the leech socks.
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
Great opportunity to sees lots of wildlife in the wild Reasonable pace allowing 2 nights at each location Great end to holiday in the Danum Valley Jungle Resort
Most Inspirational Moment
Watching the male Orangutan making a nest in the rain and then seeing him make an umbrella out of leaves
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent, very helpful with plenty of local insight
Advice for Potential Travellers
Embrace the jungle as much as possible and don't be worried / afraid of insects / malaria etc
Borneo bonanza
This trip exceeded expectations in terms of the variety of wildlife spotted and the competences of the group leader.
Most Inspirational Moment
Getting up close with Orangutans and Proboscis monkeys.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jeffry Ismail was superb. Extremely knowledgeable about wildlife and never stuck for an answer about any aspects of the trip. He was sensitive to individuals' needs, very competent in organisational skills, always smiling and relaxed and with a great sense of humour. He was as excited at wildlife spotting as any member of the group.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for leeches - they are almost bound to get past any defences.
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Saturday
08 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
Sunday Monday
22 Sep 2024 23 Sep 2024
Availability
Guaranteed (On Request)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3999 £ 4999
Optional Single Supplement +£ 440
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
22 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
Sunday Monday
06 Oct 2024 07 Oct 2024
Availability
Guaranteed (On Request)
Land Only Trip Price £ 4299 £ 5299
Optional Single Supplement +£ 440
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
06 Oct 2024 05 Oct 2024
Sunday Monday
20 Oct 2024 21 Oct 2024
Availability
Guaranteed (On Request)
Land Only Trip Price Usually £ 3999Now £ 3699Saving £ 300 Usually £ 5149Now £ 4849Saving £ 300
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 440
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Thursday
21 Feb 2025 20 Feb 2025
Friday Saturday
07 Mar 2025 08 Mar 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5499 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1374 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWednesday Tuesday
12 Mar 2025 11 Mar 2025
Wednesday Thursday
26 Mar 2025 27 Mar 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5449 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1362 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
13 Apr 2025 12 Apr 2025
Sunday Monday
27 Apr 2025 28 Apr 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4499 £ 6649 Book with £ 1124 deposit Book with £ 1662 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
11 May 2025 10 May 2025
Sunday Monday
25 May 2025 26 May 2025
Availability
Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5749 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1437 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
08 Jun 2025 07 Jun 2025
Sunday Monday
22 Jun 2025 23 Jun 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5579 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1394 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWednesday Tuesday
09 Jul 2025 08 Jul 2025
Wednesday Thursday
23 Jul 2025 24 Jul 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5899 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1474 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
27 Jul 2025 26 Jul 2025
Sunday Monday
10 Aug 2025 11 Aug 2025
Availability
Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 6249 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1562 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
10 Aug 2025 09 Aug 2025
Sunday Monday
24 Aug 2025 25 Aug 2025
Availability
Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 6349 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1587 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Thursday
22 Aug 2025 21 Aug 2025
Friday Saturday
05 Sep 2025 06 Sep 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5599 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1399 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWednesday Tuesday
03 Sep 2025 02 Sep 2025
Wednesday Thursday
17 Sep 2025 18 Sep 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5649 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1412 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Wednesday
16 Oct 2025 15 Oct 2025
Thursday Friday
30 Oct 2025 31 Oct 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5949 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1487 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
14 Dec 2025 13 Dec 2025
Sunday Monday
28 Dec 2025 29 Dec 2025
Availability
Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4399 £ 5949 Book with £ 1099 deposit Book with £ 1487 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 465
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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