Trekking Borneo & Beyond

Trekking Borneo & Beyond

909 Views
15 Days From

$4273

$4065

Trekking Borneo & Beyond

15 Days Starting in Kuala Lumpur and ending in Kota Kinabalu

Visiting: Borneo, Malaysia

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TLM

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate / Challenging

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Trekking, Walking

From: $4273 $4065 Operator discount: -$208

NB: Prices correct on 29-Jun-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

South East Asia’s tallest mountain, Mt. Kinabalu, towers over the Sulu Sea and Borneo’s sweeping jungles. In the east of the world’s third largest island Orang-utans populate the trees of Sepilok, whilst on the Malayan Peninsula rivers gush through Taman Negara, cloud forests share the highlands with tea plantations and strawberry farms and the country’s modern capital is a melting pot of cultures. We peek behind the green curtain of Malaysia’s primeval forests as we don our hiking boots and go trekking around Borneo and beyond.

Highlights

  • Sepilok's Orang-utans

  • The jungles of Taman Nagara

  • Summit of Mt. Kinabalu

  • Walks through the jungle

  • Food tour of Kuala Lumpur

Itinerary

Day 1


Depart London



Day 2


Those making their own way to Kuala Lumpur can arrive at the hotel at any
time today. There will be a welcome meeting with your tour leader this
evening.
*Capitol Hotel or similar*



Day 3


Malaysia prides itself in its diversity and this is reflected in its capital,
Kuala Lumpur (KL) with its mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese traditions and
people. One of the best ways of exploring this diversity is through a food
tour of city. We discover different neighbourhoods with their distinct
sights, sounds, smells and, of course, delicacies.

We start our journey at Masjid Jamek and learn about how city of Kuala Lumpur
started. What better way to enjoy the day by sampling typical food that
Malaysians enjoy at a local eatery. Wandering through the small streets of
KL, uncover the cultures of the Chinese and Indian communities who came to KL
to make their fame & fortune, but stayed on instead to add on another
cultural dimension to the Malaysian cultural landscape. We also visit KL’s
oldest Chinese and Indian temple to understand more about these communities.

Our visit to Chinatown is rewarded by tasty noodles amongst the locals. After
this, take a short ride on KL’s modern local transport system towards
Brickfields. This is Little India for KL, and our senses will be assaulted by
loud and colourful architecture, music and food as we walk through the Indian
neighbourhood. We sample delicious Indian dishes served on banana leaf and
seek out street vendors for snacks to end our food journey.

This afternoon we use public transport and visit the Batu Caves. These
limestone caves are a holy Hindu site and are guarded by a giant statue of
the Hindu god Lord Murugan. This is the 2nd tallest statue of a Hindu deity
in the world. Behind the statue are the 272 steps that lead to the caves, and
large numbers of monkeys.

Those wanting to have a drink with some amazing views may wish to go to the
Heli Lounge Bar later this evening for 360' views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline
light up at night.

*Capitol Hotel or similar*



Day 4


An early start to the day as we aim to check out of the hotel around 6:30am
to drive about 30 minutes to the start of the trail on Apek Hill, which is
part of the Sungei Putek forest reserve. A popular place with locals to
exercise, we can expect to come across some locals on the trail. We will
follow a loop trail which starts off with a moderate climb up to about 400m,
where we pause to enjoy a packed breakfast before hiking down another trail
back to the start (some sections may be a little slippery along the way if it
has rained).
We will then rejoin our minibus and transfer 5-6 hours to the Cameron
Highlands with a lunch stop along the way.
The Cameron Highlands is a British-era hill station and the nights are
noticeably cooler here. The area is known for its strawberry farms and tea
plantations. For those who are interested, there may be time to visit one of
the local tea plantations or simply enjoy tea and scones. 
*Century Pines or similar*



Day 5


Meeting our local guide at the hotel at 08:30 we embark on a jungle trek
through the highlands up to Gunung Berembun. The well maintained trail
gradually takes us up the side of a river valley on an undulating path with a
fairly steep final ascent to reach the summit (1,840m). The Berembun range is
protected primary forest and the air is generally cooler, though it can get
very humid. There’s a lot of birdlife and, thanks to the altitude, lots of
mosses and lichen.
Reaching the peak we can enjoy views of the tea plantations below. We head
back along a different route which can be steep in places and you may need to
help your balance by grabbing on to tree roots. The trek ends close to the
hotel. 
*Century Pines or similar*



Day 6


Leaving the highlands we journey to one of the oldest remaining rainforests
in the world in Taman Negara National Park (about 5 hours plus stops). These
primeval forests, dating back 130 million years and covering 4,343 square kms
are home to rare animals including Malayan tigers, Indian elephants and
crab-eating macaques (though these animals are rarely seen). We should arrive
mid-afternoon and settle into our jungle lodge. There should be time to relax
or explore the grounds and watch the many monkeys who hang around the lodge.
This evening there is the option to go out on an optional night walk in
search of interesting insects and nocturnal animals.
*Mutiara Resort or similar*



Day 7


Today we explore Taman Negara’s primary forest as we head deep into the
jungle on 3-4 hour trek to Tabing. The trek itself is mostly flat and follows
the meandering river. As we head further from the park entrance we get a
better feel for this primeval forest, one of the oldest in the world.

As we reach the end of the trail we are met by our boats which take us to
Lata Berkoh (Cascade Waterfall) some 20 minutes away.  Here we have some
time to enjoy our packed lunch.

We eventually get back on the boats and head back to our lodge, 45 minutes
away. We will be arriving back at the lodge mid-afternoon and the rest of the
afternoon is free to either relax or go on some hikes independently along the
boardwalks near the lodge.

*Mutiara Resort or similar*



Day 8


We spend today exploring the park from the canopy, ground and water. We start
off by walking along boardwalks before taking to the treetops on a 300m long
canopy walk rising up to 40m above the forest floor. The canopy walk is along
a series of fortified rope bridges, these are perfectly safe but if they make
you nervous it is possible to wait for the rest of the group at the bottom of
the canopy walk. This gives us the chance to discover the forest from a
different angle before returning to the ground.

We then take a hike up Teresek Hill along boardwalks. Whilst only 350m high,
Teresek Hill offers panoramic views of the oldest rainforest in the world!

Later this afternoon we take to the park’s rivers and ‘shoot’ rapids.
Boarding motorised canoes we have a trip along the river including through
several sets of rapids. Whilst not quite like white-water rafting, it is
still good fun to go down the rapids, Be ready to get wet! 

*Mutiara Resort or similar*



Day 9


Leaving the rainforest behind we return to the urban jungle, KL. The drive
from Taman Negara to KL should take about 4 hours.

Depending on what time we arrive back in Kuala Lumpur there may be a bit of
free time for some lunch before we head to the airport to catch our flight to
Borneo. Please note there is a 15kg restriction on checked baggage for the
domestic flight, but it is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport
or your leader can arrange this at the start of the tour.

Malaysia is a country of two-halves, the Malaysian Peninsula on the one hand
and Borneo on the other. This afternoon we leave the Peninsula and our first
leader behind and head for the island of Borneo where our next leader will be
waiting for us. The flight to Sandakan takes about 3 hours arriving in the
evening, then transferring to our lodge in Sepilok.

*Sepilok Jungle Resort or similar*



Day 10


This morning we visit Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary. Set up in 1964, the 43
sqkm reserve of primary forest is the largest Orang-utan sanctuary in the
world and helps rehabilitate orphaned or captured Orang-utans back into the
wild. We visit the informative park headquarters and go looking for
Orang-utans during feeding time. As the ticket is valid all day you'll be
able to return for the afternoon feeding if you wish. We may also watch young
Orang-utans in the nursery section. There is also the opportunity to visit
the nearby Sunbear Conservation Centre. Other options include visiting the
rainforest discover centre and the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.
*Sepilok Jungle Resort or similar*



Day 11


Today we have an early start and head out on the Sepilok Laut Trail. This
walk, of around 9.2kms, starts from the rainforest discovery centre where we
have a chance to do a canopy walk. From here the trail makes its way through
primary forest giving us the opportunity to experience flora and fauna of
eastern Borneo's lowlands. The reserve we walk through is home to 350 species
of trees, 90 species of mammal and 200 species of birds. The trek itself
includes two fairly steep hills along with several smaller hills and can get
particularly muddy during the rainy season. We also recommend wearing leech
socks (which can be purchased locally) or tuck your trousers into football
socks.
The trek ends at the Sepilok Laut reception center where boardwalks allow us
to explore a mangrove area filled with fiddler crabs, macaques and monitor
lizards. We later take a boat for around 20 minutes to Sandakan Jetty before
catching a 30 minutes transfer back to Sepilok.
*Sepilok Jungle Resort or similar*



Day 12


Today we head towards the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, Mt. Kinabalu.
The journey will take 5-6 hours. Depending on time we should have the
opportunity to visit the Kundasang War Memorial (optional) which commemorates
Prisoners of War who died during the infamous death marches during World War
II. The memorial is made up of four gardens, the Australian, English,
Malaysian and the Contemplation Garden that represent the different
nationalities. There are also a number of self-guided trails through the
gardens at the base of the mountain.
This evening we will have a briefing about the 2-day Mt. Kinabalu trek and we
will need to pack our bags for the trek. Our main packs will be left behind.
Porters are available to carry bags up to the hut we will be staying at
tomorrow night, please ask your leaders about this. It is recommended that
each trekker brings a rain jacket, warm hat, waterproof gloves, fleece,
personal first aid kit, head-torch, sun cream, sunglasses, a change of
clothes, toiletries, snacks, water and earplugs. Ideally you should have a
30-35L pack.
Tonight we stay in dorms with shared bathrooms and depending on the gender
make-up of the group couples may have to be split into separate dorms.
*Kinabalu Park HQ*



Day 13


Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in South East Asia at 4095m. It is an
impressive mountain with its lower slopes covered in thick vegetation rising
up the huge granite walls.
Due to its great height, Mount Kinabalu has a number of different climatic
zones. It has an enormous variety of plants and animals and is a naturalist's
paradise. There are half of the world's flowering plants on this mountain
alone. There are rhododendrons, innumerable mosses, fungi and ferns, over
1,200 species of orchid and the largest flowering plant in the world, the
Rafflesia. Particularly interesting are the carnivorous and insectivorous
pitcher plants. There are many animals including badgers, monkeys, squirrels,
flying lemurs, and deer. However the chances of seeing many of these on the
mountain climb are rare as the trail is well trodden and frequently visited.
We are more likely to encounter the many birds, snakes, and insects of the
region.
The ascent of Mount Kinabalu is not technically difficult but most people
find it challenging so you need to be fit and prepared for a tough two days.
The path is wide and clear so you can climb at your own walking pace.
Obviously the altitude makes it tougher the higher you climb but it really
only becomes harder on the summit day. The trek climbs up through a multitude
of vegetation zones and cloud forest to reach Laban Rata Resthouse at 3,300m.
The temperature is noticeably colder due to the altitude and really feels
chilly, especially when it clouds over. There is a very eerie feel to the
place with the huge summit cliffs looming up behind the mountain huts.
We spend the night in dorms in the hut and make the summit climb very early
the next morning. Note that, once again, couples may be split depending on
the gender makeup of the group. 
*Laban Rata Hut*



Day 14


We awaken around 2am to slowly make our way to the summit. The challenging
climb from Laban Rata takes up to 5 hours, depending on fitness and the
impact of altitude. Upon leaving Laban Rata it is approx. 350 meters through
the treeline to some viewing decks before a section of wooden steps with
handrails all the way to the summit. The path levels out as we pass through a
boulder field and join Sayat Sayat, the last check point before the summit,
where there are toilets. From Sayat Sayat a final rope marks the route to the
summit  a distance of about 1.8km. Waterproof gloves are recommended to
protect your hands from rope burn (as well as to keep them warm). A torch,
waterproofs and warm layers are also essential. As the dawn breaks we will be
close to the summit, Low's Peak. The momentous summit feeling is easily
matched by the tremendous view stretching across this part of Borneo as the
early morning unfolds. On clear days you can see as far as the southern
islands of the Philippines. With a long way to descend and aching legs, we
return to the base at Laban Rata to collect any belongings and have
breakfast. We continue down the mountain back to the start where there is
normally a simple afternoon tea (with fried rice and bread) for trekkers.

Once we have returned to the bottom we will transfer to our beach hotel by
bus, approximately 3 - 4 hours' drive. Arrival time will obviously be
determined by what time we leave Kinabalu Park so this will be sometime in
the afternoon or evening. 

*Beringgis Resort or similar*



Day 15


This day is free to explore Kota Kinabalu, relax by the pool or have a
massage to soothe aching muscles at a nearby spa. Alternatively you can take
a short boat journey to one of the nearby islands to take advantage of the
snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities or there is also the option to
hire a kayak.
*Beringgis Resort or similar*



Day 16


The trip ends today after breakfast, those on the group flights transfer will
be taken to the airport for their flight home via KL.



What's Included

  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

  • All Accommodation

  • All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners included

  • Fully Guided

What's Not Included

  • Airport transfers for LO bookings

  • Travel Insurance

  • Visas & vaccinations

  • Single accommodation

Food


All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners are included.

You should allow about USD 200-300 for food not included. If you fancy a few
drinks then you may want to bring a little more as beer and other alcoholic
drinks are similar to western prices.

Most meals will be basic, based around rice and noodles, although most
accommodation does offer a western breakfast of beans, toast and eggs. In the
bigger hotels and cities the full range of Western and local foods are
available.

You can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. In Kuala Lumpur we will
go on a food tour and have the opportunity to experience the country’s
diverse culinary heritage.

Vegetarians can be catered for but please be aware that choice may be limited
outside the main cities and inform us before departure of any special dietary
requests. Please note that in Borneo the availability of certain products is
minimal or non-existent, for example wheat or dairy-free, please be prepared
for this and you may need to bring these from home.

Accommodation

There are six nights in hotels, five guesthouse nights and two nights in a mountain lodge. We stay in a range of accommodations on this trip from city hotels (in Kuala Lumpur) to dormitories in mountain huts (on Mount Kinabalu). Most accommodation has private bathrooms and mosquito nets are provided when necessary. The two nights spent on Mount Kinabalu (at the base of the mountain and at Laban Rata) are in dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms. Depending on the gender make-up of the group, couples may need to be split, though we do our utmost to avoid having to do this.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Sabah and Malaysia

Excellent fortnight. Jason and Jeffry were wonderf

Excellent fortnight. Jason and Jeffry were wonderful guys to have as guides

Trek Malaysia

Great trip...KL to Taman Nagara rainforest then to

Great trip...KL to Taman Nagara rainforest then tough trek up Mt Kinabalu

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