Borneo Discovery with Beach Stay

Day 1 | Arrival Sandakan
We meet at the Sandakan Airport and head to the Sepilok Area. Stop for lunch before dropping off at the resort. After check-in at MY Nature Resort, we have free time to explore the lush tropical forest that surrounds the resort. At 6 pm, we head to the flying squirrel platform to watch these graceful animals glide through the treetops. We will then return to the resort for dinner. Overnight at MY Nature Resort.

Day 2 | Sandakan
Morning at leisure. After lunch, we visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary in the centre of the mangrove forest near Samawang Village. Here we get the perfect observation spot to view these unique primates that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, and we watch them leaping from tree to tree in a superb, fast and stylish movement. Afterwards, head over to the Rainforest Discovery Centre where you can explore the orchid garden, observe various plant species, and embark on the Canopy Walkway adventure. This exceptional canopy walk offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter the diverse wildlife inhabiting the untouched rainforest. Return to the resort.

Day 3 | Sandakan – Abai
After breakfast, we then drive 30 minutes to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to observe man’s closest relative, the orangutan, being rehabilitated to its natural habitat. Here at 10 am, we feed the orangutans and take a walk in Borneo’s tropical lowland dipterocarp forest. We continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre which aims to release rescued sun bears into the enclosed forest. Next, we transfer to Sandakan Jetty for the scheduled boat which departs at 1200hrs, a 60-minute boat cruise, leaving at midday through the mangroves in the Kinabatangan River Sanctuary, to reach Abai Jungle Lodge. In the afternoon, we enjoy another boat cruise to spot more wildlife and after sunset we watch the fireflies light up like a Christmas tree. In the evening, we search for birds, snakes, insects, and other wildlife with our guide on a night jungle trek. Lunch and dinner are at the lodge. Overnight at Abai Jungle Lodge.

Day 4 | Abai – Sukau
The early bird catches the worm and waking early is rewarded with the sights and sounds of nature springing to life at dawn. We then embark on an early-morning river cruise to Pitas Lake to spot the plethora of wildlife that call the picturesque body of water home. We then head to Abai Jungle Platform for breakfast, surrounded by nature. We then hit the water again for a scenic boat cruise to Sukau Village at 10 am. Upon arrival, we then lunch and check-in at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge at about 12 pm, before setting off on a cruise at 4.30 pm along Menanggul River, a small tributary of the Kinabatangan in search of wild orangutans, a rare probosci's monkeys and pygmy elephants. At 7.30 pm, we return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Day 5 | Sukau – Ranau
Following breakfast, complete the check-out process at the resort and embark on a land journey to Sabah Tea Garden. Enjoy a guided tour of the plantation and factory, where you'll gain fascinating. insights into the cultivation, harvesting, processing, packaging, and brewing of organic pesticide-free tea. As the melodious chirping of birds fills the air, immerse yourself in the refreshing mountain breeze while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforests. Treat yourself to delectable tea-infused desserts and local cuisines at the on-site restaurant. Later, retreat to a charming cottage nestled within the 2,408-hectare tea estate, situated 700 meters above sea level in the rainforest foothills of Mount Kinabalu. Revel in the serene ambience as you witness the beginning of the sunset, with the majestic mountain providing a stunning backdrop. Spend the night in tranquillity at the Sabah Tea Garden Cottage, surrounded by nature's beauty. Overnight at Sabah Tea Resort Cottage.

Day 6 | Ranau – Kota Kinabalu
Awaken to the tranquil embrace of a misty morning, unveiling breathtaking views of sun-kissed Mount Kinabalu. As birds serenade the dawn and low-hanging clouds envelop the valleys, take a leisurely stroll through the tea estate or simply unwind on your private balcony. Following a hearty breakfast bid farewell to the resort and embark on a scenic hour-long journey to the historic Kundasang War Memorial. Here, delve into the poignant stories of bravery from the past, particularly during the harrowing Death March. Dedicated to the British and Australian soldiers who perished in the Sandakan POW camp, the memorial comprises four interconnected areas—the Australian Garden, English Rose Garden, Borneo Garden, and Contemplation Garden—each honouring the victims' respective homelands. Continue your expedition to Malaysia's inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinabalu National Park, where you'll immediately notice a refreshing drop in temperature. Situated at 1,500 meters above sea level, this expansive 754-square-kilometre sanctuary showcases the awe-inspiring centrepiece, Mount Kinabalu. Soaring to 4,095.2 meters with peaks shrouded in clouds, the majestic mountain captivates visitors with its splendour. Kinabalu Park boasts an impressive array of biodiversity, housing approximately 4,500 plant species, including 1,500 orchid varieties, 77 of which are exclusive to the park. Additionally, the park provides a habitat for 289 bird species and 290 butterfly species. Embark on a guided walk through the Botanical Garden, where you'll discover the park's rich biological diversity, from carnivorous Pitcher Plants to rare orchid species, each thriving in Mount Kinabalu's distinct climatic zones. After immersing yourself in the park's natural wonders, journey back to Kota Kinabalu, where you'll check in to your accommodations for a well-deserved rest and relaxation. Overnight at Grandis Hotel & Resort.

Day 7 | Kota Kinabalu
Savour the soul of Sabah with a visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, home to different ethnic minorities who welcome us into their homes. We transfer 25 minutes to the village, travelling on roads surrounded by greenery. Upon arrival we visit different homes which were each built by tribal descendants and these represent each indigenous group through different architectural styles. We acquaint ourselves with each tribe as they let us into their dwellings to observe their simple yet traditional lives and as we explore the village we stop at demonstration huts where daily activities of generational activities come to life such as blow piping, igniting a fire with a bamboo tree and tattooing. At the end of the journey into the past, we will have been given the chance to see, hear, taste and feel the uniqueness of what Sabah truly is. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at Grandis Hotel & Resort.

Day 8 | Kota Kinabalu
Get up close to nature at Pulau Gaya, the largest of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s five islands which is known to have some of the best lowland forests. Transferring from our hotel to the jetty, we board a 15-minute ferry cruise to Pulau Gaya where upon arrival, we trek for 90 minutes through coastal vegetation, mangrove swamp and lowland dipterocarp forest. On the way our guide will give us an insight into the flora and fauna and after we have trekked through this primary forest, we board a boat to transfer to nearby Sapi Island, the smallest among the five islands that is well-known for snorkelling and its colourful marine life. Here we spend the day at leisure, whether that is swimming, snorkelling, or relaxing on the beach and short and simple trails are available for those feeling adventurous. A barbecue lunch is served on the beach and at 3 pm we board a boat from the island jetty to Sabah and transfer back to our hotel. Overnight at Grandis Hotel & Resort.  

Day 9 | Kota Kinabalu
At leisure. Overnight at Grandis Hotel & Resort.

Day 10 - 13 | Kota Kinabalu - Tuaran
After breakfast transfer to Tuaran for your beach stay. Explore your beach stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Day 14 | Kota Kinabalu - Tuaran
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Kota Kinabalu International Airport for your flight back home