Best of Borneo: Sarawak & Sabah

Goway Select

Discover Kuching’s vibrant mix of heritage, cuisine, and riverside charm in Malaysian Borneo.
Visit the Semenggoh Nature Reserve to encounter orangutans and explore traditional Bidayuh longhouse culture.
Hike Bako and Gunung Gading National Parks, spotting proboscis monkeys and the rare Rafflesia flower.
Learn Sarawakian cooking techniques during a hands-on market-to-table culinary experience.
Journey from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan and the Danum Valley, ending with tropical serenity on Gaya Island.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,241 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,241 Reviews

Trip Features

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Safari & Wildlife

Vacations that showcase the world's most fascinating wildlife.

Private Guided Experiences

Explore in the company of expert private guides.

Goway Select

Unique trips showcasing the best of Goway's collection.

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Safari & Wildlife

Vacations that showcase the world's most fascinating wildlife.

Private Guided Experiences

Explore in the company of expert private guides.

Goway Select

Unique trips showcasing the best of Goway's collection.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Kuching

DAY

Full Day Excursion to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve & Bidayuh Longhouse

DAY

Exploring the Bako National Park

DAY

Full Day in the Gunung Gading National Park

DAY

Market Visit & Sarawak Cooking Class

DAY

Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

DAY

Full Day Kinabalu Parks Excursion

DAY

Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Bilit

DAY

Kinabatangan River Cruise & Jungle Exploration

DAY

Bilit to Lahad Datu and the Danum Valley

DAY

Trekking in the Danum Valley Jungle

DAY

The Danum Valley to Lahad Datu,o Kota Kinabalu & Gaya Island

DAY

Full Day at Leisure on Gaya Island

DAY

Gaya Island to Kota Kinabalu & Departure

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Kuching

Welcome to Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, Malaysia. Kuching is a vibrant riverside city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. With its charming waterfront, historical landmarks, and bustling markets, Kuching offers visitors a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. Upon arrival at Kuching Airport, meet guide and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Multi Day Tour

Arrive Kuching

Your Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel Kuching

The Waterfront Hotel is located in the heart of Kuching, where decades-old heritage buildings sit side by side with modern buildings. With one of the best views of the Padang Merdeka and the Sarawak River, the hotel is not only a place to rest, but a start of your adventures in Kuching City. The property features 208 modern guest rooms, 2 dining options and a semi-outdoor infinity pool.

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DAY

Full Day Excursion to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve & Bidayuh Longhouse

Start with a drive to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve. Semenggoh is a renowned rehabilitation center for orangutans and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to observe semi-wild orangutans in their natural habitat, offering a close encounter with these incredible creatures in a protected environment. Continue the journey through beautiful limestone formations, scenic countryside fringed by hills and farms to one of the oldest Bidayuh Longhouses. Annah Rais Bidayuh Longhouse is a cultural gem, offering a fascinating glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Bidayuh indigenous community, known for their former headhunting practices. This well-preserved longhouse showcases authentic architecture, communal living spaces, and cultural practices, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and hospitality of the local inhabitants. Enjoy local lunch at the longhouse before travelling back to Kuching.

Multi Day Tour

Semenggoh Nature Reserve and Bidayuh Longhouse Excursion

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel Kuching

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DAY

Exploring the Bako National Park

Today, travel by car and boat to Bako National Park, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rich variety of wildlife and ecosystems. This coastal rainforest sanctuary is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, silver-leaf monkeys, monitor lizards, bearded pigs, variety of birds and pitcher plants. Explore the park’s network of hiking trails, secluded beaches, and unique habitats, offering a captivating experience amidst the beauty of nature. Enjoy a packed lunch during your explorations.

Multi Day Tour

Bako National Park Excursion

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel Kuching

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DAY

Full Day in the Gunung Gading National Park

Today, travel to Gunung Gading National Park on the northern slopes of Mount Gading. This National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is renowned for its tropical rainforests and the remarkable, but rare Rafflesia flowers, the world's largest blooms. Explore the park's hiking trails which showcase the lush rainforest, rugged mountain vistas, and picturesque waterfalls. Enjoy a packed lunch during your adventures.

Multi Day Tour

Gunung Gading National Park Excursion

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel Kuching

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DAY

Market Visit & Sarawak Cooking Class

This morning. travel to the Telang Usan Hotel for a cooking class. Prior to the hands-on session, you'll explore a vibrant local market brimming with an abundance of fresh produce, showcasing a delightful array of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and aromatic herbs integral to Sarawak's gastronomy. Amidst the familiar ingredients, you'll discover a wealth of unique agricultural and jungle products, expanding your culinary horizons. Under the guidance of a seasoned chef, delve into traditional Sarawakian recipes and techniques, where a typical local meal features a harmonious blend of rice, flavorful meat or fish, and fresh vegetables. Embrace the opportunity to prepare select local delicacies based on seasonal availability, observing closely as the chef demonstrates authentic cooking methods while imparting insightful explanations. This immersive experience allows you to refine your cooking skills firsthand while learning valuable tips on ingredient improvisation and substitution, essential for adapting recipes when you are back home. After the class, savor the fruits of your labor and indulge in a delicious lunch before returning to your hotel.

Multi Day Tour

Kuching: Sarawak Cooking Class

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel Kuching

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DAY

Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Kuching Airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Make a brief stop at Signal Hill for a bird's eye view of the city skyline. Rest of the day at leisure. Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a vibrant coastal city boasting stunning sunsets, bustling markets, and a gateway to Borneo's natural wonders. With its blend of urban energy, cultural diversity, and proximity to lush rainforests and idyllic islands, the city offers a captivating experience for adventurers and leisure seekers alike.

Multi Day Tour

Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Horizon Hotel

The Horizon Hotel is located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu and overlooks both the sea and the city. The property features 180 rooms offering scenic views, 4 dining options and an outdoor pool.

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DAY

Full Day Kinabalu Parks Excursion

Today's drive passes across paddy-fields and Dusun villages, traversing the Crocker Range's ridges towards the base of Mount Kinabalu, standing at 1500 meters (5000 feet) high. Upon arrival at the Kinabalu Park Visitor Centre and Mountain Garden, discover an array of natural wonders, including 24 species of vibrant rhododendrons, 10 varieties of carnivorous pitcher plants, a rich collection of 1,400 orchid species, over 600 types of ferns, along with an extensive diversity of oak trees and a plethora of bird species. Continuing the journey to Poring to immerse yourself in the lush tropical rainforest. Experience a unique and thrilling adventure by navigating a treetop canopy walkway elevated 41 meters (135 feet) above the forest floor, offering an exhilarating and distinctive experience.

Multi Day Tour

Kinabalu Parks Excursion

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Horizon Hotel

The Horizon Hotel is located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu and overlooks both the sea and the city. The property features 180 rooms offering scenic views, 4 dining options and an outdoor pool.

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DAY

Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Bilit

Early morning check out and transfer to Kota Kinabalu Airport for your flight to Sandakan. Upon arrival at Sandakan Airport you will be met and travel to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre serves as a refuge for orphaned and injured Orangutans, offering a nurturing environment for their rehabilitation and eventual release into the wild. Watch the Orangutans, also known as the 'Man of the Jungle' in the local language, gracefully swing from branch to branch on their way to the feeding station nestled within the forest. Enjoy a short video and explore the Exhibition Hall to learn more about the magnificent Orangutans, one of nature's most endangered animal species. Following the visit to Sepilok, continue to the Sun Bear Conservation Center to see the world's smallest bear thriving in its natural habitat. Enjoy lunch at the Sepilok Jungle Resort. Post-lunch, embark on an overland journey to Bilit, Kinabatangan River, arriving mid afternoon for check-in. Delight in afternoon tea featuring local treats and a brief session with the nature guide before a captivating cruise along the Kinabatangan River, Sabah's longest river, offering remarkable wildlife observations directly from the boat.

Multi Day Tour

Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan to Bilit

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Bilit Adventure Lodge

The Bilit Adventure Lodge is located in the jungle at Kampung Bilit, Kinabatangan River and features 16 standard air conditioned rooms. Dining outdoors in the open-air space while immersing in the nighttime sounds is an unforgettable experience. The serene natural environment and the stunning lodge garden enhance the ambiance. The team comprises entirely of local staff, adding to the authentic atmosphere.

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DAY

Kinabatangan River Cruise & Jungle Exploration

Start the day with an early 6:00 am river cruise. Following the one-hour boat excursion, return to the Lodge for breakfast. In the late morning, embark on a guided jungle hike through the forest for wildlife spotting. After the trek, return to refresh, enjoy lunch, and perhaps take a brief rest. Later in the afternoon, prepare for another river cruise to explore a different section of the river and witness further wildlife sightings.

Multi Day Tour

Jungle Excursions

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Bilit Adventure Lodge

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DAY

Bilit to Lahad Datu and the Danum Valley

Today, travel to Borneo Rainforest Lodge Lahad Datu office. After registration, continue overland into Danum Conservation Area through Borneo jungle roads. Witness the shifting landscapes, from regenerating forests to ancient virgin rainforests spanning a million years. Danum Valley, a pristine conservation area boasts ancient rainforests teeming with diverse wildlife and offers immersive experiences for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. Upon arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, check-in and get ready for an introductory trek along Nature Trails and the Canopy Walkway. As night falls, experience a Guided Safari Night Drive after dinner.

Multi Day Tour

Bilit to Lahad Datu to Danum Valley

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is situated right in the heart of one of the world's oldest rainforests, Danum Valley. It is a cozy and luxurious eco-resort that provides guests with a unique and comfortable experience within the midst of the pristine wilderness of Danum Valley. The property has 31 individual chalets with fans and en-suite bathrooms. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge is the perfect place to relax and unwind while exploring the incredible diversity of life that can be found in Danum Valley.

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DAY

Trekking in the Danum Valley Jungle

After breakfast, set off for a guided excursion along the "Coffin Trail," a 3-kilometer round trip trek leading to an ancient burial site, featuring a 40-minute ascent to a breathtaking viewpoint and returning via the jacuzzi pool. Return to the lodge for lunch and in the afternoon, explore the Hornbill Trail. Cap off the day with an evening night drive or walk after dinner.

Multi Day Tour

Danum Valley Jungle Excursions

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

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DAY

The Danum Valley to Lahad Datu,o Kota Kinabalu & Gaya Island

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Lahad Datu Airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport you will be met and transferred to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal for your scheduled boat transfer to Gaya Island. Rest of the day at leisure to enjoy resort and breathtaking views.

Multi Day Tour

Danum Valley to Lahad Datu to Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort is set on an island within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and is tucked amidst protected mangroves & sheltered coral reefs. Discover a sanctuary nestled in the hillside of an ancient rainforest that offers views of the South China Sea and a stunning outline of Mount Kinabalu on the horizon. The property offers 121 rooms with modern amenities, 5 dining options, a private beach and an outdoor pool.

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DAY

Full Day at Leisure on Gaya Island

Enjoy a day at leisure. Gaya Island provides a serene escape amidst captivating natural beauty and is known for pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life in its surrounding waters. Lots of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, nature exploration or simply relaxing.

Multi Day Tour

Gaya Island

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Gaya Island Resort

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DAY

Gaya Island to Kota Kinabalu & Departure

After breakfast, check out and take your scheduled boat transfer back to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. Meet your guide and transfer to Kota Kinabalu International Airport for your flight.

Multi Day Tour

Depart Kota Kinabalu

Meal

Breakfast

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Tanjung Puting National Park

Pygmy Elephant

South Peak of Kinabalu

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

Kota KinabaluPartly Cloudy

34°C / 94°F

60mm / 2.3"

KuchingPartly Cloudy

35°C / 95°F

40mm / 1.6"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,241 Reviews

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We were trying to navigate Swiss Travel Center to book a 10 day train trip through Switzerland. It was exactly what we wanted but navigating their site was extremely difficult for us. Goway Travel picked up on our plight and put us in contact with Jacqueline Fagooli, one of their agents. From there on everything was so smooth. Their efficiency, communication, and thoroughness were beyond our expectations. The trip was fabulous and kudos to Jacqueline and Goway for their help in making it so.Carolyn McCormack

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The destination specialist I've worked with (Kim Rawlings) has provided exceptional service. She is very knowledgeable of her region and everything they have to offer. She is very prompt in her communication and follow-up. She listens and is very attentive to my client's needs and wants. Kim's personality makes one feel like they've known each other for years. If GoWay had a customer service model, Kim is it.T. Jackson, Tribe Trek Travel

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Such thoughtful and sincere communication with my advisor Katie! Even though the trip didn’t come into fruition as expected, she still remained committed to adjusting around our itinerary every step of the way. I’m very thankful for the opportunity she gave us as well as just general ideas for the trip.Jenna

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Working with Isabella on a families trip to Ireland! The itinerary was 2 weeks, self drive with many excursions and a family wedding in the middle of it all! She was amazing from start to finish! She answered every question my clients had! She gave the best recommendations! So many details and planning went into this amazing trip! If i could give 10 stars I would! She would call me to make sure everything looked great! Thank you Isabella at Goway! You are the BEST and made this so easy for everyone! ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Christine Amling

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I just returned from escorting 34 people to China with four stops. We had hotels, local guides and extensive daily sightseeing. We had flights and we had high speed rail. There were numerous components that could have gone wrong but did not. I would like to highly recommend local guide Yoyo in Shanghai as well as Kevin in Xian. Two of the best guides I have ever had anywhere in the world. Suzette Castro and her team at the Goway Group Department did an excellent job helping me put this together. I was demanding, they were totally cooperative. It went well. I will be back. Amy Fink, CTC at Blue Ribbon Travel ArrangementsAmy in San Bruno, CA

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What do the experts say?

Harpreet Litt

Destination Specialist

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I love Malaysia's delicious food. The country is also incredibly affordable, and visitors' easy access to public transit is a great way for them to experience local life.

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Brent Morris

Destination Specialist

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If you want to get out of the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, then you should visit Malacca. The history of this ancient port city is well worth the trip.

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Brent Morris

Destination Specialist

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I absolutely love travelling through Malaysia by train. It is incredibly scenic. I also love Kuala Lumpur's amazing skyline and Malacca's old Portuguese and Dutch buildings.

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Insider Benefits

Best of Borneo: Sarawak & Sabah

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

Arrive in Kuching

Full Day Excursion to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve & Bidayuh Longhouse

Exploring the Bako National Park

Full Day in the Gunung Gading National Park

Market Visit & Sarawak Cooking Class

Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

Full Day Kinabalu Parks Excursion

Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Bilit

Kinabatangan River Cruise & Jungle Exploration

Bilit to Lahad Datu and the Danum Valley

Trekking in the Danum Valley Jungle

The Danum Valley to Lahad Datu,o Kota Kinabalu & Gaya Island

Full Day at Leisure on Gaya Island

Gaya Island to Kota Kinabalu & Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Kuching

Full Day Excursion to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve & Bidayuh Longhouse

Exploring the Bako National Park

Full Day in the Gunung Gading National Park

Market Visit & Sarawak Cooking Class

Kuching to Kota Kinabalu

Full Day Kinabalu Parks Excursion

Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan & Bilit

Kinabatangan River Cruise & Jungle Exploration

Bilit to Lahad Datu and the Danum Valley

Trekking in the Danum Valley Jungle

The Danum Valley to Lahad Datu,o Kota Kinabalu & Gaya Island

Full Day at Leisure on Gaya Island

Gaya Island to Kota Kinabalu & Departure

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Most Popular Time to Travel

Know when to go.

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

What do the experts say?

Harpreet Litt

Brent Morris

Brent Morris

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.