Borneo Island On World Map
Located in Southeast Asia, Borneo Island is a tropical paradise that boasts an array of attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back beach vacation or an adventurous jungle trek, Borneo Island has something for every type of traveler. In this travel guide, we’ll highlight the top things to see and do on Borneo Island.
Top Attractions
Borneo Island is home to several must-see attractions, including:
- Kota Kinabalu
- Mulu Caves
- Mount Kinabalu
- Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
- Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Sabah, located on the northwest coast of Borneo. It offers a range of attractions, including the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, Signal Hill Observatory, and the Sabah State Museum. Visitors can also enjoy the bustling night market and the seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Mulu Caves
The Mulu Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest cave systems in the world. Visitors can explore the caves on a guided tour, which includes a boat ride, jungle trek, and a visit to the Bat Observatory to see the millions of bats that inhabit the caves.
Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia and a popular destination for hikers. The trek to the summit takes two days and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the Kinabalu Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
The Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Sepilok is a conservation center dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing orphaned orangutans back into the wild. Visitors can observe the orangutans during feeding times and learn about the center’s conservation efforts.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a collection of five islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters, as well as relaxing on the white sand beaches.
Hidden Gems
Borneo Island is full of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Here are a few worth checking out:
- Sipadan Island
- Turtle Islands Park
- Kudat
- Kinabatangan River
- Maliau Basin
Sipadan Island
Sipadan Island is a world-renowned dive site that offers some of the best diving in the world. It’s home to a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and schools of colorful fish.
Turtle Islands Park
The Turtle Islands Park is a conservation area that protects the nesting sites of green and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can witness the turtles laying their eggs and the hatchlings making their way to the sea.
Kudat
Kudat is a small town on the northern tip of Borneo Island. It offers a glimpse into the traditional culture of the Rungus people, who are known for their intricate beadwork and weaving.
Kinabatangan River
The Kinabatangan River is the second-longest river in Malaysia and a popular destination for wildlife spotting. Visitors can take a boat tour to see proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants in their natural habitat.
Maliau Basin
The Maliau Basin is a pristine wilderness area that’s often referred to as the “Lost World of Sabah.” It’s home to a range of wildlife, including clouded leopards, sun bears, and bearded pigs. Visitors can explore the area on a guided trek.
Food Scene
Borneo Island is a food lover’s paradise, with a range of culinary delights to try. Some must-try dishes include:
- Nasi Lemak
- Laksa
- Satay
- Rendang
- Roti Canai
Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a popular breakfast dish in Malaysia that’s made with coconut rice, fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and a spicy sambal sauce.
Laksa
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that’s popular in Southeast Asia. The Malaysian version is made with a coconut milk-based broth and topped with shrimp, chicken, and tofu.
Satay
Satay is a skewered meat dish that’s marinated in a spice paste and grilled over charcoal. It’s often served with a peanut sauce.
Rendang
Rendang is a slow-cooked beef dish that’s flavored with a blend of spices, including lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. It’s typically served with rice.
Roti Canai
Roti Canai is a flaky, layered flatbread that’s often served with a curry sauce for dipping.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Borneo Island can be an affordable destination for budget travelers. Here are a few tips for saving money:
- Eat at local street food stalls
- Use public transportation
- Stay in budget accommodations like hostels or homestays
- Book tours and activities directly with local operators
- Avoid peak travel times
Outdoor Adventures
Borneo Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to choose from. Here are a few to consider:
- Hiking in the Kinabalu Park
- Whitewater rafting on the Padas River
- Snorkeling and diving in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
- Exploring the Mulu Caves
- Wildlife spotting along the Kinabatangan River
Historical Landmarks
Borneo Island has a rich history that’s reflected in its many historical landmarks. Here are a few to explore:
- Sultan Abdul Rahman Mosque
- Atkinson Clock Tower
- Agnes Keith House
- St. Michael’s Church
- Keningau Oath Stone
Family-Friendly Activities
Borneo Island is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. Here are a few to consider:
- Visiting the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
- Snorkeling in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
- Exploring the Mulu Caves
- Wildlife spotting along the Kinabatangan River
- Visiting the Sabah State Museum
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different on your trip to Borneo Island, consider these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- Visiting the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Center
- Exploring the Danum Valley Conservation Area
- Learning about traditional weaving in Kudat
- Experiencing the local culture in a homestay
- Learning about the history of the Headhunters at the Monsopiad Cultural Village
Natural Wonders
Borneo Island is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are a few:
- Mount Kinabalu
- The Mulu Caves
- Kinabatangan River
- Danum Valley Conservation Area
- Turtle Islands Park
Vibrant Nightlife
Borneo Island has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here are a few hotspots:
- El Centro
- The Shamrock Irish Bar
- Cocktail Bar
- The Loft
- Bed
Local Markets