Borneo FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Borneo?

Borneo is one of the world’s great wildlife destinations, home to ancient rainforests, winding jungle rivers and some of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable biodiversity. In Malaysian Borneo, destinations such as the Kinabatangan River, Sepilok, Mulu National Park, and Danum Valley offer excellent opportunities to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and colourful hornbills, alongside an extraordinary variety of birdlife and tropical flora.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore further, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to Borneo from the UK.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Borneo from the UK?

A: British citizens do not need a visa for tourism visits to Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Travellers are also required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before arrival. Entry requirements can change, so we recommend checking the latest advice before travelling.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Borneo?

A: No vaccinations are mandatory for travel to Malaysia, although it is recommended that routine UK vaccinations are up to date. For the latest advice, visit TravelHealthPro or speak to your GP before travelling.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Borneo?

A: Borneo has a tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Long trousers and lightweight long-sleeved tops are useful for protection against insects and the sun, particularly during rainforest walks. A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho is also recommended, as tropical showers can occur at any time.

Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots with good grip are ideal for jungle walks and wildlife excursions. It is also worth bringing insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and a reusable water bottle. Binoculars are highly recommended for spotting wildlife, particularly orangutans and birdlife. Visitors staying in rainforest areas such as Danum Valley can also buy leech socks from the Borneo Rainforest Lodge shop.

Electricity in Malaysia is 240V, the same as the UK, and British three-pin plugs are used, so adapters are generally not required.

We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, a photocopy of your passport and a small day bag for excursions.

Q: When is the best time to visit Borneo?

A: Borneo can be visited year-round, although the driest months are generally from March to October. Wildlife viewing is possible throughout the year, and even during wetter months, rain often comes in short tropical showers rather than lasting all day.

Q: Is Borneo good for first-time visitors to Asia?

A: Yes. Malaysian Borneo is easy to travel around and combines excellent wildlife experiences with comfortable accommodation and good infrastructure. English is widely spoken, and travelling on a Llama Travel tour makes exploring the region straightforward and stress-free.

Practical Information

Q: Where is Borneo and which part will I be visiting?

A: Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and is shared between Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Llama Travel holidays focus on Malaysian Borneo, particularly the states of Sabah and Sarawak, which are known for their rainforests, wildlife and rivers.

Q: What are the capital cities of Malaysian Borneo?

A: Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, and Kuching is the capital of Sarawak. Both are relaxed, easy-to-navigate cities and act as gateways to Borneo’s wildlife and rainforest regions.

Q: What is the time difference?

A: Borneo is GMT +8 hours.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to Borneo?

A: Flights from the UK to Borneo usually take around 16 to 19 hours, depending on the route and connection times.

Q: What language is spoken in Borneo?

A: Malay is the official language, although English is widely spoken throughout Malaysian Borneo, particularly in hotels, lodges and tourist areas.

Q: What is the currency in Borneo?

A: The currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants and shops, although cash is useful in more remote areas. ATMs are available in cities and larger towns.

Q: What’s the weather like in Borneo?

A: Borneo has an equatorial climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Daytime temperatures generally range from 28°C to 33°C, with frequent tropical showers possible at any time of year.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?

A: Malaysian Borneo is friendly and relaxed, and visitors are generally welcomed warmly. Dress modestly in towns, villages and when visiting mosques, where shoulders and knees should be covered. Shoes are usually removed before entering homes and religious buildings. Greetings are polite and friendly, and learning a few local phrases is always appreciated.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Borneo?

A: Tipping is not compulsory in Malaysia but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge is often included. Tips for guides and drivers are entirely at your discretion.

Q: What wildlife can I see in Borneo?

A: Borneo is one of the world’s great wildlife destinations. Depending on where you travel, you may see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, hornbills and a huge variety of birdlife. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but guided river cruises and rainforest walks offer excellent opportunities.

Q: What should I know about wildlife and nature experiences in Borneo?

A: Wildlife encounters are a major highlight of travel in Borneo. Excursions are carefully planned to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities while respecting the natural environment. Visitors are expected to follow guide instructions, keep a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding wildlife.

Q: What is it like staying at a rainforest lodge in Borneo?

A: Rainforest lodges in Borneo are usually set deep within protected jungle areas and offer a comfortable base for wildlife exploration. Many stays include guided walks, river cruises and night excursions, allowing visitors to experience the rainforest up close.

Health & Safety

Q: Is Borneo safe to travel to?

A: Yes. Malaysian Borneo is generally considered a very safe destination for travellers, and most visits are trouble-free. As with travel anywhere, it is sensible to remain aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Borneo?

A: Good medical facilities are available in major cities such as Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Facilities are more limited in remote rainforest areas, so comprehensive travel insurance is essential.

Q: Is it safe to explore rainforests and wildlife areas?

A: Yes, when travelling with experienced local guides. Excursions are carefully managed and safety briefings are provided before jungle walks and river cruises.

Q: Are insects and wildlife something to be concerned about?

A: Insects are part of life in the rainforest, so insect repellent is strongly recommended. Long sleeves and lightweight trousers can also help provide protection.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Borneo?

A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should cover medical treatment, cancellation and emergency evacuation if required.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in Borneo?

A: Local SIM cards are inexpensive and available at airports and in major towns such as Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Coverage is generally good in cities and along main travel routes, although signal can be limited in remote rainforest areas.

Many travellers also choose to use an eSIM provider such as Airalo (there’s many more options to choose from) before departure, allowing mobile data access as soon as they arrive.

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges, although speeds may be slower in more remote areas.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Borneo?

A: Domestic flights are often the quickest way to travel between destinations such as Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Kuching. Private vehicles are commonly used for road journeys, while river travel forms an important part of many wildlife itineraries.

Boat journeys along rivers such as the Kinabatangan are a highlight of travelling in Borneo and offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is arranged in advance, including flights, transfers and excursions, making travelling around Borneo straightforward and comfortable.

Accommodation

Q: What kind of accommodation can I expect in Borneo?

A: Accommodation in Borneo ranges from comfortable city hotels to remote rainforest lodges beside rivers and within protected jungle areas. Many lodges are designed to blend into the natural surroundings while still offering comfortable rooms, excellent guiding and good food.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Borneo?

A: Borneo’s food reflects Malay, Chinese and indigenous influences. Rice and noodle dishes are common, often served with chicken, fish or vegetables. Popular dishes include nasi lemak and laksa, while street food markets offer satay, grilled seafood and local snacks.

Hotels and lodges usually offer a mixture of local and international dishes, and vegetarian options are widely available.

Q: Is the food spicy in Borneo?

A: Some local dishes can be spicy, although milder options are widely available in hotels, restaurants and lodges.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Borneo?

A: Tap water is not generally recommended for drinking, so bottled or filtered water is best.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in Borneo?

A: Yes. Alcohol is available in most hotels, restaurants and bars in Malaysian Borneo, with beer being the most common option. Availability can be more limited in remote areas and around some religious sites.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Borneo?

A: Malaysian Borneo is best known for its rainforests, wildlife and rivers. Highlights include the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, river safaris along the Kinabatangan River and stays in remote rainforest lodges surrounded by wildlife.

Q: How many days do I need to explore Borneo?

A: Around 10 to 20 days is ideal for a first visit to Borneo, depending on how many extensions you choose to include. This allows enough time to experience wildlife, rainforest lodges and river cruises at a comfortable pace, while also adding destinations such as Gaya Island, Danum Valley or Mulu National Park.

Q: Where are the best places to see wildlife in Borneo?

A: The Kinabatangan River (upper and lower parts), Danum Valley and Sepilok area are among the best wildlife regions in Malaysian Borneo. River cruises, rainforest walks and canopy trails all offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Q: Where should I go to see orangutans in Borneo?

A: Sepilok, near Sandakan, is one of the best places to learn about orangutan conservation and see rehabilitated orangutans. Orangutans can also sometimes be spotted in the wild along the Kinabatangan River and in protected rainforest areas.

Q: Can I see orangutans in the wild in Borneo?

A: Yes. Wild orangutans are sometimes seen along the Kinabatangan River and in rainforest regions such as Danum Valley, although sightings are never guaranteed.

Q: What is it like visiting the Kinabatangan River?

A: The Kinabatangan River is one of Borneo’s wildlife highlights. Guided river cruises at dawn and dusk offer opportunities to spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles and, if you are lucky, pygmy elephants and wild orangutans.

Q: What is the difference between the Upper and Lower Kinabatangan River?

A: The Lower Kinabatangan is the more classic river safari experience, with wider waterways, comfortable riverside lodges and excellent opportunities to spot wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles and pygmy elephants from boat cruises.

The Upper Kinabatangan is more remote and less visited, with narrower jungle waterways and denser rainforest. Wildlife experiences here often feel more immersive and adventurous, with quieter surroundings and beautiful, untouched scenery.

Both areas offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and guided river cruises, with the best choice depending on the style of experience you are looking for.

Q: What can I see along the Kinabatangan River?

A: Boat cruises along the Kinabatangan River offer opportunities to see proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, pygmy elephants and a wide variety of birdlife.

Q: Is Danum Valley worth visiting?

A: Yes. Danum Valley is one of the most pristine rainforest areas in Borneo and offers an immersive jungle experience with guided walks, canopy trails and exceptional wildlife opportunities.

Q: What can I see in Kuching?

A: Kuching is known for its riverside setting, colonial architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights include the waterfront promenade, local markets and the Borneo Cultures Museum.

Q: What can I see in Kota Kinabalu?

A: Kota Kinabalu is a relaxed coastal city known for its lively waterfront, seafood restaurants and beautiful sunsets. It is also a gateway to Mount Kinabalu National Park and nearby islands.

Q: What are longhouses and can they be visited?

A: Longhouses are traditional communal homes used by indigenous communities in Sarawak. Some can be visited with a guide, offering insight into local traditions and daily life.

Q: What can I see on Gaya Island?

A: Gaya Island offers a peaceful contrast to the mainland, with rainforest-covered hills, beaches, snorkelling and clear tropical waters just offshore from Kota Kinabalu.

Q: What can I see in Mulu National Park?

A: Mulu National Park is one of Borneo’s most impressive natural areas, known for its dramatic limestone landscapes, rainforest and enormous cave systems. Highlights include exploring vast caves such as Deer Cave and Clearwater Cave, walking through rainforest trails and canopy walkways, and experiencing the park’s rich wildlife and scenery.

One of the most memorable experiences in Mulu is the famous bat exodus at Deer Cave. At dusk, millions of bats spiral out of the cave entrance in long ribbon-like formations as they head into the rainforest to feed. The spectacle can last for over an hour and is considered one of Borneo’s greatest wildlife experiences.

Q: What is the bat exodus in Mulu National Park?

A: The bat exodus is a remarkable natural event that takes place each evening at Deer Cave in Mulu National Park. Around sunset, millions of bats emerge from the cave in huge swirling formations above the rainforest canopy before dispersing into the jungle to feed.

Visitors watch from a viewing area near the cave entrance, and the experience is made even more dramatic by the sounds of the rainforest at dusk. Weather conditions can affect the timing and scale of the exodus, but when conditions are right, it is one of the highlights of visiting Borneo.

Still have questions about travelling to Borneo?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Borneo holidays to start planning your trip.