Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Borneo for Adventurers

Borneo is the world’s third largest island (after Greenland and New Guinea), featuring over 15,000 plant species thriving in its ancient 130-million-year-old rainforests. The island is home to a variety of mammals, including orangutans and proboscis monkeys, which flourish in the dense jungles, alongside countless tropical islands, expansive beaches, and Malaysia’s highest mountain.

Geographically, Borneo is divided among three nations: Malaysian Sabah and Sarawak encompass roughly a quarter of the island; Indonesian Kalimantan comprises the majority; and Brunei Darussalam—a compact nation—nestles between Sarawak. GoTravelDaily has compiled the 25 best activities to experience in Borneo, focusing on jungles, mountain climbing, and diving adventures.

1. Scale Borneo’s tallest mountain (Sabah)

Mount Kinabalu represents the highest elevation between New Guinea and the Himalayas. Standing at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), this granite giant towers over Sabah’s landscape and is often included in travel itineraries for Malaysian Borneo. Hikers typically engage in a two-day trek to reach the summit, with overnight accommodations in a mountainside hostel.

The ascent begins at 2:00 AM, allowing hikers to reach the summit in time for the breathtaking sunrise. Due to the limited daily climbing permits, it is advisable to plan well in advance, as spots often fill months ahead.

Beyond the remarkable challenge and stunning vistas, Mount Kinabalu holds significant cultural importance for Sabah’s indigenous peoples. The Kadazan-Dusun communities historically believed that their ancestors reside on Kinabalu following death.

2. Danum Valley: Borneo’s biodiversity hotspot (Sabah)

The term Borneo conjures images of rich rainforests, abundant wildlife, and immense biodiversity; these expectations are most vividly met at Danum Valley in eastern Sabah.

This venerable jungle, estimated to be 130 million years old, has remained largely unchanged throughout its expansive history. It supports flourishing ecosystems that serve as habitats for nearly half of the world’s flora and fauna, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and carnivorous pitcher plants.

Located approximately two hours from the nearest town via logging roads, Danum Valley hosts a cutting-edge research facility intertwined with an ecotourism destination. Visitors can partake in jungle trekking with some of Borneo’s most knowledgeable guides or embark on exhilarating wildlife-spotting night safaris.

3. Proboscis monkeys on the Kinabatangan River (Sabah)

Winding through the jungle in eastern Sabah, the Kinabatangan River flows 560 kilometers (348 miles) and is surrounded by a vibrant array of wildlife and plant life. There are small populations of endemic proboscis monkeys inhabiting particular bends of the river, with estimates indicating that only around 7,000 individuals of these distinctively pot-bellied and long-nosed primates remain worldwide.

Accessing the Kinabatangan River is most convenient from Sandakan, where visitors can stay in riverside accommodations. River cruises provide an extraordinary opportunity to observe primates, crocodiles, and a variety of tropical bird species.

4. Island hopping in Kota Kinabalu (Sabah)

Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah, is accompanied by five tropical islands along its coastline. A popular day trip destination is Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where most visitors head to Manukan Island for its pristine beaches and clear waters.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Gaya Island, the marine park’s largest isle, offers opportunities to explore a floating village, hike scenic trails, and ascend hills for sweeping views of the surrounding mini-archipelago.

The smaller islands of Mamutik, Sapi, and Sulug are characterized by their tranquil beaches, ideal for snorkeling, along with an escape from the crowds. Ferries regularly depart from Jesselton Point in Kota Kinabalu, providing convenient access to all islands in a single day.

5. Spend the night on an (almost) desert island (Sabah)

Pulau Tiga, translating to “Three Islands,” gained international fame as the filming location for Season One of the reality TV show Survivor. In the years since, it has transitioned from a mere survivalist’s retreat to a popular destination for day-trippers from Kota Kinabalu.

Visitors can explore the iconic beaches featured on Survivor and witness the unique mud volcanoes. As the sun sets and day-trippers depart, the island transforms into an almost deserted haven, creating an authentic deserted island experience.

For a touch of luxury, consider staying at the distinguished Pulau Tiga Resort, accessible via ferries departing from Jesselton Point.

6. Sepilok’s Baby Orangutans (Sabah)

In Sabah, the lucrative timber industry has led to extensive deforestation, resulting in the loss of orangutan habitats. In some cases, ill-intentioned business owners perceive these critically endangered primates as pests, actively hunting them.

This situation leaves orphaned young diphtheria without parental support or the necessary skills to survive independently. The Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre plays a pivotal role in caring for these abandoned orangutans, housing approximately 80 individuals within a semi-wild enclosure.

Visitors can observe feeding times, occurring at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, where they can watch the playful baby orangutans swing through the trees. All proceeds from the centre directly contribute to the care of these vulnerable creatures.

7. Sabah’s metropolitan capital on the sea (Sabah)

Kota Kinabalu, often abbreviated as KK, is situated along the South China Sea in western Sabah. It provides advantageous access to Mount Kinabalu, tropical islands, and the lush highlands of Sabah.

While KK is relatively small compared to Kuala Lumpur, it is surrounded by natural beauty just minutes from the city center. The Likas Bay Floating Mosque stands out as one of the capital’s most stunning landmarks, encircled by an artificial lagoon that creates the illusion of it floating on water.

Tanjung Aru, the premier beach in the city, serves as an excellent location for viewing the famous Bornean sunset, while Gaya Street is home to vibrant dining and entertainment options.

8. Borneo’s best diving on Sipidan Island (Sabah)

Sipidan Island is renowned among diving enthusiasts worldwide. This limestone pinnacle, located off the eastern coast of Borneo, ranks as one of the premier diving destinations globally. PADI-certified divers can immerse themselves in a marine world like no other in Southeast Asia.

The unpolluted waters harbor vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life; schools of barracuda swim alongside curious parrotfish while turtles bask on the surface. Sipidan issues a limited 120 diving permits each day, which tend to sell out several months in advance.

Travelers can take a one-hour ferry from Semporna in East Sabah to reach Sipidan Island.

9. Sabah’s secret lagoon (Sabah)

Tourists frequently describe Bohey Dulang as one of the most mesmerizing locations in Borneo. The mountainous island was formed by a prehistoric volcanic eruption, leading to the creation of the breathtaking lagoon known as Bohey Dulang.

Visitors can cross a narrow channel to Bodgaya Island and take trails leading up to the summit at 353 meters (1,158 feet) to enjoy stunning views of the sapphire-blue lagoon below. Other paths lead to natural pools, waterfalls, and pristine coastal areas.

The Bajau Laut community, often referred to as the Sea Nomads, reside in the nearby stilted village.

10. Borneo’s most mysterious national park (Sarawak)

Gunung Mulu (Mount Mulu) boasts some of Sarawak’s most unique and enigmatic landscapes. Jagged limestone peaks reach skyward alongside towering mountains, while gnarled trees twist protectively around entrances to expansive cave systems.

Gunung Mulu National Park fulfills every criteria for the adventurous ecotourist. Jungle trails meander toward the summits, while intricate pathways lead through endless cave systems. Photographers revel in the remarkable contrasts found within.

In the interior of the caves lies the Sarawak Chamber, recognized as the world’s largest known cavity. The safeguarded area remains untouched by civilization and human activities.

Travelers typically require a brief chartered flight from Miri to access this remote region, as overland transit can take up to two days through forests and rivers. Lodging options are available within Gunung Mulu.

11. Sarawak’s most accessible caves (Sarawak)

Sarawak is celebrated nationally for its vast network of caves. Thousands of kilometers of passageways wind through the limestone cliffs of the region. Niah Caves, situated near Miri, is particularly renowned for being accessible and visitor-friendly.

Adventurers can explore both Moon Cave and Great Cave, with guided tours available to enrich the experience. The Painted Cave showcases some of the oldest known cave paintings in Malaysia, including the discovery of Malaysia’s oldest human skeleton, estimated to be around 40,000 years old.

For convenient access, consider spending the night in Miri, followed by a 85-kilometer (53-mile) drive south or joining an organized tour.

12. Unusual rock formations at Tusan Cliff (Sarawak)

Tusan Cliff Beach stretches along the South China Sea, offering an almost deserted coastal landscape characterized by peculiar rock formations in the distance. The beach features golden sands juxtaposed against steep yellow sandstone cliffs, with gentle waves rolling in from the vibrant azure sea.

Looking down the coastline, one can spot a rock formation that resembles a ‘horse’s head’, as if the rock is drinking from the ocean. Tusan Beach is located approximately 39 kilometers (24.2 miles) south of Miri.

13. Proboscis monkeys in Bako National Park (Sarawak)

Bako National Park showcases the remarkable diversity of Sarawak’s jungle ecosystem. This relatively small protected area is located about an hour north of Kuching, making it a convenient getaway.

The park features numerous hiking trails, idyllic beaches, impressive cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Mangroves extend inland, forming a lush buffer between the sea and dense rainforests, where boat tours navigate through these enchanting labyrinths.

Home to a small population of the rare proboscis monkeys, the forest near the Park Headquarters offers visitors a high likelihood of encountering these unique primates. Bako National Park emerges as Sarawak’s most accessible rainforest experience.

14. Kuching: The colonial city of cats (Sarawak)

Kuching, the capital of western Sarawak, holds a distinctive connection to felines. The name itself phonetically echoes the Malay word for cat (kucing), reflected in the numerous cat statues and cat-themed cafes scattered throughout the city.

Beyond its quirky feline relationships, Kuching boasts a rich colonial history. This heritage stems from the British dynasty of the White Rajahs, who ruled for just over a century. Their influence is evident in structures like the Astana (Palace) and Fort Margherita.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Sarawak River, explore colorful Buddhist temples, and immerse themselves in the culture of the floating villages.

15. Mount Santubong: Sarawak’s Sacred Mountain (Sarawak)

Mount Santubong stands as Sarawak’s counterpart to Mount Kinabalu, rising 810 meters (2,657 feet) above sea level near Kuching. This mountain significantly shapes the coastline and serves as a backdrop for the upscale Damai Beach Resort.

The mountain hosts a variety of habitats, including mangroves and rainforests. The Irrawaddy dolphins can often be spotted in the coastal waters, with fortunate visitors reporting sightings. Furthermore, the Rainforest Music Festival takes place at the foothills of Santubong, nestled in Sarawak Cultural Village each July.

16. Discover the enigmatic Sea Nomads (Sabah)

Borneo’s Bajau community is often referred to as ‘Sea Nomads’ or ‘Sea Gypsies’ and has maintained a seafaring lifestyle for centuries. Today, many Bajau live in stilted villages over the sea, while some in western Sabah have adopted horse-riding skills and transitioned to a land-based existence.

Travelers have the opportunity to learn about these enigmatic individuals and their traditional practices, which include the remarkable ability to dive for extended periods without equipment. Semporna in eastern Sabah is home to one of Borneo’s largest Bajau floating villages.

17. Learn about Borneo’s indigenous cultures (Borneo)

Borneo is home to over 200 ethnic groups who have inhabited the jungles, coastal regions, and riverbanks for countless generations. The term Dayak is used to collectively refer to the diverse indigenous peoples of Borneo.

Sabah and Sarawak, a century ago notorious for their fierce headhunting practices, offer fascinating insights into their historical significance. The Monsopiad Cultural Village near Kota Kinabalu delves into Sabah’s headhunting past, while Sarawak Cultural Village showcases the region’s heritage.

Festivals such as Kaamatan—Sabah’s Harvest Festival in May—highlight the state’s rich ethnic diversity, alongside Gawai, which represents Sarawak’s Harvest Festival. In Brunei, the Malay Technology Museum serves as the country’s most extensive ethnographic museum, located just a short drive from Bandar Seri Begawan.

18. Diving in duty-free Labuan (Labuan)

Labuan Island, situated between Brunei and Sabah, consists of seven islands, some of which are more developed than others. The Malaysian government has transformed this previously lesser-known island into a financial center, housing numerous offshore companies and benefitting from its duty-free status.

Despite its commercial reputation, Labuan is also an exceptional diving destination, with various sites just a few kilometers from the coast. Scuba enthusiasts have the rare chance to explore four shipwrecks, making it a worthwhile excursion for divers. Furthermore, Labuan serves as a gateway to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei.

19. Celebrate Borneo’s religious diversity (Borneo)

Borneo stands as a remarkable Southeast Asian multicultural hub, where a diverse array of religions is represented across Malaysian Borneo, Brunei, and Kalimantan. Visitors can discover some of Asia’s most impressive mosques in Brunei, or revel in the vibrant atmosphere of its grand Buddhist temples.

Prior to the widespread acceptance of organized religions, many of Borneo’s inhabitants adhered to pagan beliefs, a concept that some older residents of Malaysian Borneo recall from their childhood experiences. Remnants of this ancient era persist in several rural communities throughout the region.

20. The world’s largest floating village (Brunei)

Historically, nearly every resident of Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, lived in Kampong Ayer, a stilted village that has floated above the Brunei River for centuries. Approximately 13,000 individuals continue to inhabit their traditional houses, navigating the village via water taxis instead of roads, while boardwalks connect 42 mini-neighborhoods.

Visitors can take a water taxi from the Waterfront, offering an opportunity to discover this unique settlement that thrives above the river. Kampong Ayer operates almost entirely independently, equipped with schools, mosques, and shops.

21. Green Jewel of Brunei (Brunei)

Ulu Temburong National Park exemplifies Brunei’s commitment to conservation. Unlike its neighboring regions, Brunei has managed to avoid rampant deforestation linked to logging and palm oil plantations, a privilege attributed to its oil wealth.

Significant government investments have been directed towards the preservation of Ulu Temburong, which supports a plethora of rare ecological habitats. Scientists and conservationists regularly explore this park, resulting in the identification of new species, including the remarkable “exploding ant.”

Travelers can access this splendid prime rainforest from Bandar Seri Begawan, though reaching this secluded area requires two boat rides and a lengthy drive along unpaved roads. Inside, visitors will find hiking trails, waterfalls, and the finest examples of biodiversity in Brunei. Participation in guided tours is necessary for exploration.

22. Brunei’s largest lake (Brunei)

Lake Merimbun, the largest lake in Brunei, is located in the central region of the country. From an aerial perspective, it resembles the letter ‘S’. The lake’s deep blue surface is dotted with vibrant green lilies and enveloped by lush forests, creating a serene landscape.

Visitors are able to traverse the lake using wooden bridges leading to viewing platforms, and boats provide short journeys across the water. Lake Merimbun is approximately an hour’s drive from Bandar Seri Begawan.

23. Outdoor adventures in Tapin Bini (Kalimantan)

Tapin Bini offers a range of outdoor challenges, including difficult hikes, river rafting, and interaction with various indigenous communities. The region in Central Kalimantan is relatively untouched by tourism, with only a few Indonesian visitors, making it an unspoiled adventure destination.

Venture up the steep trails of Bukit Bolau (Bolau Hill) or enjoy the river through white-water rafting, swimming, or simply relaxing by the riverside. After a day filled with adventure, immerse yourself in local culture through a homestay experience with a family.

24. Borneo’s most biodiverse lake (Kalimantan)

Lake Sentarum National Park is recognized as one of the most biodiverse lakes on the planet, with over 200 species of fish and birds and 150 varieties of mammals, including orangutans and proboscis monkeys. Covering an impressive 1,329 square kilometers in northern Kalimantan, this national park serves as a sanctuary for indigenous communities in isolated villages along its shores.

However, reaching Lake Sentarum can be difficult. Travelers must first arrive at West Kalimantan’s capital, Pontianak, from where it takes a lengthy seven-hour boat journey to reach the lake.

25. Kalimantan’s most beautiful islands (Kalimantan)

The Derawan Archipelago, consisting of 31 tropical islands located in Eastern Kalimantan, features idyllic beaches, beautiful coastlines, and luxurious overwater bungalows. Visitors can enjoy a lavish island getaway or explore the extraordinary marine environment beneath the waves.

More than 460 coral species flourish along the coast, while around 900 fish species, including endangered sea turtles, thrive within the vibrant coral walls. The islands of Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Derawan are the most easily accessible within the archipelago.