borneo photography tour

Borneo photo tour

Tour details

Main tour (14 nights): $7,861 . $985 in single room.

Starting date: November 2, 2023.

Group size: 4–8 people. 4 spots left

Reviews: 5/5 (3 reviews )

What is included?

Reserve online or call +1-312-436-0087

How to reserve your spot?

1. Read our cancellation policy below.

2. Complete our contact form in the next step to let us know about your interests and so we can check availability and give you further information about the tour.

3. Review and approve the itinerary, invoice, and release of liability form we will send you.

4. Make payment to confirm your booking.

Cancellation policy If you are unable to attend the tour, you are welcome to send someone in your place, apply to another Tropical Herping event, or request a refund less a handling fee of 5% or $100, whichever is more. However, because we pre-pay all local services we can only accept credit or refund requests no less than 60 business days prior to the start of the event.

Important! Read the rules and recommendations .

What to bring? Check out our suggested packing list .

Package based on two people sharing a room.

All meals and accommodation.

All river and road transfers.

Guides and tour leaders.

Park entrance fees.

What is not included?

Additional nights due to flight cancellations.

Alcoholic beverages, bottled water and snacks.

Health insurance.

International and domestic airfares.

Phone calls or messages.

Photo equipment.

Reserve online or call +1-786-753-7899

Booking form

Experts on this tour.

Lucas Bustamante Tour leader, conservation photojournalist

Frank Pichardo Tour leader, photographer

We are photographers and know how help you get the images you want.

See our portfolio

Your visit saves 1 acre of rainforest in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

By protecting that acre, you keep 25 tonnes of CO 2 e from ending up in the atmosphere.

Tour description

The tour will start in the western side of Borneo Island, where you will visit Bako and Kubah national parks located in a coastal region which is rather low-lying and flat with large areas of swamp and other wet environments. Also, the World Heritage Site of Gunung Mulu contains one of the world's largest underground chambers. Sabah state is the location of the second part. You will photograph wildlife in a safari style in Tabin Nature Reserve, on boat along the Kinabatangan River, and explore the canopy in Sepilok, home of the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. As in most Tropical Herping tours, there will be night walks in each location where we the target will be nocturnal mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Call Us Now: 0458 099 210

Focus on Borneo - Borneo Tours

2020 Tours: April 23

10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS

from $4,300

click map for larger view

​FOCUS ON BORNEO  is a 10-day Photography Tour package in Sarawak, Malaysia.

Enjoy a rich mixture of landscape, street, portrait and nature photography.  Lead by award winning nature photographer, Pamela Jennings who will assist you to get the most out of your camera and creative skills in this amazing location.

There are many highlights on this tour including the beautiful city of Kuching and World Heritage listed Mulu National Park.

Be guided by locals, share in their culture and enjoy exclusive photography opportunities.  

Photograph semi-wild Orangutans and support their rehabilitation into the wild.

Spend the night in Bako National Park home of the proboscis monkey, long-tailed macaque and silver leaf monkey.  

Immerse yourself in the living, pulsing heart of the jungle at Mulu World Heritage area.  

Capture the David Attenborough’s Planet Earth series moment when three million wrinkle-lipped bats emerge from Deer Cave at sunset.  

Cruise river-ways on kayak and longboat spotting a riot of animal life.  

Exclusive photography sessions in some of the largest caves in the world  

Immerse yourself in nature at the ‘Garden Of Eden’, one of the most pristine collapsed cave systems in the world.  

This tour starts in Kuching and finishes in Kota Kinabalu, leaving you to fly home direct or extend your travels to the beaches, islands and jungles of Sabah.  

Fully  escorted tour includes: 

​Flights: Kuching-Mulu-Kota Kinabalu 

Accommodation: twin share accommodation (single supplement by request)

Meals: all meals are provided on this tour

Kuching experiences: Overnight at  Bako National Park. Kuching Wetlands Sunset Cruise, night photography tours, Semonggoh Wildlife Centre & visit to Sarawak Cultural Village  

Mulu National Park:  Private photography session & tour of Deer and Lang Cave, Clearwater Cave & Cave of Winds, Bat exodus, Batu Bungan longhouse craft market, night walk and sunrise boat cruise.

Please note that on occasions flights from Mulu are delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions. Onward flights may be impacted by late or cancelled flights from Mulu .

Day 1 

Welcome to Kuching

Tour Itinerary

Kuching is a beautiful old city, interlaced with quaint back streets and boasting a riverside promenade that rivals the lively riverfronts of Europe.

Kuching’s streets are alive with the aroma of street foods, colourful wares and the smiles of the super-friendly locals.

Our hotel is situated amongst the bustling traders on Kuching’s Main Bazar. It also directly opposite the riverside promenade of Sarawak River, a great place to take a stroll any time of day or night.

We’ll meet up in the hotel bar before sunset for a welcome drink and enjoy dinner together at an open-air rooftop seafood restaurant.  And I don’t think we will be able to resist doing a night shoot along the riverside promenade.

Day 2 

Semenggoh Wildlife Sanctuary and Kuching Wetlands National Park

Kick start the day at 8am with a visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Sanctuary to witness Orangutans in a relatively natural setting.

Semenggoh was established more than 40 years ago as a rehabilitation centre for endangered animals and now has expanded to become a research facility into orangutan biology and behaviour, providing vital information to safeguard the orangutans’ precarious future. Semenggoh also provides a successful breeding environment for orangutans unable to be rehabilitated into the wild. We’ll have the chance to see the sanctuary’s semi-wild orangutans, ranging from heart-meltingly cute infants and boisterous adolescents to the powerful male adults, as they enjoy life in a secure natural habitat.

In the afternoon we join the Wetland Wildlife Cruise in Kuching Wetlands National Park at sunset.

Kuching Wetlands National Park covers an area of 6,610 hectares on the estuarine reaches of the Sibu Laut and Salak rivers. The park is an important spawning and nursery ground for fish and prawn species and contains a wide diversity of wildlife, including Snubfin Dolphin, Proboscis Monkeys, Long-tailed Macaque monkeys, Silver-Leaf Monkeys, Monitor lizards, Estuarine Crocodiles and a range of birdlife, including Kingfishers, White-bellied Sea Eagles and shore birds, including the rare Lesser Adjutant Stork.

In November 2005 Malaysia designated the park as a Ramsar site, a wetlands of international importance.

Overnight at Bako National Park

This morning we journey to Bako National Park.  A 20-minute boat through a stilted water village bustling with local fisherman opens to an inlet and the calm waters of the South China Sea.  We pass traditional fish traps, mangroves and islands. Look out for Bottlenose Dolphins, Crocodiles and Sea Eagles.

Bako National Park provides great opportunities to photograph more of Borneo’s wonderful wildlife with regular sightings Proboscis Monkey, Long-tailed Macaque, Silver Leaf Monkey (Silvered Langur) and Bornean Bearded Pig.  Squirrels and Monitor lizards are also common.

We also get to do some landscape photography here.  The beach in front of the resort is a great spot for sunset with Mount Santubong as our backdrop.  If the weather gods are kind we may even be able to try an Astro shoot.  That’s something you don’t get every day in Borneo.

After dinner we join the National Park guided night walk.  The guides are very patient and flash is allowed so we get to capture some unique nightlife in the rainforest.

Day 4 

Sarawak Culture Village & Kuching town

S unrise landscape photography on the beach before breakfast will bring more photographic opportunities.  Plus we will see monkeys and the Bearded Pig going about their day.

We will take the chance to view the sea stacks on our return boat journey to the harbour. 

This afternoon have great photographic opportunities on our visit to Sarawak Cultural Village.  An award winning living museum located just 32km from Kuching.  It’s easy to spend a few hours photographing the local culture and lifestyles of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak.

Once back in Kuching we once again explore the Kuching riverside promenade with its lively markets and restuarants. The streets are full of colour and the smiles of the super-friendly locals.  A night shoot along the river tonight is a must.

Day 5 

Mulu World Heritage Area

This morning we pack our bags and get ready for the next leg of our journey as we fly into the heart of Borneo and Malaysia’s iconic World Heritage Area, Mulu National Park. With no road into this area you can expect a pristine wilderness full of all the weird and wonderful things that awarded it UNESCO’s world heritage status in all four criteria.

Find yourself captivated by enchanting underworlds – enormous caves home to great flocks of bats that cloak the sky in darkness as they swirl through the heavens. Wander through misty rainforest viewing claws of jagged rock and jungle-cloaked mountain peaks through breaks in the jungle canopy. Admire the riot of wildlife – from the tiny pigmy squirrel, to some of the largest insects on Earth. See exquisite orchids emerge from the dense leaf litter cloaking the jungle floor. Fall under the spell of this pulsing, breathing, living utopia.

After arriving at Mulu you’ll have a free time to unpack and unwind. Your accommodation here is perched under forest canopy and embraced by a series of self-guided walks trails through the rainforest.

Here’s your chance to breathe out, ah, you’re here, among one of the world’s most treasured natural environments.

Later in the afternoon we set out for our sunset boat ride along the rainforest clad river passing locals going about their daily life. Great photo opportunities at every turn.

After dinner we join our local guide for a night walk on the trails around camp headquarters. Remember your flash as we take this two-hour guided tour that will give you an insight into nocturnal jungle life.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of the rainforest, interpret the cacophony of jungle noises, watch the courtship dance of the firefly, search for luminescent fungi and scorpion and perhaps spot an elusive marsupial or two.

Day 6 

Visit Deer and Lang Cave and witness the   Bat Exodus

Free time this morning to relax and down load images and take in/ photograph the surrounds of the accommodation.

PM - This afternoon we take an easy 2.7 km trail to Lang and Deer Caves. As you saunter through the rainforest and pass jungle steams your guide will regal you with captivating stories of the plants and wildlife you encounter, and the traditional roles and customs for people who live in the jungle.

Lang Cave is possibly the most stunning cave in Mulu with a low ceiling that makes spotting the swiftlet and bats nesting in the bell-holes easy. It is adorned with lavishly decorated walls of shawls, layers of rim stone pools and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites.

Right next door is the jaw-dropping Deer Cave. With a cathedral-like cavern snaking two kilometres under the earth and a ceiling never lower than 90m high, Deer Cave is the biggest show-cave in the world. Don’t worry though, we aren’t going to walk the two kilometres!

Its cavernous reaches are also home to around three million wrinkle-lipped bats that emerge from the cave most evenings around sunset. We time our walk to witness the phenomenon of these bats streaming from the cave entrance – a stand-out scene in David Attenborough’s Planet Earth series. We sit back and relax and watch the bats swirl through the sky in meandering rivers of black is truly a video and stills “wow moment”.

We will get back as it gets dark in the jungle, but don’t worry we will be back in plenty of time for dinner, just remember your torch.

Day 7 

Sunrise river cruise, picnic breakfast at Clearwater & private cave session at Clearwater Cave 

After breakfast we journey up the river past the village houses to the Cave of Winds.

We enter the lavishly decorated halls of King Chamber, adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, flowrocks, helitites and rock corals.

Then we travel a short distance up river to Clearwater Cave Picnic Area were we can swim in the cool waters that gave Clearwater Cave its name. We have plenty of time to relax and photograph this gorgeous location and it’s rainforest plants and crystal clear waters.

For those that wish to embark on a 200-step climb to Clearwater Cave entrance, you will have the company of our local guide to accompany you.

On the return boat journey we visit a Penan Village. Our guide’s longhouse village, where we can walk through the village and observe and photograph local life, and purchase their handmade crafts.

This afternoon you are free to explore the self-guided trails within the World Heritage Park. I would recommend the botanical walk.

Day 8 

Langsat River Ride & Walk and Dance at Penan Longhouse

This morning we head off to Langsat River by boat to one of the most pristine areas of Mulu National Park, Langsat River. The boat ride it’s self is amazing as we wind along the rivers through the rainforest, but when we arrive into the Langsat River you will be impressed with its beauty and we will take our time to walk along the river, take images and enjoy the surrounds including a small waterfall.

In the late afternoon we will get into the traditional longboats again and be taken to a Penan village to dine with the locals. The local women will perform a cultural dance, exclusively for us. Fantastic!

Day 9 

Fly to Kota Kinabalu 

Sunset drinks and farewell dinner

After breakfast we take a morning skywalk through the rainforest canopy. A fully guided experience with our Mulu guide who will explain the plants and animals along the walk and through the rainforest canopy. One of the great experiences here in Mulu.

We will pack and get ready for our afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu.

Tonight we will gather together for sunset drinks overlooking the South-China Sea and enjoy a farewell dinner on the waterfront.

Check out and depart Kota Kinabalu

2020 tours: 23 April

10 Days/9 Nights

from $4,300 

Borneo Photography Journey

Malaysia - the land of harmony in diversity.

Sandakan - Borneo Malaysia

Tabin wildlife reserve - borneo malaysia, danum valley conservation area - borneo malaysia, kota kinabalu - borneo malaysia.

This is a true adventure for those seeking one of the lifetime photography opportunities in the Malaysian Borneo wildlife. Get a 12-day itinerary deeply venturing into the mesmerizing nature here beyond your wildest dreams and freely hunt for natural beauties with the camera as you want. Comprising some of the best Borneo sites for safari photography such as the Kinabatangan River, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, and Danum Valley - the home to one of the oldest rainforests on earth, the tour is a perfect medley of pristine nature sightseeings and sought-after species spotting in their natural habitat. The lists for fabulous expeditions are well-arranged en route to maximize the time in the best parts of Borneo for any intrepid nature photographers dreaming of what is sure to be an unbeatable voyage when in this wonderland. Just be ready for packing and explore amazing Borneo's wildlife through our wonderful photo-hunting journey.

Inclusions of this tour

Accommodation.

Hotel (11 nights)

Car, Walking, Cruise, Flight ...

Private Guide, Driver, Trip Managing Expert

11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners

Experiences

7 Unique experiences...

Entrance fees, excursions, visa, water...

Highlights Of This Tour

Deeply immerse in the lush vibe of Borneo's forests through exciting walks

Spend all day at the Sepilok Forest Reserve (including visits to the Orangutan Sanctuary and the Sun Bear Centre) where is one of the best places for orangutans and other species photography

Cruise along the Kinabatangan River, explore the region's diverse ecosystems as well as take some great riverscapes photos

Venture into the night jungle for spotting fantastic moments of the nocturnal wildlife

Explore the hidden world inside the Gomantong Caves and take some shoots for a sublime spectacle of the bat exodus exit from the cave in the afternoon

Try your luck with the elusive species in Borneo nature reserves through day-to-day jungle expeditions highly requiring patience

Head out for a wildlife drives in Tabin Wildlife Reserve to look for more chances of animals photography

Take an in-depth exploration of the Danum Valley Conservation Area through numerous forest treks, birding, and other extra adventures for epic photos

Overview of this tour

Borneo Photography Journey - 12 days

• Day 1 : Sabah,Sandakan
• Day 2 : Sandakan
• Day 3 : Sandakan
• Day 4 : Sandakan
• Day 5 : Sandakan
• Day 6 : Sandakan,Tabin Wildlife Reserve
• Day 7 : Tabin Wildlife Reserve
• Day 8 : Tabin Wildlife Reserve,Danum Valley Conservation Area
• Day 9 : Danum Valley Conservation Area
• Day 10 : Danum Valley Conservation Area
• Day 11 : Danum Valley Conservation Area
• Day 12 : Danum Valley Conservation Area,Kota Kinabalu

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: sabah, sandakan(borneo malaysia), day 2: sandakan(borneo malaysia), day 3: sandakan(borneo malaysia), day 4: sandakan(borneo malaysia), day 5: sandakan(borneo malaysia), day 6: sandakan(borneo malaysia), tabin wildlife reserve(borneo malaysia), day 7: tabin wildlife reserve(borneo malaysia), day 8: tabin wildlife reserve(borneo malaysia), danum valley conservation area(borneo malaysia), day 9: danum valley conservation area(borneo malaysia), day 10: danum valley conservation area(borneo malaysia), day 11: danum valley conservation area(borneo malaysia), day 12: danum valley conservation area(borneo malaysia), kota kinabalu(borneo malaysia), inclusions & exclusions.

Car, Walking, Cruise, Flight

1. Flight from Lahad Datu to Kota Kinabalu

Included Services

All accommodation and meals as stated in program

Entrance, camera fees, in DVFC, Sepilok, Gomantong

All activities stated in the program unless mentioned in exclusions

Domestic airfare, Lahad Datu – Kota Kinabalu

All connecting land transfers in a/c vehicles

Private photography guide

Private boat activities in Kinabatangan

Private vehicles activities in Tabin

4 drives in Danum Valley Field Centre

Visa arrangements

International flights

Juices, carbonated & alcoholic drinks, and meals not specified in the program

Travel insurance

Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry etc.)

Add-on optional night cruise on the river

Tips or gratuities for guides

Domestic or international airfare and airport departure tax not mentioned

Seasonal surcharge – TBA IF ANY

THIS TOUR IS PRIVATE & TAILOR-MADE CHOOSE YOUR BEST CHOICE

3* Hotel (11 nights)

Private Guide, Driver, Trip Manager

per person twin share

4* Hotel (11 nights)

5* Hotel (11 nights)

100% Personalized Itinerary

Hassle-free and uniquely personalized! You'll get a completely flexible trip plan tailored to your individual interests, wishes and budget. Our Inside Travel Experts will give you professional advice, and it's you who decides how many days to travel, where to visit and where to stay.

Private Guide, Car & Driver

You always have private driver & private car flexible upon your travel schedules. Especially, in your Private Tour, our experienced and knowledgeable private guide will show you the hidden gems and inspire you with the most interesting local stories to gain a more in-depth understanding of each exotic country.

Handpicked Hotels & Meals

Whether you are looking for a romantic resort or a boutique hotel, authentic cuisine or street food style; our Asia Tour Experts'll create the lifetime journey around your needs & wants with our best hand-picked collection of accommodation and restaurants.

Trip Managing Experts

Travelling with us means having a dedicated, friendly & professional team by your side every step of the way and always ready to help whenever you need. Our Inside Travel Experts are available 24/7 and take care of everything to make sure you can enjoy the travel experience of a lifetime and get unforgettable memories.

Experiences You can Expect in this Tour

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Neighboured to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is another Sabah's highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and visitors looking to explore Borneo’s...

Visit the world's smallest Sun Bear at Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center

The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is a wildlife conservation and research centre in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, which provides cares to rescued Malayan sun bears, the smallest bears in the world...

Take a cruise along the Kinabatangan River

Joining an excursion on the cruise along the Kinabatangan River is likely to be one of the sought-after experiences in Sabah, Borneo as the river is known to be a perfect and easily accessible place...

Visit Gomantong Caves in Sandakan

Located within Gomantong Hill in Sabah, Gomantong Caves are an intricate cave system with two primary chambers, Black Cave and White Cave, but only the Black Cave is open to the general public. The...

Explore Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Malaysia’s largest wildlife reserve, Tabin Wildlife Reserve occupies a vast rectangular area of about 122,500 hectares covered with lowland dipterocarp forest in north-east of Lahad Datu town,...

Explore Danum Valley Field Center

Located west of Lahad Datu town within the midst of Danum Valley Conservation Area, home to one of the best rainforests in Sabah with an outstanding abundance of Borneo flora and fauna, Danum Valley...

Night Drive to explore wildlife in Danum Valley

Danum Valley is located amidst the lush rainforests shrouded in the mist where is one of the most pristine ecosystems on earth. Home to many endangered and rare animals, the valley provides a lot of...

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We are here to take the stress out of the holiday planning process. Let us help you plan an unforgettable journey of lifetime with High Quality & Affordable Price. Surely, you will feel satisfactory!

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Being the locals, we know the true value of our land. We always listen and arrange everything as your desire.

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Tour inquiry

Tropical Birding

Photo tours and birding, with a camera  tours.

Main tour: Dates:  24 Oct- 5 Nov Price:  $6880

Mainland Malaysia extension: Dates: 9-24 Oct Price: $2550single supplement: TBD)

Please read the  Trip Considerations before booking.

Length:  13 days (18 days with extension) Starting city:  Kota Kinabalu (Kuala Lumpur if taking the extension) Ending city:  Kota Kinabalu Pace:  relaxed Physical difficulty:  easy to moderate Focus:  photography, wildlife Max # Photographers:  6 + 1 leader + local guides

A unique photo tour with real chances to photograph some of Borneo's most distinctive creatures, from Proboscis Monkeys to Orangutans to flying-frogs.

BORNEO BIRDING WITH A CAMERA TOUR

Borneo is a nature photographer’s dream; a large island with steamy jungles and waterways which play host to some of the strangest creatures on Earth. From the “Old Man of the Forest”, or Orangutan, to the portly, bulbous-nosed, Proboscis Monkey, to large flashy hornbills with bright orange casques; Borneo has plenty to offer the intrepid nature photographers that explore the island. This tour visits the Malaysian state of Sabah in northern Borneo, which comes loaded with a circuit of of high quality eco-lodges, and which rightly prides itself on its substantial ecotourism potential and excellent facilities.

Day 1: Kota Kinabalu (Borneo).  After arrival in Sabah’s capital, the sleepy city of Kota Kinabalu, you will be transferred to a local hotel for the night. The tour starts with a welcome dinner on this night.

Day 2: Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu.  The first destination of the tour will be the distinctively shaped Mount Kinabalu, which can even dominate the skyline of the capital on clear days. Macro opportunities will be to the fore, as we walk the misty mountain trails and visit some areas for two notable botanical subjects: the huge Rafflesia, which produces one of the largest blooms of any flower in the World; and we will check mossy banks for the presence of wild pitcher plants growing within the floristically diverse cloudforest.This night will be spent close to the park entrance.

Days 3-4: Mount Kinabalu.  These days will be spent on this scenic mountain, taking in the macro opportunities provided by the fascinating plants that feature on the mountain, as well as as using our longer lenses on larger subjects like the squirrels and birds that inhabit the mountain. Early mornings around the start of the Summit Trail in particular, can be good for large, photogenic birds like treepies, whistling-thrushes and drongos as they feed on insects attracted to the lights during the night.The first night of these days will be spent just outside the park, within view of the mountain, while the night of day four will be spent back in Kota Kinabalu.

Day 5: Kota Kinabalu to Borneo Rainforest Lodge (Danum Valley). On this day we’ll take a flight south in order to visit the Danum Valley Conservation Area, where we will stay in one of the best lodges in all of Asia, the famous Borneo Rainforest Lodge, perched on the edge of the Danum River, and surrounded by tall, pristine primary rainforest. We will be hoping that some of the large fig trees are bearing fruit at this time, as they can attract some of Borneo’s most famous residents, notably the Red Ape, or Orangutan, as well as an array of fruit-eating birds, such as the dramatic Rhinoceros Hornbill. Three nights will be spent within this fantastic lodge, giving us plenty of time to shoot a variety of subjects in this large conservation area.

Days 6-7: Borneo Rainforest Lodge.  Early mornings right around the lodge can be good to take in the resident group of Crested Firebacks (a beautiful pheasant species), as they patrol the grounds at this time. At night there will be options to take nightwalks and put your macro to use, as a myriad of rainforest bugs and frogs, such as Wallace’s Flying-Frog, can be found by prowling the jungle with our experienced naturalist guide. There will also be opportunities to take part in one of the famous night drives out of the lodge for larger subjects, such as Thomas’s and Red Giant Flying Squirrels, “Flying Lemur” (Malayan Colugo), or Bearded Pig. During the daytime, your local guide will also use playback to attract in some of the more flashy rainforest birds like Black-and-yellow and Black-and-red Broadbills, trogons, or one of the attractive blue-and-red flycatchers that occur in the area, to name but a few.These two nights will be spent at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge again.

Day 8: Danum to Sepilok.  From Danum we will travel north, by road, to Sepilok, a tourist center, with great lodges which serve the main tourist attraction nearby, the famous Orangutan rehabilitation center. However, our focus will be the ground-breaking Rainforest Discovery Centre, which comes with wide open trails for easy access to the rainforest for photographers, even with a tripod in tow; and a world-class canopy walkway. The latter is the centerpiece of this reserve, which allows eye level views of birds such as hornbills, trogons, kingfishers, woodpeckers, and broadbills. The quality construction of the walkway means that there is plenty of space for photographers, and tripods, with the sturdiness of it having already allowed many keen professional photographers to walk away with some great photos of normally difficult canopy birds. We will be hoping for some fruiting trees to be present in the area, as these can attract a procession of frugivorous birds, as well as animals like squirrels. The night will be spent in Sepilok, just a few minutes drive from the Rainforest Discovery Centre.

Day 9: Sepilok Rainforest Discovery Centre.  A full day will be spent at the centre so that we have plenty of time to explore the many easy trails, and the canopy walkway, which is the reserve’s most heralded facility. The walls of the restaurant on site are decorated with many fantastic images taken right within the reserve, and illustrates the enormous potential of the place. Another night will be spent in Sepilok.

Day 10: Sepilok to Sukau (Kinabatangan River). The finale to the tour is perhaps the best part of all; a visit to the primate and bird-rich Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. The Kinabantangan River is flanked by lowland rainforest, interspersed with ox-bow lakes, mangroves and swamps, and is home to some of the most desirable photo subjects of the tour: Orangutan, Proboscis Monkeys,and Crab-eating and Pig-tailed Macaques, as well as all 8 species of Bornean hornbills. This is also the best area on the island for the amazing and rare Bornean Pygmy-Elephant. We will be staying at a high-end lodge in Sukau, right on the banks of this enormous river. The choice of lodge has been made not only for the comfort of the lodge, which has won a number of eco-tourism awards, but also for the transport available. We will be mostly traveling around by motorised canoe to traverse the various waterways in the sanctuary. The canoes crucially though, come equipped with smaller electronic motors to allow a quiet approach when needed, vital when on a photography tour to get those incredible, intimate close-ups of subjects such as Proboscis Monkey families, a Blue-eared Kingfisher fishing along the river bank, or a fish-eagle standing sentry above. At night, there will also be the option to take a night cruise to search for roosting birds such as Stork-billed Kingfishers, and photograph the local Buffy Fish-Owls, which are surprisingly abundant and approachable near the lodge. We will travel into the lodge by speedboat.

Days 11-12: Sukau and Gomantong Caves (Kinabatangan River).  Two full days will be spent coasting the waterways of within the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, tracking down both the many avian, and mammalian, targets in the area.There will be options to go out at night too for further night cruises.

On one afternoon we shall visit the Gomantong Caves, home to millions of bats, and thousands of nesting swiftlets, which use echolocation, like bats, in order to navigate within the dark recesses of the caves. We will wait until dusk on this day to ensure we take in the awesome sight of the emerging “funnel” of bats, which often fall prey in these photogenic moments to a handful of waiting Bat Hawks.

Day 13: Sukau to Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu. Although we will have come in to Sukau by boat, for the exit from there we shall drive out, passing again by Gomantong Caves, which shall give us another chance for a final shoot there, without the hindrance of being confined to a boat, so that we can try to shoot the various hornbills, barbets, broadbills, and other birds, as well as animals such as Red Leaf-Monkey and Pig-tailed Macaque. After our final photo session of the tour we shall pack up and drive to the city of Sandakan, to connect with a short domestic flight west across Borneo back to Kota Kinabalu on the west coast, where you can then connect with international flights out.

EXTENSION OPTION

Fraser’s hill extension (6 days).

Running before the main tour, this tour starts and ends in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, on Peninsula Malaysia, which connects directly with Kota Kinabalu in Borneo for the main tour. Being based on the Peninsula and visiting one of the best mountain birding areas in all of Southeast Asia, this extension offers some very different bird species to photograph than on the main tour, with many of these species only possible on the extension. Similarly, many of the birds and animals on Borneo are only possible or likely on the main tour (e.g. Orang-Utan, Proboscis Monkey, Red Leaf-Monkey, Crested Fireback), making these sections perfect compliments to one another.

Day 1: Kuala Lumpur.  After arrival in Malaysia’s capital, we will transfer you to a hotel near the airport for the night.

Day 2: Kuala Lumpur to Fraser’s Hill.  An early start will see us drive out of the hustle and bustle of the city, up into the hills of Pahang, and the tranquil setting of Fraser’s Hill. This area has been a long-favoured hang out for both birders and keen photographers alike. It is common at weekends to meet a handful of Malaysian photographers perusing the area, on the hunt for the latest photo opps; a growing community of which exist within the country. By lunchtime we will check into the wonderful Smokehouse Inn, the most comfortable lodgings on the mountain, which are akin to an old English inn, an which comes equipped with a garden full of blooming shrubs that my just attract some of the birds we are hoping to shoot. Four nights well be spent on the mountain.

Days 3-5: Fraser’s Hill and The Gap.  A good road network both on the top of the hill itself, and at the bottom around “The Gap” allows easy access to forest birds right from the road. The roads on the hill weave their way past gardens which attract birds like Streaked Spiderhunters, Chestnut-capped Laughingthrushes,and Fire-tufted Barbets. There are plenty of avian subjects to keep us busy on the hill, including exciting possibilities such as Red-headed Trogon, Silver-eared Mesia, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Black-throated Sunbird, Red-bearded Bee-eater, and Golden Babbler. Cruising the road down to The Gap offers chances at hornbills like Rhinoceros and Great, as well as a chance to bump into flocks that could hold exciting birds like Sultan Tit and Long-tailed Sibia. Down at The Gap itself, the nature of the forest changes, as it becomes wetter and more humid and birds like Rufous Piculet, Black-crested Bulbul, and a series of barbets become possible, especially if one of the large figs is in fruit.

Day 6: Fraser’s Hill to Kuala Selangor and Kuala Lumpur; fly to Borneo. We will depart from Fraser’s Hill, but ensure we visit Kuala Selangor, before we head off to Kuala Lumpur airport to connect with flights to Borneo, for the main tour. A short stop at Kuala Selangor is necessary so we can spend time shooting the habituated troop of Silvered Leaf-monkeys which have long taken up residence in the area. If we are lucky we may also spot a young monkey, as they are vibrant orange colored, in stark contrast to the silvery-gray adults. Being a lowland site, there are plenty of other lowland birds we may track down here too including Ruby-cheeked Sunbird, Oriental Magpie-Robin, or Collared Kingfisher. In the afternoon we shall take a flight out of Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu in the state of Sabah, in northern Borneo, where we will connect with the participants of the main tour.

TRIP CONSIDERATIONS

PACE: Fairly relaxed. Early starts are necessary (typically around 6:00 am) on most days since we need to take advantage of the best light and bird activity, and we also will be using the late evening light where possible, however there is almost always a lot of downtime in the middle of the day (when it is often hot, the light is bad, and the birds are less active). There is relatively little travel on this itinerary and only one day of long driving on day 8 (about 5.5 hours broken up by a lunch stop). 

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: Moderate. At Mt. Kinabalu and Danum Valley there is a lot of walking involved, on roads and hilly forest trails – you should be prepared to walk 1-2 miles (1.6-3.2 km) on some days (with your camera gear). Along the Kinabatangan, we will be in boats much of the time where the photography does not require much physical exertion. On the extension it is a bit easier as we will spend a lot of time at feeders or using the vehicle to look for fruiting trees and other good locations.

CLIMATE: Hot and humid at Sepilok, Sukau and Danum (mostly 74°-88°F, 23°-31°C) and very humid, but cool on Mount Kinabalu and on the extension at Fraser’s Hill (mostly 50°-68°F, 10°-20°C). Rain is likely, often in the afternoons in the form of thunderstorms, but one can also have tropical systems that create rain for longer periods. 

ACCOMMODATION: Good to excellent. Sabah is one of the best-developed areas is Asia for eco-tourism. All accommodations have private, en-suite bathrooms, full time hot water, and 24-hour electricity. Air-conditioning is not available for the four nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge and for the three nights at Sukau, however these are both top-notch lodges and the rooms have good fans. 

WHEN TO GO: This tour can be run year round. We often run it in early July because that is when mammal viewing is at its best and the birds are at their peak and in breeding condition. However, just about any time of year can be good, although we might recommend some tweaks to the itinerary if you want to organize a custom tour at different times of the year.

PHOTO PHILOSOPHY: There will be quite a lot of walking on this tour, with forest trails being unavoidable. We will be hoping to bump into good mammals and birds and take advantage of those opportunities. At Sukau, however we will be exploring the riverine systems by boat, and that will be both relaxing and productive. Birds, mammals, people and some great Asian jungle scenery are all interesting subjects. There are not a lot of setups, but where those occur we will use them. Where they do not we will rely on the knowledge and skills of the tour leader, and in some areas will have the help of a local guide.

GEAR: A long lens that can be hand-held (300-500 mm) will be essential. A prime lens that can handle lower light conditions such as an f2.8 or f4 is recommended. However, a smaller 70-300 or 100-400 zoom lens can also come in very handy, especially for mammals. A tripod is optional (and in some areas a hindrance); a bean bag can be useful on the boat and for use on canopy walkways. 

OTHER INFO: TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: A valid passport is required; the passport must be valid for at least six months past your intended stay. Visas are not currently required for citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Visas are currently required only of a few nationalities, mainly in Africa and the Middle East. Travel requirements are subject to change; it’s always a good idea to double check six weeks before the tour, or ask our office for help

WHAT’S INCLUDED?: Tips to drivers and lodge staff; accommodation from the night of day 1 to the night day 12 if taking only the main tour, and through the night of day 5 of the extension if also taking the extension; meals from dinner on day 1 (unless you arrive too late for dinner service) to breakfast on day 13 if taking only the main tour, and to breakfast on day 6 of the extension if also taking the extension (if you have a very early departing flight, you may miss the included breakfast on the last day); safe drinking water and/or juice during meals; safe drinking water as well as tea and coffee are available at mealtimes; Tropical Birding/Capturing Nature tour leader from the morning of day 1 to the afternoon of day 15 if taking only the main tour, if taking the extension please request more info from our office regarding guiding arrangements; one arrival and one departure airport transfer per person on arrival and departure day respectively (transfers may be shared with other participants of the same tour if they are on the same flight); ground transport for the group to all sites in the itinerary from day 1 to day 13 (and to day 6 of the extension if also taking the extension) in a suitable vehicle; entrance fees to birding sites, parks and reserves mentioned in the itinerary; one night drive at Danum; several boat trips on the Kinabatangan River at Sukau; domestic flights from Koto Kinabalu – Lahad Datu (Day 5). 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?: Optional tips to the tour leader; tips for luggage porters (if you require their services); international flights; domestic flight between Peninsula Malaysia and Borneo (if you are joining the extension); snacks; additional drinks apart from those included; alcoholic beverages; travel insurance; excursions not included in the tour itinerary; extras in hotels such as laundry service, minibar, room service, telephone calls, and personal items; medical fees; excess baggage charges; other items or services not specifically mentioned as being included.

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• The Wilds of Borneo: Orangutans & Beyond

Trip Highlights

Close Encounters with Orangutans

Private Tour of Sun Bear Rehabilitation Center

Explore Ancient Tropical Rain Forest

Photo Expeditions Available

See More of Borneo's Natural Wonders When You Travel With Nat Hab

• More Diverse Wildlife Viewing in Widely Varied Settings This is a comprehensive nature survey of Borneo, encompassing diverse ecosystems: the jungle sanctuaries of Sepilok, Semenggoh and Kinabatangan, mangroves in Bako National Park, and virgin rain forest in the Danum Valley. In these contrasting locales, we explore from sunrise and don't stop until after nightfall, searching for the endangered orangutan, pygmy elephant, Bornean bearded pig, smooth-coated otter, long- and pig-tailed macaques, monitor lizard, proboscis monkey, rhinoceros hornbill, silvered leaf monkey, numerous tropical bird species, and an array of nocturnal creatures.
• Visit Two Different Orangutan Sanctuaries A chance to see orangutans is a big reason for coming to Borneo. We maximize your opportunities in two different locations: Sepilok and Semenggoh nature reserves. Semenggoh focuses on the study of orangutan biology and behavior while providing a safe and natural haven for dozens of semi-wild orangutans that are graduates of its original rehabilitation program.
• A Private Guided Tour of the Bornean Sun Bear Center An inspiring conservation success story, the center provides care, rehabilitation and release of orphaned and captive Malayan sun bears. Its mission is also to increase awareness about the plight of this little-known endangered bear, the world's smallest. We have a private tour of the center either with founder Dr. Wong Siew Te or one of his close conservation colleagues.
• Explore One of the World's Oldest & Tallest Rain Forests The Danum Valley is a special inclusion on our adventure—to truly experience the primeval biodiversity of Borneo's deepest rain forest recesses, the Danum Valley is an essential stop—and not all itineraries include it.
• A Small Group Ensures More Authentic Nature Encounters Wildlife encounters happen most meaningfully in an intimate context. Our groups are limited to just 12 travelers—and only nine guests on photo departures—enabling a quiet, low-impact experience.
• Internal Flights Enhance Comfort & More Time with Wildlife Rather than subject you to long, winding, often bumpy drives, we use air transfers for comfort and efficiency. Two internal flights get you between destinations faster, giving you more time with nature and wildlife. 
• From Riverside to Rain Forest, Stay Closer to Borneo's Wildlife Our accommodations are selected for their quality, atmosphere and secluded locations, getting you as close as possible to nature in the most comfortable settings. From our eco-resort near an orangutan sanctuary to a remote eco lodge on the Kinabatangan River and our lodge in Danum Valley that overlooks primary growth rain forest , you are immersed in wild Borneo.
• Travel with An Expedition Leader Plus Top Local Guides Our Nat Hab Expedition Leaders are seasoned guides and natural history experts. In addition, they receive special training and resources provided by WWF scientists. They are also assisted by Borneo’s best local guides during each segment of our trip.  See Expedition Leader bios and traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures You’ll Have an Outstanding Trip With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, which clearly states that we will meet the high expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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Tailor Made Borneo   

Currently available as a tailor made photographic safari

CONTACT US TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A TAILOR MADE PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARI

Specialist photography and film making safari with optional add-ons

Suggested 4 centre tour - experience the true diversity of Borneo's wildlife and habitats

Personalise your tour to suit your particular photographic interests - add specialist birding destinations, Komodo dragons 

Photography Tutor - Trai Anfield - wildlife photographer, film maker, travel writer and presenter of BBC's The Living World

Borneo and biodiversity are synonymous.  From birds to orang-utans, and

Butterflies to sun bears, the wildlife here is dazzling . . . and we'll sample it all.

Borneo Highlights

Four of Sabah's premier wildlife destinations:

Kinabatangan River

Danum valley

Abundant and diverse wildlife

Varied habitats including primary rainforest, montane forest and rivers

Private boat, walking & 4x4 safaris

Max 3 photographers per boat

1-2-1 Photography & film making tuition & critique sessions with Trai Anfield

Private wildlife guide throughout the tour

Air-conditioned lodge accommodation

Visit & support conservation initiatives

Post production sessions

We start our Borneo safari in the little town of Sepilok, famous for housing three of Borneo's most prominent conservation initiatives: 

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre  

Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre  

Rainforest Discovery Centre

We will of course visit and support all of these projects, and  'get our eye in' photographing the wild inhabitants, as well as those undergoing rehabilitation, before setting off into Borneo's rainforests.  

A real bonus here in Sepilok is our lodge.  In addition to its own beautiful grounds filled with birds, butterflies, squirrels and monkeys, the resort backs on to the  orang-utan  sanctuary and the wild  orang-utan that often visit the sanctuary to befriend the young orphans (and steal their food!) can often be seen around the grounds of the lodge.  Air conditioning and a pool are not usually on our list of plusses for  accommodation   but here in Borneo, where it is extremely hot and humid year-round we are extremely glad of both in the best place in town!

Deramakot 

Deramakot is rich in wildlife with 75% of Sabah’s mammal species found within its 55,507 hectares of mixed dipterocarp forest.

As such it is one of Sabah’s best wildlife watching destinations., despite also being semi-protected logging area, with 10% of the forest set aside purely for conservation and 90% set aside for reduced impact logging.  Orangutan, pygmy elephants, Banteng (wild cattle), proboscis monkeys and clouded leopards are just some of the iconic species that are found at Deramakot, alongside a dazzling profusion of phenomenal Bornean birds.

We will explore Deramakot's rich biodiversity on foot and by 4 wheel drive safari vehicles.  Here we set a rhythm of starting the day with a pre-dawn 4x4 safari, returning to the lodge for breakfast then going out on a jungle walk (optional). Afternoons are free at your own leisure, or perhaps giving time to request a 1-2-1 critique session with Trai.  After dinner we head out for nocturnal species on an exciting and atmospheric 4×4 night safari.

Our wilderness lodge here is only accessible by boat, and all of our safaris will be in small boats, exploring the Kinanbatangan river and it's backwaters and tributaries.  

One of the major species we will hope to see is the extremely rare pygmy elephant.  These wonderfully charming elephants come to the river to eat, drink and bathe, appearing even smaller than they actually are amongst the giant grasses along the river bank!

Alongside our boats the trees lurch and sway as troupes of proboscis monkey, and longtail and pigtail macaque feed, fight and play, executing death-defying leaps from branch to branch.  Silver leaf and red leaf monkeys decorate the trees here too, along with the more elusive orang-utan.  Crocs and water monitors lurk on the banks, while the sky is full of hornbills, kingfishers and eagles - we have even spotted the white fronted falconette. 

For an optimum photography experience we have booked two safari craft, ensuring a maximum of 3 photographers per boat. 

Trai will alternate between boats providing tuition. 

In addition to twice daily small boat safaris we also offer a night boat safari and guided day and night walks through the jungle.  

We may encounter any of the major species on foot, and walking is the best way to photograph the smaller creatures and flora of this biodiversity haven.  The perfect time to give your telephoto lens a rest and your macro lens an outing!

Danum Valley

For the finale of our Brilliant Borneo safari we head deep into one of the world's most precious environments - and the jewel in Borneo's biodiversity crown - primary rainforest.  The Danum Valley has never been permanently settled, extensively hunted or commercially logged, so this is a pristine habitat, with huge trees that are hundreds of years old, supporting a staggering array of species.  The Valley is home to all ten of Sabah’s primate species including orangutan, Müller's Bornean gibbon, and Horsfield's tarsier, along with exceedingly rare Bornean rhinoceros, clouded leopard, sun bear, marbled and flat-headed cats and pygmy elephant.  

The area is rich in bird life too, and is the only place that the spectacled flowerpecker has ever been recorded.  Other avian highlights include crested fireback pheasant,  black-and-yellow and black-and-red broadbills, trogons and flycatchers.  The huge variety of insects and land snails also prove fascinating subjects for macro photography here, along with Wallace’s flying frog if you can catch it still!

At night the forest's nocturnal inhabitants come to life, and our guides will lead us on walks and vehicle safaris to photograph the new cast of characters that roam after dark, including red giant flying squirrels, “flying lemur” (Malayan colugo) and bearded pig.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge is the ultimate place to stay in the Danum Valley, with it's wonderful facilities, total focus on wildlife and some of the most experienced and most charismatic guide in Borneo.  Our expeditions here will take us through a maze of forest trails, fabulous canopy walkways through the tops of the tall trees here, and out on the Danum River.  What a fitting place to end a fabulous trip!

Best time to visit!

We recommend June-September to coincide with the driest season here, though the high temperatures in Sabah don't vary much throughout the year, and nor does the high humidity.  That's why we've opted for accommodation with air conditioning - not something we normally embrace! - throughout our stay.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: On arrival at Sandakan airport , you will be met and transferred to the Sepilok Nature Resort (full board). Rest of the afternoon and evening to relax.

Day 2: Morning and afternoon Orangutan sanctuary visits, night walk Rainforest Discovery Centre. Overnight SNR

Day 3: Optional early morning birding in Rainforest Discovery Centre followed by Sun Bear sanctuary private tour. Overnight Sepilok Nature Resort.

Day 4: After breakfast you will be transferred to to Deramakot by 4WD and expect to arrive around 1600hrs. Arrive, proceed with briefing and get familiarisation of Deramakot Lodge. Then go on a forest walk near the base station. After dinner go on 4×4 night safari to look for wildlife. After approx. two hours of ‘spot lighting’ and searching for wildlife return to the lodge. Overnight at Deramakot Lodge (full board).

Deramakot is rich in wildlife with 75% of Sabah’s mammal species (see attached species list) found within its 55,507 hectares of mixed dipterocarp forest. Deramakot is a logging area with 10% of the forest set aside for conservation and 90% set aside for reduced impact logging. Although it is a logging concession Deramakot is one of Sabah’s best wildlife watching destinations. Orangutan, pygmy elephants, Banteng (wild cattle), proboscis monkeys and clouded leopards are just some of the iconic species that are found at Deramakot

Day 5: Early morning wake-up call at 0500 in the morning. Then depart for a pre-dawn four-wheel drive safari. Drive along the various tracks in the reserve looking for wildlife. Return to the lodge for breakfast. After breakfast go on a jungle walk (optional). Return to the lodge for lunch. Afternoon is free at your own leisure. After dinner go on another 4×4 night safari. Overnight at the lodge

Day 6: Continue to explore the biodiversity of Deramakot via treks and four-wheel drive safaris. Start the day with a pre-dawn wildlife safari. Return to the lodge for breakfast then go a jungle walk. Afternoon is free at your own leisure. After dinner go on another 4×4 night safari. Overnight at the lodge. NB You will have access for at least 10 hours to the 4X4 vehicle, to maximise your wildlife viewing time.

Day 7: After breakfast transferred by vehicle and then boat to ‘Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort’ (full board). You will have time for an afternoon boat safari that day.

Days 8&9: For the wildlife activities on the Kinabatangan River you will have one private boats for your group. If you have you own private boat and guide, you have opportunities to go out early morning, mid-morning and in the afternoon on boat safaris. Chances to see Probosis Monkeys, Macques, Orangutans and Forest Elephants. Overnight at Abai Jungle Lodge

Day 10: After breakfast you will be transferred to Borneo Rainforest Lodge beside Danum River on the edge of 438 sq. km of undisturbed lowland rainforest. The Lodge is home to the full range of Sabah's lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros, Elephants, Clouded Leopards, and Orangutans. So far some 275 species of birds have been recorded in the area. Explore nature trail and nearby river. In the evening a slide show and if weather permits we go spotlighting to view some of the nocturnal animals.  Overnight at ‘Borneo Rainforest Lodge’

Day 11: Early morning bird walk before breakfast. Spend the whole day exploring the forest for birds and mammals, leading up to an escarpment with ancient burial coffins. In the afternoon, explore more trails leading to canopy walkway. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Days 12&13: Expect early starts and walking in humid conditions as we explore one of the most beautiful forests in SE Asia; looking to see and photograph the full variety of its wildlife treasures. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Day 14: When appropriate you will be transferred to Lahad Datu to connect with your onward international flight 

What Your Quote Will Include:

All accommodation air conditioned

Meals on a Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner basis (Full board) 

All photographic tuition & critique sessions

Private boat, walking & 4x4 safaris

2 private open 4x4 vehicles for our group of 4 photographers at Deramakot - max 2 photographers plus tutor per vehicle

Max 4 photographers & tutor per private boat

English-speaking p rivate wildlife guide throughout the tour

All road transfers by private, air-conditioned vehicle

All applicable park fees & admission fees

Mineral water in vehicle  

What Your Quote Will Exclude:

Flights to and from Borneo (international flights)

Visas if required

Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages

Tips & Gratuities to drivers/guides/lodge staff etc.

Any items of a personal nature

Personal Travel Insurance

Photographic equipment

Please note international and domestic flights are not included. 

Booking Your Tailor Made Borneo Safari

Please contact us for a tailor made quote based on your preferred itinerary and group size, which will include:

All accommodation (air conditioned)

All meals on a Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner basis (Full board) 

Max 4 photographers per boat

Mineral water in vehicle, boat

Suggested add-ons

Komodo - Dragons, Diving & Divine Relaxation

Recommended Equipment

Photographic gear:

Camera body (and a spare of some description is recommended just in case. . . accidents can happen!)

A variety of lenses* that suit both wildlife photography (telephoto) and landscape photography (wider angle).   The wider end of the spectrum (anything from 10mm – 50mm) will give great shots that include some habitat context as well as your subject, and may also come in handy for night time astro photography if conditions allow.   For closer portraits and action shots 300mm – 500mm is ideal.   You may also have the chance to use a macro lens, for instance on flora and insects. * Please note: if you would like to hire a lens for the trip we can recommend some reliable providers

A water & dirt proof covering for your camera and lens – for this trip, in addition to your usual camera bag we suggest bringing either a large dry bag of the sort divers use, or a few heavy duty bin liners - when it rains here it can be very intense!    

Plenty of spare batteries and your charger

Plenty of spare cleared memory cards

A monopod or photographic bean bag can be useful for support and stabilisation of long lenses when shooting from the boats. A monopod or tripod is advisable for bird and primate photography in low light conditions on foot in the jungle .​

Laptop and an external drive to download, backup, process and store your photographs. . . you will almost certainly fill your memory cards more than once!  If you wish to receive advice on editing your own photographs on the trip please bring a laptop loaded with the software you use – Trai is happy to demonstrate both Photoshop and Lightroom on her laptop but you will process your own.

A head torch is also advisable for night sessions (one with a red light option if possible) and around the lodges generally.

If you are bringing a new camera we recommend uploading the user manual to your smartphone.

Clothing & Personal Items:

Borneo is hot and humid all year round, which means you will get through a lot of changes of clothes, and they can also take a while to dry - bring spares of everything! 

We routinely use mosquito-resistant clothing: even though this part of Borneo is a low risk malaria area, other insect borne diseases such as dengue can be transmitted through bites.  At time of writing anti-malarial tablets are not necessary, but please check current advice in case of status changes .

For jungle walking safaris we very strongly recommend:

full length sleeve shirts

full length trousers

leech resistant socks  

sturdy waterproof walking shoes or boots, although you will also be offered wellingtons in most places

For general wear and boat safaris

lightweight clothing which gives good sun protection

full brim sun hat - canopy walkways and boats are completely open to allow full visibility.

mosquito repellent

rehydration sachets

antibacterial hand sanitiser

all routine medication (bring extra in case of loss or spoiling)

Orangutan Photography Tours

Capture unforgettable moments in wild borneo.

The Orangutan Photography Tour is designed so any photographer can create art in Borneo’s wildest jungle!

READ: The winning photo of National Geographic’s Nature Photographer of 2017 was taken on one of our orangutan photography trekking tours. Congratulations Jayaprakash Bojan!

Photography is the perfect way to spread awareness about the situation in Borneo, without causing damage to their habitat and way of life. Whether you’re an amateur or professional, you’ll be able seek out your subjects with the help of our team.

You have the option to choose the length of tour that works for you, however we recommend having at least 3 full days to take in the beautiful wildlife and jungle. There’s so much to see here and plenty of  spectacular opportunities for photography – night trekking can be organised for the perfect nocturnal shot! The accommodation arrangement is either a stay in Rimba Ecolodge or on the Klotok.

We can customise your photography tour completely to the shots you want to take, whether it’s setting up a night photography, getting a picture of every bird species or macros of every creepy crawly. And of course, we’ll lead you to the orangutans.

Day 1 - Airport Pickup - Kumai - Proboscis Monkey Tour & Houseboat

Day 2. houseboat - pondok taggui & camp leakey, day 3. houseboat - rehabilitation centre & locals.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue the trip by visiting Tanjung Harapan rehabilitation center and witness afternoon feeding time. In the late afternoon, we’ll visit the small village near the national park to see what life is like for the locals. If you would like to take a small hike during the night, our team will guide you around the forest of Pesalat to observe nocturnal animals and search for blowing mushroom (depending on the weather).

Day 4. Camp Leaky

Day 5. choose your own adventure, tour package.

• Transport to and from the airport
• Riverboat (Klotock)
• Camp Leakey
• All meals, tea, coffee & water
• Bed on boat or Rimba Lodge
• Expert tour guides and the camera fee
• Entrance tickets to the National Park
• Professional Photographer

How it works & what you’ll see

We think our orangutan photography tour is best done in small groups of 2-3 or even solo. This ensures we can give you the freedom to head in whichever direction you like, without needing to keep track of too many people. It’s also important for us to give you the one on one advice and attention that will get you your perfect shots!

Once you board the boat (klotok) and meet with your guide, you can discuss with him your photography experience, what kind of equipment you carry and what kind of photos you would like to get. You might be keen to capture the perfect orangutan photo, a shot of every species of bird or anything and everything – He will keep it all in mind when he customises your trek.

Once we meet you at your specified pick up point, you’re in charge. Unlike our normal trekking tours, if there’s something you want to take a photo or video of, we’ll make sure you have a chance to get it. Our team will also offer you help with techniques, setting up equipment and recommendations for where to get the best photo. So, here’s a list of the wonderful sites and creatures you’ll be able to capture with your camera.

• Wild Orangutans
• Bornean bearded Pigs / Wild Boar
• Black handed Gibbons
• Proboscis monkey
• Highly experienced tour guides
• King Fishers
• Amazing plant diversity

Bain’s Photo Gallery

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The tour was exactly what I was after. The team were very professional, easy going and enjoyable to spend time with. I learnt a lot and had unforgettable moments. Thank you! – Laura Boorman

What are you waiting for? Contact us now!

[email protected] | +230 452 3731

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• Big Cats of Africa
• Bobcats of California
• Cats of Borneo
• Cheetahs of the Serengeti
• Classic Safari in Zambia
• Iberian Lynx of Spain
• Jaguars of the Pantanal
• Manul of Mongolia
• Pumas of Patagonia
• Servals and Caracals
• Snow Leopards of Mongolia
• Tigers of India
• Borneo Bay Cat
• Flat-headed Cat
• Iberian Lynx
• Marbled Cat
• Snow Leopard
• Sunda Clouded Leopard
• Sunda Leopard Cat
• North America
• South America

CATS OF BORNEO PHOTO TOUR

Sunda clouded leopards and more.

Cats of Borneo Photo Tour

The five elusive forest cats of borneo.

The Sunda clouded leopard, marbled cat, flat-headed cat, sunda leopard cat, and the endemic Borneo bay cat are our five target species of wild cat for this cats of Borneo photo tour. These cats are extremely elusive, so some luck has to be on our side, but we have planned this tour down to the smallest detail to maximize our chances at seeing and photographing these incredibly beautiful forest cats of Borneo.

Why we love this cats of Borneo photo tour

This cats of Borneo photo tour is for those wild cat lovers that have already checked off the big cats and are eager to widen their horizons and look for more elusive wild cat species. To our knowledge, it is the only wild cat photo tour in existence specifically targeting all five species of felines in Borneo. We have chosen the top three locations to photograph these cats, with an emphasis on finding the Sunda clouded leopard .

Deramakot Forest Reserve is the top spot for finding Sunda clouded leopards, where they are seen on average about once every ten days. This beautifully lush rainforest is actually selectively logged, but research has determined that clouded leopards are found at higher densities in these forests than primary rainforests. Sunda leopard cats are often seen, marbled cats sometimes, and once even a Borneo bay cat .

The Kinabatangan River is famous for its wildlife, including proboscis monkey’s, long and short-tailed macaques, and hornbills. In addition to these phenomenal animals which we will see and photograph are two cats. The Sunda clouded leopard and the flat-headed cat slink through the mangrove roots along the riverbanks. We utilize the best local guides to help us try and find the cats.

Our final destination is Tabin Wildlife Reserve, where the lodge is beautifully set along a river that gibbons like to visit. Sunda clouded leopards, marbled cats, and Sunda leopard cats live in this area and are our main wild cat targets during this part of the tour.

Cats of Borneo photo tour testimonials

"This tour was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Witnessing the unparalleled biodiversity of Borneo is a necessary pilgrimage for all wildlife photographers and the Cats of Borneo tour was the perfect way to experience it. Both Sebastian, and the local guides exuded enthusiasm and dedication, the locations were fantastic for sightings and I came away with some of my best photographs yet."

- Celina Chien

"My favorite thing about shooting and traveling with Sebastian besides his sparkling personality is while you are shooting he is always looking for better windows and angles and calls them out. So you can stay with your frame and have a chance to improve."

- Jim Lesperance

"Through the impenetrable depths of Borneo's old-growth rainforests, Sebastian expectedly led us to awe-inducing areas where we were met by unrivalled sceneries and (often very up-close and intimate) sights of elusive wildlife of an impressive variety. His knowledge and passion for this place is palpable, and made for an unforgettable experience. Thank you!"

- Anda Ciurezu

Other wildlife you can see on this tour

Target wild cats during our Borneo cats photo tour

Marbled cats are the most arboreal of the five species of wild cats found in Borneo, so we spend significant amounts of time looking at the trees. Marbled cats are found in all three of our tour locations, but he cats have higher densities at Deramakot Forest Reserve and Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Like the clouded leopard, marbled cats are mostly night active.

FLAT-HEADED CAT ( Prionailurus planiceps )

You are in good hands, we are clouded leopard experts

Even though we don’t know of other companies offering tours for all five wild cat species in Borneo, we also feel confident that we are the best even if there were. With years of experience and science as our backbone, we have crafted a tour that puts us in the best locations with the best guides to find these elusive cats.

Your international wild cat and photography guide is Sebastian Kennerknecht who has traveled to Borneo extensively, photographing four out of the five wild cat species found on the island, including the extremely elusive Borneo bay cat. He has worked with biologists studying these cats as well for a total of eleven weeks. Sebastian is the only person in the world with a high-resolution photograph of this cat taken in the wild.

Besides having Sebastian by your side for guidance at all time, we have hand pick-ed the best local guides who have spent years in the jungle looking for wild cats. One of our local guides is probably one of less than a hundred people who have seen the Borneo bay cat in person.

Day 1 Fly into Sandakan airport in Malaysian Borneo. You will be picked up from the airport and driven to the hotel. After settling in we will go for an easy night hike in the rainforest near Sandakan. This will be your first chance to experience the Bornean jungle and all of the wildlife that lives within it. Have dinner back at the resort.

Day 2 Have a sunrise shoot in the nearby jungle where seeing orangutans is a high probability. After breakfast at the resort we will leave for Deramakot Forest Reserve, having lunch on the way. We will settle into the accommodations there. After an early dinner we will head out for our first wild cat search utilizing a 4x4 safari vehicle.

Day 15 After breakfast you will be shuttled to Lahad Datu airport, from which you will catch your onward flights.

Itinerary at a glance

14 NIGHTS 15 DAYS

Unique itinerary for a unique experience in Borneo

Like our other tours, this cats of Borneo photo tour itinerary was designed to specifically see and photograph wild cats. We have chosen the three best locations in Borneo to find the Sunda clouded leopards and the four other species of wild cat found on the island. On a daily basis we chose exactly where we go, based on years and years of knowledge of the area and its cats.

You will have the opportunity to photograph primates, apes, and lots of birds during our afternoon drives and boat rides and come night time will have the chance to take images of the nocturnal cats. We use specialized lights that aren’t harsh for the cats, but provide you the opportunity to take sharp photographs during the darkness of the rainforest night. Very few people have ever even looked for these cats, so the images you create will automatically be unique.

Besides providing you the opportunity to see and photograph wild cats, we at Cat Expeditions make your travel experience hassle free. Upon booking, you will be sent a full itinerary that includes what to bring and how to prepare. Once you land in Borneo, you can focus on enjoying yourself as all the travel logistics are not only taken care off, but optimized to give you the most time to enjoy the incredible wildlife that the rainforest has to offer in spades.

Sepilok Forest Edge Resort

Located in Sepilok, along the edge of the rainforest, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort provides the perfect location for the beginning of our tour.

The chalet rooms are made from recycled wood and provide perfect comfort, often with a view over jungle. Each room has its own private bathroom and internet is available.

The traditional style long house serves as the dining area, while providing wonderful views. Broadbills, kingfishers, and pittas can often be seen on the hotel grounds.

Deramakot Forest Reserve Resort

Formerly a logging camp, the accommodations at Deramakot are the most basic, but still provide the comfort and privacy we require of all of our lodging.

The chalet style houses have separate double and single bedrooms and bathrooms. Internet is not available here, but the appropriate SIM cards can cheaply be purchased at Sandakan airport, and mobile data can be used. Laundry is also available at a small cost.

The chalets are in the middle of wild cat country and therefor serve as the perfect location for our wild cat search. A simple restaurant on the premises allows us to customize our dining schedule based on our needs.

Borneo Nature Lodge

Borneo Nature Lodge is located right along the Kinabatangan River providing beautiful views of both jungle and the flowing waterway. Nestled in and around the trees, the rainforest canopy lies overhead, providing you the relaxing atmosphere you desire in the jungle.

As our other locations, the rooms are chalet style houses with separate rooms and private bathrooms.  Internet is also not available here, but the same SIM card will work here.

The hotel has its own restaurant, where we will be dining for our meals before and after going on our river cruises.

Tabin Wildlife Resort

Tabin Wildlife Resort is located in Tabin Wildlife Reserve and is our last stop as we search for clouded leopards in the forests surrounding the resort.

Made up of twenty individual jungle lodges, all with their own private bathrooms and balconies, the resort provides the perfect atmosphere for you to relax in before or after our game viewing drives. Internet and laundry are available at the resort.

This is also our best chance at seeing Bornean gibbons which often swing by the rooms in the morning, making their characteristic calls along the way.

Conservation impact of our cats of Borneo photo tour

Like all Cat Expeditions tours, our cats of Borneo photo tour has conservation impact built into it. Four out of the five species of wild cat are decreasing in population worldwide. For cats like the Borneo bay cat, that could mean extinction in the near future.

Panthera , the world’s leading cat conservation organization, is studying the wild cats of Borneo and has a project running in Deramakot to understand the cat's biology there. They monitor the wildlife populations via camera traps and send out anti-poaching patrols to keep poachers from killing the wildlife. Part of the cost of the tour is given to the Panthera project to ensure it can continue.

Conservation at a glance

Cats of Borneo Photo Tour Dates

April 20th - May 4th, 2024 (SOLD OUT)

September 25th - October 9th, 2025 (1 spots left)

Cats of Borneo Photo Tour Pricing

Price per person: $9,950

Single room supplement: $975

The price includes: - all transportation starting in Borneo - lodging - meals (not including alcohol) - wild cat excursions - guide services of Sebastian Kennerknecht - guide services of local guide - conservation donation to Panthera

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WILD BORNEO PHOTOGRAPHY

showcasing Southeast Asia's incredible biodiversity through captivating images and footage

Raising awareness and curiosity for Southeast Asia’s incredible biodiversity through inspiring images.

Southeast Asia is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, containing up to 20% of the planet’s vertebrates and plants, with many species found nowhere else.

We believe that photography is a powerful medium that can be used to create and raise public awareness about the value of our native biodiversity. 

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edited by Philip Yong & Robert Basiuk

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The Wilds of Borneo Photographic Tour $5,950.00

Join us as we go deep into the jungles of Borneo to photograph it's unique birds, flora and fauna including orangutan and proboscis monkeys. The tour is lead by a professional photographer and local guides. Early bird offer in place now!

Duration: 13 days

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Java & borneo – landscapes and culture.

Java is truly extraordinary! In 1861 the famous English naturalist Alfred Wallace marvelled at the island’s natural fertility: “ taking it as a whole, and surveying it from every point of view, Java is probably the very finest and most interesting tropical island in the world. Mark Rayner and my self will lead a photographic adventure into the heart of East Java in February 2024.

Java is a land of Majestic Volcanos, dramatic landscapes, and ancient cultures. This photography tour has it all. We will cover so many aspects of photography including traditional village life, historical temples and remnants of ancient kingdoms, street photography, fishing villages, tea plantations, stunning green rice fields, Volcanos that tower over the landscape, waterfalls, rivers and traditional cultures.

These will be busy days and a feast for the senses, and camera lenses as we chase the light on the landscapes of beautiful Java island.

Combine that with delicious food and stay in beautiful colonial Hotels and this will be a photography tour that you will never forget.

The journey begins in Bali where we meet on February 16th in Ubud, the cultural centre of the island.

We will warm up our cameras with a full day exploring the traditional villages and rice fields of Bali, for our first day, and then the next day drive West across Bali to Java, where we will cross on a local ferry to Banyuwangi district of East Java.

For the next three days, we will explore this area of Volcanos, photograph in the morning at the largest fishing village in Java, capture the sunrise over the rice fields, witness the colourful Gandrung dance with a special performance just for our group, and meet the indigenous Osing people who have lived in this area for thousands of years and mix animism with Islam.

Well, this is what we will be experiencing.

This is a very unique photography adventure and we will put you into many situations to express your creativity and photograph many different subjects.

We then fly back from Palangkaraya in Central Borneo to Bali on February 28th in the morning.

Tour Cost includes:

• 12 nights accommodation ( mostly 4 stars) • All transport • All Food • Domestic flights from Surabaya to Palangkaraya and from Palang to Bali. • Two nights on the boat cruising up the rivers in Borneo • Park Fees • Temple entrance fees

• Flights to Bali • Tips • Alcohol

Contact Dave directly for any questions or to put down a deposit.

[email protected] WhatsApp +62 8111331255

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• Tour Schedule

Borneo Wildlife Photography

TOUR DETAILS

Tour Day 26 Nov 2022

Start Time 0:00

Duration 4 day 3 nights

Meeting Point

Tour Mode By car, boat and on foot

Cost $1,375.00 SGD/Pax on a double room basis. Excludes flights and insurance

Extra details

Borneo De Luxe (Wildlife Photography and Birdwatching) 26 to 29 November 2022

This trip is for maximum 10 Pax. On a double room sharing basis.

Borneo Photography tour including private transportation in Sandakan, park entrances, the best local guides, accommodation & meals at KWR.

$1,375.00 SGD/Pax on a double room basis. Excludes flights and insurance

Day 1, Singapore/Sandakan, Kinabatangan river

Meet at Changi Airport. Flight to Sandakan. Pick up by private transport and transfer to Sandakan Jetty.

Transfer by private boat to Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort (KWR). We depart Sandakan by the open sea, and deep in to the Kinabatangan delta. On the way we are able to spot Borneo’s wildlife by the river sides and mangroves until we reach Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort.

After check in at the resort, followed by Afternoon tea break, we shall start our first river cruise at 6:00pm. All river cruises will be on private boats and is dedicated specially for Photography, we shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the afternoon river cruise duration is 90 minutes), with dinner back at the resort at 8:00pm.

After dinner at 9:00pm, we start on the second Night river cruise on private boat. Once again, this is set aside especially for Photography, we shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the night river cruise duration is 90 minutes). At 10:30pm we retire to our own rooms or we can hang out at the Foyer, download the photos on our laptops to start the editing and upload the photos online using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI)

Night at KWR

Day 2, Kinabatangan River

An early rise with quick coffee and light bites, enjoy the 6:00am river cruise on private boats dedicated specially for Photography. We shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the morning river cruise duration is 120 minutes) and back at 8:00am for breakfast at the resort.

The river cruises are specially curated to see and photograph wildlife, so we need to follow the set times when the wildlife is more active, which is early on the morning, afternoon, evening sunset & night time. That means we have some free time between the boat cruises and the meals, and we shall use this time exclusively for photo touchups and post production photo processing work.

At 10:00AM Carlos will be at the Foyer, editing his photos from the day and sharing with you his Photography and post Edition technics in LR and PS. Together will achieve the best results and that we make it a real photography adventure.

At 2:00pm, lunch at the Foyer/Restaurant.

From 3:30pm to 5:30pm, we meet at the Foyer for editing and online sharing using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI). Carlos will be sharing all his knowledge about wildlife photography and photo editing in LightRoom & PhotoShop (you can called it Photography-Class-in-the-Rainforest) !

At 6:00pm we shall start our evening river cruise. All river cruises will be on private boats dedicated specially for Photography. We shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the river cruise duration is 90 minutes), followed by dinner at the resort at 8:00pm.

After dinner at 9:00pm, the night walk takes place on a 1000 meters wooden boardwalk which surrounds the resort, this habitat is the perfect spot for Macro photography on insects and nocturnal animals, as usual, we shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos taken. At 10:30pm we retire to our own rooms or we can hang out at the Foyer, download the photos on our laptops to start the editing and upload the photos online using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI).

Day 3, Kinabatangan River

An early rise with quick coffee and light bites, enjoy the 6:00am river cruise on private boats dedicated specially for Photography. We shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the river cruise duration is 120 minutes) and back at 8:00am for breakfast at the resort. From 10:00am to 2:00pm, we meet at the Foyer for editing and online sharing using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI).

From 3:30pm to 5:30pm, we meet at the Foyer for editing and upload online using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI). Carlos will also be sharing all his knowledge about how to shoot and carry out editing in LightRoom & PhotoShop.

At 6:00pm we shall start the Evening river cruise. The river cruises are on private boats dedicated specially for Photography.

We shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the river cruise duration is 90 minutes) and back at 8:00pm for dinner at the resort.

After dinner at 9:00pm, we start the next Night river cruise on private boat. Once again, this is set aside especially for Photography, we shall take the time needed until everyone have their photos in every spot (the river cruise duration is 90 minutes) We dedicate this river cruise for very special photography. The Kinabatangan River provides many unique and memorable experiences, so for this night we shall allot extra time to shoot the Fireflies by the river during nightime. For those who are adventurous photographers, they can position the tripods on the river bed, while the rest can shoot from the boat.

At 10:30pm we retire to our own rooms or we can hang out at the Foyer, download the photos on our laptops to start the editing and upload the photos online using the resort’s WIFI (note this resort is really in the middle of the Rainforest so there is no phone connection, we shall be using the resort’s satellite WIFI).

Day 4, Kinabatangan, Sandakan. Singapore

Breakfast at 7:00am with check out of the resort for private boat transfer to Sandakan Jetty and by private van to Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Center where we can see the Orang-utans up-close, including the Orang-utan babies playing on the playground, we will have opportunities to photograph the Orang-utans in the wild in Kinabatangan River. This is a memorable experience to photograph these amazing primates close to you in Sepilok with viewing on the feeding platforms. With the admission payment at the Sepilok entrance, we support the rehabilitation work.

After the Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Center, we shall visit the Sun Bear Rehabilitation Centre also in Sepilok, where we can see the smallest bear in the world which unfortunately is also a very endangered species like the Orang-utan.

The visit ends with 1:00pm lunch on a restaurant in Sandakan and transfer to Sandakan Airport.

Flight from Sandakan to Singapore and home sweet home.

* KINABATANGAN RIVER & Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort (KWR)

A charming resort tucked in the wilderness of Lower Kinabatangan surrounding the pristine freshwater swamps and mangrove forest. An exclusive nature retreat, distance away from the crowded city and the busy ‘touristy’ areas of Sabah!

Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort is a hidden gem located in Abai, a quieter area of the Lower Kinabatangan Floodplain, about an hour’s boat ride from Sandakan harbour. If you are looking for something exclusive and away from the main tourist hotspots of Sukau and Bilit, Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort is the place to go.

It is recognized internationally as an important wetland area and an attraction for people who find solace in the presence of the wilds and its stunning wildlife. Abai village is the nearest access to LOWER KINABATANGAN SEGAMA WETLANDS, located 50km or about an hour and a half boat ride from Sandakan harbour. It borders the Lower Kinabatangan Floodplain, one of the most important wildlife refuge in Malaysia.

The resort is surrounded by secondary forest reserves, and is located within beautiful nipah and mangrove vegetation. Apart from the river cruises, you can spend time relaxing and observing nature from your chalet, a myriad of birds and monkeys, such as silver leaf langurs, maroon langurs, hose langurs, and wild Orang-utan are regularly spotted within the area. Raised boardwalks are available for night walks and morning strolls.

The 3 big prices we can spot in the area are the Wild Orang-utan, the Proboscis monkey and the Pigmy Elephants.

* Sepilok OrangUtan Rehabilitation Center

When Sabah became an independent state in Malaysia in 1963, a Game Branch was created in the Forest Department for the conservation of wild animals in the region. Consequently, 43Sq/km of protected land at the edge of Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve was turned into a rehabilitation site for orang-utans and this is where Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre is located.

Today around 60 to 80 orang-utans are living independently in the reserve and approximately 25 orphaned orang-utans are housed in the nurseries.

The facility provides medical care for orphaned and confiscated orangutans as well as dozens of other wildlife species. Some of the other animals which have been treated at the centre include; sun bears, gibbons, and elephants.

Recently rehabilitated individuals have their diet supplemented by daily feedings. The additional food supplied by the centre is purposefully designed to be monotonous and boring so as to encourage the apes to start to forage for themselves.

In the wild Orang-utan babies stay with their mothers for up to six years while they are taught the skills they need to survive in the forest, the most important of which is climbing. At Sepilok a buddy system is used to replace a mother’s teaching. A younger ape will be paired up with an older one to help them to develop the skills they need.

The creation of reserve areas minimises the impact of deforestation on Orang-utans and far fewer young apes become the victim of the illegal pet trade as a result of these ‘sanctuaries’. Babies are often caught during logging or forest clearance or captured by poachers who slaughter the adult apes to reach them.

Youngsters kept in captivity often become sick or suffer neglect which in some cases extends to cruelty. Whilst some of the Orang-utans raised as pets can never be returned to the wild, others can be rehabilitated; it is a long and expensive process, taking up to seven years but one centres such as Sepilok take on without question.

* Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is the only sun bear conservation centre in the world. It was founded in Sabah, Malaysia in 2008 with two aims:

• to provide care and rehabilitation to rescued sun bears; and
• to increase awareness of sun bears internationally. These aims work to ensure the absolute right of every bear to live in the forest.

The mission of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sabah, Malaysia, is to promote sun bear conservation in Borneo through animal welfare, conservation, rehabilitation, education and research - giving captured sun bears a better home and restoring their right to live in the wild, by:

• Creating the capacity to confiscate, rehabilitate and release suitable orphaned and ex-captive bears back into the wild.
• Providing an improved long-term living environment for captive bears that cannot be released.
• Educating the public and raising awareness about this species.
• Achieving increased protection for sun bears and their habitat through ongoing research, increased knowledge and awareness, and further protection of habitat.

* Photos by Carlos Monforte

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