How Does Tourism Operate In Borneo?

Borneo is a paradise for ecotourism, with the majority of its surface covered in virgin rainforest. The Danum Valley in northeast Sabah offers an ultimate jungle experience, with accommodation, jungle activities, and expert local guides. Crazy Tourist has identified 25 best things to do in Borneo for jungles, mountain climbing, and scuba diving.

Mount Kinabalu, the highest point between New Guinea and the Himalayas, is a must-visit attraction in Borneo. Bako National Park offers rainforest retreats, tropical beaches, world-class diving national parks, and culture. Kinabatangan River Safari is a must-see activity for animal enthusiasts. Explore Gomantong Caves, learn about marine life in Turtle Island, visit famous handicraft villages, go hiking at Mount Kinabalu, and trek the Pinnacles of Gunung.

Borneo is known for its rainforests, orangutans, the famous dive site of Sipadan, and the soaring peak at Mount Kinabalu. Other popular attractions include Kinabatangan River Safari, Gomantong Caves, Turtle Island Marine Life, Orangutans at Sepilok, Famous Handicraft Villages, hiking at Mount Kinabalu, and trekking the Pinnacles of Gunung.

The best time to visit Borneo is from April to September, as the flowers and foliage are at their finest during spring and early summer. The food is amazing, the people are friendly, and there are some great national parks.

For those interested in cultural and food aspects, a Kinabalu hike, seeing wildlife other than orangutans, and good scuba diving, Borneo offers more than just jungles and orangutans. The best time to visit Borneo is during the dry season from March to October, with July-August being the peak tourist season. Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, known as Malaysian Borneo, are home to a dizzying array of wildlife, which tourists can admire on a river safari.

Is Borneo expensive for tourists?

Travelers in Malaysian Borneo often complain about the high cost of travel and accommodation compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Public transport in Borneo is often non-existent, forcing travellers to use taxis. To save money, it is recommended to book flights ahead of time, with Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and MasWings being the three main airlines in Borneo.

Before traveling, it is important to know the ethnic diversity of Malaysia, which means there are many public holidays like Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Gawai. Traveling during these times can be difficult and expensive, and it is best to settle in one place and enjoy the festivities. If lucky, you may even get invited back to someone’s kampung to feast on barbecued python while lounging in the equatorial sun.

Many visitors to Borneo expect lush jungles and flying machines, but this romanticized version of Borneo no longer exists. The rapid development of the Malaysian economy has led to the destruction of much of the jungle in Sarawak, especially Sabah, and the conversion of it into palm oil plantations.

In summary, traveling to Malaysian Borneo can be expensive and challenging, but it is essential to book flights ahead of time and manage expectations to enjoy the local culture and traditions.

Why is Borneo so popular?

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, boasts a remarkable ecosystem and incredible biodiversity. It is home to numerous flora and fauna species, ethnic tribes, and breathtaking landscapes. The island, which consists of Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak, Indonesia’s Kalimantan, and Brunei, is a paradise beyond imagination. Its unique features and facts make it a truly special and out-of-this-world destination. Discover the enchantment of islands and seas by diving into the enchantment of islands and seas.

How much does 2 weeks in Borneo cost?

The standard Borneo holiday package starts at £12, 000 for a two-week family holiday, including mid-range hotels and jungle lodges. For upscale resorts, the price starts at £15, 000. For budget travelers, simple accommodation and sharing services can potentially reduce the price to £10, 000 for a two-week holiday, excluding flights. However, if the family is traveling on a tight budget, they may be able to save by using simple accommodations and sharing services.

Why do tourists visit Borneo?

Borneo, known for its iconic orangutan, offers a world away from everyday life with exotic creatures like Proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, sun bears, Sunda leopards, hornbills, and the world’s largest flower. The island also boasts vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, some of the most underrated in Asia. To discover more, download the Curious Traveller’s Guide to Borneo, which includes expert opinions on hotels, experiences, and beaches, as well as the best time to visit and conservation efforts in-country.

Is Borneo expensive?

While travel in Borneo is relatively affordable, it is not as inexpensive as in Vietnam or Thailand. Additionally, food is relatively inexpensive, with a noodle bowl in Sarawak, Malaysia, costing between RM3 and RM10 and a one-hour bus journey costing RM10. This makes it an optimal choice for those seeking to explore the country.

Is there a dress code in Borneo?

Borneo’s dress code is modest, especially for female visitors, with covering of shoulders and knees, not exposing midriffs, and avoiding cleavage. Long sleeves are appropriate for temples and holy places, and hair should be covered. Beaches and forest trekking are more relaxed, but women should wash in sarongs when bathing in rivers. Food and hospitality in Borneo are generally modest, with homestays often expecting eating with hands and restaurants offering forks, spoons, or chopsticks.

Can you drink alcohol in Borneo?

Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country, is legal to consume alcohol, with Borneo being more prevalent than the mainland. Local drinks include Tuak, a gentle rice wine made with rice, milk, and water, and Langkau, a potent cousin of Tuak. Both are sold in unmarked green bottles, and their alcohol content is often unknown. It is best to sip slowly or avoid them all together. Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, except for tour guides and porters.

Tipping in restaurants is considered rude and may lead to chase afters, while tipping at a restaurant, spa, or taxi insults both workers and establishments. It is best to avoid tipping in restaurants, spas, or taxis to avoid misunderstandings and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What to avoid in Borneo?

Borneo is a tropical rainforest with a variety of wildlife, including snakes, crocodiles, sea slugs, big cats like clouded leopards, and poisonous centipedes. However, there are no new dangers in Borneo, and roads are crucial in rural areas. In case of an accident, it may take longer for an ambulance to arrive than in your home country. Hiking in the rainforest requires caution, especially around streams and waterfalls, where stones can be slippery. Falls can lead to serious head injuries or broken bones. Overall, Borneo offers a unique blend of natural and human-made attractions.

What is interesting about Borneo?

Borneo, an island in Indonesia, is administered by Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is the world’s third largest island, with half of the world’s timber coming from it. Borneo’s rainforest, estimated to be 130 million years old, is one of the oldest in the world. Over 200 ethnic groups, known as Dayaks, inhabit the island. Borneo is home to Southeast Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu, and has seen 360 new species discovered in the last decade.

The island is also home to the largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia Arnoldii flower, also known as the corpse flower. Borneo is home to around 222 mammals, with 44 of them found only in the island. To experience Borneo, consider exploring the various programs offered by the country.

Is alcohol illegal in Borneo?

Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country, is legal to consume alcohol, with Borneo being more prevalent than the mainland. Local drinks include Tuak, a gentle rice wine made with rice, milk, and water, and Langkau, a potent cousin of Tuak. Both are sold in unmarked green bottles, and their alcohol content is often unknown. It is best to sip slowly or avoid them all together. Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, except for tour guides and porters.

Tipping in restaurants is considered rude and may lead to chase afters, while tipping at a restaurant, spa, or taxi insults both workers and establishments. It is best to avoid tipping in restaurants, spas, or taxis to avoid misunderstandings and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Is it safe to visit Borneo now?

A decade ago, visiting Borneo, particularly in Malaysia’s Sabah, was riskier due to kidnappings and militant terrorist attacks. However, the situation has improved, and most areas in Malaysian Borneo are safe to visit. In Indonesia’s Kalimantan, recent terror attacks have made tourists a potential target, but the risk is low. Before planning a trip to Borneo, check official government advice and policy wording, as travel warnings can change frequently and may not cover certain areas. Be aware of your surroundings and check official sources and policy wording before traveling.