Borneo: The forgotten destination in Malaysia
25 July 2024
You have decided to take the plunge, to step out of your comfort zone and embark on an exceptional adventure. You have chosen the travel to Malaysia! Excellent choice! But have you thought about Borneo? Yes, this island shared between Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia, a nugget too often left behind in travelers’ itineraries. In this article, we’ll show you why Borneo deserves a special place in your next travel to Malaysia. So, get ready, because we are going to take you on an adventure in the heart of the jungle, meeting orangutans, in the bustling cities of Kuching And Kota Kinabalu, and more.
Discover Kuching City
Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, the Malaysian part of Borneo, is a city worth visiting. Its name means “cat” in Malay, and you’ll find statues of cats all over the city, adding to its unique charm and good-natured atmosphere.
Besides cats, Kuching is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture, quaint Chinatowns and bustling markets. You can stroll along the waterfront, explore local artisan shops and sample tasty and exotic street food.
Additionally, Kuching is an excellent base from which to explore the wilds of Borneo. From here you can easily reach the Bako National Park, Sarawak’s oldest national park, where you can spot local wildlife, including proboscis monkeys and orangutans.
Borneo and its natural wonders
The island of Borneo is renowned for its lush nature and breathtaking biodiversity. Prepare your day bag and put on your walking shoes, because we are going to immerse ourselves in the tropical rainforest.
Of Kuching, your journey will take you to Bako National Park, where you can hike in the jungle, on marked and well-maintained trails. There hill walking requires good physical condition, but don’t worry, the efforts will be rewarded by the beauty of the landscape and the richness of the fauna and flora.
Another must-see is the Semenggoh Nature Reserve, a half-hour drive from Kuching. This orangutan rehabilitation center is the ideal place to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitat.
Kota Kinabalu, the pearl of Borneo
Your trip to Borneo would not be complete without a visit to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. This modern, vibrant city is a fascinating mix of old and new, tradition and modernity.
Kota Kinabalu is surrounded by impressive nature. You can hike to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak, or explore Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, an archipelago of five islands with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
In the town itself, be sure to visit the night market to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and sample Malaysian street food.
Prepare your trip to Borneo
Now that you’re convinced that Borneo is a must-visit destination in Malaysia, it’s time to start planning your trip. THE price of the trip varies depending on the season,accommodation chosen and the activities you want to do.
About the departure, Paris offers direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. From there, internal flights will take you to Borneo. The alternative is to take a flight with a stopover via another Asian city.
Finally, for a successful stay, do not forget to check the conditions of entry and stay in Malaysia, take out travel insurance and take all the necessary health precautions.
In short, Borneo is a destination that is too often forgotten during a trip to Malaysia, but which offers unparalleled natural and cultural wealth. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or a nature lover, this island has something to offer you. So don’t wait any longer, pack your bags and set off to discover this hidden pearl of Asia. Borneo, the forgotten island, awaits you with its bustling cities, national parks, amazing flora and fauna and welcoming people. Your unforgettable trip to Malaysia starts here.
