10 Days Sabah Adventure Comfort Trail - Departs every second Wednesday
Trip Highlights
- Meet orangutans at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre
- Visit rescued sun bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys among the big 5 on Kinabatangan River
- Relax and snorkel in clear waters at Gaya Island – learn about thier Turtles project, Nurse and Release by YTL Gaya Resprt Conservation Project.
- Taste homemade treats and learn about a women-led community project in Kampung Kiau.
- Explore Sandakan’s heritage and enjoy local dishes like roti canai and teh tarik
- Local communities Interaction and cultural exchange.
- Tagal system by local community-Understanding of river management
Notes:
- Sighting of wildlife is not guaranteed.
- Kiau Women led Pineapple factory closed on Sunday and Public Holidays
- Orang Sungei walk will be cancelled should there an event of passed at Bilit village, in due respect - Muslin Community.
- Flight by Airasia on Day 7 inclusive in package - Flight schedules are subject to change by airlines.
In-Demand Trips! Discover Sabah in comfort on this 10-day small-group journey led by passionate local guides. From the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, visit a Dusun village to learn about Tagal fish conservation and a women-led pineapple project. Explore the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park, cruise the Kinabatangan River for Borneo’s Big 5, and meet orangutans and sun bears in Sepilok. End with island relaxation at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. A perfect blend of culture, wildlife, and soft adventure. [Start/End - Kota Kinabalu ] Departure: Every second Wednesday
Trip Overview
Start/End : Kota Kinabalu, Sabah-Borneo, Malaysia
Destinations: Kota Kinabalu> Dusun Village - Foothill of Kinabalu Park> Kundasang> Kinabatangan - Orang Sungei Village > Sandakan > Gaya Island -YTL Gaya Resort
Duration: 10 Days
Group Size: 2 – 12 people
Minimum Age: 15
Style: Comfort and Slow traveling pace
Theme: Wildlife, Nature & Culture & Island Chalets
Booking Window : Most of our inventory closes for bookings 45–60 days prior to travel during low season, and 60–90 days prior during high season. If you're unable to book or have a last-minute request, please reach out via our Contact Us form — we’re happy to check availability and assist where possible.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Selamat Datang – Welcome to Kota Kinabalu.
Arrive in Sabah’s lively capital, Kota Kinabalu. Settle in before joining your group at 1630 PM for welcome briefing, then adjourned to a cocktails with sunset views, followed by a group dinner.
Stay: 4 Stars City Hotel / Meals: Welcome Dinner.
Included : City Orientation and Sunset cocktail ( Subject to weather permiting )
Day 2: Village Encounters & Mountain Vistas
Check out and head to the Dusun highlands. Visit a local coffee cottage and support women-led pineapple farming at the Everything Pineapple project. Enjoy a community lunch before continuing to Kundasang.In the afternoon, explore Kinabalu Park – Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 4,500 species of flora and fauna.
Stay: Mountain Hotel (Kundasang) // Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included: Community Visit to Dusun Visit, World UNESCO Kinabalu Park
Day 3: Into the Heart of the Jungle – Kinabatangan
Journey from Kundasang to the Kinabatangan River. En route, stop at Kampung Luanti to learn about Tagal, the local fish conservation tradition. Arrive at your riverside eco-lodge, nestled in Sabah’s wildlife corridor. Embark on your first wildlife river cruise in search of proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and pygmy elephants.
Stay: Jungle Lodge along Kinabatangan River // Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included: Tagal River Visit, Evening River Cruise
Note about Tagal - A Community-Based Conservation Practice Tagal means "prohibition" in the Dusun language and is a traditional system used by Sabah’s indigenous communities to manage natural resources—especially rivers—through shared responsibility. This age-old practice has been adopted by the Sabah Fisheries Department, with over 400 river systems now under tagal management.
Day 4: Jungle Safari by River
Start your day with a dawn river cruise — an ideal time for wildlife sightings. After some rest, set out again in the late afternoon for another adventure along the Kinabatangan River.
Stay: Jungle Lodge along Kinabatangan River // Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included: Morning & Evening Cruises. A village walk at Bilit Village
Day 5: Orangutans, Sun Bears & Forest Trails
Depart the jungle and travel to Sepilok. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about wildlife protection efforts.Check into your hotel in Sandakan, then unwind by the pool and enjoy a relaxed evening as the sun sets.
Stay: 4 Stars Hotel (Sandakan) // Meals: Breakfast
Included: Sepilok orang Utan Santuary, Sun Bear Santuary.
Suggestion - Day 5 or day 06 activties, should you still energise, you may ask escort/tour leader to arrange optional side trip - Evening walk to Rainforest Center Visits follow by dinner (payable to Escort/Tour Leader Direct)
Day 6: A Leisure Day in Sandakan
Enjoy a relaxing day. Stroll through Sandakan’s heritage trail, discover colonial buildings, and enjoy a classic Malaysian roti and teh tarik break.
Stay: 4 Stars Hotel (Sandakan) // Meals: Breakfast
Included: Guided Heritage Walk
Day 7: Gaya Island Getaway
Fly to Kota Kinabalu by AK6489 ETD 1030am, arrive 1130 – drop at Jetty, free at leisure to buy and stock up snacks, lunch before , boat to Gaya Island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Arrive at your beach resort and enjoy free time to swim, relax, or soak up island life.
Stay: Island Resort (YTL Gaya Island) Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included: Island Boat Transfer, 1x Domestic Airasia flight from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu with check-in luggage of 20 KGS
Day 8: Snorkelling & Hidden BeachesStart the day with a gentle trek to a secluded beach. Snorkel over vibrant coral reefs. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore, or take a nature walk.
Stay: Island Resort (YTL Gaya Island) // Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Culture & City Farewell
Return to Kota Kinabalu by boat and transfer to the city. Visit Mari-Mari Cultural Village to experience Sabah’s diverse indigenous traditions. Spend your afternoon exploring the local markets, waterfront, or museums on your own pace. In the evening, enjoy an optional farewell dinner with your group.
Stay: 4 Stars City Hotel (Kota Kinabalu) // Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included: Cultural Village Visit
Day 10: Goodbye for Now
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. The tour ends after check-out. If you'd like to extend your stay in Sabah, we can assist with additional arrangements.
Meals: Breakfast
Joining Point - Horizon Hotel
Jalan Pantai
Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu
88999 Kota Kinabalu
Sabah
Telephone -+6088 518 000
Ending Point
Horizon Hotel
Jalan Pantai
Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu
88999 Kota KinabaluSabah
Telephone -+6088 518 000
ESSENTIALS:
- Luggage:1 medium suitcase/duffel (15-20kg max) + 1 daypack (for excursions).Lockable bag (for security).
- Clothing (Modest & Lightweight):Long pants/skirts (for temples, conservative areas).
- Light long-sleeve shirts (sun & mosquito protection).
- Swimwear (but cover up when not at the beach).
- Comfortable walking shoes + sandals.Light rain jacket (tropical showers possible).
- Health & Hygiene:Reusable water bottle (with purification tablets/filter if concerned).
- Sunscreen (high SPF, reef-safe if swimming).
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes.
- Electronics:Universal adapter (Malaysia uses Type G plugs).
- Power bank (for long travel days).
- Extras:Quick-dry towel.Sunglasses & wide-brim hat.
- Waterproof phone pouch (for boat trips).
What’s Included
- Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners, 1x sunset Cocktail
- Transport: Private minivan, Shared boat
- Accommodation: 2 nights in a jungle lodge, 1 night at mountian hotel, 4 nights in hotels (city/town), 2 nights in a beach resort
- Flight : 1 way of Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu on AK with 20KGs baggage on Day 06
- Escort/Tour Leader for 9 Days ( Exceptional without escort should only 4pax on trip on D7 & D8 at Gaya island)
- Nightly Malaysia Tourism Tax of MYR10 per room/pernight.
Whats's Excluded
- International inbound and outbound Flight tickets to Kota Kinabalu.
- Domestic Flights unless specified inclusion
- All Cameras or Video fees at all Santuaries visited.
- All personal expenses and Optional Activities
- Travel Insurance
- Visa and passport fees
- Airport transfers on D1
- Taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
- Meals, Activites, Transport unless mentioned
- Optional Kitty Tips of RM90
- Leader Tip: USD 4-6 per day (if service is excellent)
Early Check-In?
- Not guaranteed. Luggage storage available if rooms aren’t ready.
- Standard Malaysia-Borneo check in time is 3pm.
- Check out next day at 12pm.
🛬 Arrival & Transfers✔ Complimentary Airport Transfer Provided only if you:Arrive on Day 1 of the tour, orBook pre-tour accommodation through us ➤ Flight details must be submitted at least 14 days before travel.✔ Single Supplement (Private Room Option - please email suregoborneo@gmail,com for quote) Available for all nights of the trip. ➤ Subject to availability – book early to secure. ➤ Solo travellers welcome! Please email us at suregoborneo@gmail.com to check availability and pricing.✔ Travel Advisories Some governments issue travel cautions for Eastern Sabah (e.g., Sandakan). ➤ We recommend checking your country’s travel advisory and ensuring your insurance policy covers this region.✔ Flights to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) Kota Kinabalu International Airport is accessible via major airlines:Domestic: Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Batik Air, AirAsia (from Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Penang, Kuantan)International: Connections available via regional hubs
🛂 Passports & Visas✔ Passport Validity Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. ➤ Ensure your booking details (name, date of birth) exactly match your passport.✔ Visa Requirements Check visa regulations early. Some nationalities may require a visa for Malaysia or transit countries.
🧘♀️ Health & Safety✔ Physical Fitness A reasonable level of fitness is required. ➤ Trip leaders may decline participation in certain activities for health and safety reasons.✔ Vaccinations & MedicationsConsult your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before departure.Recommended to carry:Prescriptions (in original packaging)Basic first aid kitInsect repellent (DEET-based recommended)✔ Dengue & Zika No vaccine available. Prevent bites by:Wearing long sleeves/trousers, especially at dawn and duskUsing insect repellentSleeping under mosquito nets if required✔ Haze Season (June–October) Forest fires in Indonesia may affect air quality in Borneo.🍽️ Meals & Dietary Needs✔ Meals Meals are mostly included –some days is not, giving you flexibility to explore local food. ➤ Budget approx. USD 200 for extra meals during the trip.✔ Dietary Restrictions Please inform your booking agent in advance, or email suregoborneo@gmail.com before departure. ➤ You may also discuss dietary needs with your Tour Leader on Day 1.
🚐 Transport✔ Modes of Travel Shared boat, private van, and short walks.✔ Luggage Limit Max 15–20kg per person. ➤ You must be able to carry your own bags.
💵 Money & Tipping✔ Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) ➤ ATMs are widely available. ➤ Smaller vendors may not accept cards – carry MYR 10–50 notes.➤ Tour leader tip (if service is excellent): USD 4–6 per day✔ Kitty Tipping (Optional)Group kitty (for local drivers/support guides): ~MYR 90 per person
🎒What to Pack Essentials: Luggage: 1 medium suitcase/duffel (15–20kg) + 1 daypackClothing (modest, breathable):Long pants/skirts (temples, cultural visits)Light long-sleeve shirts (sun & mosquito protection)Swimwear (modest cover-up when not swimming)Comfortable walking shoes + sandalsLight rain jacket or ponchoHealth & Hygiene:Reusable water bottle (consider purification tablets or filters)Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)Hand sanitizer & wet wipesElectronics:Universal plug adapter (Malaysia uses Type G)Power bank for long daysExtras:Quick-dry towelSunglasses & wide-brim hatWaterproof phone pouch (especially for boat trips)
🗓️ Seasonal ConsiderationsChinese New Year – Festive period, but expect possible delays and limited servicesRamadan & Eid – Respect fasting hours; some eateries may be closed during the day
👥 Group Travel Notes : Solo Travellers Will be paired with a same-gender roommate unless a single supplement is requested ( TO ask - email for quote to suregoborneo@gmail.com ). Group Etiquette Be on time, flexible, and respectful of local customs and your fellow travellers.
🌱 Responsible TravelAvoid Bird’s Nest Soup – Its collection often disrupts local ecosystemsWildlife Protection – Do not ride, feed, or touch wild animalsPalm Oil Awareness – Large parts of Eastern Sabah are palm plantations – support sustainable alternatives where possibleMinimize plastic usage – Lets save the world from plastic, aim Zero Plastic.
🛡️ Travel InsuranceMandatory for all international travellers ➤ Must include medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip interruption/cancellation. Others Information - Group Conduct & ParticipationGroup Etiquette We encourage a respectful and flexible attitude. Please be punctual, mindful of cultural norms, and open to shared experiences.Escort/Leader Authority Our trip leaders have full authority to make decisions in the interest of safety and well-being. Travelers who do not comply may be removed from the trip at their own expense.Participation Waiver All participants must sign a Travel Participation Waiver acknowledging Assumption of risk Responsibility for their own health and safety. Agreement to follow instructions and tour guidelines
Optional Activities & Add-Ons - Optional activities are not included unless stated.Prices are approximate and subject to change based on availability.Most do not include transportation or guiding unless stated.Activities that contradict our Responsible Travel policies (e.g., animal riding) are not supported. Participation is at your own risk if you engage in third-party services.
✅ Final Tip: Pack light. Stay curious. Respect the culture. And get ready for an unforgettable Borneo experience!
Contact & Support
- Exotic Asian Explorer (Borneo) Sdn Bhd
- Email: suregoborneo@gmail.com
- Emergency Contact: +6012 838 5170
- Business Registration: KKKP/PL 3912
Booking & Payment Policy.
Please read the following terms and conditions carefully before booking your tour with Exotic Asian Explorer (Borneo) Sdn Bhd. By confirming your booking, you agree to be bound by these terms.
Deposit Requirement
A non-refundable deposit of USD $400 per person per trip is required to secure your booking if departs 61 days+ from the trip date. If your booking is made within 60 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Final Payment from Deposit- The balance of your trip cost is due no later than 60 days prior to departure.If full payment is not received by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking. Amendments by You - Booking amendments (such as transferring to another trip or traveler) may be allowed only if operationally feasible and must be requested in writing. No changes are permitted within 60 days of departure.
Name changes are subject to availability and additional fees from airlines or third-party providers. (Domestic Flight if included in trip)
Cancellation Policy -Following charges apply if booking cancel by you:
- 60 to 30 days before departure trip, a cancellation fee of 50% of the total trip cost applies.
- 30 days before departure, a cancellation fee of 100% of the total trip cost applies.
- We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance with cancellation coverage at the time of booking.
Important Notes:Cancellations must be submitted in writing.No refunds are provided for missed activities, unused services, or early departure from the trip.Deposits and credits are non-transferable to trips of similar or same date ranges.
- Cancellation by Us Once one fully paid traveler is confirmed, the trip is guaranteed to depart (unless minimum group size is specified).If we cancel the trip (excluding Force Majeure), you may choose to: Receive a refund offsetting handling and administration fees charges of e-booking by Regzo/gateway charges, or Transfer the amount paid to an alternative trip or date.
We are not responsible for any additional expenses (e.g. visas, insurance, flights) incurred due to cancellation.
Force Majeure Events We are not liable for any failure or delay in performance caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including (but not limited to): Acts of God, fire, flood, earthquake, stormWar, riots, terrorism, or political instabilityPandemics, epidemics, or health emergencies Government regulations or travel restrictions. Airline schedule changes or natural disastersIn such cases, no refunds are available. Travelers should contact their insurance provider for compensation.









