Compare Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula by Exodus Travels vs Jungles & beaches of Malaysia and Borneo by Audley Travel
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 14 days | 14 days |
| Price From | $ 3,300 | $ 3,934 |
| Price Per Day | $ 236 | $ 281 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Private guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | No | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | There are 13 breakfasts, two lunches and four dinners included. You should allow about 880-1,320 Malaysian ringgits (US$200-US$300) for food not included. You need a little more for beer and other alcoholic drinks as you can expect to pay near Western prices. Most meals will be basic, based around rice and noodles, although most accommodations have a Western breakfast of beans, toast and eggs. In the bigger hotels and cities, the full range of Western and local foods are available. You can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. In Kuala Lumpur, there is a food tour providing an opportunity to experience the diverse culinary heritage of the country. Vegetarians can be catered for but please be aware that choice may be limited outside the main cities. Please inform your sales representative before departure of any special dietary requests. In Borneo, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent, for example wheat- or dairy-free, please be prepared for this and you may need to bring these from home. | N/A |
| Description |
Malaysia is a country of two halves. To the east is the island of Borneo with jungles, orangutans and rivers. To the west is the Malaysian Peninsula with a blend of cultures, religion, colonial history and modern flair. As we make our way through these two distinct regions, we look for charismatic wildlife, delve into European, Malay, Chinese and Indian heritage, and enjoy spectacular beaches. We visit Buddhist temples and mosques, wander through rainforest trails and street-food markets and take in the sights, sounds, smells and flavours of a truly diverse country.Wander through jungles, colonial towns, modern metropolises and tropical beaches |
Rich equatorial rainforest, wild orangutan and the Kinabatangan River... On a tailor-made holiday to Borneo with Audley, you’ll see the highlights - and much more - your way. We’ll design your ideal trip with you, paying close attention to your interests, your travel style and your budget. Our Borneo specialists know the country inside out and can lead you to experiences you won’t find in a guidebook. |
Day 1 Start Sepilok; optional night walk
There will be an initial group briefing with your leader later this afternoon. There should be the opportunity for an optional night walk this evening before dinner (please ask your leader upon arrival). If there is no time this evening, we may be able to do the night walk tomorrow. Accommodation: Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort (or similar)
Day 2 Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary; optional visit to the Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Created in 1964, the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary is the largest orangutan sanctuary in the world and aims to rehabilitate and release orphaned and captured orangutans into the wild. This morning, we visit the informative headquarters and see the animals at feeding time. In the afternoon, we visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre, which has an impressive canopy walkway offering great views over the Sepilok Reserve. This is a great place to see birds, including hornbills and Borneo bristleheads, and during fruiting season we may spot the odd orangutan. There is an option to return to the orangutan sanctuary for the second feeding session in the afternoon (return transfer costs not included) as well as the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Speak to your leader for more information on this option. Accommodation: Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort (or similar)
Day 3 Travel to Kinabatangan; afternoon river cruise
Day 4 Explore Kinabatangan river
Up early, we head out on a dawn wildlife cruise on the river in search of more wildlife. After breakfast, we head out on a walk on one of the surrounding nature trails. This afternoon, we learn a bit more about local conservation efforts and contribute ourselves by planting trees. Later, we return to the river to look for crocodiles and other forest residents. There should be the opportunity this evening for an optional night walk where we may see owls or even Western tarsiers. Accommodation: Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort (or similar)
Day 5 Drive to Sandakan via the War Memorial; free time
Leaving after breakfast, we head to Sandakan (approximately 2hr 30min drive) stopping at the Sandakan War Memorial en route. After checking in at our hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to relax, swim in the hotel pool, enjoy local cuisine or explore the vibrant, compact streets of Sandakan. Accommodation: Sabah Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 Fly to Kuala Lumpur and on to Malacca
After breakfast, we transfer to Sandakan Airport and bid farewell to Borneo to check in for our flight to Kuala Lumpur on the Malaysian Peninsula (there is a 33lb/15kg restriction but it is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport or your leader can arrange this at the start of the tour). Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur, we meet our leader for this section of the trip. We then take a two-hour transfer to Malacca. Upon arrival at our hotel in the afternoon, there is time to relax and explore this historic and culturally rich city. Accommodation: Ibis Melaka (or similar)
Day 7 Walking and trishaw tour of Malacca
Malacca is a well-preserved colonial town with a mix of Portuguese, British and Dutch architecture. The quaint Chinatown neighbourhood is home to numerous antique shops plus a Hindu temple, Taoist temple and a mosque, while the oldest functioning church in Malaysia is nearby across the canal. We explore the city by foot and by using its colourful and distinctive trishaws. This evening, we go out to try Malacca cuisine. Known as Baba Nyonya, it is a blend of Chinese, Malay and other influences and is a speciality of the town. Accommodation: Ibis Melaka (or similar)
Day 8 Transfer to Kuala Lumpur via the Batu Caves
Leaving the sleepy charm of Malacca, we first transfer (approximately three hours) to the Batu Caves. These limestone caves are a holy Hindu site and are guarded by a giant statue of the Hindu god Lord Murugan. Behind the statue are the 272 steps that lead to the caves and large numbers of monkeys. We then take a short transfer to Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital of Malaysia. Known as KL, this vibrant city shows a completely different side of the country. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore the city further, visit the Petronas Towers or enjoy a spot of shopping. Please note, the Petronas Towers are closed on Mondays (Day 9 of the itinerary) and advanced booking online is recommended at least a week before arrival to avoid disappointment. Please see the optional excursions section of the Trip Notes for further details. If you want a drink with amazing views later this evening, head to one of the many rooftop bars in KL and enjoy the cityscape at night. Accommodation: Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur (or similar)
Day 9 Orientation walk and explore Malaysian cuisine on a city food tour; free afternoon
After breakfast, we first head out on an orientation walk of Kuala Lumpur followed by a city food tour. KL mixes Malay, Indian and Chinese traditions and people and the best way to discover this diversity is on a city food tour. We discover different neighbourhoods with their distinct sights, sounds, smells and, of course, delicacies. We start at Masjid Jamek and learn how KL started. We also visit the oldest Chinese and Indian temple in the city to learn more about those communities. Our visit to Chinatown is rewarded by tasty noodles. After this, take a short ride on the modern transport system towards Brickfields. This is Little India, and our senses will be assaulted by loud and colourful architecture, music and food as we walk through the Indian neighbourhood. We sample delicious Indian dishes served on banana leaves and seek street vendors for snacks to end our food journey. The rest of the day is free to explore more of the city at your own pace. You can shop in the malls, visit one of the museums or take in the views from the KL Tower (some sites and museums are closed on Mondays, such as the Petronas Towers and Bridge, please see details under optional excursions in the Trip Notes). Accommodation: Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur (or similar)
Day 10 Catch the train to Penang; afternoon walk around the colonial town of Georgetown
Today, we head north by train as we make our way to Butterworth (about four hours). From here, it’s a short transfer across the bridge to the island of Penang and the town of Georgetown, a Unesco World Heritage site due to its architectural and cultural landscape. Upon arrival, we have a late afternoon orientation tour before an optional dinner at one of the many street-food markets. Accommodation: Royal Chulan Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 Georgetown walking tour to explore the street art, culture and heritage of Penang
This morning, we explore more Malaysian diversity on a walking city tour. Georgetown is known for its cultural sights and natural scenery. Explore on foot to see well-preserved colonial structures, ornate temples and colourful street art. We end our walk with a visit to Khoo Clan House and Museum. This afternoon, there is free time to explore further on your own. Perhaps scale Penang Hill or visit the Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, stroll to the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, which has been restored to its past grandeur: the perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea or gin and tonic. Accommodation: Royal Chulan Hotel (or similar)
Day 12 Fly to Langkawi island
This morning is free for a final exploration before we take an afternoon transfer to the airport for a short flight from Penang to Langkawi island (there is a 33lb/15kg restriction on checked luggage but it is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport or your leader can help arrange this at the start of your trip). Officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, it is an archipelago of almost 100 tropical islands surrounded by the turquoise Andaman Sea with pristine beaches and jungles. After checking into our hotel, there will be time to relax and enjoy the area at leisure. Accommodation: Tropical Resort Langkawi (or similar)
Day 13 Free day to explore the island or just relax on the beach; final group dinner
Today is a free day to relax on the beach or partake in one of the various optional activities on offer. These options include going on a mangrove tour, kayaking or taking the cable car. This evening, we enjoy a group farewell dinner (included) on our final evening in this tropical paradise. Accommodation: Tropical Resort Langkawi (or similar)
Day 14 Trip ends this morning
The trip ends after breakfast today. If you’d like to explore a little more, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Day 1 : International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Kuching.
Day 2 : Kuching
Arriving into Kuching you're met by an Audley representative and transferred by private driver to your hotel.Depending on your flight time, you have the rest of the day to relax- you might like to wander into Kuching this evening to explore many of the local restaurants, cafes and street-food stalls.
Day 3 : Kuching
Enjoy the day discovering the history and beauty of the riverside city of Kuching on a private walking tour with an experienced guide. On foot, explore the narrow alleyways and markets to see daily unfold - as well as seeing many of the temples and churches the city is known for. With a range of colonial influences from Indian mosques to Chinese temples, your guide can help you understand the complex history of the town.
Day 4 : Lemanak River
Leave Kuching this morning and visit the Semenggok Orang-utan Sanctuary in time for the morning feeding session with your private guide.Continue the journey on to Batang Ai and the Lemanak River to stay the night in a native longhouse with the Iban tribe, descendants of the infamous headhunters. This journey with private guide lasts all day, with stops along the way to explore. Arrive at the longhouse in time to be welcomed for dinner with the family- usually followed by traditional dancing and music.
Day 5 : Batang Ai
Your Iban host teaches you how the tribe live off the natural resources of the jungle this morning on a private guided walk.Say goodbye to the tribe as you depart by private longboat, and then car, to a more comfortable hotel for the night.On arrival, check in to your room before enjoying a private guided nature walk with the opportunity to walk along the tree-top canopy walkways of the surrounding forest.
Day 6 : Kuching
Leave Batang Ai and head back to Kuching today. Leaving from the hotel's jetty, you have a short shared boat transfer before being met by your private driver for the four hour drive to Kuching. Along the way you can stop for a simple local meal.
Day 7 : Kuching
Spend the day in Bako National Park with your private guide to spot some of Borneo's stunning wildlife such as proboscis monkey, bearded pig and hornbill. An early start, drive by private transfer 40 minutes outside the city before catching a boat for a 30 minute ride across to the park. This tour can be tailored to your interests, with your guide on hand to help you explore many of the waterfalls, streams and jungle paths.
Day 8 : Kuala Lumpur
This morning you're collected from your hotel for a private transfer to Kuching airport to catch your short flight to Kuala Lumpur.On arrival in Kuala Lumpur, an Audley representative will meet you and accompany you to your hotel by private transfer. Depending on the time of your flight, you many have time to explore the city a little. A city best explored on foot, you might like to walk to some of the many street-food markets near your hotel to try some local delicacies.
Day 9 : Tioman Island
This morning you transfer to the east coast, a journey of several hours but well worth it. Take a shared boat to Tioman Island, where you will have 4 nights to relax at the gorgeous JapaMala.
Day 10 : Tioman Island
Today you have the day to enjoy JapaMala. You might like to explore the surrounding waters by booking a private boat excursion to a nearby island or bay, or simply try from the jetty.
Day 11 : Tioman Island
Another day today to enjoy your hotel. Private jungle treks can be arranged with the hotel, from longer treks visiting the next village to short walks to a nearby viewpoint- ideal for watching the sunset.
Day 12 : Tioman Island
Enjoy your final full day away at leisure at the JapaMala. The spa comes highly recommended. For a special end to your trip, you might like to book at table at Mandi-Mandi, the hotel's small restaurant built on stilts over the water.
Day 13 : International return flight
Catch a shared boat transfer back to Kuala Lumpur today where you're met and driven to the airport in time for your onwards flight.
Day 14 : International return flight
Arrive home today to complete your journey.
