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SABAH'S SPLENDORS

9-Day Sabah Adventure with Luxury Resorts, Wildlife Encounters, and Cultural Experiences

Serenity Sunseeker Sunset Champagne Cruise, Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu City Tour, Full Day Kinabalu National Park Private Tour, Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, 3 days / 2 nights Kinabatangan River Cruise, Beach Holiday on Gaya Island, Full-Day Snorkeling Tour in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park With Lunch, 80-Minute Massage at Spa Village, Farewell Dinner 

9 Days / 8 Nights

Discover the wonders of Borneo with this customizable Borneo Private Tour, featuring exclusive wildlife experiences, cultural encounters, and luxurious accommodations throughout Sabah’s most stunning destinations.

Experience the ultimate Borneo private tour on this 9-day Sabah luxurious adventure. Begin your journey in Kota Kinabalu with a stay at the prestigious Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, a perfect introduction to Malaysian Borneo. Immerse yourself in local culture at the Mari Mari Cultural Village before exploring the scenic and cultural treasures of Kota Kinabalu. Discover the natural beauty of Kota Kinabalu National Park, then travel to Sandakan for up-close encounters with orangutans and sun bears. Spend two unforgettable nights at the deluxe Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Kinabatangan National Park, where you'll enjoy thrilling river cruises and wildlife sightings. Your Sabah luxurious tour ends with a relaxing beach holiday at Gaya Island Resort, where you can indulge in eco-luxury with snorkeling led by PADI professionals, nature walks, and rejuvenating spa treatments. 

Highlights

WHY WE LOVE THIS
BORNEO PRIVATE TOUR

  • Luxurious Stays Throughout: Experience the height of luxury at the five-star Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, the renowned Sukau Rainforest Lodge, and the eco-luxury Gaya Island Resort.

  • Private Tours With Nature & City Guides: Enjoy personalized private tours, ensuring exclusive access and tailored experiences across Sabah’s most captivating sites.

  • Kota Kinabalu Exploration: Uncover the cultural and natural treasures of Kota Kinabalu and its surroundings, including a full-day tour to Kinabalu National Park, where you’ll witness the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s highest peak at 4,095 meters (13,435 ft).

  • Beach Holiday at Gaya Island: Conclude your journey with a serene beach holiday on Gaya Island, part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Indulge in a luxurious massage at Spa Village and enjoy a traditional barbecue beach dinner.

  • Wildlife Wonders: From orangutans and sun bears in Sandakan to pygmy elephants and hornbills at Kinabatangan, experience Sabah’s iconic wildlife during guided river cruises from the Sukau Rainforest Lodge.

  • Serenity at Sea: Relax on the Serenity Sunseeker Sunset Cruise, sipping champagne and savoring canapés while witnessing one of the world’s most stunning sunsets over the South China Sea.

A Sabah man holding a traditional blowpipe while standing on a canopy walkway inside the lush Borneo rainforest
Details

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

By clicking on the 'Details' button, you can access a detailed description of each day. At Malaya Travel, we take pride in our approach to designing travel experiences. Our commitment to focusing on even the smallest of details, combined with our extensive on-ground expertise, allows us to offer valuable recommendations regardless of whether you are exploring Sarawak,Singapore, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Langkawi.

 

Your journey with us is truly bespoke, and we look forward to tailoring it to what makes you happy.

Stunning view of the Floating Mosque in Kota Kinabalu at sunset, captured from the water during a private Borneo tour.

Welcome to Sabah: Arrival and Sunset Cruise

Welcome to Sabah! After arriving, your driver will take you to the exquisite Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, where you can unwind in luxury. Spend some time relaxing and enjoying the beautiful views. In the evening, set sail on the Serenity Sunseeker Sunset Cruise, savoring delicious canapés and drinks as you witness a breathtaking sunset over the South China Sea, marking a perfect beginning to your adventure in Borneo.

Locals in traditional dresses showcasing their culture at Mari Mari Cultural Village during a private Borneo tour

Kota Kinabalu City Tour & Mari Mari Cultural Village

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before joining your guide for an unforgettable visit to Mari Mari Cultural Village. Immerse yourself in the customs of North-East Borneo’s five tribes, learning about their unique traditions and sustainable practices. After a delightful lunch at the village, explore Kota Kinabalu on a half-day city tour. Visit the beautiful City Mosque, the tranquil Pu Toh Tze Temple, and the remarkable Menara Tun Mustapha. End your day at Signal Hill for stunning views before enjoying dinner and a glass of wine at the vibrant Kota Kinabalu Waterfront.

Mount Kinabalu in the background with cows grazing on the hills, captured during a private full-day tour to Kinabalu National Park in Sabah, Malaysia

Kinabalu National Park Day Tour: Explore Mount Kinabalu and Poring Hot Springs

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop at Tamparuli to walk the famous suspension bridge, then visit Nabalu Market for local crafts and stunning views of Mount Kinabalu. Upon arrival at the park, enjoy a guided walk through the Botanical Garden, home to unique flora like orchids and pitcher plants. After lunch, unwind at Poring Hot Springs, followed by a Canopy Treetop Walk for breathtaking rainforest views. End the day with a return trip to Kota Kinabalu.

An adult orangutan gazing into the camera at Sepilok Orangutan Centre, a highlight of our private Borneo tour in Sabah, Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutan & Kinabatangan River Safari: Explore Borneo’s Wildlife

Arrive in Sandakan and begin your day at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you'll observe orangutans up close during their morning feeding. Visit the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about these unique creatures. After lunch, embark on a scenic 2½-hour boat journey along the Kinabatangan River to Sukau Rainforest Lodge. Settle into your Borneo Villa, then enjoy a peaceful afternoon river cruise in search of wildlife. End the day with a candlelight dinner by the river, followed by a presentation from the lodge’s naturalist guide.

A boat cruising on the Kinabatangan River in search of the Borneo Big 5, with a family of pygmy elephants visible on the riverbank in the background

Chasing Borneo's Big 5: River Cruise Along The Kinabatangan River

Start your day with a morning river cruise along the Kinabatangan in search of the Borneo Big 5: orangutans, pygmy elephants, rhinoceros hornbills, proboscis monkeys, and estuarine crocodiles. After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, join a guided tour on the Hornbill Boardwalk, gaining insights into the vibrant ecosystem. Enjoy lunch, followed by an engaging talk about orangutans. Spend the afternoon exploring the lodge's boardwalk, then embark on a sunset river expedition. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at the lodge, savoring the rainforest flavors.

The luxurious Gaya Island Resort showcasing its beautiful beach and pool, a perfect retreat during a private Borneo tour near Kota Kinabalu in Sabah

Gaya Island Escape: Luxury Resort Stay and Marine Conservation 

After breakfast, leave the wilderness of Sandakan behind as you travel back to the vibrant city. Fly to Kota Kinabalu, where a private transfer awaits to take you to the Jetty. Board a boat to Gaya Island, your home for the next three nights at the luxurious Gaya Island Resort. Nestled among mangroves and coral reefs, this resort offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu. Spend your day at leisure, exploring the resort or visiting the Marine Center to learn about conservation efforts. In the evening, enjoy a diverse dining experience at Feast Village, with breathtaking views by the lap pool.

A diver exploring the crystal-clear waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, swimming alongside a green sea turtle during a private Borneo tour

Snorkeling Adventure in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Get ready for an unforgettable day of snorkeling at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park! Enjoy two exciting snorkeling sessions. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to encounter vibrant coral reefs, graceful sea turtles, black tip reef sharks, and the elusive blue ringed octopus. Relax on pristine beaches between snorkeling adventures and enjoy a delicious lunch provided on the island. After your aquatic adventures, return to the resort to unwind. Enjoy dinner at Fisherman’s Cove, located on the rooftop, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes while soaking in breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu.

A couple enjoying a relaxing massage in a luxurious treatment room at Spa Villa, Gaya Island Resort, part of a private Borneo tour experience

Enjoy Gaya Island: Nature Walks, Spa Bliss, and a Memorable Farewell Dinner

Set off for a nature walk through Gaya Island's botanic reserve with a Resident Naturalist, then visit the Marine Centre to discover sea turtle and coral conservation efforts. Indulge in a revitalizing 80-minute Urutan Pribumi massage at the renowned Spa Village, combining traditional techniques and local ingredients. As the sun sets, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring a beach barbecue with grilled fish complemented by local rice wine and the soothing sounds of Kadazan music, creating lasting memories of your time in Borneo.

The golden sand beach at Gaya Island Resort within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a serene destination featured in a private Borneo tour near Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Farewell To Gaya Island and Borneo

On your final day, savor a delightful breakfast before bidding farewell to Gaya Island. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or by the luxurious pool before your departure. After checking out from your resort, enjoy a scenic boat transfer to Kota Kinabalu Airport. Kota Kinabalu Airport is well-connected to major Malaysian cities and beyond, making it easy to continue your adventure. 

I’ve explored every corner of Malaysia and Singapore, I can't wait to share my passion with you! What sets our tours apart is the personal care we put into every itinerary—crafted with our love for Southeast Asia and our deep local experience to ensure your trip is truly unforgettable. to make sure your trip is unforgettable. Let’s chat and start planning your adventure today!"

Peter Spaits, Malaysia Vacation Expert

INCLUDED WITH EVERY MALAYA TRAVEL JOURNEY

  • English-Speaking Licensed Local Guides

  • Complimentary Consultations Whenever You Prefer & Pre-Departure Orientation

  • Accomodations for Guide and Driver on Multi-day Tours

  • Full Breakfast Each Day

  • Airport Meet & Greet and Private Transfers

  • Your Freedom to Select the Vehicle Category

  • Bottled Mineral Water Each Day

  • All Entrance Fees

  • All Gratuities Except Tour Guides

  • 24/7 English WhatsApp Emergency Line 

"Let's connect and start planning your next Singapore travel!"

We are here to help!

Penang Stret Art

(786) 833-0625

peter@malayatravel.com

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR PACKAGE

  • 3-Night-Stay at Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa in Tanjung Wing Seaview Room with Breakfast

  • 2-Night-Stay at Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Borneo Villa Rooms with Full-Board

  • 3-Night-Stay at Gaya Island Resort in Kinabalu Villa with Breakfast and 3 Dinners, including a special Singgah Singgarung farewell beach dinner

  • Private Airport Transfers at each location

  • Serenity Sunseeker Sunset Cruise with Canapes and Unlimited Champagne in Kota Kinabalu

  • Private Half-Day Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour With Lunch

  • Private Half-Day Kota Kinabalu City Tour

  • Private Full-Day Kinabalu National Park Tour

  • Private Tour to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

  • Boat Transfer to Sukau Rainforest Lodge

  • Activities at Sukau Rainforest Lodge including a morning and late afternoon river cruise

  • Private Transfer between Sukau Rainforest Lodge and Sandakan Airport 

  • Transfer to Gaya Island Resort from Kota Kinabalu Airport

  • Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marina Park With Lunch

  • 80-minute Urutan Pribumi massage at Spa Village

  • Singgah Singgarung

  • Boat and Road Transfer to Kota Kinabalu Airport

What`s not included in your rate

  • Domestic and International Flights

  • Tips and Gratuities

  • Entrance Fees unless mentioned in the itinerary

  • Travel Insurance

  • Malaysia Tourism Tax (currently 10RM per night) paid directly to the hotels

Whats included

SABAH SPLENDORS TOUR'S SELECTED HOTELS

Unsure of where you want to stay? These are some of our favorite hotels from standard to once-in-a-lifetime experiences we have selected for this tour itinerary. At Malaya Travel, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect accommodation to complement your Borneo Tour in Sabah, and if you can't find what you are looking for among our recommended selections, just let us know, and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Our travel agency specializes in Malaysian and Singapore travel, providing you with the best available rates in the United States through our extensive regional connections.

 

Contact us today to begin planning your unforgettable journey in Southeast Asia with Malaya Travel.

Hotels
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