Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
14 Days Starting in Sepilok and ending in Langkawi
Visiting: Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Sandakan, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi Island, Langkawi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ALM
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Beach Tours, Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Borneo and the Malaysian Peninsula, where adventure and cultural exploration await. Discover the vibrant culinary and cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur, explore the colonial charm of Penang and Malacca, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Borneo. Witness the majestic orangutans and elusive pygmy elephants in their natural habitats, and enjoy a variety of accommodations from comfortable hotels to nature-surrounded resorts. This tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, historical insights, and culinary delights, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive Malaysian experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Start Sepilok; Optional Night Walk
Location: Sepilok
Accommodation: Hotel
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
Location: Sepilok
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Kinabatangan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we depart Sepilok and transfer (approximately two to three hours) to the third-longest river in Borneo, Kinabatangan. The wildlife reserve here is home to an astonishing array of wildlife including pygmy elephants, wild orangutans, gibbons, proboscis monkeys and rare birdlife. As dusk approaches, we take to the river in search of some of the local animals.
Accommodation: Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort (or similar)
Day 4 : Explore Kinabatangan River
Location: Kinabatangan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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
Location: Sandakan
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Malacca
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Penang
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Accommodation: Royal Chulan Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 : Georgetown Walking Tour To Explore The Street Art, Culture And Heritage Of Penang
Location: Penang
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Location: Langkawi Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
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: The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa (or similar)
Day 13 : Free Day To Explore The Island Or Just Relax On The Beach; Final Group Dinner
Location: Langkawi Island
Meals Included: Breakfast, 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: The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa (or similar)
Day 14 : Trip Ends This Morning
Location: Langkawi
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip ends after breakfast today. If you’d like to explore a little more, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
What's Included
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London flights (if booking incl flights)
Flights from London are included if you book the package with flights.
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All accommodation
All accommodation is included throughout the trip.
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13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners
The trip includes 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners.
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Fully Guided
The tour is fully guided.
What's Not Included
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Airport transport for Land Only bookings
Airport transport is not included for Land Only bookings.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Visas & vaccinations
Visas and vaccinations are not included and must be arranged separately.
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Single accommodation
Single accommodation is not included and may incur additional costs.
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Airport transports
General airport transports are not included.
Food
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.
Accommodation
The accommodation on this trip provides an adventurous variety of places to stay. We spend nine nights in comfortable hotels and, in Borneo, we spend four nights surrounded by nature in resorts. Notable stays include the Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort and the Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes flights from London (if booked), internal flights, river cruises, and transfers by bus and train. The tour also features walking tours and trishaw rides in Malacca.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The accommodation on this trip includes a variety of places to stay. You will spend nine nights in comfortable hotels and four nights in nature resorts in Borneo. Notable accommodations include the Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort, which is close to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, and the Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur, which is within walking distance of the Petronas Towers.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available during the tour. For example, on the first day, there is an optional night walk in Sepilok. On the second day, you can opt to visit the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. In Kinabatangan, there is an optional night walk where you may see owls or Western tarsiers. On the free day in Langkawi, you can choose from activities like a mangrove tour, kayaking, or taking the cable car.
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What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife, especially in Borneo. This includes orangutans, pygmy elephants, gibbons, proboscis monkeys, and rare birdlife. In Kinabatangan, you may also see crocodiles and other forest residents.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners. Most meals will be basic, based around rice and noodles, although most accommodations offer a western breakfast of beans, toast, and eggs. In bigger hotels and cities, a full range of Western and local foods are available.
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Is there any free time during the tour to explore on my own?
Yes, there are several opportunities for free time during the tour. For example, on Day 5 in Sandakan, you have free time to relax, swim, or explore the city. On Day 9 in Kuala Lumpur, the afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your own pace. On Day 11 in Penang, the afternoon is free for further exploration. Finally, Day 13 in Langkawi is a free day to relax or partake in optional activities.
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What should I know about the luggage restrictions for internal flights?
For internal flights, there is a 33lb/15kg restriction on checked luggage. It is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport, and your tour leader can help arrange this at the start of your trip.
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What kind of food can I expect during the food tour in Kuala Lumpur?
During the food tour in Kuala Lumpur, you will experience the city's diverse culinary heritage, which includes Malay, Indian, and Chinese traditions. You will sample typical Malaysian food, including tasty noodles in Chinatown and delicious Indian dishes served on banana leaves in Little India.
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What are the notable places we will visit in Kuala Lumpur?
In Kuala Lumpur, you will visit several notable places including the National Palace (Istana Negara), the National Monument, the modernist National Mosque, and the Batu Caves. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Petronas Towers and various neighborhoods during the city food tour.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.