From CAD $3,229
Guarantee
Small Group
Demanding
Rating
(28 reviews)
Experience Overview
The natural splendour of Borneo’s Eastern Sabah region and towering peaks of Mt Kinabalu, all on one adventure? Where do I sign up?” Right here, friend. This incredible 11-day tour delivers ample time in Malaysia’s jungle playground (including a life-changing encounter with orangutans at a rehabilitation facility) before three days in the shadow of mighty Mt Kinabalu – the tallest peak in this part of the world – climaxing with a sunrise hike to the mountain’s peak. Prepare to be amazed.
Highlights
- Gather local ingredients and take a cooking demonstration
- Enjoy a river safari
- Visit an orangutan rehabilitation centre
- Watch the sunrise from the summit of Mt Kinabalu
- Spot wildlife in an oxbow lake
Trip Details
Product Code: 1486
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Budget
Transport: Private vehicle, plane, ferry, walking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Classic
Supplier Code: AAEK
Starts: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Finishes: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Demanding
Includes
Activities
- Your G for Good Moment: D'Danau Homestay, Kota Belud Your G for Good Moment: Libaran Island Village Walk, Pulau Libaran Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Foodie Moment: Local Farms and Cooking Demonstration, Tambatuon Village
- Morning and evening Kinabatangan River safaris
- Guided oxbow lake visit and wildlife spotting (Kinabatangan)
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre visit
- Turtle Island stay with turtle hatchery visit
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Visit
- Mt Kinabalu hike (2 days)
- Internal flight
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Hotels (3 nts), homestay (1 nt, multi-share), jungle lodge (3 nts, twin-share), permanent tented camp (1 nt, twin-share), hostel (1 nt, twin-share), hostel (1 nt, multi-share)
- 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
Transport
- Private vehicle, plane, ferry, walking.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3229 (CAD $294 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Kota Kinabalu
Arrive at any time.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Day 2: Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud
From Kota Kinabalu, travel to Tambatuon village and meet the local community. Walk to a nearby river, exploring the landscape surrounding the village along the way. Visit a local farm and gather fresh ingredients for an included dinner. Learn how to cook some local recipes with the host.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - D’danau’ Homestay is a beautiful homestay located in Kota Belud Sabah, Malaysia. It provides job opportunities for locals offering great experiences to travellers like hiking, water tubing, cooking classes and other activities. The income generated from tourism allows the community to collect fees that are invested in the nature conservation and development of the village. Visitors can also learn about the lives of the Borneo people, and enjoy the cool climate and peaceful atmosphere. D’danau’s mission is to promote their culture and way of life, protect the environment and enhance their livelihood.Activity - Visit a farm and learn of their contrasting techniques while picking fresh vegetables, later used when learning to cook local recipes with the villagers. First visit Kundasang Aquafarm, a community-led farm that uses fish waste instead of chemical fertilizer for a hydroponic system. Then you are off to Onis farm that practices more traditional farming.Accommodation - D'Danau Homestay
Day 3: Kota Belud to Sungai Kinabatangan
Travel towards Sandakan and continue to the immersive jungle lodge on Kinabatangan River, Sabah's longest. After settling in, head out on a river cruise to experience the serenity of evening river life (keep your eyes peeled for birds and monkeys and crocodiles, oh my!). Enjoy dinner then opt for a guided night walk through the jungle.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Cruise through the crocodile-infested waters with an expert boatman. While wildlife-spotting can't be guaranteed there's a good chance you will spot some monkeys, birds and the occasional saltwater crocodiles.Accommodation - Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort
Day 4: Sungai Kinabatangan
Begin the day with a river safari to witness the morning wildlife activity. After breakfast, visit the nearby oxbow lake with a professional guide and seek out proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, macaques, and gibbons. Enjoy another river cruise for a second chance to spot more wildlife (you never know what you may see) before returning to the lodge for dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Jump into a boat and explore the muddy river; keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, birds, and crocodiles.Activity - Enjoy a guided trek along the lake and seek out proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, macaques, and gibbons.Activity - Cruise through the crocodile-infested waters with an expert boatman. While wildlife-spotting can't be guaranteed there's a good chance you will spot some monkeys, birds and the occasional saltwater crocodiles.Accommodation - Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort
Day 5: Sungai Kinabatangan/Sepilok
Depart in the morning and travel to Sepilok - a wildlife haven. Enjoy a visit to the orangutan rehabilitation centre and the adjacent sun bear conservation centre.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - The orangutans at the centre were either rescued as orphans or from illegal domestication. Once rehabilitated, they are set free to live in the wild. Watch these creatures being fed or roaming the grounds along with other animals such as macaque monkeys.Activity - Visit the conservation centre and see the world’s smallest bear. Learn more about the sun bears and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.Accommodation - Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort
Day 6: Sepilok/Pulau Libaran
Transfer to Sandakan and continue by boat to Libaran Island, also known as Turtle Island because thousands of sea turtles return to nest each year. Take a guided tour of the island's turtle hatchery and learn about the turtle conservation program. Later, visit the local village and experience what life is like on the island. Opt to go snorkelling or kayaking with some free time.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Cut swiftly through the water en route to the next stop (and hang on to your hat).Activity - Accompany Island rangers to learn more about these amazing creatures and the threats to their existence. Depending on the time of year, observe turtles laying their eggs on the beach, follow the park rangers as they transfer the eggs to the hatchery, or stand on the shore and witness the release of baby turtles to the open sea. Activity - Visit the friendly village of Libaran Island, part of a Planeterra Foundation community development project. View demonstrations by villagers who make flower souvenirs from plastic bottles, master Pandanous weaving, and meticulously knit fishing nets. Also see how local snacks are prepared and enjoy the delicacies.Accommodation - Walai Penyu Resort
Day 7: Pulau Libaran/Kota Kinabalu
After breakfast, depart Libaran Island and travel back to the Sandakan jetty. From the jetty, transfer to Sandakan airport for a flight to Kota Kinabalu.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.Transport - Cut swiftly through the water en route to the next stop (and hang on to your hat).Accommodation - Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Day 8: Kota Kinabalu/Mount Kinabalu
Travel to Mt Kinabalu. Opt to hike the nature trails, or enjoy an excursion to Poring hot springs and a canopy walk with some free time.
Travel to the base of Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain between the Himalayas and Papua New Guinea.
In the afternoon, stretch your legs by exploring the trails around the park or check out the visitor centre.
Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Opt to enjoy some beautiful nature walks through lowland tropical forest on well marked trails or relax and prepare for the climb ahead.Accommodation - Mt. Kinabalu Park Hostel
Day 9: Mount Kinabalu
Head off to conquer Mt Kinabalu. During the first day's climb to Laban Rata, enjoy a packed lunch on the way. The hike can take from 5-7 hrs. Indulge in a buffet-style dinner then rest up for an early start to summit the mountain in the morning.
Set off early to begin the ascent up Mt Kinabalu. It is not an easy walk, but it is incredibly rewarding. Willpower is the main requirement as it's uphill all the way!
Spend the night at Laban Rata in basic mountain huts 3,272m (10,735 ft) above sea level.
Turn in early to prepare for the final climb very early in the morning.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Begin at the Timpohon Gate and head downhill into the rainforest to start, before heading upwards. The well-marked trail is predominantly made up of steep steps that vary considerably in size.
The first section of the hike is fairly moderate, but take it easy and save your energy for the more difficult push higher up on the mountain. During the second half of the day's trek experience a change in scenery and terrain.
Accommodation for the night is near Laban Rata at 3,272m elevation. Accommodation is basic with only cold water, and blankets are provided. Tomorrow's hike commences very early, so get some rest.
Accommodation - Laban Rata Dormitory
Day 10: Mount Kinabalu/Kota Kinabalu
Summit Mt Kinabalu (3-5hrs) and arrive in time for sunrise. Return to Laban Rata for a rest and to the park headquarters for lunch. Transfer back to Kota Kinabalu.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Get an early start to make it to the summit for sunrise. This portion of the hike takes about three to four hours.
Stop in at the mountain huts before continuing to the park headquarters for lunch. Be prepared—the descent can be tough on the knees and takes approximately five to seven hours. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Day 11: Kota Kinabalu
Depart at any time.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
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Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Nina C - Traveled, December 2023
Well organised, tour full of experiences. Local CEOs very knowledgeable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2023
Leif M - Traveled, November 2023
Local guides and many highlights
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2023
Catherine E - Traveled, November 2023
G Adventures takes all the stress out of travelling. Everything is always well planned and if issues do arise, they are taken care of quickly and efficiently.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Michael W - Traveled, November 2023
Good itineraries and hotels plus the best guides
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Bridget R - Traveled, October 2023
It does what it says on the tin!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Chloe P - Traveled, October 2023
The ease of travel, the group of people, the variety of the tour
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Jacqueline H - Traveled, October 2023
Excellent itinerary
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Maxime P - Traveled, November 2023
Great CEO, well planned, good for solo and group travellers. Nice, fun and adventurous!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Victor O - Traveled, October 2023
The CEO helps guide enjoyment. Without I would have been lost and not prepared for most activities
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Angela M - Traveled, September 2023
The holiday was well thought through, the guide was knowledgeable and helpful and everything was taken care of.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Nicole G - Traveled, September 2023
I always enjoyed traveling with G and the experiences during the trips. Especially the off-the-trotten-path moments with locals.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Sarah S - Traveled, September 2023
Everything is so well planned out & organized so you don't have to worry about anything you can just enjoy the adventure!! The accommodation is always so comfortable. Everyone is so friendly - especially the CEO! and you really feel like you can dive into the culture and explore with no worries. It felt like we covered so much in such a short time which just extended the trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Amanda M - Traveled, October 2023
BORNEO is a stunning country. G Adventures tour was well managed and so interesting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Stephanie S - Traveled, September 2023
Everything was fantastic! The CEO Albert was so friendly, fun and informative. The itinerary was packed with fun activities and the group were great.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Rebecca A - Traveled, August 2023
Well organised, clean accommodation, small group
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Marie D., - Traveled, August 2023
Was a great experience - you to do things you would never be able to do if you were travelking on your own. But the can be a bit full on and tiring sometimes, so need to be prepared for that.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2024
Ashley M., - Traveled, August 2023
The variety of the trip was great, it allows you to see and do so much, without having to think about all the planning, you just show up and enjoy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2023
Viviane B., - Traveled, August 2023
Mix of activities & group and everything is organized beforehand.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2023
Kay G., - Traveled, August 2023
We loved every second of our G Adventures trip and know that our friends and family like to travel in the same manner?getting off the beaten track and exploring with much curiosity.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2023
Peter G., - Traveled, August 2023
This was our first G Adventures experience and we have had an incredible adventure in Borneo. Our concern prior to going was that being a bit older, we may not be welcomed. Thankfully we were wrong and both our CEO and the group were all very inclusive and great fun. Our CEO took care of all the usual travelling admin which meant it was hassle free and relaxing . We felt safe at all times, the pace of the trip was good and it appeared that local people and environment benefited from our being there.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/28/2023
Daniel O., - Traveled, August 2023
This is my 9th or 10th trip in a row in a very short period of time...I think that explains why I would recommend. Hehe.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/01/2023
Samuel G., - Traveled, July 2023
There was a great selection of activities for all age groups and endless amounts of fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
James R., - Traveled, June 2023
Everything about it, it was lovely from the start to the Finish, the wildlife was amazing, the people in this country are lovely, Ricky was brilliant, a top man, x
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2023
Natasha C., - Traveled, June 2023
With a G Adventures CEO you don't have to worry about anything! They plan for you and can answer any questions. wouldn't have wanted to do this trip without them!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/09/2023
Cathy B - Traveled, August 2023
Enjoy the style of travel, lots to see and do.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Katie G - Traveled, September 2023
Loved the trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Lynette M - Traveled, August 2023
Small group travel, enabling a range of different experiences, including homestay in a different culture.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Ross S - Traveled, August 2023
Great trip with a variation of activities. Our CEO Ricky was amazing. Very knowledgeable, friendly and funny. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He made the trip so much better.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
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