Start your journey in Bangkok, Southeast Asia’s vibrant capital, where centuries-old temples, bustling street markets, and world-class dining blend effortlessly with modern comforts. It’s the perfect gateway to the region’s energy and culture.
From the city’s lively pulse, head into the untamed beauty of Borneo. Here, life slows down as you immerse yourself in lush rainforests, winding rivers, and meaningful guided experiences. Visit renowned conservation centers in Sepilok, then drift along the Kinabatangan River on scenic cruises through one of Asia’s richest ecosystems. Each stay in thoughtfully selected rainforest lodges offers both comfort and a deep connection to nature.
✨ Trip Highlights
Bangkok – Explore Thailand’s capital, alive with historic temples, buzzing street life, and modern indulgences.
Sepilok Conservation Centers – Experience world-famous sanctuaries dedicated to protecting Borneo’s extraordinary wildlife.
Kinabatangan River Cruises – Glide through diverse habitats, spotting wildlife and soaking in unforgettable scenery.
Rainforest Lodges – Stay in handpicked lodges surrounded by nature, balancing comfort with immersion.
With seamless connections, quality accommodations, and expert local guides, this itinerary is designed for travelers seeking contrast, depth, and authenticity—pairing an iconic Asian metropolis with one of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable natural landscapes.
Touch down in Thailand’s lively capital and clear immigration. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax, recover from the flight, and ease into the city at your own pace. Unwind at your hotel or take a casual stroll through the vibrant Sukhumvit neighborhood.
Overnight in Bangkok
After breakfast at your hotel, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Bangkok offers a dynamic mix of cultural landmarks, bustling markets, modern shopping centers, and diverse dining options. You might choose to explore on your own—visiting nearby temples, browsing vibrant malls, or soaking in the city’s lively street scenes. Or simply take it easy and recharge at your hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Bangkok Airport for your onward flight—marking the shift from city life to rainforest adventure.
Upon arrival at Sandakan Airport, clear immigration and meet your local guide for a transfer to your lodge in the Sepilok area.
This first evening in Borneo is all about settling into the peaceful rainforest surroundings and unwinding after your travels. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your lodge while soaking in the natural atmosphere of this remarkable region, setting the stage for the wildlife encounters to come.
Overnight in Sepilok
After breakfast at your lodge, head to the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Watch the feeding sessions and gain insight into the vital conservation work protecting these endangered orangutans.
Next, visit the nearby Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bear species, and learn about the efforts dedicated to their care and survival. After lunch, continue to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary for close-up encounters with Borneo’s iconic long-nosed proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
In the evening, join a guided Night Walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, experiencing the jungle after dark as nocturnal wildlife stirs and the rainforest comes alive with sounds and sights hidden during the day.
Overnight in Sepilok
After breakfast at your lodge, set out on an overland journey to the Kinabatangan region, celebrated as one of Borneo’s most biodiverse habitats. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before checking in to your riverside lodge, nestled within lush rainforest along the winding river.
In the afternoon, embark on a scenic Kinabatangan River cruise. Drift along the waterways while spotting orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, silver-leaf monkeys, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of tropical birds along the banks. This immersive experience offers a perfect introduction to Borneo’s rich wildlife and serene landscapes.
Overnight in Kinabatangan
Begin the morning with an early river cruise along a different route, increasing your chances of spotting diverse wildlife—including, during certain seasons, the elusive Borneo pygmy elephant. As the rainforest awakens, watch for birds, monkeys, and other fascinating creatures coming to life along the riverbanks.
After breakfast, set out on a guided jungle walk to experience the rainforest up close and gain insight into its rich ecosystem. Following lunch and some time to relax at your lodge, embark on another afternoon river cruise, offering fresh opportunities to encounter wildlife as the forest transitions into evening.
Overnight in Kinabatangan
After breakfast at your lodge, check out and begin the overland journey back to Sandakan, passing through scenic Bornean landscapes along the way. Pause for lunch either en route or upon arrival, giving you time to relax and reflect on your rainforest adventures.
In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing in Sandakan—exploring the town’s highlights, bustling markets, and cultural landmarks while gaining insight into the history and daily life of this charming Malaysian port city. Later, transfer to your hotel for dinner and check-in, settling in comfortably for your final night in Borneo. Take time to unwind and make the most of the hotel’s amenities before your onward journey.
Overnight in Sandakan
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a final morning in the calm surroundings of Sandakan. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable wildlife encounters and rainforest adventures of the past days. When ready, transfer to Sandakan Airport for your onward flight, bringing your Borneo journey to a memorable close.
Meal: Breakfast
Departure Dates from Los Angeles:
Additional Prices From Other Cities ;
- San Francisco: from +$99 per person
- Dallas: from +$149 per person
- Seattle: from +$199 per person
- Washington: from +$199 per person
Inclusions :
Round trip flights with baggage
Internal flight: Bangkok ➜ Sandakan
Welcome and assistance by The Flights Guru representative upon arrival
3 night stay at the 4★ RakYim Siam Hotel
2 night stay at a Sepilok Forest Edge Resort
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – Feeding session & conservation insight
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
- Rainforest Discovery Centre Night Walk Experience
2 night stay at a Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort
- Morning & Afternoon River Safaris on Kinabatangan River
1 night stay at the 4★ Sabah Hotel, Sandakan
- Sandakan City Sightseeing Tour
Daily breakfast throughout the itinerary
Full board at Sabah lodges (Bilit & Sepilok) including dinner
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour as per itinerary
All entrance fees for included sites and activities as per itinerary
English-speaking local guides during all tours and activities
Bottled water provided during transfers and excursions on land
Private airport transfers throughout the itinerary
Tourism tax included
Travel Validity: As per above selected dates
Based on 2 adults sharing
We always strive to confirm the hotels listed in the package you choose, but in rare cases where we can't, like-for-like alternatives will be provided