Things to see and do Borneo

The 8.8 km ascent to Low's Peak takes 2 days and one night. It's also possible to do the route in 3 days to take your time and let your body acclimatize more slowly, provided you have the budget. Although the climb does not require any special skills, climbers should be in good physical shape.

Formalities. The park issues a maximum of 163 paid permits per day, and you must be accompanied by a guide. A park entrance fee is also required. You can opt for the classic ascent with an overnight stay at the Laban Rata hut, or take the via ferrata with an overnight stay at the Pendant Hut hut. The two huts are 100 metres apart at an altitude of 3,270 metres. In all cases, you need to book at least 6 months in advance if you hope to obtain a permit. The park authorities require a passport for registration formalities. They then issue you with an identity tag, which you are required to carry with you at all times while in the park. The park rangers also give you 2 coupons for the Balsam Buffet Restaurant. The first coupon entitles you to a picnic lunch on the first day; the second is for use at the restaurant the following day, after the descent.

Day 1. The first day is devoted to the Timpohon Trail to the refuge. Check-in at the park entrance between 7:30 and 10:30 am. No more departures are allowed after 11am. The climb takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on your pace. Please note: if you have opted for the via ferrata, you must arrive at the refuge before 3:30 p.m. for the mandatory briefing. If you miss this stage, you will not be allowed to complete the climb the following day, with no possibility of reimbursement.

From the park headquarters, a shuttle (for a fee) operated by Sabah Parks staff takes you up to Timpohon Gate at an altitude of 1,866 metres. The route begins with a gentle descent to the small Carson waterfall, surrounded by climbing plants and moss. The ascent begins here, and never stops. The first section is mainly marked by steps formed by tree roots. There are seven rest stations along the way, with toilets and drinking water, where you can stop until you reach the refuge. We advise you to leave the park headquarters as early as possible, so that you can rest at the refuge and acclimatize to the altitude. Some people experience altitude sickness at this stage.

Day 2. After a short night's sleep and a light breakfast at the refuge, the second part of the climb begins very early in the morning, at 2.30 am. The 2.72-kilometer ascent is via the New Ranau Trail, a path laid out after the 2015 earthquake damaged the original trail. You'll now be walking on granite slabs, at a leisurely pace. Numerous handrails line this section to facilitate climbing on the rocks. You have to take your time, and go very slowly to save your breath, as each step is a victory as the air gets thinner.

At an altitude of 3,668 meters, the trail joins the Kuta Belud Trail (closed since January 2019), which serves as an alternative route on the way down. The Sayat-Sayat hut offers a place to recuperate before the final ascent, as well as toilet facilities. It is also compulsory to report to the Sabah Parks staff. At this altitude, the vegetation changes completely, giving way to a mineral world. But it's on the way back that you'll notice, as it's still dark for the end of the trek. After 3 hours of arduous ascent, you finally reach the summit and daylight fades on the horizon. A spectacular view of the mountain plateau and the valley below graces you with an unforgettable reward. You've reached Low's Peak at an altitude of 4,095 m, and you can take photos in front of the sign that testifies to this.

Descent. Then it's back down to the hut, in broad daylight, and the dizzying peaks that dot the route. A second breakfast is served at the refuge. After check-out, you descend to Timpohon Gate. Weather permitting, the descent takes around 3 hours. Knee braces are recommended for those with weak knees, as the descent is long and there are many steps. You can pick up a diploma attesting to your ascent at the park headquarters (RM10) and conclude this crazy adventure at the Balsam Restaurant.

Useful tips. The night before the climb, you may wish to sleep at park headquarters or outside the park, so as not to have to take the bus from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu on the morning of the climb, and thus gain a few hours' sleep.

Make sure you're warmly equipped, as it can freeze at the summit and the Day 2 ascent takes place at night. A headlamp is a must, to light the narrow path and spot the handrails.

Mount Kinabalu is not immune to heavy rain. Bring rain gear and plastic pockets to protect your electronic devices and passport.

You can organize your own visit, but Turtle Island holidays are facilitated by the private company Crystal Quest, which resells the 50 daily permits issued by the park authorities to regional tour operators. Although the price is relatively high, we nevertheless recommend using an operator, as everything will be taken care of. The package generally includes transfer from your hotel in Sandakan to the pier, crossing, overnight stay, meals and, of course, turtle watching.

Day 1 : Meet at 9:15 a.m. at the jetty of Turtle Island National Park in Sandakan. Departure at 10 a.m., with a crossing time of just over an hour. On arrival, the Crystal Quest team will assign you to your room. Lunch is served between 12:30 and 2 pm. The afternoon is yours to explore the island, enjoy the beach and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The beach is closed from 5pm, as the turtles come to lay their eggs. The turtle conservation program's discovery center offers a 30-minute film at 7pm. Dinner is served at 7.30pm.

Turtle watching. Park rangers will pick you up as soon as a turtle ready to lay has been spotted. They'll take you to the nesting site and start measuring and tagging. The eggs are then collected and taken to the supervised incubator. Nests are dug in the sand and protected from predators by nets. The warden will then take you to release the baby turtles that have hatched during the day.

Day 2. Breakfast is served at 6:30 am and departure from the island is scheduled for 7 am. The boat takes you back to Sandakan landing stage.

Useful tips. The waters around Selingan Island are teeming with beautiful tropical fish and visibility is excellent. Don't forget your fins, mask and snorkel.

The sun beats down hard, even if it's hidden behind heavy clouds. A high factor sunscreen is a must if you plan to swim or sunbathe.

Turtle watching takes place at night. If the rangers are equipped with powerful flashlights to show their actions, a headlamp may prove useful.

Don't be surprised if you come across men with guns. The Philippines are not far away.

To support the project, you can join the Turtle Nest Adoption Program for RM100.

Most hotels and tour operators offer packages including overnight stays, full board and excursions. Depending on the number of nights you stay, you multiply the number of activities. The package includes at least one river cruise. The best time to observe the local wildlife is at sunrise for the birds, and at the end of the day for the proboscis monkeys.

Cruises. Outings are made on small, flat-bottomed boats of varying comfort. The boats cruise up and down the river and its tributaries in search of local wildlife. You'll need a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a powerful zoom. At the beginning and end of the day, a good mosquito repellent will save the day. During the day, bring a hat and sunglasses.

Hiking. Many packages include at least one jungle outing. Most lead to Oxbow Lake, a former loop of the river. The river has changed course and a natural "lake" has formed. The ecosystem here is unique. Whichever hike you choose, be prepared to sweat hard. Bring plenty of water, loose-fitting clothes, sturdy walking shoes and socks to prevent blood loss.

Gomantong cave. If you don't have another cave visit planned during your stay in Borneo, this one will be enough to impress you. It's home to hundreds of nesting bats and swallows.

Bako National Park has 18 marked hiking trails that can take you for an hour's or two-day walk. Maps given out at the park office, or available on their website, identify each trail by color code. They also describe the flora to be observed along the way. The park's helpful staff can help you define your itinerary according to your wishes, the time available and your physical abilities. Be sure to check the weather forecast before setting off. The very humid weather makes you sweat a lot; don't forget to bring sufficient quantities of water to avoid dehydration. Good walking shoes are also essential.

Telok Pandan Kecil. This hour-and-a-half trek (2.5 km) is one of the most popular. The first part climbs through forest before reaching a plateau and cliff that offer splendid views of the beach below. If you reach the beach and plan to swim, beware of monkeys and crocodiles.

Telok Paku. This short one-hour trek (1.2 km) is for you if you want to observe proboscis monkeys, preferably early in the morning or before sunset. A wooden platform overlooks the mangrove before reaching the forest. The path climbs moderately before reaching a deserted beach framed by rocks. Boatmen are waiting to take you back to headquarters if you don't feel like going the other way.

Tajor. The 3.5 km trail leads through lowland vegetation and shrubs to a secluded beach after a steep and slippery descent. It takes 2.5 hours before you can dip your feet in the water.

Lintang. This 5 km loop allows you to discover all the different types of vegetation found in Bako Park. It takes 3 to 4 hours on a demanding trail that at times offers magnificent views of the canopy and the China Sea. Preferably accompanied by a guide, for explanations of the flora and fauna.

Night walk. Every evening at 8pm, the park rangers organize a night walk lasting around 2 hours. This is an opportunity to discover the nocturnal fauna, which is very active in the jungle. As well as the frogs that make their songs resound, insects and arachnids choose the dark hours to carry out their activities. If you're lucky, you'll come across a tarantula or a colugo. Just be careful where you put your hands and feet, and bring your own flashlight.

A few meters from the orangutan sanctuary, this well developed reserve is home to the world's smallest bears, the Malaysian bear or sun bear. A protected species, the centre's mission is to rescue endangered specimens and rehabilitate them so that they can resume their lives in their natural environment. Two observation platforms linked by footbridges running through the jungle allow you to observe them in peace.

This pink building, constructed in 1912, served as a court of justice for the Chinese community until 1921, when it became the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Kuching. Today, the Chinese History Museum traces the life of Sarawak's various Chinese communities from the early ^19th century to the era of the White Rajahs. On display are musical instruments, beautiful ceramics from the Ming dynasty, jade handicrafts and various works of art. If you enjoy your visit, don't hesitate to make a donation as you leave the museum.

Completed in 1879, at the same time as Fort Margherita, the Tour Carrée was originally a prison. Executions of those condemned to death were held here. The tower was transformed into a fort, and in the absence of vindictive enemies, it became a ballroom for Sarawak army officers. Today, the building facing the Sarawak River and the regional parliament is a restaurant, Le Magenta. Next door, you'll discover where the Rajahs disembarked when they crossed the river on their way from the palace to the court of justice.

This superb complex of colonial-style buildings was initiated by Charles Brooke in 1868. He wanted to provide better conditions for the members of his central administration. The building was in operation for over a century, from 1871 to 1973. The clock tower was added in 1883 and the memorial to Charles Brooke, which stands in front of the building's entrance, in 1924. The memorial was requested by the son of the second white Rajah, who ruled Sarawak from 1868 to 1917. Today, the complex is a tourist attraction.

On the edge of the Kabili-Sepilok forest reserve, this equatorial forest discovery center makes for an interesting visit. A permanent exhibition describes the importance of the dipterocarp forest and the crucial role of mangroves in soil conservation in wetlands. A landscaped garden features hundreds of orchids and carnivorous plants. But the must-see is bird-watching, with almost 300 species recorded here.

This pretty temple incorporates the classic Chinese elements of the Buddhist temple. Set beside the river, you can see the ships cruising offshore. Zhang Li, a sailor from China, landed on Penang in 1746. Much appreciated by the island's 50 inhabitants, he became a teacher. After his death, the islanders built a temple in his memory, dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, an incarnation of the god Fu, the god of prosperity. From then on, worship of Tua Pek Kong began to spread to Malaysia, Singapore and several Indonesian islands.

This small history museum will tell you all you need to know about Pulau Labuan, its mining adventure, the influence of the Sultanate of Brunei, the British presence, the Second World War and the Japanese invasion, and its status as an autonomous province. The second floor focuses on the socio-economic links between Labuan's various ethnic groups: Brunei Malays, Kedayans, Kadazans, Chinese and Indians. The museum is housed in a former colonial building, dating from the 1950s, used by the British administration.

Perched atop a small hill, just opposite the Waterfront and the Museum of Chinese History, this impressive temple is the oldest in Kuching. It dates back to 1770, but its history is only really documented from 1843 and the accession of the White Rajahs. It was one of the few buildings to survive the great fire of 1884 and the Japanese bombardment during the Second World War. It is said to have the best location in the whole city according to the principles of feng shui, and this is what has kept it intact.

This forest reserve, created in 1990, offers hiking trails through the forest to Bukit Gemok hill. There are seven refuges along the way, where hikers can rest and relax. During the rainy season, the path often becomes muddy and slippery. After about an hour's walk, you'll reach the Titien Selara canopy footbridge. At 231 meters long, this elevated walkway is one of the longest in Sabah, and offers a breathtaking panorama of the city and coastline.

"For many years, India Street and the surrounding area were a favorite haunt of Indian merchants. Now entirely pedestrianized and covered, it will delight lovers of exotic fabrics. Take India Mosque Lane, a dark, cramped passageway, and you'll see Kuching's first mosque, built by Muslims from South India in 1837. On the other side, you come to Gambier Street, which faces the river. Full of life, you'll find a wide selection of spices that will immerse you in the fragrant world of Indian cuisine.

Established in 1975, the center's aim is to care for, rehabilitate and release injured, orphaned or illegally kept orangutans back into the wild. The center also conducts wildlife research and aims to raise visitors' awareness of the importance of conserving this endangered species. Meals are served between 9 and 10 am and between 3 and 4 pm. Binoculars will be very useful for observing these great apes, often perched high in the trees.

This hillside Buddhist temple overlooking Sandakan Bay is the city's largest and most impressive. Built in 1987, the modernity of the building is clearly visible. Set in a well-kept garden, you'll notice the swastika carved into the bushes, a Buddhist good-luck charm. A long row of statues of Buddha standing in karana position, with forefinger and little finger pointing skywards, is believed to ward off demons and ward off evil. The site offers beautiful views and a soothing setting.

Facing Likas Bay, this contemporary-style mosque is the largest in Sabah. Its architecture is inspired by the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. It houses a large prayer hall for up to 12,000 worshippers and three madrasas. At nightfall, the majestic white building seems to float on water, giving the place a fairytale appearance. Proper attire is a must. No shorts for men.

Husband husband in the local language means "follow me". The reconstituted village is located 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu. It includes traditional houses from five Sabah tribes, each with its own specificities. You can visit the inside of a longhouse, familiarize yourself with the customs, taste different dishes, make fire, blow in a blowgun... The visit ends with an impressive show and a meal. The visit lasts 4 hours.

Nestled on a small hill in the city center, Fort Alice was built in 1864 by rajah Brooke to exert control over the Batang Lupar River, where Rentap, an Iban chief, resisted Brooke's reign and led numerous raids against his army. Named after Brooke's wife, the fort, built entirely of ironwood , served as a defensive structure. Following extensive renovation work, the fort has been home to the Sri Aman Heritage Museum since 2017.

Established in 2013, this national park is seldom visited by travellers, making it an ideal place for hikers in search of authenticity. There are few tourist facilities, but it is possible to stay with local people in the village of Munggu Sawa. Access by dirt track is arduous, and the park's challenging terrain is a delight for sports enthusiasts. It's home to a discreet fauna, but it's not uncommon to spot an orangutan.

Welcome to the MV Equatorial, an attractive ship built in 1990 that offers sightseeing cruises along the river. On board, you'll enjoy commentary by a guide introducing the city's attractions, a performance of local dance and/or music, refreshments and excellent comfort. The tour takes in the Astana, the Old Courthouse and the Great Mosque, as well as lesser-known sites such as the superb home of the former Minister of Defense, and offers unique panoramic views. An excellent way to discover Kuching.

This national park is located on the Maludam peninsula and consists entirely of low-lying flat peat swamp forest. It was established in 2000 to protect the natural habitat of its wildlife, in particular the red-banded langur. The park is home to the world's only viable population of this endangered langur species. The park is also home to macaques and hornbills. You can take a river cruise through the park on a boat organized by the local community.

The best way to discover the daily life and culture of the Iban or Orang Ulu peoples (Kanyan, Kenyah, Sekapan, Kejaman and others) is to stay in a longhouse. These sturdy wooden structures built on stilts, with a row of separate rooms and a common open corridor for meetings, are the traditional habitat of the Dayaks of Sarawak. Some longhouses in Kapit still proudly display the skulls of enemies hanging from the roof, testimony to the Iban's warlike past. To visit or stay in a longhouse, it is traditional to first ask permission from its chief, the tuai rumah. Nowadays, you can also ask the Kapit Division Residents' Office (number indicated), which will act as an intermediary.

The best time to visit a longhouse is during Gawai, the annual festival of the Dayak people on June¹, and on a special occasion when you can attend a traditional welcome ceremony with a miring, a blessing ceremony performed to honor the spirits and ancestors of the tribe. This ceremony is usually followed by traditional dancing and singing, and accompanied by copious amounts of tuak, the local rice wine.

The nearest longhouse to Kapit is Rumah Richard Engking, just 4 km from town.

Further inland, in the Tunoh region, lies Rumah Laso, the last remaining Iban longhouse along the Baleh River. It can be reached by boat (3-4-hour journey).

The Rumah Killau longhouse, also in the Tunoh region, is located near the Panchur Mabong waterfalls. Tunoh is also home to Bukit Mabong, a 2,000-meter-high mountain in the Hose Mountains. This area, which boasts several Iban camps along its waterways, is renowned for the beauty of its natural landscapes formed by mountains, forests, rivers and various waterfalls. This undiscovered region has great potential for eco-tourism, and should be discovered before it is overrun by visitors.

Travellers interested in the ancient art of pua kumbu weaving can visit the Rumah Gare longhouse, located along the Sungai Kain river. The pua kumbu woven by this longhouse 's craftsmen is renowned for the quality of the materials used and the originality of its designs. The longhouse is accessible by road (approx. 1.5 hours from Kapit) and by river (approx. 3.5 hours).

Ready to break records? Moutain Torq is the operator in charge of the world's highest via ferrata, which is even listed in the Guinness Book of Records, The Low Peak! If you're still feeling up to it after climbing Mount Kinabalu, you can follow up directly with one of the two via ferrata routes available.

The most demanding, the Low's Peak Circuit (forbidden for under 17s), 1.1 km long, requires 4 to 5 hours of sensational descent and starts at an altitude of no less than 3,776 m, making it the highest course in the world! You'll have the chance to stand up against the vertical wall and admire the view of clouds and the China Sea, held up just by a rope and carabiner. Everything is sturdy and well-maintained, and you'll receive full training the day before your ascent to the summit. The only prerequisites for enjoying the experience to the full: not suffering from vertigo and being in good physical shape. Then you'll be ready for the descent... and the crossing of suspension bridges over the void! A memorable experience.

For the less experienced, the second route, Walk the Torq, perched at an altitude of 3,521 metres and 380 metres long, can be completed in 2-3 hours, but still promises thrills and spills! (Accessible to children aged 10 and over).

For those who choose to climb Mount Torq and its via ferrata, the operator offers a preferred accommodation option, the Pendant Hut, perched at an altitude of 3,289 metres.

Located 24 km from the center of Tawau, this park with its contrasting topography was created in 1979. It is distinguished by its tropical forest and rugged volcanic terrain, separated by wide plains where rubber, palm and cocoa trees are grown. It is home to one of the world's tallest tropical trees, standing at 96.9 metres. The area is famous for its hot springs, waterfalls and 3 peaks over 1,000 metres high, Mount Maria (1,080 m), Mount Magadalena (1,310 m) and Mount Lucia (1,202 m), which are ideal for superb hikes through the jungle. A botanical garden introduces visitors to the flora of the region, including magnificent orchid species. Accommodation is available at the park headquarters, which offers 10 basic but comfortable air-conditioned rooms and a family bungalow. There's also a small canteen serving delicious local cuisine, which doubles as a mini-market.

The park's fauna is varied, and walks in the forest enable you to observe several species in their natural habitat: the gibbon, the rufous semnopithecus, the rhinoceros or bicorn hornbill, the tarantula, the pangonlin, as well as numerous species of birds, reptiles and amphibians, including one of the world's smallest frogs.

It's best to visit the park on weekdays to enjoy its peace and quiet, because at weekends it's a popular destination for families who come to relax.

Located 23 km south-west of Kuching, Siniawan, with its old wooden buildings, is a village that has retained its old-world charm. Be sure to visit the ancient Shui Yue Gong temple dedicated to Guanyin. On weekend evenings, Siniawak comes alive with the night market in the main street. Under the red Chinese lanterns, locals and visitors gather to enjoy the wide variety of specialties on offer. An excellent way to spend an evening is to feast on local specialities and immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere.