Luxury Borneo Vacations 2025/2026

The island of Borneo is shared between Indonesia, the tiny Nation of Brunei, and Malaysia. The Malaysian part of the island is divided into the two states of Sabah and Sarawak. Currently, Scott Dunn only offer itineraries to Malaysian Borneo.

No trip to Borneo is complete without an adventure into the rainforest. Stay in one of the remote lodges and set off for treks along undulating paths and across suspension bridges hidden amongst the tree canopies, with the hopes of encountering some of the island's amazing wildlife. The flora and fauna can also be admired from a number of boat trips along winding rivers through the rainforest. Explore ancient caves tucked away in the country's national parks, and spend some time with one of Borneo's indigenous tribes in their communal longhouse.

It is estimated that Borneo is home to 222 mammal species, 420 bird species, 100 amphibian species and 394 fish species, many of which are endemic, meaning this is the only place in the world that they can be found. Whilst the most famous residents of Borneo may be the orangutans and proboscis monkeys, there are also a number of other primate species, including the slow loris, as well as sun bears, pygmy elephants and flying squirrels to name but a few.

The plant life is also astounding, with trees that can reach up to 60 metres high, and more than 50 carnivorous plant species. If you are lucky, you may see the Rafflesia arnoldii, which produces the largest flowers in the world but only blooms for a few days, or one of the island’s 3,000 species of orchid; the highest number on the planet.

As well as awe-inspiring wildlife, Borneo is culturally rich. Whilst the practice of head-hunting is no more, there are still indigenous tribes living in longhouse communities, where it is possible to learn about, or even witness, ceremonies and traditions that have been passed down through the generations.

To top it all off, after spending time in the rainforest, visitors can enjoy some well-earned relaxation time on one of Borneo’s sandy beaches or coral reef islands. However, the adventure does not need to stop here, and the island’s wildlife is by no means restricted to the rainforest. Just off the coast, there are beautiful coral reefs, which can be explored on snorkelling or diving trips. These areas are teeming with tropical fish, and sometimes even turtles.