Borneo Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trip Packages

Borneo Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

35 Borneo trips. Tours from 29 tour companies. 76 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

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Small Ship Cruise
Iconic Borneo
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4.7/5 Excellent
25 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Borneo

Highlights

  • Drive through rainforests and boat to Gaya and Sapi Islands.
  • Explore the Gunung Mulu National Park and birdwatching the 262 species.
  • See green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the beach.
  • Observe protected animals such like orangutans, Malay sun bears, baby elephants, wild cats and even crocodiles.
  • Night safari to see the western tarsier and slow loris at Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
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Themes

Birding, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys

What travelers are saying

"My feedback on ATJ is based on a requested quote for a trip to a well-known destination in the Himalayas. As any prudent traveler will do before booking any overseas tours, I "do my homework" and "ask lots of questions" before booking a trip. Especially when there are many options and different price points involved. In this specific case, I called to inquire about a typical 8-10 day tour, and was sent a copy of a proposal from a previous client as a sample tour. As a seasoned traveler, I did some simple online research on the 5 star luxury hotels included on that tour, and after removing those costs from the quote, I quickly realized I could not justify the daily per diems being charged for just the driver, guide, meals, Government fees, and other in-country expenses. After an initial exchange of emails, I was told that future ‘revisions’ to the tour proposal would require a NON-REFUNDABLE deposit of $1,000 before proceeding further. Moreover, they requested this NON-REFUNDABLE deposit of $1,000 without committing to a fixed final price for the tour, even though the tour was only 13 months away. This meant the I as the customer, was totally exposed and at the mercy of any arbitrary price hikes the agency might choose to unilaterally impose at their will. I declined and respectfully asked for a tour proposal with the lower daily per diems they had advertised in an email to me as their ‘starting quote’. They chose not to provide that. Realizing that this company was not meeting my expectations, I booked a tour to this country with another reputable company that: (1) Didn't ask for any non-refundable deposit during initial discussions of the tour - much less a $1,000 deposit (2) Didn't leave the final price of the tour as 'open-ended' - subject to unexpected increases at the discretion of the travel agency, and… (3) Didn't have what I considered as excessive daily per-diems for all non hotel-related expenses (i.e driver, guide, meals, Government fees, and incidental in-country expenses). While I cannot comment on the company as a whole, my feedback does reflect my experience in the one and only interaction with this agency. Although I was willing to pay top dollar for a luxury experience, the daily per-diems I was quoted simply did not match the value I felt I would be receiving. Others can judge and decide for themselves if these daily per-diems and strict business practices are consistent with industry standards, and whether this is a good 'fit' for their own travel needs. I would only suggest you do your homework and compare with other reputable agencies before booking your tour."

Trip dates & details
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Other trips you may like [sponsored]
Borneo Wildlife Discoverer
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Mount Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Spot orangutans and proboscis monkeys
  • Visit Mulu National Park, home to the impressive Deer Cave bat exodus
  • Enjoy a river cruise in Kinabatangan
  • Stay at a luxury jungle lodge in Danum Valley

Themes

Birding, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Trekking Borneo & Beyond
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kuala Lumpur, Mount Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Explore the jungles of Taman Nagara
  • Meet the orangutans of Sepilok
  • Summit Mount Kinabalu
  • Enjoy a food tour of Kuala Lumpur

Themes

Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Borneo Family Holiday
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Take a leisurely walk along the scenic canopy walkway at Poring Hot Springs.
  • Stay overnight among the birds and beasts of the jungle, right next to an oxbow lake, at Kinabatangan Eco Camp.
  • Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and, if you're lucky, watch baby orangutans learn to swing in a special enclosure.
  • Enjoy a special opportunity to watch protected turtle hatchlings scatter across the beach to the water under the cover of night.

Themes

Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Borneo – East Sabah Adventure
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Gather fresh local ingredients for a cooking class
  • Embark on a river safari
  • Keep an eye out for proboscis monkeys and other wildlife
  • Visit a turtle hatchery on libaran island

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

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Borneo Adventure
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By TruTravels
preferred
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

What travelers are saying

"My experience with TruTravels has been one of the best travel experiences to date. I was a little concerned about having a small group - but the tour leaders have made every activity fun and engaging. I would definitely say they are friends. The organisation and local knowledge was great, they were great fun whilst remaining professional and in control. The nights out in Canggu were great, getting to meet the other tour leaders and Tru staff meeting the other tour groups is a great idea. I really cannot stress enough how much of a great trip I've had with TruTravels. From booking, to pre-tour communications, through to the last 10 days - it has been well organised, managed and delivered by amazing guides. Thanks so much to Rianna, Marta and Jonny for their enthusiasm throughout the tour, their concern for when I was sick and generally for everything they did to make this an amazing Bali Experience. Much love for the tour guides!!!I would definitely recommend a trip with TruTravels!!"

Trip dates & details
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Generous cancellation

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Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Georgetown, Kuala Lumpur

Highlights

  • Explore colonial Penang and Malacca
  • Discover the culinary and cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur
  • Look for orangutans and pygmy elephants

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

More
Classic Borneo
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Visit endangered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, a facility that provides care for orphaned and confiscated primates and other local wildlife.
  • One of the wildest places on earth, Borneo offers rare treats for the nature lover – see sun bears in Sepilok and proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay.
  • Visit the mountainous village of Kampung Kiau where you’ll meet the locals, learn about a social enterprise that empowers women and enjoy a traditional lunch of regional favourites.
  • Search for wildlife when you’re cruising the Kinabatangan River on a water safari and while you’re in the depths of the wilderness at your jungle lodge.
  • During two days on glorious Manukan Island, there's plenty of time to soak up the relaxed beach vibe and to get close to marine life on an included snorkelling trip.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Best of Borneo
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Borneo, Kota Kinabalu

Highlights

  • Visit bidayuh tribal village
  • Explore the rainforest and caves of mulu national park
  • Cruise the kinabatangan river in search of borneo's seven primate species

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
1 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Small Ship Cruise

Borneo Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
76  Reviews
See all Borneo tour reviews
Excellent
66
Great
11
Average
1
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Excellent wildlife

A fantastic trip to a beautiful country. My main purpose was to see orang utans in the wild, although I was prepared to be disappointed. However expectations wer...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Awesome adventure

If you want to see the best of Borneo this trip's for you. Beautiful country, great food, lovely friendly people and oh boy did we see wildlife! So many highlights...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Great trip to Borneo

I've been on plenty of Exodus hiking holidays, but this was my first wildlife trip. I was a bit nervous in case my fellow travellers were a bit serious about both...

A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Wildlife and More

We knew December was the wettest month, but hearts sank when our first wildlife trip had to be abandoned as the river was too high for safety to take us there. Ho...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Borneo wildlife adventure

This is a truly amazing holiday. If you have an interest in wildlife, then this is the trip for you, because the diversity of wildlife is bewildering. I went in ea...

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Additional details

Is it safe to travel in Borneo?

Partially thanks to its remoteness as an island and the friendly nature of its populations towards travelers, Borneo is a safe country to visit. Common to all tours, travelling in another country with popular coastal or jungle regions may require the bringing of malaria tablets and certain shots if travelers feel so inclined.

Similarly, small island regions near Sabah have been investigated for instances of piracy, an event which all travel companies aim to avoid. By thoroughly examining where specific guided tours in Borneo are heading, travelers can better prepare themselves for the equipment or safety precautions that they wish to organize.

Along the same lines, speaking directly with travel guides or companies can provide travelers with the confidence to explore as much of Borneo as they are able to during their trip. 

Where is Borneo?

The third-largest island in the world, Borneo is located in the near center of Southeast Asia. Above the Java Sea and below the South China Sea, Borneo straddles the equator and neighbors Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. It is divided into four regions, Brunei (independent country), Kalimantan (under Indonesian control), and Sabah and Sarawak (under Malaysian control).  

Getting to Borneo

Borneo is only accessible via air. While there are few direct flights into the country, it can be conveniently reached from Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, or Singapore. There are many daily flights into Borneo, which may be helpful for travelers from afar who wish to use their layovers to their advantage in these neighboring regions.

Travelers should speak with tour guides in advance about start-times for daily activities to ensure that they do not miss anything if issues with flight times occur. Depending on which city guided tours begin in, travelers will face different travel times, which is an important aspect to consider when it comes to the length of stay in Borneo.

Best time to go

Borneo’s location on the equator ensures that nearly any time of year is best for visiting. However, because of this location, it has a tropical climate across the island. This means that, for the majority of the year, the weather can be hot, humid, and rainy.

While this may be considered as a vacation in comparison to snow or dry heat, travelers will find that the months of March through October are the driest. Although this does not mean that a trip during this time will be without humidity, there is far less rain, allowing for safer hiking trips and smoother diving expeditions.

It is worth noting that these conclusions about the best time to visit Borneo are generalized and the weather is apt to change based on local regions. Thanks to Borneo’s unique geographic location, it is not known for heavy monsoons during its rainy seasons. Overall, Borneo is sunny year-round and will make future visits to other tropical countries much more exciting!

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