a d v e n t u r e

Sarawak Brunei Sabah

Contents

The Allure of Borneo 02Profile of Borneo Adventure 03Sarawak 04Sarawak Supreme 09Sabah 10Sabah Supreme 16Brunei 17Meetings & Incentives 19Special Interest Travel 20Film Location Services 21Contact Details 22

The Allure of Borneo 02Profile of Borneo Adventure 03Sarawak 04Sarawak Supreme 09Sabah 10Sabah Supreme 16Brunei 17Meetings & Incentives 19Special Interest Travel 20Film Location Services 21Contact Details 22

Our Mission Statement

Borneo Adventure is dedicated to providing our clients with ethical tourism products that are sustainable. We believe that:

• Tourism must be managed as a sensitive resource requiring care and maintenance• Tourism products have carrying capacities which must not be exceeded• The natural environment includes cultural components• Sustainability includes an appropriate return to the local community• Sustainability relies on long term conservation of the resource• Local guides are the interpretive link between guest and host

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PACIFIC OCEAN

INDIANOCEAN

EastChinaSea

Malaysia

Arafura Sea

Indonesia

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Thailand

Sarawak

Sabah

Singapore

Brunei

Kuching

Kota Kinabalu

Kuala Lumpur

It is not merely to its setting that Borneo owes its charm. It possesses the double advantage that what is known is fascinating and what might be known, and is not yet known, appeals to all that is best in man.

Charles Hose, 1926

The world’s third largest island has long been a magnet for adventurers, explorers, travellers and writers. With its mosaic of indigenous tribes and longhouses, its intriguing history of Sultans and White Rajahs, the natural history of its rainforests, rivers and wildlife, Borneo still inspires the adventure-loving traveller.

The tropical rainforests offer a bewildering diversity of species and abundant wildlife, much of it unique to the area. The jungle treks, upriver journeys, giant caves, mountains, islands and exquisite coral reefs will not disappoint those seeking adventure. The cultural diversity of Borneo is almost as amazing as its natural history, with over sixty different tribes and races, each with their own unique cultural traditions and all offering the visitor warm and open hospitality.

THE ALLURE OF BORNEO

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Award-winning operation running excellent trips throughout Sarawak and Sabah. Its jungle lodge, beside the Nanga Sumpa longhouse, along the Ulu Ai, is a fine example of best practice and a beacon for ecotourism in Malaysia.

Rough Guide to Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei

Borneo Adventure specializes in tours, excursions and activities focused on the Malaysian states of Sarawak & Sabah on the island of Borneo. We also offer tours to the Sultanate of Brunei. We are one of Malaysia’s more established inbound tour operators and offer a range of over 100 small group or individual tours of Borneo to choose from.

The company was established to offer a traveller’s alternative to mass tourism. Placing emphasis on the natural environment, culture and history, we have established a reputation for innovative and informative tours. Since 1987 our team has provided a highly personalized service that puts visitors in touch with the people and the land.

We show sights that most tourists do not get to see and are eager to share our knowledge of the cultures and customs of the more than sixty different ethnic groups living in Sarawak, Sabah and Brunei. Each of our tours has been carefully planned to ensure the best combination of activities and places of interest. We constantly strive to exceed our clients’ expectations and deliver quality tours, services and travel experiences.

Our guides are the key to the whole Borneo travel experience and we are proud to have some of the best in the industry. They have been chosen for their enthusiasm, as well as their knowledge of the local culture, the rainforest and its wildlife. Our staff guides are supplemented by experts (e.g. ecologists, anthropologists, etc.) who assist on specialised study tours that require in-depth information. Borneo Adventure is an equal opportunity employer and our core team of travel professionals come from the various tribes and peoples of Borneo and beyond.

Borneo Adventure believes in integrity of service, the sustainability of tourism products and providing appropriate returns to our local communities. Our commitment to the principles of conservation and our work with local communities have been acknowledgedinternationally and well received by our many clients.

Whether it is an upriver trip for two, or an incentive party of two hundred in a traditional longhouse, the vast and cumulative experience of our team will ensure that your adventure in Borneo is unforgettable.

PROFILE OF BORNEO ADVENTURE

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It is the luxurious growth of a vast hot-house, for the equatorial climate bathes Sarawak in perpetual summer. Nowhere on earth is natural vegetation more lavish.

Malcolm MacDonald, 1956

Located on the northwestern shore of Borneo, Sarawak is the largest of Malaysia’s 13 states and covers an area of 125,000 square kilometres. The steep interior terrain, luxuriant with tropical rainforest produces numerous rivers which flow seaward through nipah and mangrove forest, and on to casuarina fringed beaches.

The most multiracial state in Malaysia, Sarawak is home to over 30 ethnic groups, the major ones being the Iban, Chinese, Malay, Bidayuh and Melanau. Once part of the Sultanate of Brunei, Sarawak has the most romantic history in the region. In 1839 an Englishman named James Brooke stopped by on his adventures in the Far East. After quelling a rebellion the Sultan of Brunei gave James Brooke land and the title of Rajah. Thus began the rule of the White Rajahs which lasted over a hundred years.

Sarawak offers an unforgettable mix of culture and nature based travel experiences. With its history of White Rajahs, diverse cultures, mighty rivers, rainforests & iconic wildlife, Sarawak is a unique destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors.

Sarawak can be visited any time of the year. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with heavier rain occurring mostly during the wetter months from November to February.

SARAWAK

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Attractions & Experiences

Kuching

Kuching, the state capital of Sarawak, is arguably one of the most attractive cities in Southeast Asia. With its romantic history of White Rajahs, its rich architectural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its residents, it is quite easy to end up spending longer than intended in Kuching. The city has adopted modern amenities but has not lost its charm. The river, once an important transport link,

is still a central feature of the city with the beautifully landscaped waterfront promenade providing a relaxing venue for strolling both day and night.

The city centre is compact, with most of the main attractions located a short distance away from the Kuching Waterfront. The Sarawak Museum, Brooke era heritage buildings such as the Square Tower and the 19th Century shophouses at Main Bazaar are all within walking distance of the city centre hotels. There are number of excellent national parks and wildlife reserves located close to Kuching, all easily accessible on daytrips or overnight tours.

Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

One of just four orangutan rehabilitation centres in the world, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre offers the chance to see semi-wild orangutan. Located approximately 24 km from Kuching, Semenggoh was set up in 1975 to care for wild animals that had been previously kept as illegal pets, orphaned or found injured in the rainforest.

Over the years a number of orangutan have been successfully rehabilitated and released into the 653 hectare forest reserve. A number of these ‘graduates’ have had young and these orangutan have spent their entire lives roaming wild at Semenggoh. Released orangutan spend most of their time in the forest but some do return to the centre where they are fed twice daily. Today there are over twenty orangutan living at Semenggoh and the centre offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up-close with semi-wild orangutan.

Bako National Park

Seven distinct ecosystems, an extensive jungle trail system plus superb wildlife viewing opportunities make Bako the perfect introduction to Sarawak’s forests and wildlife. Bako covers an area of 27 sq km and is readily accessible from Kuching. Despite its relatively small size, at Bako it is possible to view nearly every type of vegetation found in Borneo. The park’s different ecosystems – mixed dipterocarp forest, mangrove forest, beach vegetation, cliff vegetation, Kerangas or heath forest, padang or grasslands and peat swamp forest - are accessible via a network of trekking trails and plankwalks.

Bako is one of the best places in Malaysia for wildlife experiences. It is Sarawak’s oldest national park and was gazetted in 1957. The animals at Bako are therefore used to humans. As a result visitors are almost guaranteed to see wildlife. Commonly seen

wildlife includes the proboscis monkey which is endemic to Borneo, silver-leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, bearded pigs and a variety of birdlife. Although it is possible to see much of what Bako has to offer in a day trip, an overnight stay is highly recommended.

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Gunung Gading National Park

Gunung Gading National Park is home to the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower which can grow up to one metre in diameter. The Rafflesia is a parasitic plant that takes eighteen months to infest the tissues of the host vine, followed by nine months to mature into a cabbage-sized bud before flowering for a mere 4-5 days. When in bloom the Rafflesia gives off a pungent smell that attracts flies and other insects.

Gunung Gading comprises a series of rugged mountains and is located near the town of Lundu, approximately 2 hours drive from Kuching. A plankwalk near the park HQ allows visitors to walk around an area where Rafflesia flowers frequently bloom. Young Rafflesia buds can also be seen scattered around the forest floor. Whilst most visitors make day trips to the park to see Rafflesia, the park contains a range of other attractions that can be enjoyed on an overnight tour. A series of waterfalls and clear jungle streams provide excellent bathing spots and there are a number of jungle trails, including the Gunung Gading Summit Trail.

Damai Beach & Santubong Peninsula

The Santubong Peninsula, situated on the mouth of the Sarawak River 35 km from Kuching, is dominated by the rainforest-clad slopes of Mount Santubong. The area has long been settled by small fishing communities and was once a trading centre. Today the Santubong Peninsula, especially Damai, is Sarawak’s main beach resort area. The area also offers a range of nature-based tours and activities centred on the protected forest at Mount Santubong National Park; the mangrove forests of the nearby Kuching Wetlands National Park; the Santubong and Salak estuaries which are home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphin and finless porpoise; and the islands of the Talang Satang Marine Park which are nesting grounds for green turtles. The Sarawak Cultural Village is also located at Damai. This living museum showcases local cultures

and traditions with replica traditional houses of Sarawak’s main ethic groups, cultural performance and arts and craft demonstrations.

Mulu National Park & World Heritage Site

Gunung Mulu National Park is justifiably famous for its limestone karst formations, some of the most spectacular caves on earth. Mulu is home to world’s largest underground chamber (the Sarawak Chamber), the world’s largest cave passage (Deer Cave) and the longest cave in Southeast Asia (Clearwater Cave).

Listed as a World Heritage Site in 2000, the park is dominated by three mountains - Mulu, Api and Benarat - and covers 52,000 hectares of primary rainforest. Four “show caves” can be visited as day trips from the park HQ. These are accessed by jungle trails, plank walkways or pathways through the caves.

The Mulu experience is not confined solely to its caverns. The park’s biodiversity is as impressive as its caves with Mulu containing 15 different types of forest - including mixed dipterocarp, heath, peat swamp, moss forest and montane vegetation - and thousands of species of ferns, fungi, mosses and flowering plants.

Mulu is also home to a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish and insects and other invertebrates. In addition to the show caves there are a number of jungle trails and adventure treks that enable visitors to experience the rainforest. These include the Gunung Mulu Summit Trek, the climb to see the Pinnacles of Gunung Api and the Headhunters’ Trail which combines river travel, trekking and a stay in a longhouse.

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A trip to a tribal longhouse offers the chance to enjoy the pleasures of upriver travel, learn about other cultures and enjoy legendary Sarawakian hospitality

Batang Ai

The Batang Ai area is the site of the oldest Iban settlements in Sarawak. Iban first arrived here from Kalimantan in the 15th Century, before spreading out into the Skrang, Saribas, Rejang and Lundu areas, and onward throughout Sarawak. A hydro-electric scheme completed in 1980 has dammed the Batang Ai river and formed a 24 square killometre lake fed by four crystal clear tributaries. Whilst communities were resettled as part

of the dam project, a number of Iban longhouses remain above the flood waters. Batang Ai lake is the staging point for Borneo Adventure’s trips to the Iban longhouses of Ulu Ai. A trip to Batang Ai takes you back to an era where life is lived more simply, uncomplicated by time constraints. The schedules followed are imposed by nature and the day’s activities follow a routine according to nature’s cycles.

Borneo Adventure pioneered community-based tourism in the Batang Ai area by taking small groups to upriver longhouses. Nowadays, visitors can choose to stay at our lodges at Nanga Sumpa and Lubok Kasai or alternatively stay at the Hilton Batang Ai Resort which is located on the shores of the lake. The Hilton provides a good base for day trips to nearby longhouses whilst our two lodges serve as bases for both cultural experiences and nature-based activities.

Nanga Sumpa and the Ulu Ai Experience

Ulu means ‘upriver’ and Ulu Ai translates as ‘the upper reaches of the Ai River’. What makes Ulu Ai so special is the natural environment and stunning scenery. Clean rivers and jungle streams, refreshing waterfalls and undisturbed tracts of rainforest allow you to combine a range of outdoor activities with a visit or stay in an Iban longhouse. Borneo Adventure’s main lodge is located at Nanga Sumpa, approximately a 1½ hour longboat ride from the Batang Ai Lake. The lodge overlooks the Delok River and is a short walk away from the longhouse and Iban community. A 3 days trip to Nanga Sumpa allows visitors enough time to fully discover the beauty of the area.

Activities during your stay at the Nanga Sumpa include travelling further upriver by longboat to have a swim at the Ensuluai waterfall; visiting the longhouse and surrounding farms; participating in the daily activities of the Iban people; and jungle trekking on trails that take you along streams and through farmlands to primary rainforest. Orangutan live in the Ulu Ai area and sometimes it is possible to see the “man of the forest” in its natural environment. During the evening you can spend time on the ruai, the common verandah of the longhouse, and learn more about Iban culture and enjoy some tuak, local rice wine.

The Iban Comprising about 30 percent of Sarawak’s population of 2 million, the Iban are the largest ethnic group in the State. The Iban are mobile people, fishing in the river, hunting in the forest and cultivating hill rice on the jungle fringes. They live in longhouses comprising several family ‘bilik’ or compartments. In the past, the Iban were feared as warriors and practised headhunting against their enemies. Headhunting has long ceased but their colourful festivals still centre on dances that tell of heroism and spiritualism, and are a form of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.

A visit to a longhouse is often the highlight of a trip to Sarawak, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the various tribes who have for generations lived in the remote interior of Borneo. While there are many areas in Sarawak where longhouses can be visited, Ulu Ai is one of the best.

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Lubok Kasai

In response to the overwhelming success of Borneo Adventure’s lodge at Nanga Sumpa we have opened a new jungle lodge at nearby Lubok Kasai. This smaller lodge provides a more exclusive environment in a stunning riverside setting at the edge of the rainforest. Lubok Kasai Lodge was

set up to appeal to people who want to experience a totally natural and tranquil setting: away from the sights, sounds and activities of a vibrant longhouse.

Lubok Kasai is located a 30-45 minute longboat ride from Nanga Sumpa in what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas of Sarawak. Journey time from the Batang Ai Lake to Lubok Kasai is approximately 2 hours depending on the water level of the river.

The lodge is surrounding by rainforest in an area that is inhabited by a population of wild orangutans. Staying at Lubok Kasai offers the chance to explore the numerous jungle trails; spot local wildlife; and enjoy the clear cooling waters of the adjacent Lalang River. The Enseluai waterfall is just a short boat ride away; and of course your Iban hosts are always on hand; cooking traditional food and ready to provide every assistance when required.

Lubok Kasai is ideal if you want a more relaxed itinerary; or indeed a tailor-made programme suited entirely to your needs: whether it be trekking in search for orangutan or other wildlife; taking a boat ride further upriver to have a picnic on pebble beach; simply chilling out by the river; or treating yourself to periods of quiet solitude, insulated from the outside world.

Hill Tribes of Borneo & the Kelabit Highlands

Bario is the entry point for the Kelabit Highlands, a beautiful mountain valley situated over 1000 metres above sea level. Isolated until World War II, the Kelabit people and other communities of the highlands had little contact with the outside world. The only means of travelling to or from the coast was to walk along forest trails for seven to ten days. Today the highlands are accessed via daily Twin Otter flights.

The Kelabit live in large longhouses widely dispersed throughout the highlands. One of the biggest attractions of the Kelabit Highlands is trekking from longhouse to longhouse through the jungle and past the rice fields. These treks vary in difficulty from easy walks to tough adventure treks. Most of Borneo Adventure’s treks and tours of Bario are for physically fit and experienced hikers.

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This tour combines the major attractions in Sarawak; including Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, Bako National Park, an Ulu Ai longhouse and upriver experience and Mulu National Park.

Day 1 Semenggoh Orangutan - Bako National ParkAfter breakfast depart for Semenggoh Wildlife Centre located a short drive from the centre of Kuching. Observe the feeding of Orangutans requiring rehabilitation. Then continue your journey by road (about 1 hour) to Bako Village. From the village, take about a 25-minute boat ride to the park. There are several trails to follow inside the park depending on level of fitness and interest. Go trekking and search for the park’s wildlife. After dinner go for a night walk. Overnight at the park accommodation.

Day 2 Bako National Park – KuchingFollowing breakfast, depart for a final hike on one of the trails spotting rare migratory birds and searching for the rare and elusive proboscis monkey, a primate only found in Borneo. Return to Kuching mid-afternoon. Overnight at hotel in Kuching.

Day 3 Kuching - Nanga Sumpa LonghouseDepart by air-conditioned van to Batang Ai Lake (4½ hours). Upon arrival at the lake, journey for 1-2 hours by river to Nanga Sumpa and settle into Borneo Adventure's jungle lodge. After dinner spend time with the Iban people in the longhouse. Learn about their culture, relax and enjoy some local rice wine. Overnight Borneo Adventure Lodge.

Day 4 Nanga Sumpa – Enseluai WaterfallFollowing breakfast, hike the leafy jungle trails along the river to the scenic Enseluai Waterfall. Time to relax, swim and explore the rainforest or try fishing Iban-style. Have lunch by the river. Return to the lodge. After dinner, visit the longhouse where handicrafts are available for display upon request and may be purchased directly from the longhouse people. Overnight Borneo Adventure Lodge.

Day 5 Nanga Sumpa Longhouse - Kuching Airport – Mulu Following breakfast, depart down river by longboat, then overland to Kuching. Have lunch en-route. Continue to Kuching Airport for afternoon flight to Mulu. Upon arrival, check in to Borneo Adventure’s Matumau Lodge. Dinner and overnight at lodge.

Day 6 Mulu ShowcavesIn the morning, proceed by longboat upriver to Wind Cave with its impressive 'King's Chamber'. A short walk along a plankwalk suspended from the limestone cliff leads to Clearwater Cave, boasting a wonderful swimming area shaded by giant rainforest trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch, swim or relax. Then enjoy a scenic 3 km plankwalk through primary rainforest to Deer Cave and Lang's Cave. Trek back to the Park H.Q. by torch-light. Return to Matumau Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 7 Matumau Lodge - Mulu Airport – DepartFree at leisure after breakfast. Drop off at airport for departure flight.

For details on our extensive range of Sarawak tours please visit our website at www.borneoadventure.com

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SARAWAK SUPREME

We sailed along as beautiful a coast as can be conceived: ranges of hills rising one beyond the other, some grass-covered, others still clothed in forest, with soft valleys and lovely bays, and here and there patches of bright sandy beach, with Kina Balu towering in majestic grandeur as a background.

Spenser St. John, 1858

Sabah covers a land area of 74,000 square kilometres. Geographically the State is dominated by Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia. The climate is tropical, though less wet than Sarawak. The higher altitudes of the mountainous regions are cooler and the temperature near the summit of Mont Kinabalu can drop to freezing.

Sabah has a varied population with the Kadazan / Dusun people of the interior forming the largest indigenous group. Their traditional interior homeland, behind the formidable mountain range, was chosen in former times to protect themselves from coastal pirates. Other major ethnic groups in Sabah include the Chinese, Bajau, Rungus, Malay and Bisayah.

Sabah’s diversity of natural features - white sand beaches, offshore islands, coral reef, spectacular mountain parks, rich rainforests and abundant wildlife – plus its range of accommodation and facilities have made it the top ecotourism destination in Malaysia.

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Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu or KK is the state capital of Sabah. The city has good transport links and a range of good city and resort hotels. Kota Kinabalu’s coastal location and mountain backdrop give it one of the most spectacular settings of any city in Malaysia. One of the great things about KK is the streetlife - the busy coffee shops, the waterfront markets and generally buzz about the place. Some of the best seafood in Malaysia can be found in KK and the beaches, reefs and islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park are just 15-minute boat ride from the city centre.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

With its beautiful beaches, offshore islands and pristine coral reefs, Sabah’s coastline is as fascinating as its rainforest and mountain-clad interior. The Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park near Kota Kinabalu covers 50 square kilometres and includes five islands, Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Sulug. Each of these offers diving and snorkeling possibilities. In addition to water sports activities the islands have a number trekking trails. All the islands are easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu.

Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park, covering an area of 754 square kilometres, was the first national park in Sabah. The park is dominated by Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia at 4,095 metres. The slopes of Mount Kinabalu are home to an incredible variety of plants and animal species. Different elevations of the park and their microclimates support distinct habitats. There are over 1,200 species of orchids, 26 species of rhododendrons, 9 species of pitcher plants, 60 species of oak and chestnut trees and 2 species of Rafflesia found in the park.

Owing to its unique and varied ecology the park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The park has a number of trails and offers a range of activities and experiences, including the summit climb. The main entry point for the park is located 90 km from Kota Kinabalu at an elevation of 1,520 m above sea level.

The climb to the summit of Mount Kinabalu provides excellent opportunities to view the mountain plants and scenery. Two days is the minimum required to climb from the park HQ to the summit. Although no mountaineering skills are required, climbers should be reasonably fit.

Attractions & Experiences

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White Water Rafting in the Padas or Kiulu Rivers

The Padas River gushes through the spectacular Padas Gorge and offers serious rafters the ultimate white water adventure in Borneo. From Kota Kinabalu take a 98 kilometre drive to Beaufort, followed by a short journey by rail to Pangi. Rafting the Kiuli River is recommended for first-timers and novices. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through Sabah’s countryside, passing rubber plantations, rice fields and fruit gardens before reaching Pukak village, the jumping off point for rafting. After the thrills of rafting, enjoy lunch before returning to Kota Kinabalu.

Poring Hot Springs

Located 39 kilometres northwest of Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Springs offers a refreshing relief for tired muscles. The hot springs contain sulphur water which has health and curative properties. A canopy walkway located offers magnificent views and new insights into the rainforest. A visit to Poring can be done as a day trip from Kota Kinabalu or as an overnight trip.

Pulau Tiga

Pulau Tiga Park is located north of Kuala Penyu, opposite the swampy Klias Peninsula. The island became famous when it was used as the location for the first Survivor reality TV series. Accessed via a 40-minute boat ride from Kuala Penyu jetty, which in turn is a 2-hour minute drive from Kota Kinabalu, Pulau Tiga has interesting flora and fauna, nice beaches and a rich marine life that offers good snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island also has a few mud volcanoes that are popular recreational spots for visitors. There are a number of nature trails on the island, each offering different trekking experiences in terms of views, flora, fauna and trail difficulty.

A short distance northeast of Pulau Tiga is Pulau Kalampunian Damit, a breeding ground for a species of sea snake called the banded sea krait. Kalampunian Damit attracts these snakes in huge numbers and not surprisingly is better known as Snake Island.

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Kudat

Kudat is a small town located in the northern part of Sabah and the administrative centre of the Kudat District which is the populated mostly by Rungus people. Kudat is famous for its Rungus longhouses, picturesque coastline, handicrafts and Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, the northern tip of Borneo. The Kudat longhouses can be visited as part of a day trip from Kota Kinabalu or experienced via an overnight tour.

Sandakan

Sandakan, the former capital of Sabah, is a busy port town located at the entrance of a picturesque bay on the East Coast of Sabah. The town’s wealth was original built on timber but nowadays oil palm and tourism drive the town’s economy. Sandakan was occupied by the Japanese during World War II and was the site of the notorious Death Marches, forced marches that resulted in the deaths of thousands of allied prisoners of war.

The town itself has a few attractions - the bustling waterfront, the Agnes Keith House, the English Tea House, the Sandakan Memorial Park and Goddess of Mercy Chinese temple. However, Sandakan is more famous for the attractions that surround it. The town serves as the jumping off point for a whole series nature-based attractions and wildlife adventures including Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Selingan Turtle Islands, Gomantong Caves and the Kinabatangan River.

Selingan Island

The Turtle Islands National Park comprises three islands located approximately 40 km north of Sandakan. The beaches of Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan Islands are nesting sites for both green and hawksbill turtles. Only Selingan is open to visitors and the island is accessed via a 1-hour speedboat ride from Sandakan. The 8-hectare island has a range of facilities including accommodation, café, park HQ and an interpretive centre.

Although turtles lay eggs all year round the best time to visit Selingan is between July and October when the sea conditions are calmer and the number of turtle landings is higher. As turtle landings normally occur after dusk an overnight stay is highly recommended. In addition to having the chance of seeing turtle landings, visitors can observe park rangers collect eggs, tag turtles and release baby turtles.

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Sukau & the Kinabatangan River

The 560-kilometre Kinabatangan River is Sabah’s longest river, beginning in the Crocker Range in Southwest Sabah and ending at the Sulu Sea southeast of Sandakan. From the headwaters to its vast river mouth, the Kinabatangan passes through a diverse range of habitats, including dipterocarp forest, seasonally flooded riparian forest, oxbow lakes, nipah and mangroves. Whilst the upper reaches of the Kinabatangan River have been extensively logged, much of the lowland forest and mangroves have survived.

This vast floodplain forest contains a rich mix of vegetation that supports a remarkable diversity of wildlife; including proboscis monkeys, orangutan, gibbons, elephants, tarsiers, slow loris, crocodiles, freshwater sharks, Irrawaddy dolphins and a variety birds.

In 2006 27,800 hectares of land was gazetted as the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. This protected area essentially forms a narrow wildlife corridor that follows the river. The Kinabatangan River has gained a justified reputation as a top wildlife-watching destination. Sukau, located 132 km from Sandakan, is the main centre for wildlife tourism along the river. Abai, 47 km from the mouth of the Kinabatangan, also has lodge accommodation and serves as jumping off point for boat-based wildlife watching tours of the Kinabatangan and its tributaries.

It is possible to take an afternoon excursion by boat from Sandakan across the Sandakan Bay, through the mangroves into the mouth of the Kinabatangan, up to the first village settlement at Abai and return to Sandakan at night. However, to get the best out of the Kinabatangan River and have an in-depth look at the area’s wildlife we recommend an overnight stay.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

Set up in 1964, Sepilok is the best known of the four orang utan rehabilitation centres in the world. The centre covers 43 square kilometers within the 4,500 hectare Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve and is located approximately 25 km form Sandakan. Sepilok is a sanctuary for injured, orphaned or rescued orang utans who are trained how to survive in the forest; a learning process that can take years. Upon graduation rehabilitated orang utan are released into the surrounding forest. Many of the orang utan living in the forest return to the centre at the twice daily feeding times, giving visitors a unique chance to get close to orangutan. Since it was opened Sepilok has successfully released over one hundred orangutan into their natural forest habitat.

Danum Valley

The Danum Valley Conservation Area covers 43,800 hectares of protected lowland rainforest and is home to an astonishing variety of plants and wildlife; including more than 340 species of birds, 124 species of mammals, 72 species of reptiles, 56 species of amphibians and 200 species of plants per hectare. Rare and endangered species such as the Sumatran rhino, banteng (a species of wild cattle), Borneo Pygmy elephant, clouded leopard, orang-utan and proboscis monkey are found at Danum Valley. The Danum Valley Conservation Area is located approximately 80 km from Lahad Datu and is accessed via an unsealed gravel road. Forest trails, a canopy walk, observation towers and night safaris allow visitors to experience the rainforest and provide good opportunities for wildlife watching. The Danum Valley offers comfortable lodge-style accommodation.

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Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Tabin Wildlife Reserve covers an area of 122,500 hectares northeast of Lahad Datu. Whilst Tabin contains areas of undisturbed forest, much of the reserve consists of previously logged over forest. The area was declared a protected area primarily due to the existence of three of the largest mammals found in Sabah: the Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Banteng (a species of wild cattle). Nine species of primate are also found at Tabin and over 220 species of birds. Tabin Wildlife Reserve has gained a reputation is an excellent place for wildlife watching. Nature-based activities include jungle trekking, night safaris, night walks, wildlife spotting and bird watching. Tabin is accessed via sealed and gravel roads. Considering its isolated setting, accommodation facilities are good and consist of lodge-style chalets set in the rainforest.

Sipadan

Situated 30 kilometres south of Semporna, Sipadan is one of the world’s great diving destinations. This oceanic island rises 600 metres from the seabed and its waters teem with life - turtles, sharks, barracudas, rays and a diverse range of brightly coloured fish. The small island can be circumnavigated in half an hour and is fringed by white sands. Dives and day trips can be arranged from the neighbouring island of Mabul.

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This tour combines the major attractions of Sabah: the magnificent Kinabalu Park, the wildlife attractions of Sandakan & the Kinabatangan River and beaches and islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park near Kota Kinabalu.

Day 1 Kota KinabaluArrive in Kota Kinabalu. Take a short city orientation and check in to hotel. Time to enjoy the beautiful sunset by the hotel pool.

Day 2 Poring Hot Springs – Kinabalu ParkDepart early morning for Poring Hot Springs. Explore the many jungle trails and observe wildlife on the canopy walkway. Proceed to Kinabalu Park after lunch. View a slide presentation and visit the mountain garden to discover the unique and endemic plant life found in the park. Return to Kota Kinabalu in late afternoon. Overnight at hotel in Kota Kinabalu.

Day 3 Kota Kinabalu - SandakanMorning at own leisure then check out of hotel at noon and transfer to the airport for flight to Sandakan. Overnight at hotel in Sandakan.

Day 4 Sepilok – Boat Cruise – Sukau Pick up at hotel and proceed to Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary to watch the feeding of orang utans and see a video presentation of their rehabilitation programme. Proceed to jetty and depart by boat to Sukau passing villages and mangroves. There will be an opportunity to search for more wildlife on the 2-3 hour boat ride. In the late afternoon, go on a river cruise up Kinabatangan River to Menanggul River in search of proboscis monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Overnight at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Day 5 Boat Cruise - Brief Sandakan City Orientation – Kota Kinabalu After breakfast return to Sandakan by boat. Upon arrival at the jetty, transfer to Sabah Hotel for lunch. Proceed for a brief city orientation. Transfer to the airport in the afternoon for flight out. Overnight at hotel in Kota Kinabalu.

Day 6 Island Day tripAfter collection from your hotel, take a short boat ride to one of the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park for a day of relaxation and swimming. Mask and snorkel will be provided, plus a barbeque lunch. Return to Kota Kinabalu mid-afternoon. Overnight at hotel in Kota Kinabalu.

Day 7 Departure or Extend Tour Following breakfast, at own leisure in the morning until check-out. Then transfer to the airport for departure flight or extend tour.

For details on our extensive range of Sabah tours please visit our website at www.borneoadventure.com

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SABAH SUPREME

This city is entirely built on foundations in the salt water, except the houses of the king and some princes.

Antonio Pigafetta, 1521

The Sultanate of Brunei is wedged in between the two East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, with its northern shore facing the South China Sea. Brunei is a land of contrasts, especially the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. The famous Kampung Ayer, a collection of houses, shops, schools and clinics, is perched on stilts in the Brunei River. Located opposite this water village in the centre of town are speculator mosques and the world’s largest royal palace. The eastern part of Brunei is still largely covered by pristine rainforest. With its modern airport and direct flights from Australia, Europe and Asia, Brunei is increasingly serving as a gateway to north Borneo.

BRUNEI

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Attractions & Experiences

Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei and the country’s only real population centre. It is the centre of Brunei’s commerce and government but retains a somewhat sleepy, laid-back feel. The town lines the banks of the Brunei River and houses some of the country’s most important landmarks. Bandar Seri Begawan is characterised by a juxtaposition of the modern - as exemplified by its palaces, mosques and malls - with more traditional elements such as Malay houses built on stilts. For the visitor the highlights of Bandar Seri Begawan are the Malay Water Village at Kampung Ayer; the city’s impressive collection of mosques, including the stunning Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque; and the city’s peaceful, laid-back feel and friendly residents.

Ulu Temburong National Park

Ulu Temburong National Park is perhaps Brunei’s best tourism attraction. The park covers approximately 50,000 hectares of pristine rainforest. Ulu Temburong’s locality and steep terrain have limited human impact on the area and helped preserve the area’s rich biodiversity. The park is accessed via longboat and the journey to the park is part of the whole Temburong travel experience. A series of forest trails and plank walkways allow visitors to get the most out the park. For many visitors the highlight of a trip to Ulu Temburong is the canopy walkway. Reached via an hour-long trek from the park HQ, the canopy walkway gives visitors a unique opportunity to observe the rainforest’s diverse treetop ecosystem. The views from the top of the canopy walk are simply stunning.

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Borneo Adventure has been managing conference and incentive groups of all sizes and nationalities for over 20 years. Operating from our offices in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, we offer efficient and creative destination management services and a truly one-stop Meetings, Incentives and Event Management service for Malaysian Borneo. We specialize in the development of itineraries and programmes that fulfill your goals and motivational objectives.

Our Meetings & Incentives division can assist you make your event a success. We have a track record of coming up with creative incentive ideas and itineraries. Our great strength is our imaginative use of resources. We have long-standing relationships with internationally acknowledged experts; we work together with our indigenous communities and involve them closely in our activities; and we ensure that local travel is an integral and enjoyable part of the ‘Borneo Experience’. What sets us apart is our dedication to ‘the art of the journey’.

Borneo Adventure offers associations, corporate clients, conference and meeting planners, incentive houses, tour wholesalers and operators, events agencies and cruise lines a range of services including:

• Hotels & accommodation• Transportation, logistics and ground handling • Innovative sightseeing and soft adventure tours & excursions• Corporate incentive travel programmes• Conference organization• Venues, restaurants & entertainment• Cruise support services• Event management• Activities & team building

Whether you are looking to arrange a company incentive trip, international conference or corporate meeting, Borneo Adventure can ensure that your event is a success.

MEETINGS & INCENTIVES

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More and more people are interested in travel that involves a learning experience. Borneo is an ideal destination for special interest tours that combine travel with a hobby, profession or a particular area of interest.

With one of the oldest and most varied rainforests in the world and an excellent network of national parks and wildlife reserves, Borneo has much to offer the nature enthusiast, be it bird watching, orchid hunting, wildlife viewing or pursuing an interest in botany. The island’s cultural diversity is also a major attraction and anyone interested in learning about

arts, crafts, performances and traditions will find Sarawak and Sabah’s ethnic groups captivating.

Borneo Adventure specializes in providing personalized services that translate your wishes into an interesting itinerary and special interest travel programme. The ability to accomplish this comes from our intimate knowledge of Borneo’s cultural and natural resources and the logistics of visiting and experiencing these attractions.

Some examples of the special interest tours we have organised include photographic tours, bird-watching trips, culinary tours, nature tours, cultural and educational programmes, school and university trips and expeditions, textile tours, wildlife watching programmes and natural history tours.

SPECIAL INTEREST TRAVEL

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Borneo is famed for its biodiversity, diverse peoples & cultures and unique history. This rich subject matter provides a wide range of film production opportunities.

Borneo Adventure offers a variety of film location services for international production companies with projects in Sarawak and Sabah. Over the last 20 years we have worked for a range of clients including the BBC, Endemol, National Geographic Channel, ABC (Australia), NHK, Icon Films and numerous other independent film production companies. Much of this work has focused on factual programmes. However, we also have wide experience of assisting companies with reality TV shows, advertising shoots and feature films, often in remote area locations.

Past projects have varied in length from a few days to several months; often involving large scale and complex logistics; moving people and equipment in remote areas; providing accommodation and catering; and in many cases working closely with local communities.

Central to any film project in Sarawak and Sabah is obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from state governments plus other bodies such as immigration & customs. Borneo Adventure is one of the few tour operators in Malaysia that has a FINAS (National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia) licence. We can therefore act as a local sponsor for Malaysian and foreign film production companies and help obtain government approvals and permits.

Borneo Adventure offers the following services for film production companies:

• Location research, recce and scouting• Sponsoring / processing of film permits• Immigration advice and help obtaining work permits for crew• Custom clearance of cameras and other production equipment• Travel, transportation, vehicle hire & logistics• Accommodation bookings• Location catering• Medics & doctors for remote filming• Liaison with local communities• Guides & translators• Aerial filming and photography

FILM LOCATION SERVICES

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The information contained in this brochure is merely a sample of the many tours, experiences and services that Borneo Adventure offers. We are also happy to design a programme especially suited to your own particular needs or those of your clients. For further information please contact us at:

Kuching Head Office55 Main Bazaar, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.Tel: +6 082 245-175 Fax: +6 082 422-626

Kota Kinabalu OfficeBlock E-27-3A, KK Times Square,88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.Tel: +6 088 486-800 Fax: +6 088 486-880

info@borneoadventure.comwww.borneoadventure.com

CONTACT DETAILS

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© Borneo Adventure

Photo Credits: Photos © Borneo Adventure except where credited.

Front Cover: Orangutan at Danum Valley, Sabah © Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Longboats departing Lubuk Kasai, Sarawak. Canopy walkway at Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei © Brunei Tourism. Beach at Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park, Sabah © Sabah Tourism.

Back Cover: Silverleaf monkey at Bako National Park, Sarawak. Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park, Sabah © Sabah Tourism. Hornbills at Tabin Wildlife Reserve © Tabin Wildlife Resort. Iban elder at Nanga Sumpa longhouse, Sarawak.

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