What to expect on your first trip to Borneo

How to get ready for one of the world’s most biodiverse and fragile ecosystems

Borneo is an island jewel boasting some of the world’s most ancient rainforests, endangered animals, and rare Bornean birds, as well as a unique indigenous communities. The island itself is split between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, with Indonesia taking up the bulk of the land. Borneo’s rich, varied terrain and abundant biodiversity have made it a hotspot for scientists and conservationists, and unfortunately, industrialists keen on logging and palm oil cultivation in the area.

Nonetheless, Borneo is also home to several national parks that help preserve the island’s precious ecosystem, including Malaysia’s Kinabalu National Park, the country’s very first UNESCO World Heritage site. It is undoubtedly a bucket list destination for nature lovers and adventurers who want to experience—and responsibly support, where possible—one of the most unique and threatened places in the world. Water-sports lovers might associate Borneo with incredible scuba diving, specifically on Sipadan and Layang Layang islands, while mountaineers might set their eyes on summiting Mount Kinabalu.

Visiting Borneo for the first time can be a rush for many people, as it’s a chance to learn about conservation efforts, ongoing environmental and animal rehabilitation projects, and immerse yourself in local culture (and the local hot springs, if you can). Borneo’s many indigenous tribes, some of which are nomadic, live in perfect tune with their environment and can offer fascinating new insights to new visitors.

What is Malaysian Borneo?

Divided into the states of Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo offers a rich trove of cultural, historical, and natural treasures. Islam is the official religion in Sabah, while there is none in Sarawak. Farther to the north, Sabah’s state capital, Kota Kinabalu, is a great jumping-off point for many who seek to conquer Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in the country.

Over in Sarawak, the state capital Kuching is peppered with a delightful blend of colonial buildings (including an old fort) and spice and wet markets, and its most famous resident: the city’s many cats (kucing, in Malay). Sarawak also has its own mountain—Mount Santubong. Expect to find a lively blend of different cultures in both Sabah and Sarawak, thanks to the region’s long history of Indian, Chinese, and Arabic immigrants, traders, and indigenous communities like the Iban, Murut, and Suluk people. Reality TV fans might remember that the very first season of Survivor actually took place on Pulau Tiga, right by Kota Kinabalu in Sarawak.

Local food is a blend of Borneo’s many cultures as well as regional influences—Indonesian, Malaysian, Indian, and Chinese. Even if you’re a seasoned veteran of Southeast Asian foods, be prepared to experience some spice combinations that you might not have tasted before—even the nasi lemak might have a special local kick to it. Visiting Borneo is also a perfect time to get your fill of rainforest fruits, especially jackfruit, lychees, and the local bambagan—a bit of a sour, acquired taste.

Be prepared for the weather

Pack cool, comfortable clothing to prepare for the humid tropical climate—quick-dry clothes are a plus—as well as an insect repellant and waterproof sunscreen. Long-sleeved tops are a good option for visitors concerned about both sun and bug bites. If you’re planning on heading into the rainforest, as most Borneo visitors do, bring a pair of good walking shoes and a study rain jacket (throwaway rain ponchos can also be purchased at most national park kiosks).

In a pinch, you can also get anti-leech socks—long/tall socks worn over your boots, sometimes up to your knees, though soccer socks are a free alternative if you have a pair. Mountain adventurers should pack a sensible combination of layers—it snows up there—including a solid fleece. If you’re particularly eco-conscious and are worried about your consumption habits, keep your eyes peeled for “RSPO” or “FSC” sustainability stickers on local products.

Waiting for wildlife

Most people come to Borneo to get up close and personal with nature—it’s one of the most biodiverse places on earth. From ancient cave systems to prehistoric rainforests, the world’s third-biggest island has a wealth of things to see and do. At the top of the list (for many people) are orangutans, as well as Sumatran rhinos, proboscis monkeys, tarsiers, sun bears, tiny fingernail-sized frogs, pygmy elephants, a plethora of hornbills, whooping gibbons, macaques, and in some parts of coastal Sarawak, you can even spot Irrawaddy dolphins.

There’s also the extremely pungent, carnivorous Rafflesia flower, the largest flower in the world, which is also Sabah’s state flower. As a parasite, the Rafflesia is incredibly unique—it doesn’t have a stem or roots like regular flowers. It’s a rare sight, as the Rafflesia only blooms for a handful of days per year, but check ahead to see if you’re visiting during the right season.