BORNEO ADVENTURE 2026 - With DR SARAH PYE

Borneo is the third largest island in the world. It sits in the Sulu Sea in Southeast Asia. The island is divided into Malaysian Borneo in the north, and Indonesian Borneo in the south. We will be visiting the Malaysian state of Sabah, known for some of the most incredible and unique species in the world.

There are flights to Sandakan from Kuala Lumpur, (Peninsula Malaysia), or Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. 

Yes, you can, but once you have confirmed your tour, I will connect you with my preferred agent. 

A good general level of fitness is expected, but there are no arduous hikes included. When we walk, we might be out for a couple of hours, but we are moving slowly, looking for wildlife. If you have hiking poles, these are a good option. 

The equator goes right through Indonesian Borneo, so the climate doesn’t change much during the year. It is generally wetter in February and March, but this is unpredictable. The temperatures close to the coast are 27-32 degrees centigrade but expect it to be humid. I have chosen November for travel because it is slightly cooler than other times of the year, but the number of tourists is fewer. 

Borneo is a tropical rainforest and leeches are expected. We will give you a pair of leech socks and show you how to use them. 

You will be surprised how few mosquitos we encounter. However, mosquitos in Borneo are disease carriers, so it is recommended that you bring heavy-duty repellant including DEET. 

Please talk to your doctor about vaccinations and medications before you travel. Specifically ask them about malaria medication, hepatitis and cholera. For your own safety, you will be asked to give us details of any medical issues you have, and medications you are taking. Be aware that some malaria medication makes you more susceptible to the sun, so remember to bring sunscreen. 

Yes, we can, as long as we know ahead what you need. We will also stop at a grocery store, and a fruit stall, so you can stock up on snacks for the trip!
Is it safe to drink the water?
It is recommended that you only drink treated or bottled water in Sabah. Our accommodation has filtered drinking water at no charge, or bottled water for sale. This means you CAN bring a water bladder to use on walks, but some people like to use sterilization tablets or devices as a precaution. 

Yes, once you have confirmed your tour, I will send you a packing list suggestion. 

Yes. Before we meet in person, you will be given the chance to meet each other online during a tour briefing. We will also create a What’s App group before we travel. 

Both are great, but trying to use both at the same time can be a challenge, so you may have to make a choice. Our rainforest guide will have a spying scope which will help you get closer views. You can even take photos with your phone through the spying scope. 

Yes, I suggest you bring Malaysian Ringgit cash for snacks, souvenirs and tips. Small notes are best. You can also use credit cards at most retail outlets, restaurants and accommodation. 

Tipping is not required but appreciated. We recommend you consider tipping your wildlife guide the equivalent of $US2-5 per person per day. You may also wish to tip the bus driver and boat captain, but it is not expected. 

If you need to be reachable, then these are great options. You can buy a local SIM at the airport in KL or Sandakan. All our accommodation locations have wifi in the common areas, but not in the rooms. 

Yes, the rooms are air-conditioned and yes, if you want to have your own room, please let us know. There will be an extra single supplement. 

I will bring Birds of Borneo by Wong Tsu Shi, and Phillipps’ Field Guide to the Mammals of Borneo by Quentin and Karen Phillipps. Bookshops are limited in Sabah, so perhaps consider buying other books ahead. 

YES, I really recommend you read my book before you come. It will give you a better idea about what you are coming too, and also an insight into Dr Wong’s life. Books are available on most online platforms. If you bring your copy with you, Wong and I can sign it. But if you don’t have time to read ahead, books are available at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.