Things to see and do Borneo

Timetable

Most museums are open between 9am and 5pm, with a weekly closing day. Regional museums are often closed on Fridays between 12.30pm and 2pm. Some museums have extended opening hours at weekends and during school vacations. Almost all are closed for Hari Raya (last day of Ramadan), Christmas and the first day of Chinese New Year. National parks, forest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries are open all year round, but we always inform you if this is not the case.

To be booked

Reservations are often essential for most jungle activities: national park visits, cave tours, reserve hikes, cruises on the Kinabatangan River, ascents of Mount Kinabalu, stays in rural areas... Visits to animal rehabilitation centers, such as Semenggoh or Sepilok, do not require prior booking.

Budget & Tips

Entrance to a museum costs between RM5 and RM30. There are always discounts for children and sometimes senior citizens. Entrances to National Parks are also very inexpensive, from RM5 to RM100. Animal rehabilitation centers, on the other hand, can be quite expensive (between RM30 and RM200). Most destinations in Borneo are relatively inexpensive, but the overall cost of a holiday, including transport, accommodation, meals and guided excursions (cruises, jeep safaris, treks), can quickly add up.

Main events

Guided tours

Some private museums require guided grouptours in English.

The company of a guide is often compulsory for excursions to National Parks. You should expect to pay at least RM60 per day for the guide. Many activities in Borneo require a guide: safari cruises such as along the Kinabatangan River, cave tours in Mulu, jeep safaris such as in the Deramakot Reserve, guided jungle treks, ascents of Mount Kinabulu and tours of tribal villages. The options are numerous, and you'll find all the information you need at tourist offices, hotels, local travel agents and, of course, in your Petit Futé guide.

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited in public buildings and in National Parks, except in designated areas.

What's very local