Borneo is one of the few places left on Earth where the wild still feels truly wild. Shared by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, this massive island is home to ancient rainforests, winding rivers, and species found nowhere else.
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Orangutans – The Gentle “Forest People”
Orangutans (whose name comes from the Malay words orang hutan, meaning “person of the forest”) are Borneo’s most famous residents. Unfortunately they are endangered due to deforestation, that’s why they’re best seen in protected reserves and national parks.
Where to See Them:
• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (Sabah): A world-renowned sanctuary where orphaned and injured orangutans are cared for and released back into the wild.
• Semenggoh Nature Reserve (Sarawak): Offers semi-wild encounters at feeding times.
• Danum Valley & Kinabatangan River (Sabah): For the chance to see fully wild orangutans in their natural habitat..
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Proboscis Monkeys – The Comedians of the Jungle
With their long, drooping noses and potbellies, proboscis monkeys look almost cartoonish. But they’re perfectly adapted to life along Borneo’s mangroves and rivers. They’re excellent swimmers and often leap dramatically from tree to water.
Where to See Them:
• Bako National Park (Sarawak): The best place for close encounters.
• Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary (Sabah): Offers guaranteed sightings in a managed but natural environment.
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): Spot them lounging in mangrove trees at dusk.
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Borneo Pygmy Elephants – Gentle Giants in Miniature
Smaller than African and Asian elephants, Borneo’s pygmy elephants are rounder, with oversized ears and long tails that sometimes drag on the ground. They’re endangered, with only around 1,500 left in the wild.
Where to See Them:
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): The most reliable spot to see herds grazing along the banks.
• Danum Valley & Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Sabah): Offer chances to see elephants deeper in the forest.
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Best Places for a Borneo Wildlife Adventure
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): A hotspot for all three species plus crocodiles, hornbills, and more.
• Danum Valley (Sabah): Pristine rainforest with research centers and eco-lodges.
• Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Sabah): Known for elephants, orangutans, and rare bird species.
• Bako National Park (Sarawak): Compact yet rich in wildlife, especially proboscis monkeys.
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Tips for Responsible Wildlife Travel
• Choose ethical tours: Support guides and operators who respect animals’ space.
• Bring binoculars: Many sightings are from a distance.
• Go early or late: Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
• Respect the habitat: Don’t litter, keep quiet, and stick to trails.
________________________________________
A wildlife adventure in Borneo is more than just a checklist of animals—it’s a chance to see some of the rarest creatures on Earth in landscapes that feel timeless. From the soulful eyes of an orangutan to the comical antics of proboscis monkeys and the quiet grace of pygmy elephants, Borneo’s wildlife encounters are humbling, thrilling, and unforgettable.
________________________________________
Orangutans – The Gentle “Forest People”
Orangutans (whose name comes from the Malay words orang hutan, meaning “person of the forest”) are Borneo’s most famous residents. Unfortunately they are endangered due to deforestation, that’s why they’re best seen in protected reserves and national parks.
Where to See Them:
• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (Sabah): A world-renowned sanctuary where orphaned and injured orangutans are cared for and released back into the wild.
• Semenggoh Nature Reserve (Sarawak): Offers semi-wild encounters at feeding times.
• Danum Valley & Kinabatangan River (Sabah): For the chance to see fully wild orangutans in their natural habitat..
________________________________________
Proboscis Monkeys – The Comedians of the Jungle
With their long, drooping noses and potbellies, proboscis monkeys look almost cartoonish. But they’re perfectly adapted to life along Borneo’s mangroves and rivers. They’re excellent swimmers and often leap dramatically from tree to water.
Where to See Them:
• Bako National Park (Sarawak): The best place for close encounters.
• Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary (Sabah): Offers guaranteed sightings in a managed but natural environment.
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): Spot them lounging in mangrove trees at dusk.
________________________________________
Borneo Pygmy Elephants – Gentle Giants in Miniature
Smaller than African and Asian elephants, Borneo’s pygmy elephants are rounder, with oversized ears and long tails that sometimes drag on the ground. They’re endangered, with only around 1,500 left in the wild.
Where to See Them:
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): The most reliable spot to see herds grazing along the banks.
• Danum Valley & Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Sabah): Offer chances to see elephants deeper in the forest.
________________________________________
Best Places for a Borneo Wildlife Adventure
• Kinabatangan River (Sabah): A hotspot for all three species plus crocodiles, hornbills, and more.
• Danum Valley (Sabah): Pristine rainforest with research centers and eco-lodges.
• Tabin Wildlife Reserve (Sabah): Known for elephants, orangutans, and rare bird species.
• Bako National Park (Sarawak): Compact yet rich in wildlife, especially proboscis monkeys.
________________________________________
Tips for Responsible Wildlife Travel
• Choose ethical tours: Support guides and operators who respect animals’ space.
• Bring binoculars: Many sightings are from a distance.
• Go early or late: Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
• Respect the habitat: Don’t litter, keep quiet, and stick to trails.
________________________________________
A wildlife adventure in Borneo is more than just a checklist of animals—it’s a chance to see some of the rarest creatures on Earth in landscapes that feel timeless. From the soulful eyes of an orangutan to the comical antics of proboscis monkeys and the quiet grace of pygmy elephants, Borneo’s wildlife encounters are humbling, thrilling, and unforgettable.