Wildlife Encounters in Borneo

Borneo is one of only two places on Earth where orangutans live in the wild (the other being Sumatra). The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah is the most accessible place to see these incredible primates. Founded in 1964, Sepilok rescues orphaned and displaced orangutans and rehabilitates them for release into the wild. Feeding times at 10am and 3pm offer the best viewing opportunities. For a more immersive experience, the Danum Valley Conservation Area offers the chance to see wild orangutans in pristine primary rainforest, guided by expert trackers.

The Kinabatangan River in Sabah is one of the best wildlife corridors in all of Asia. Early morning and late afternoon boat safaris along the river reveal an extraordinary diversity of wildlife. Proboscis monkeys with their distinctive large noses, Bornean pygmy elephants bathing at the river's edge, crocodiles basking on muddy banks, and a stunning array of birdlife including hornbills can all be spotted. Several eco-lodges along the river offer multi-day wildlife packages with expert naturalist guides. The river is also home to the rare Borneo bay cat and clouded leopard, though these elusive cats are rarely seen.

Borneo's marine environment is as spectacular as its terrestrial wildlife. Sipadan Island, off the east coast of Sabah, is consistently rated among the world's top dive sites. The island sits on the edge of a 600-metre underwater cliff, creating conditions that attract huge schools of barracuda and jackfish, sea turtles, reef sharks, and occasionally hammerhead sharks. Due to conservation efforts, only 120 dive permits are issued per day, so booking well in advance is essential. The nearby islands of Mabul and Kapalai offer world-class muck diving with rare and unusual marine creatures.

As wildlife tourism grows in Borneo, choosing ethical operators becomes increasingly important. At Tailored Asia Tours, we only partner with facilities and operators that prioritise animal welfare and conservation. We avoid any attraction that keeps wild animals in captivity for entertainment, uses animals for performances, or allows inappropriate contact. Our recommended wildlife experiences focus on observing animals in their natural habitat or visiting genuine rehabilitation centres working to release animals back into the wild. Your visit directly supports conservation efforts.

The best wildlife viewing in Borneo requires patience, good timing, and the right gear. Dawn and dusk are the most active times for most wildlife. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. Wear neutral-coloured clothing and insect repellent. The best months for wildlife viewing are March to October during the drier season when animals gather near water sources. Hiring an experienced local guide dramatically increases your chances of spotting wildlife. River cruises of at least two days give you the best probability of encountering the full range of Borneo's wildlife.