Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah

Borneo is the third largest island in the world and one of the most diverse ecosystems on this planet, offering a number of things to do in Malaysian Borneo. The island is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. The Malaysian part of Borneo is further divided into two states: Sabah and Sarawak, both of which are accessible by flights to various cities from peninsular Malaysia (or mainland Malaysia).

On the northern tip of Malaysian Borneo, Sabah is a state famous for its vibrant rainforests, pristine beaches and unique wildlife. From exploring the highest point of Malaysia, the mystical Mount Kinabalu, to diving in the crystal-clear waters of world famous Sipadan, Sabah offers a stunning variety of experiences for the adventurous and offbeat Borneo travel itinerary.

Sabah is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with diverse ethnic communities like the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, and Bajau, each offering unique traditions, crafts, and cuisines that can be experienced through cultural villages and festivals.

I spent a wonderful two weeks travelling around Sabah and coming up close and personal with its biodiversity, and I cannot wait to share its beauty with you, through this list of things to do in Malaysian Borneo!

⛰️Visiting Malaysian Borneo? Here are a few quick links at a glance:
✈️Book Flights: Skyscanner for cheapest deals
🚤Book Transfers: 12goAsia
🛌Book Hotels: Booking for best deals
🤳Best Malaysian Borneo Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide
🩺Global Travel Insurance: SafetyWing
🧴Sunscreen: Thank You Farmer (Reef Safe), Foxtale (SPF 70)

My Favourite Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah:

Witness the Sunsets in Kota Kinabalu

This may seem unexciting and cliche, but the sunsets at Sabah state’s capital, Kota Kinabalu (also known as KK), are truly extraordinary and worth being number one on this list of things to do in Malaysian Borneo. The city, nestled along the South China Sea, is known for its dramatic, fiery sunsets that light up the sky with shades of orange, pink, and purple.

If you’re wondering where to go in Borneo for KK’s famous sunsets, the Signal Hill Observatory Platform is located at a hilltop that offers panoramic views of the cityscape, coastline, and surrounding islands, making it the perfect spot to capture the moment.

Tanjung Aru Beach is another popular spot for KK’s sunsets for both tourists and locals alike. The beach also has a running track going along it so you will also spot a lot of evening activity here, making it one of the best things to do in Borneo Malaysia for people watching and getting a sense of the daily life in the city.

There is also the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront esplanade, where you can enjoy the sunset from one of its many waterfront restaurants and bars, sipping on a refreshing drink as you watch the sun go down. It is an ideal spot to relax with a drink as you take in the spectacular view.

Want an even more special KK sunset? Check out these sunset catamaran tours:
👉 2 Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Snacks
👉 3 Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner and Live Band

Visit the Orangutan and Sunbear Sanctuaries in Sepilok

Sepilok is one of the best things to do in Borneo if you are short on time and are hoping to see some of Borneo’s famous wildlife without having to do the effort of going on safaris or stepping into the wild.

The Orangutan and Sunbear Sanctuaries in Sepilok are a great way to see these animals up close, making it one of the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo. Both these sanctuaries (located right next to each other) offer safe spaces for orphaned or abused animals to recover and rehabilitate and release them back into the wild if the situation is ideal.

Both places also have dedicated feeding times. For the orangutans, it is 9 am and 2 pm; while the sun bears are given enrichment snacks at random times throughout the day. At the orangutan sanctuary, you can even visit the nursery and from behind a glass, watch younger ones come out to play and swing on the ropes.

The nursery is a surefire way to see orangutans and one of the best Borneo things to do with family. The nursery is important for the young orphan orangutans to learn to swing and play under the watch of humans. But the glass and mowed-out lawns do give it the feel of a zoo even though it is absolutely not one.

Short on time? Check out these day tours instead:
👉 Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan & Sun Bear Centre With Rainforest Discovery Center Tour
👉 Sepilok Sun Bear & Orang Utan Conservation Centre Tour
👉 Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre with Sandakan City Tour + Lunch

IMPORTANT! Please do not visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey “Sanctuary” in Sandakan. Friends who visited saw the monkeys being fed sugary treats, which makes them addicted to human food. The monkeys hang around all the time, letting tourists catch an easy glimpse. This is a wildly unethical practice that puts the health of these monkeys at grave risk.

Experience a Night Walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre

The Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), also located in Sepilok, very close to the sunbear and orangutan sanctuaries, is one of the best things to do in Borneo to get introduced to its lush rainforest and the animals that reside here. Within my first few minutes into the RDC, I had spotted the Muller’s gibbon which is the fastest primate on the planet! And so RDC quickly became one of my favourite things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

I also chose to do a night walk at the RDC which was one of the most incredible wildlife experiences I’ve ever had. We were a group of 6 guided by a forest ranger and a “spotter”. During the 2.5 hour walk in a pitch dark forest, we saw a pit viper snake, a Western tarsier which is the smallest primate in the world, the slow loris which is the slow loris which is the slowest primate in the world, and a massive Asian forest scorpion that glues an incredible blue under UV light!

These are just SOME of the things we saw. There were way too many to count. If you are a curious wildlife lover interested in learning all things about Borneo’s rainforest and its inhabitants, I highly recommend doing this walk!

Go on a Kinabatangan River Safari

Borneo’s rainforest isn’t what it used to be anymore. Palm oil monoculture has taken over the majority of the island with only very few spaces left untouched for the rainforest. One such protected area is around the Kinabantangan River where you can these Borneo travel packages for boat safaris to spot some of Borneo’s wildlife, making it one of the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo for wildlife lovers.

The key wildlife encounters at Kinatangan River include the pygmy elephant: the smallest elephant species in the world, estuarine crocodiles, rhinoceros hornbill, proboscis monkeys, red and silver leaf monkeys, and of course, our beautiful cousins, the orangutans.

I took a 2 nights, 3 days tour which included accommodation in AC dorms, all three meals and 2 boat safaris every day. We ended up spotting everything, save for orangutans and pygmy elephants. But watching the mist rise slowly over the river during sunrise and watching rhinoceros hornbills flick home at sunset was a pure treat to the soul!

Check out these Kinabatangan River Cruise tours:
👉 Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip
👉 Kinabatangan River Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night
👉 Kinabatangan River Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights
👉 Kinabatangan River Wildlife Tour 4 Days 3 Nights

Go Island Hopping Off Semporna

Located on the southeastern coast of Sabah, Semporna is the gateway to the Celebes Sea’s turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. The region is dotted with picturesque islands, accessible through island hopping day trips, which is easily one of the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

Popular stops include snorkelling at Mataking, a resort island and Bohey Dulang Island, where a short hike rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding ocean. Other islands on this tour of one of the best things to do in Borneo include Pom Pom, Timba Timba, Mantabuan and Pandanan.

There are several 2, 3 or 4 island hopping Borneo travel packages available depending on what you seek: whether it is a snorkelling and hiking combination, or beach hopping and picnic kind of a vibe. Most tours also include lunch.

Check out these island hopping tours from Semporna:
👉 3 Islands: Bohey Dulang, Mantabuan & Sibuan Snorkel or Dive Tour With Lunch
👉 3 Islands: Timba-Timba, Mataking, & Pandanan Snorkel or Dive Tour With Lunch
👉 Mabul & Kapalai Snorkel or Dive Tour With Lunch
👉 2 Days Combo Snorkel Trip With Lunch: Mataking + Timba Timba and Mabul + Kapalai
👉 2 Try Scuba Dives (DSD) With Training and Lunch
👉 2 Fun Scuba Dives for Certified Divers With Lunch and Equipment

Climb the Bohey Dulang Viewpoint

Regardless of which island hopping tour you choose from Semporna, make sure it takes you to Bohey Dulang Island for the picturesque viewpoint up there, one of the most popular things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

Bohey Duland is a volcanic island located within the Tun Sakaran Marine Park and is very close to Semporna. It is known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, striking geological features, and of course, the viewpoint trek with the turquoise lagoon below.

The trail to the summit is an easy 700-meter hike, which took me 30 minutes to complete. The route is short and easy, but the humidity really takes a toll on your energy levels so make sure to hydrate properly. There is also a strange rule that if you are in flip flops or other open toed shoes, you will have to rent our close-toed shoes (which I did). The shoes they give had a much poorer grip than my sandals so I changed into my sandals halfway into the trek!

The viewpoint really is beautiful with different shades of blue. But it was really crowded and we had to stand in a line and take turns to take a picture of the lagoon below. After descending, you can also swim in the island’s shallow waters. You can also arrange for scuba diving here if you are a certified diver.

👉 Check out this Bohey Dulang + 2 Other Islands Tour

Visit a Sea Gypsy Village in Mabul Island

Mabul is one of the many islands on the Celebes Sea off the coast of Semporna. Its close proximity to the world class dive site of Sipadan makes it a popular base for scuba diving outfits and guest houses. Mabul also has several dive sites within its own proximity.

But the real charm of Mabul, I would say, is the village itself most of which is made of stilt houses over shallow waters, connected by wooden planks or accessed by small boats, housing the Bajau Laut people, or the “sea gypsies”. These semi-nomadic people have lived for generations on the waters surrounding Mabul, relying on fishing and maritime skills for their livelihood.

A walk through the island will show you why this is one of the top things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

As you walk through the village, you’ll notice colourful fishing boats, handmade nets, and children paddling tiny canoes with expert skill. Many Bajau Laut also sell their produce in the village market (built on land). There is also a mosque and a small not for profit school run by a kind elderly gentleman teaching the Bajau Laut kids for free. Make sure to visit and donate to his cause!

The Bajau Laut are known for their resourcefulness, crafting tools and homes from materials found in their natural environment. A trip to their village is not just a journey to a remote corner of Borneo, but an opportunity to understand and appreciate a unique place showcasing the resilience and adaptability of a culture intricately tied to the ocean’s rhythm.

👉 Check out this Mabul & Kapalai Island Snorkel or Dive Tour with Lunch From Semporna

Dive the World Famous Sipadan Island

Diving at the world-famous Sipadan Island is a bucket-list experience for divers worldwide. Located off the coast of Semporna in Sabah, Sipadan is often hailed as one of the best dive sites on the planet, thanks to its extraordinary marine biodiversity and breathtaking 600-meter drops.

The most famous dive site in Sipadan is perhaps “Barracuda Point”, where THOUSANDS of barracuda swarm around the divers, drifting in the currents. Other dive sites like Staghorn Crest are known for their massive schools of giant trevallies or jacks, and the shallow reefs of Coral Garden often see massive schools of bumphead parrotfish.

Sipadan is also a sanctuary for rare species like hammerhead sharks, manta rays, dolphins and whale sharks, so you really never know what one might see here, making it one of the most exhilarating things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

Sipadan is now an uninhabited, protected island where spending the night is not allowed and only a few dive permits are available each day. Only advanced divers are allowed to do fun dives in Sipadan. So if you’re wondering about what to do in Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is it!

Scuba Dive at the Only Dive Rig in the World

Speaking of Sipadan, if you make it all the way to this esteemed and remote dive island, you might as well take it up a notch and dive from the only dive rig in the world! Seaventures Dive Rig used to be an oil rig in Panama which was decommissioned in the 1950s and brought to this part of the world to turn it into a unique dive school, resort and artificial reef!

Located near Mabul Island, just a short boat ride from Semporna, this converted oil rig offers divers direct access to some of the most spectacular underwater sites in the Celebes Sea, including the renowned Sipadan Island, making it one of my favourite things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

Seaventures is a PADI 5 star dive centre offering comfortable accommodation, four buffet meals a day, ocean view sundecks, a massage centre and a pool table. Beneath the rig, their house reef is a hidden gem teeming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for macro diving. You get unlimited free house dives with your stay and can encounter colourful nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, frogfish, and a variety of crustaceans.

I had a fabulous 4 days with them diving Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalaii and house reef every day and I cannot wait to go back!

Other Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah

This is a list of other things to do in Malaysian Borneo in Sabah that I couldn’t experience myself, but have them bookmarked on my list for next time!

Snorkel/ Scuba Dive at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (TARP)

Just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu lies the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, commonly known as TARP, a protected archipelago composed of five idyllic islands. These five islands include Gaya, Sapi, Mulug, Manukan and Mamutik. For beach lovers wondering what to do in Malaysia Borneo, this is a great option!

This marine park is perfect for an ocean getaway from the city, offering activities like snorkelling, scuba diving and island hopping, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

On good days, there are chances of spotting sea turtles, rays and even sharks while snorkelling or scuba diving. TARP is a popular spot for first time divers doing their Discover Scuba Dives, and also certified divers going on fun dives. Some of the top diving centres to go scuba diving in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park include Downbelow on Gaya Island and Go Acquatic in Kota Kinabalu.

While island hopping, you can choose to opt for a package that includes snorkelling spots and often lunch, or do a DIY (and far cheaper) trip by using public boats to ferry between islands and snorkelling on your own.

The best time to visit TARP is usually during the dry season months from April through September. But with climate change, you can never quite say things with certainty anymore, unfortunately.

Check out these Tunku Abdul Rahman Park island tours:
👉 4 Island Tour to Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik & Gaya Island with Snorkel/ Dive/ Banana Boat Ride/ Jet Ski/ Sea Walk/ Parasailing options
👉 2 Try Scuba Dives (DSD) for Non Divers
👉 3 Fun Scuba Dives for Certified Divers
👉 3 Day PADI Open Water Course for New Divers
👉 2 Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Snacks
👉 3 Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner and Live Band
👉 4 Hours Morning Catamaran Cruise with Lunch

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia, and also one of the highest peaks in all of Southeast Asia. Located within Kinabalu Park, this majestic mountain is 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) tall and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes. It is one of the most challenging things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

While the climb is an adventure of a lifetime, it is definitely a challenging one mostly fit for those with good fitness levels and prior trekking experience. (I know, I was shocked to hear about a difficult trek in Southeast Asia too! But life has a way of surprising you).

It is a two day/ one night journey, with the night spent at the dormitories in Laban Rata Resthouse before the pre-dawn push to the summit. The total distance of the climb is just 18 kilometres but the 2,200 meters elevation gain and steep ascent to the summit can really test your limits. Hiring a guide is mandatory, and there are a limited number of permits each day (only about 160 or so) which often get booked out 8 to 12 months in advance.

The trails up to Mount Kinabalu wind through lush montane forests, vibrant orchids, and exotic pitcher plants. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from dense tropical vegetation to an alpine zone, revealing a naked, barren mountain and panoramic views over the surrounding valleys and even the distant coastline.

Despite the physical and mental challenges, conquering Mount Kinabalu is a deeply rewarding adventure and a memorable encounter with the natural beauty of Sabah. Just remember to rest enough afterwards!

Check out these Mount Kinabalu Tours:
👉 2 Days, 1 Night Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour
👉 3 Days, 2 Nights Mounts Kinabalu Climbing Tour
👉 2 Days, 1 Night Mount Kinabalu Climbing Via Ferrata
👉 Sunrise Leisure Hike to St. Veronica Hill with Mt. Kinabalu Views

Explore the Pristine Beaches of the Tip of Borneo

As offbeat as Borneo itself is, the Tip of Borneo is an incredibly offbeat experience altogether.

The Tip of Borneo, or Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, is the northernmost point of Borneo Island, where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. The main town is Kudat where most of the tourism infrastructure is based.

The Tip of Borneo has some of the most pristine beaches in Sabah (and probably in all of Borneo) with great snorkelling and surfing opportunities, making it one of the most scenic things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

If you fancy travelling to remote lands where not a lot of tourists ever make it, you have to add this one to your list!

Check out these Tip of Borneo tours:
👉 Day Trip to Tip of Borneo from Kota Kinabalu
👉 Tip of Borneo 3 Days 2 Nights Private Tour

Explore the Gomantong Caves

The Gomantong Caves, located within the Gomantong Forest Reserve, close to Sandakan and the Kinabatangan River, are intricate limestone cave systems. They are nestled within Gomantong Hill and are renowned for their massive chambers, incredible biodiversity, and thriving bat and swiftlet populations.

The largest cave system in Malaysia, these caves are divided into two main sections: the accessible Simud Hitam (Black Cave) and the more challenging Simud Putih (White Cave). They are truly one of the most interesting things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

The cave floors are also a bustling ecosystem, inhabited by cockroaches, beetles, and crabs, all part of the complex food chain that thrives in this unique habitat. For nature lovers, the caves offer a fascinating glimpse into Sabah’s underground biodiversity and is one of the best things to do in Malaysia Borneo.

Experience the Ancient Primary Rainforest in Danum Valley

In the heart of Borneo, is the ancient rainforest at Danum Valley, a 438-square-kilometer tract of pristine wilderness. This 130-million-year-old ecosystem is a primary rainforest, as opposed to other secondary forests in Borneo. This is one of those Borneo Malaysia things to do that is a haven for the rich, true Borneon biodiversity.

The main town with an airport to access Danum Valley is Lahadu Datu, about 70 kilometres away. At Danum Valley, you can either stay at the (relatively) cheaper Danum Valley Field Centre or the luxurious Borneo Rainforest Lodge, both of which provide guided treks into the dense jungle.

Trails lead through towering dipterocarp trees, lush ferns, and moss-covered undergrowth. But the highlight is the canopy walk, where you can admire the forest from a boarded walk at tree-line height, and spot birds and primates such as Bornean orangutans and the agile Muller’s gibbons in their natural habitat, making it one of the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

Danum Valley also offers chances to the see world’s smallest elephant, Pygmy Elephant and night safaris to glimpse nocturnal creatures like slow loris and the tasier. Since Danum Valley is also a centre for research and conservation, it is a much more rewarding experience to have the Sabah Wildlife Department’s dedicated and passionate team guide you through this ancient rainforest.

👉 Check out this 2 Nights, 1 Day Danum Valley Tour With Meals, Accomodation, Transfers and Safaris

Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah: FAQs

How long to spend in Malaysian Borneo?

I spent two weeks in Malaysian Borneo, in Sabah and had a fantastic time. I will recommend at least one week, depending on your areas of interest. Because there are many things to do in Malaysian Borneo and the distances are huge.

Is Borneo good for tourists?

If you’re wondering if Borneo is worth visiting, the answer is a resounding yes, but only if you enjoy offbeat adventures close to nature and wildlife. As you have already read, the things to do in Malaysian Borneo are mostly centred around wildlife and rightfully so: Borneo is known for its incredible biodiversity, after all!

Which part of Borneo is the best?

There are different things to do in Malaysian Borneo for different areas of interest for those wondering what to do in Borneo Malaysia. Tip of Borneo is amazing for secluded, quiet getaways, Kota Kinabalu is a nice city that has it all, and Sipadan is a haven for diving. But whatever it is that interested you, Sabah state in Malaysian Borneo definitely has something for you!

What is the best month to visit Borneo?

The dry season in Borneo runs from March through September, while the rest of the year is rainy and wet. So for the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo, the best time to visit Borneo is during the dry months. However, be prepared for unforeseen showers and storms too!

How to get around in Borneo?

Getting around in Borneo (especially by public transport) is surely difficult, but not impossible. Kota Kinabalu has buses to Semporna, Kudat, Lahad Datu, Ranau and Sandakan. The two major operators are SIDA and TungMa and tickets can be booked at bus stations, EasyBook or RedBus. However, to go around the things to do in Malaysian Borneo quickly, you might want to consider getting a private taxi. Grab and Maxim apps only work in major towns.

Do you need a visa for Borneo?

Since the Borneo island is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, you will need to have a visa for the relevant region of Borneo you are visiting. However, there is no need for a special Borneo visa.

Do they speak English in Borneo?

In most parts of Malaysian Borneo, they speak decent English, much like in other parts of Malaysia. So you should not have any problems with your things to do in Malaysian Borneo.

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