Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula

14 days
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Small Group Tour
Malaysia is a country of two halves. To the east is the island of Borneo with orangutans, jungles and rivers. To the west is the Malaysian Peninsula with a blend of cultures, religion, colonial history and modern flair. Discover the highlights of both, with a chance to spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in Borneo, before diving into culture in Kuala Lumpur, ...
26%
$4,253
From$3,150
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Experience Malaysia’s two faces: the cosmopolitan Malaysian Peninsula and the natural wonders of Borneo
    • Get your culture fix in the historic cities of Penang and Malacca
    • Witness the great spectacle of feeding time at the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
    • Cruise Kinabatangan River at dusk and dawn searching for pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys
    • Discover the culinary and cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur on a foodie tour

What's this trip about?

    Malaysia is a country of two halves. To the east is the island of Borneo with orangutans, jungles and rivers. To the west is the Malaysian Peninsula with a blend of cultures, religion, colonial history and modern flair. Discover the highlights of both, with a chance to spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in Borneo, before diving into culture in Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and Georgetown. We finish on the tropical beaches of Langkawi island – a scenic finale to this adventure of contrasts.Discover Malaysia’s diverse highlights, from orangutans and rainforest trails to holy sites and exquisite street food.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 16 people
Age range16 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CitySepilok
End CityLangkawi

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • National Parks
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Asia
  • Malaysia

Attractions

  • Borneo
  • Georgetown
  • Kuala Lumpur

Activities

  • Culture
  • Nature
  • Wildlife viewing

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 4

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 16

Trip includes

    • All accommodation
    • 13 breakfasts, two lunches and four dinners
    • All transport and listed activities
    • Free group arrival and departure transfers available
    • Tour leader throughout

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Start Sepilok; optional night walk

There will be an initial group briefing with your leader later this afternoon. There should be the opportunity for an optional night walk this evening before dinner (please ask your leader upon arrival). If there is no time this evening, we may be able to do the night walk tomorrow. Accommodation: Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort (or similar)

Day 2 Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary; optional visit to the Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Created in 1964, the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary is the largest orangutan sanctuary in the world and aims to rehabilitate and release orphaned and captured orangutans into the wild. This morning, we visit the informative headquarters and see the animals at feeding tim...

Day 3 Travel to Kinabatangan; afternoon river cruise

Day 4 Explore Kinabatangan river

Up early, we head out on a dawn wildlife cruise on the river in search of more wildlife. After breakfast, we head out on a walk on one of the surrounding nature trails. This afternoon, we learn a bit more about local conservation efforts and contribute ourselves by p...

Day 5 Drive to Sandakan via the War Memorial; free time

Leaving after breakfast, we head to Sandakan (approximately 2hr 30min drive) stopping at the Sandakan War Memorial en route. After checking in at our hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to relax, swim in the hotel pool, enjoy local cuisine or explore the vibrant, compact streets of Sandakan. Accommodation: Sabah Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Fly to Kuala Lumpur and on to Malacca

After breakfast, we transfer to Sandakan Airport and bid farewell to Borneo to check in for our flight to Kuala Lumpur on the Malaysian Peninsula (there is a 33lb/15kg restriction but it is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport or your leader can arrange t...

Day 7 Walking and trishaw tour of Malacca

Malacca is a well-preserved colonial town with a mix of Portuguese, British and Dutch architecture. The quaint Chinatown neighbourhood is home to numerous antique shops plus a Hindu temple, Taoist temple and a mosque, while the oldest functioning church in Malaysia is...

Day 8 Transfer to Kuala Lumpur via the Batu Caves

Leaving the sleepy charm of Malacca, we first transfer (approximately three hours) to the Batu Caves. These limestone caves are a holy Hindu site and are guarded by a giant statue of the Hindu god Lord Murugan. Behind the statue are the 272 steps that lead to the cave...

Day 9 Orientation walk and explore Malaysian cuisine on a city food tour; free afternoon

After breakfast, we first head out on an orientation walk of Kuala Lumpur followed by a city food tour.  KL mixes Malay, Indian and Chinese traditions and people and the best way to discover this diversity is on a city food tour. We discover different neighbourhoods w...

Day 10 Catch the train to Penang; afternoon walk around the colonial town of Georgetown

Today, we head north by train as we make our way to Butterworth (about four hours). From here, it’s a short transfer across the bridge to the island of Penang and the town of Georgetown, a Unesco World Heritage site due to its architectural and cultural landscape. Upon arrival, we have a late afternoon orientation tour. Accommodation: Royal Chulan Hotel (or similar)

Day 11 Georgetown walking tour to explore the street art, culture and heritage of Penang

This morning, we explore more Malaysian diversity on a walking city tour. Georgetown is known for its cultural sights and natural scenery. Explore on foot to see well-preserved colonial structures, ornate temples and colourful street art. We end our walk with a visit ...

Day 12 Fly to Langkawi island

This morning is free for a final exploration before we take an afternoon transfer to the airport for a short flight from Penang to Langkawi island (there is a 33lb/15kg restriction on checked luggage but it is possible to pay for excess luggage at the airport or your ...

Day 13 Free day to explore the island or just relax on the beach; final group dinner

Today is a free day to relax on the beach or partake in one of the various optional activities on offer. These options include going on a mangrove tour, kayaking or taking the cable car. This evening, we enjoy a group farewell dinner (included) on our final evening in this tropical paradise. Accommodation: The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa (or similar)

Day 14 Trip ends this morning

The trip ends after breakfast today. If you’d like to explore a little more, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,150
Price per day$225
Last Updated: 5/22/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Shared Room
Single Room
Availability
08 Dec 2024
21 Dec 2024
$3,150
$3,975
02 Feb 2025
15 Feb 2025
$3,300
$4,200
16 Feb 2025
01 Mar 2025
$3,375
$4,275
02 Mar 2025
15 Mar 2025
$3,975
$4,875
30 Mar 2025
12 Apr 2025
$3,675
$4,575
13 Apr 2025
26 Apr 2025
$3,675
$4,575
08 Jun 2025
21 Jun 2025
$3,600
$4,500
22 Jun 2025
05 Jul 2025
$3,675
$4,575
03 Aug 2025
16 Aug 2025
$3,675
$4,575
10 Aug 2025
23 Aug 2025
$3,600
$4,500

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Exodus Travels Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
Excellent
13,310
Great
3,258
Average
609
Disappointing
146
Terrible
187
A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

2 holidays in one

A great holiday or rather two in one. The first week was getting close to nature - basic accommodation but that's what you need if you want wildlife on your doorst...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A bit of everything

This is a trip of two halves - the first week the focus on the flora and fauna of Borneo and the second week the multicultural nature of Malaysia in the cities on ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

feedback

Good main guides who knew their stuff. Reasonable accommodation. See all types of monkeys and animals in the wild/boat trips Group leaders both were excellent and...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Exceptional!

I initially booked this trip on a bit of a whim... I'd always fancied seeing the Orangutan's and had been looking online for various trips. This itinerary stuck ou...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fun trip to Malaysia

Our family thoroughly enjoyed this varied trip. The first week in Borneo was great for seeing wildlife. We were lucky to watch a herd of pygmy elephants on and in ...

Write a Review

Other Exodus Travels Reviews

A

Annie O'Reilly Hughes

Nov 2024

Written on

Patient and knowledgeable operative

Rick was really helpful and patient. He explained things clearly, was happy to answer questions. It is a long time since I last travelled solo but I felt confident t...

T

Trevor Butler

Nov 2024

Written on

Very professional organisation

Very professional organisation, trip leaders and guides. Good cultural ethics and a genuine interest in sustainable tourism, hence Exodus values are aligned to my o...

S

Sarah R

Nov 2024

Written on

India, the Tropical South

An excellent trip, we really enjoyed it and would highly recommend. Our guide Biju deserves a special thank you for being brilliant, he really adds to the experience...

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel insurance
    • Visas and vaccinations
    • Single accommodation

Accommodation

14 days land only/ 16 days flight inclusive Travel by minibus, boat and domestic flight 12 nights hotels, lodges and guest houses, 1 night longhouse 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners
The accommodation on this trip provides an adventurous variety of places to stay. The normal accommodations used on this trip are on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are a couple of the notable places we stay. Sepilok: Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort (nights 1-2) We stay two nights at a resort in the tranquil Sepilok Rainforest; perfect for nature lovers and just a short drive from the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary. The rooms are relatively modest, but include air conditioning, mosquito nets and private bathrooms. The resort also has a restaurant serving a variety of local, Asian and Western dishes in addition to an outdoor swimming pool. Kuala Lumpur: Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur (nights 8-9) Spend two nights in the heart of Kuala Lumpur at the Santa Grand Signature. Within walking distance of the Petronas Towers, this modern property has a rooftop swimming pool and fitness centre. There’s also an all-day restaurant serving Peranakan and international cuisine plus a sky lounge for cocktails with stretching city views. Worth knowing The accommodations listed in the itinerary are the standard hotels used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality. While the resorts we stay at in Borneo (Sepilok and Kinabatangan) are modest, they have been selected due to their proximity to wildlife activities included on the trip in conjunction with reduced accommodation options in the area.
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
There are 13 breakfasts, two lunches and four dinners included. You should allow about 880-1,320 Malaysian ringgits (US$200-US$300) for food not included. You need a little more for beer and other alcoholic drinks as you can expect to pay near Western prices. Most meals will be basic, based around rice and noodles, although most accommodations have a Western breakfast of beans, toast and eggs. In the bigger hotels and cities, the full range of Western and local foods are available. You can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. In Kuala Lumpur, there is a food tour providing an opportunity to experience the diverse culinary heritage of the country. Vegetarians can be catered for but please be aware that choice may be limited outside the main cities. Please inform your sales representative before departure of any special dietary requests. In Borneo, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent, for example wheat- or dairy-free, please be prepared for this and you may need to bring these from home.
Age Requirements
16 years and up
Additional Information
  • Accommodation: 6 Superior nights (4 hotel, 2 beach resort), 7 Classic nights (4 resort, 3 hotel)
  • Travel by minibus, boat and domestic flights
Trip ID
exodus-ALM

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