3-Day Borneo Tour Packages
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3 Day Tanjung Puting National Park Itinerary, incl. Kumai and Camp Leakey
The rich wildlife of Borneo unfolds over three days. Day one features river ecosystem observations, day two takes you to two orangutan stations with forest walks, and the final morning includes a return cruise to Kumai.
- Day 1
Pangkalan Bun to Kumai River Safari
Land at Pangkalan Bun airport and take a 30-minute taxi to Kumai port. Board your klotok (traditional river boat) in late morning. These wooden boats are simple but perfect for river travel. As you cruise up the Sekonyer River you'll watch the scenery change from mangroves to thick jungle. Late afternoon is the best time to spot proboscis monkeys near the riverbanks. A good tip is to bring binoculars and stay on the upper deck where it's quieter. You'll spend the night on the boat under mosquito nets. It's basic accommodation but sleeping in the jungle is an experience you won't forget.
- Day 2
Orangutan Encounters and Camp Leakey
The jungle wakes you early for a visit to Pondok Tanggui feeding station at 9 AM. Get there 15 minutes before feeding starts to grab the best viewing spot. The boardwalk path can be slippery from morning dew so wear shoes with good grip. After watching the morning feeding take a 2-hour cruise upriver to Camp Leakey, the oldest orangutan research station in the world. You'll usually see more orangutans at the afternoon feeding here. As one traveler put it: "The journey to Camp Leakey felt like going back in time—we saw several wild orangutans swinging through the trees right from our boat."
- Day 3
Kumai Return and Departure
Start your final day with an early morning cruise back to Kumai. The water is calmer at dawn and you might spot some last wildlife along the banks. The boat ride takes about 2 hours plus a 30-minute drive to the airport. Book an afternoon flight from Pangkalan Bun to give yourself extra time in case of river delays.
- Day 1
Lahad Datu to Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Your journey starts with a 1.5-hour drive from Lahad Datu airport to Tabin Wildlife Reserve on a bumpy gravel road. If you get motion sickness bring medication. The timber bungalows at Tabin are basic but comfortable. If you have mobility concerns ask for a unit close to the main lodge since some require climbing steep paths. After lunch you'll trek to the Lipad mud volcano. The walk is moderate but can get slippery when wet so wear shoes with good grip. The mud volcano acts as a natural salt lick for wildlife. Animals are most active at dawn and dusk but you might see pig-tailed macaques or hornbills during daytime hours. For the night walk you'll need good balance and a reliable headlamp since the lodge lighting isn't always sufficient.
- Day 2
Full Day Wildlife Exploration
The best bird watching happens between 6:00-8:00 AM when the forest canopy is most active. Climbing the Birdwatching Tower takes some effort but offers excellent views across the rainforest. The trek to Lipad Waterfall is about 45 minutes each way through humid conditions. Bring plenty of water and wear quick-dry clothes since afternoon rain is common. Try the Tabin Rainforest Foot Soak before dinner to prevent sore muscles. For the evening wildlife drive you'll ride in open vehicles. Bring a light jacket as temperatures can drop. You have the best chance of seeing nocturnal animals like slow lorises or flying squirrels on clear nights.
- Day 3
Morning Activities and Departure
Make the most of your final morning. The rock pools are quiet before 8:00 AM and you might spot red leaf monkeys in the overhead trees. Since the transfer back to Lahad Datu leaves at noon plan your morning accordingly. While you aren't guaranteed to see specific wildlife the reserve's guides are skilled at tracking and identifying different species. Keep your expectations realistic and remember that patience is key for wildlife spotting in Borneo. Pack leech socks insect repellent and rain gear no matter what season you visit.
- Day 1
Lahad Datu to Danum Valley
Your journey starts at Lahad Datu Airport, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Danum Valley Conservation Area. Book your arrival flight before 9:00 AM to catch the only daily transfer at 9:30 AM. The road is unpaved and rough, so consider bringing motion sickness medication if needed. Pack quick-dry clothing and leech socks since rainforest humidity keeps regular cotton wet for hours. The Canopy Walkway runs 300 meters with heights up to 26 meters. If heights make you nervous, talk to your guide about alternative spots for wildlife viewing.
- Day 2
Danum Valley Exploration
Start your day at 6 AM to hear the morning gibbon calls. You'll trek to the Kadazan-Dusun burial site and Coffin Cliffs, which includes some steep sections. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. River tubing in the afternoon helps cool off after your morning hike. Ask your guide about water levels first as it works best during dry season.
- Day 3
Final Morning & Departure
Join the optional early morning walk between 6:30-8:00 AM when wildlife is most active. Book your departure flight after 3:00 PM since the transfer leaves at 12:30 PM and takes about 2.5 hours to reach the airport.
