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
Kota Kinabalu to Pungiton Camp
Take the 7:30 AM coach from Kota Kinabalu's Sentral Bus Terminal to Keningau, a 2.5-hour journey. It's best to pack light and leave extra luggage at your KK hotel since you'll be traveling through remote areas. After meeting your local guide in Keningau, you'll take a river transfer to Pungiton Camp. In the afternoon you'll explore caves so bring water-resistant shoes with good grip for walking through underground streams. The caves feature impressive stalactite formations but watch your step on the slippery paths. At night you can stargaze in the pristine darkness, with amazing views of the night sky through breaks in the jungle canopy.
- Day 2
Batu Punggul and Romol Village
Start your day with a jungle trek to Batu Punggul, an 800-foot limestone pinnacle. Experienced climbers can reach the summit for spectacular views over the rainforest canopy but skip this if it's raining. After a picnic lunch by the river you'll head to MunorAulai Guesthouse in Romol Eco Village. Take an afternoon tour of local farms to learn about traditional Murut farming methods. In the evening you can try local rice wine and watch cultural performances. Remember to wear modest clothing out of respect for local customs.
- Day 3
Hidden Waterfall and Return
Your final day starts with a jungle trek to a secluded waterfall. Pack swimwear but be ready for basic trail conditions. You'll leave after lunch for Kota Kinabalu, arriving between 5-6 PM. If you're flying out book flights after 8 PM to account for possible delays on rural roads.
- 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.
