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Traveling with Kids in Borneo: A Wildlife Adventure



In May 2023, an exciting journey unfolded as I ventured into Malaysian Borneo's captivating jungles. But, I wasn't going at it alone; my spirited adventure buddy, Remi (my four year old daughter), came along for the ride. Traveling with kids isn't always easy, but this trip was absolutely worth every moment. Our goal? Checking off the Borneo Big 5 from our bucket list, with the enchanting orangutan in the lead. I've been fascinated by these magical creatures since I was a kid, and now it was time to witness them in their natural habitat. Our adventure took us from Shangri-La Rasa Ria's serene shores to thrilling jungle encounters, and it was truly enchanting.


Beachfront Luxury at Shangri-La Rasa Ria

Our journey began with a fantastic six-night stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, a tropical gem. From the moment we set foot there, the welcoming staff and an incredible kids club embraced us warmly. This beachfront resort, packed with amenities, also happened to be incredibly budget-friendly, making it the perfect launchpad for our Borneo adventure. During our time at Shangri-La, we hopped on an enchanting firefly night cruise, gliding through mangrove forests illuminated by the mesmerizing dance of fireflies. But the enchantment didn't stop there; we made friends with fellow travelers who joined us in exploring the lively night market, crafting memorable moments together.


Sepilok Nature Resort: A Mixed Experience

As we bid farewell to Shangri-La, our next stop was Sandakan, the jumping-off point to orangutan encounters. We checked into the Sepilok Nature Resort, selected for its convenient location near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. While the natural setting was undeniably beautiful, the conditions of the rooms and the quality of service were quite disappointing. To our surprise, the resort's restaurant, our only dining option, left us both astounded and hungry due to its remarkably poor service.


Nevertheless, Sandakan had its bright sides. A visit to the Labuk Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Observing these unique creatures in their natural habitat was genuinely remarkable. Additionally, we had the chance to stroll over to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center at various times of the day to witness the feedings and also explored the Sun Bear Conservancy. To top it off, we crossed paths with another mother-daughter duo on a similar adventure, and they became friends for life (I'll share our trip to France/Belgium with them in another post).


The Pinnacle: Sukau Rainforest Lodge

The apex of our adventure dawned as we embarked on a remarkable three-day expedition deep into the heart of the Borneo jungle along the Kinabatangan River. Guided by Borneo Eco Tours, we arrived at the Sukau Rainforest Lodge, the crowning jewel of our journey. Here, we had the privilege of witnessing the incredible Borneo Big 5 in their natural habitat. Proboscis monkeys, wild orangutans, Pygmy elephants, majestic hornbills, and even an encounter with a colossal crocodile left us awestruck. Our remarkable tour guide, Jonathan, went above and beyond to create an unforgettable experience for our group, especially Remi.


Our days were thoughtfully scheduled with river cruises to observe the animals as they awoke and retired for the day, creating unforgettable memories as we beheld these magnificent creatures in their untouched natural environment.


After our remarkable stay in Sukau, we ventured to the Rainforest Discovery Center. Here, we had the opportunity to learn about the diverse flora and fauna in the region. This insightful experience was a great prelude to our journey back to the airport and our return to Kota Kinabalu.


Kota Kinabalu: The Perfect Ending

Our journey came to an end at the Marriott in Kota Kinabalu, where our Elite Bonvoy status came through with some cool perks. We got an upgraded room, and the lounge's happy hour was a real treat for both Remi and me. Remi had a blast snorkeling for the first time on a day trip to Manukan Island, making memories that will last. After all the excitement, we were ready to kick back and relax for the last days of our Borneo adventure.


A Dream Fulfilled

Our journey through Borneo was, in every sense, a dream come true. To witness the Borneo Big 5 in their natural habitat, and to fulfill a lifelong dream of encountering wild orangutans, was a remarkable blessing. What made this adventure even more special was the fact that I got to share it with my youngest, Remi. As we explored the lush jungles and breathtaking landscapes, we forged unforgettable memories and strengthened our mother-daughter bond.

I'm sharing our experiences not because of any affiliations or incentives but simply because I want to pass on the magic of Malaysian Borneo to all who are curious. Borneo is a place where dreams are transformed into reality, where the wild beauty of nature leaves an indelible mark on your heart. Their sunsets are a magical spectacle, setting the sky ablaze with a kaleidoscope of colors, each one uniquely stunning and awe-inspiring.


This trip was a reminder that some dreams are meant to be fulfilled, and that the allure of adventure is too precious not to be shared. May our journey inspire you to seek your own extraordinary experiences and discover the enchantment that Borneo has to offer.


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