Malaysia
Trekking in Borneo: jungle, mountains and tropical beaches
Réf : AMALTREKX
In summary
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Sports
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Duration15 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationAsia / Malaysia
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AgeUp to a 90imum of years
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CO₂-Emissions79.18 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Head to Borneo , a true natural gem of Southeast Asia, for an adventure combining hiking in primary rainforest , encounters with locals , and a complete immersion in the wilderness . From Kota Kinabalu , a cruise on the Padas River sets the tone with the opportunity to spot the first animals and get a glimpse of Bisaya culture. The journey continues to the Maliau Basin , a protected area with unique biodiversity, nicknamed "the lost world." Here, you'll explore a dense jungle on challenging treks . Next comes the ascent of Mount Trusmadi , a physical challenge offering spectacular panoramas from the country's second-highest peak. The circuit then crosses the mountains of Kinabalu National Park , passing through traditional villages and lush plantations . To conclude the trip in a relaxed atmosphere, two days on Dinawan Island allow you to enjoy some beach time, swimming, snorkeling, and tranquility. Accompanied by a specialist guide , this trip offers a comprehensive and authentic approach to Borneo, between its powerful nature and vibrant traditions.
The highlights
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The adventurous ascent of Mount Trusmadi
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Immersive historical, cultural, and off-the-beaten-path hikes
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Wildlife and plant observation
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for up to 6 hours a day and/or cover an elevation gain of 600 to 800 meters, both on and off-trail. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in a sporting activity once a week, hike regularly, and are in very good physical condition.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 72 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 386 m
- Average daily descent: 286 m
- Maximum altitude: 500 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
French
Supervisor
Supervisor
Program
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Paris - Flight with a stopover to Kota Kinabalu
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Flight with a stopover to Kota Kinabalu.Day 1 -
Arrival at Kota Kinabalu
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu airport, we are transferred to our hotel, located in the heart of the city. We then have the rest of the day free to explore this rapidly growing seaside city.Day 2 -
Bisaya Culture & Wildlife River Cruise
- Transportation 04h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we'll drive to the Menumbok Peninsula and our small homestay/guesthouse located on the banks of the Padas River. We'll take some time to settle in before an introduction to Bisaya culture and our accommodations. In the mid-afternoon, we'll embark on a 3-4 hour boat trip through the mangrove and swamp forests of the lower Padas River. These peatlands teem with life, including Borneo's famous endemic proboscis monkey, as well as long-tailed macaques, silver-leaf monkeys, otters, monitor lizards, and hornbills. We'll stop to contribute to the reforestation of this beautiful area by planting a tree favored by the proboscis monkeys, and then we'll return to the boat to watch the sunset. Next, we'll dock in the remote village of Bisaya, located along the river, where we'll have dinner (featuring local seafood). Night will have fallen, and on the return journey, we can watch fireflies in the trees. By the light of our torches, we'll try to spot and observe estuarine crocodiles. Back at our accommodation, we'll have the rest of the evening free.Day 3 -
Bisaya Culture & Wildlife River Cruise
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early this morning, after breakfast, we'll hop on our bikes or hop into a 4x4 to explore small Bisaya villages and various plantations. Along the way, we'll stop at an oil palm plantation to learn more about this tree, its economic benefits for the community, and even try our hand at picking a fruit or a frond. We'll also stop at a vegetable farm to pick up some local produce before returning to the homestay for a traditional lunch. Afterward, we'll head to Beaufort Railway Station to catch the afternoon train to Tenom. The Borneo Railway, the only remaining railway from the colonial era, winds its way through 49 km of pristine jungle along the Padas River, offering a rare opportunity to experience this wilderness by train on a historic line once vital for transporting rubber and tobacco. Upon arrival at Tenom Station, we'll be transferred to our lodge where, after checking in, we'll have the rest of the evening at our leisure. Note: If, due to weather conditions or landslides, the train is not running, we will reach our destination by road.Day 4 -
The Maliau Basin
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 100 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Maximum altitude 100 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast at a local restaurant along the way, we set off again (approximately a 4-hour drive) towards the purest and least explored primary rainforest, where it's possible to observe rare and endemic wildlife species, such as the Bornean pygmy elephant, orangutan, sun bear, spotted leopard, gibbon, and more. The Maliau Basin, nicknamed the "Lost World of Sabah," is a protected forest reserve surrounded by steep cliffs, harboring a virtually self-sustaining ecosystem with over 2,000 recorded species of flora and fauna. Still largely unexplored, this Bornean gem captivates visitors with its majestic waterfalls and unique biodiversity. Upon arrival at the Maliau Basin Research Center, we check in and then enjoy lunch. Afterward, we head to the Maliau Basin AV Lounge to watch a short introductory video about the research center, including information on what is and isn't permitted. This afternoon, around 4 pm, we'll take a short wildlife walk around the center, with the opportunity to observe various animal and plant species. We'll return to the center for dinner. Afterwards, we'll embark on a 2-3 hour night safari in a 4x4 vehicle, searching for nocturnal species such as flying squirrels, wild deer, clouded leopards, leopard cats, binturongs, or other species (wildlife sightings are not guaranteed). Upon our return to the research center around 11 pm, we'll have the rest of the evening free.Day 5 -
The Maliau Basin
- Transportation Bus - 01h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 100 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
At dawn (6:00 AM), we begin our day with a 1 to 1.5 hour wildlife walk around the center, with the chance to observe early morning wildlife such as the Bornean gibbon. We then return to the center for breakfast before heading to Agathis Camp by van or truck (approximately 30 minutes on a dirt track/road). Along the way, we make a scenic stop to admire the Maliau region and climb to the top of the observation tower before continuing on to Agathis Camp. We then enter the primary forest for a 1 to 2 km wildlife and nature walk, taking our time to walk slowly and fully observe our surroundings and its biodiversity. We return to the center at midday for lunch. In the early afternoon, we set off on foot towards the suspension bridge, passing by the Belian camp, where we can experience the jungle from above and have a special chance to observe the region's birds (if they appear, of course). We then continue with a wildlife and nature walk on the Educational Nature Trail to further observe the wildlife. Around 4 pm, we board a specially equipped truck for a sunset safari, with another opportunity to encounter rare animals such as the pygmy elephant, sambar deer, orangutan, and more. We return to the center for dinner. Weather permitting, after dinner, we put on our headlamps and explore the jungle at night on a walk to discover the macro world of this unique forest (1 to 3 hours). We return to the center, where we have the rest of the evening free.Day 6 -
Mount Trusmadi Base Camp
- Transportation Bus - 04h - 200km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 300 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
At dawn, we set off for a final wildlife and birdwatching walk around the center to encounter the local fauna. We return to the center for breakfast. Late morning, we drive to the Sinua region and our base camp (approximately a 3-4 hour drive). Along the way, as we approach the entrance to the Maliau Basin, we keep our eyes peeled, as it wouldn't be surprising to spot some wild animals. Upon arrival at base camp, we settle in, and then, weather permitting, we participate in more farm activities. The rest of the evening is free.Day 7 -
Ascent of Mount Trusmadi
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day and night ascent, with challenging sections through the jungle, leads us to the summit of Mount Trusmadi (2,642 m) in Borneo, Malaysia's second-highest mountain after Sinua. This morning, after breakfast, we prepare for an overnight mountain trek (packing our sleeping bags for temperatures of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, our headlamps, and warm, waterproof clothing, as the nights are cool and damp). We set off on the 8 km climb to Camp 2. During this part of the ascent, we enter a humid mountain forest where lichens of various colors, ranging from green to brown, have taken root on the rocks and trees. The trail is narrow and can be quite steep and slippery in places. Upon arriving at Camp 2, we settle in, and then we have the rest of the afternoon free to rest after this part of the climb. If we are birdwatching enthusiasts, let's keep our eyes peeled, as many birds may make an appearance. The rest of our evening is free.Day 8 -
Summit of Mount Trusmadi - Tambunan
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Negative elevation 1200 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Very early this morning, around 2:30 a.m., after a good cup of hot coffee, we began our ascent to the summit of Mount Trusmadi by the light of our headlamps, through a moss-covered, pygmy-type subtropical forest, arriving at the top just in time for sunrise. (Weather permitting, we'll have a spectacular view of Mount Kinabalu and all its surrounding mountains and valleys.) Afterwards, we descended the same trail back to base camp. Along the way, we were lucky enough to see rare species of pitcher plants (Nepenthes), orchids, and rhododendrons. Upon arrival at base camp, we took some time to rest before heading to our lodge for the night by 4x4 (a 30-45 minute drive).Day 9 -
Tambunan
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off for the small town of Tambunan (approximately a 1.5-hour drive) to reach our glamping lodge. After checking in, we have the rest of the day free to relax.Day 10 -
Nuluh and walking at the foot of Mount Kinabalu
- Transportation Bus - 03h - 150km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off again (approximately 2 to 3 hours) for the small village of Nuluh, located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu. Upon arrival, we enjoy a local lunch and settle into either the church accommodations or a homestay. After lunch, we ascend via a trail through the village of Kiau, then venture into the heart of various coffee, pineapple, and rubber plantations before reaching magnificent viewpoints overlooking Mount Kinabalu. We then descend into secondary and primary lowland jungle before emerging onto hillside rice paddies. Finally, we ascend the trail back to the village, and once again have the opportunity to admire spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu (weather permitting). We return to our accommodation, where the rest of the evening is free.Day 11 -
The “British Road” by Nuluh a Lobong Lobong - Dinawan
- Transportation Boat - 04h30 - 60km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Maximum altitude 500 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early this morning, after breakfast, around 7:00 AM, we'll take the trail down to the village of Lobong Lobong or Tambatuon (approximately 2 to 5 hours). This trail was once a route used by British officers during the colonial era to reach Mount Kinabalu. This day's hike will take us through numerous plantations, rice paddies, and small farmers' houses. Upon arriving in Lobong Lobong or Tambatuon, we'll rest for a while before boarding our vehicle to continue our journey to the Beringgis jetty (approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic). From there, we'll take a 20-minute ferry crossing to the small island of Dinawan and its glamping camp located right on the beach. We'll have the rest of the day free to enjoy the surroundings, explore, swim, try stand-up paddleboarding, or snorkel.Day 12 -
Dinawan Island or similar
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we have a completely free day on the island to relax, rest our legs and of course enjoy water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), snorkeling and swimming.Day 13 -
Kota Kinabalu - Return Flight
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we head to Kota Kinabalu airport to catch our flight to Kuala Lumpur (to be taken after 11pm, heading towards Paris).Day 14 -
Arrival in Paris
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrived in Paris during the day.Day 15
Note
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide reserves the right to modify this itinerary, for your safety and that of the group.
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
Access
Departure
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaisie
Day 1
End of stay
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaisie
Day 15
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isAéroport international de Kota Kinabalu
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Price details
The price includes
- International flights
- Supervision by a French or French-speaking tour leader throughout the stay
- The road transfers mentioned
- The accommodations included in the program
- Full board except for meals indicated as "free" in the daily itinerary
The price does not include
- Visa fees
- The contribution to carbon neutrality: €10 per person
- Tips for local teams
- Meals listed as "free" in the daily timeline
- Drinks and mineral water
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Group camping equipment.
- First aid kit.
Equipment to bring
- Telescopic walking sticks
- Earplugs
- Binoculars
- Books, card games... to keep busy at the end of the day
- Trekking sleeping bag, comfort level 10-15°C (temperatures can drop to 14°C at night)
- Floor mat
- Change of clothes for the evening.
- Toiletries (preferably biodegradable products)
- Quick-drying towel.
- 1.5 litre water bottles or 2 equivalent (camel bags or rigid water bottles). Bring enough to carry 3 litres of water with you.
- Sunglasses, high protection rating.
- Headlamp, batteries.
- Toilet paper / tissues.
- Lighter.
- Swiss Army knife (in the hold!).
- Sunscreen.
- Mosquito repellent products.
- Cereal bars and other snacks for hiking.
- Waterproof plastic bags and pouches in case of rain.
Clothing to bring
Pack clothing suitable for hot and humid climates: clothes that cover up, are lightweight and comfortable to wear, even when wet!
- Hat or cap.
- Neck warmer or scarf.
- Long-sleeved shirt.
- Breathable T-shirt.
- Fleece jacket or sweatshirt for cool evenings.
- Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with hood.
- Lightweight canvas trousers or sports leggings, suitable for walking.
- Shorts.
- Swimsuit.
- High socks (like football socks) for walking in the rainforest (to avoid leeches in particular).
- Sturdy and comfortable shoes suitable for uneven trails.
- Sandals.
Note: When walking in the rainforest, the most suitable outfit is a combination of "shorts + tights + knee-high socks".
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1433 reviews)
• 429 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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