Highlights of Kuala Lumpur & Borneo Suggested Itinerary 

This carefully designed itinerary takes you from Kuala Lumpur's cacophony to the rainforest's serenity and the oh-so-beautiful beaches of Kota Kinabalu.

On a holiday of contrasts, begin with an urban adventure in Kuala Lumpur before flying to Malaysian Borneo for old-world charm and exceptional food in Kota Kinabalu. Then you’ll retreat to the rainforest where orangutans, monkeys, and Borneo elephants thrive before spending your final few days winding down in a luxury beach resort.

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Adventure, Wildlife, Culture, FIT Tour
12 nights
12 nights Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Danum Valley, Kota Kinabalu or Gaya Island

Recommended itinerary

Days 1-3

Kuala Lumpur

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia — a place where modern towers sit side-by-side with colonial architecture. During a stay at The Majestic Hotel, you’ll experience the plush surroundings of a 1930s hotel juxtaposed against a forest of skyscrapers. There’s enough time to visit the famous Petronas Towers, get swept up in colourful night markets, and revel in gastronomic delights.

Street food, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Days 4-5

Kota Kinabalu

A two-and-a-half-hour flight will take you to Malaysian Borneo, home of Kota Kinabalu city, affectionately known as KK. It’s a gateway to the region’s magnificent scenery, but linger here first to enjoy this foodie paradise with a seemingly endless choice of restaurants and hawker stalls. At the end of days exploring the city, return to the soothing surroundings of Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, which has a beach resort feel and is within easy distance of the city centre.

Street food, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Day 6

Danum Valley

Catch a short early flight from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu, where your rainforest adventure starts with a drive to the Borneo Rainforest Lodge in the Danum Valley. You’ll head out into the jungle on a trek along a 360-metre-long treetop canopy walkway to get among the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The outdoor activities continue after nightfall when you hop in an open-air jeep and set off on a nature drive searching for nocturnal animals.

Red leaf monkey, Malaysia

Western tasier, Malaysia

Day 7

Danum Valley

Today starts with a trek to Coffin Cliff, an ancient burial site where wooden coffins are wedged into the cliffside. Your efforts are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Danum Valley. On your return journey, there’s time for a refreshing dip in a natural pool. Later, you can choose a jungle trek or try tubing down the Danum River in the afternoon, and then a thrilling night walk rounds off a memorable day.

Danum Valley. Malaysia

Day 8

Danum Valley

Your final adventure is up to you: birdwatching along the canopy walkway or a guided walk along the trails. Relaxation lies ahead when you return to Kota Kinabalu for a few beach days.

Aerial view, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort, Malaysia

Watersports Centre, Shangri La Rasa Ria, Malaysia

Days 9-13

Kota Kinabalu or Gaya Island

Head to the beach for some post-adventure R&R. The paradisiacal islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, including Palau Gaya, is home to the beachfront Gaya Island Resort, a luxury hotel reached from KK in just 20 minutes via a speedboat transfer. Alternatively, head to the stunning Shangri-La Rasa Ria which is surrounded by forest-clad landscapes.

Gaya Island Resort, Malaysia

Private dining, Shangri La Rasa Ria, Malaysia