Turtle Time

Between orangutans and sun bears, wildlife experience not to be missed on your next adventure to Borneo

WORDS BY LAURA COOP

As a country known for its dense jungle and thriving wildlife, it should come as no surprise that Borneo is also home to a collection of islands, fondly known as the Turtle Islands, that are dedicated to the conservation of their marine namesake.

The beaches of Selingan, Gulisan and Bakungan Kecil Island provide a safe haven for two species of endangered turtles, Green and Hawksbill. In fact, it's one of the only places in the world where these turtles will arrive to hatch year round. Selingan, the largest of the islands, is the only island with facilities for tourists to stay overnight and truly experience the magic that occurs after sundown. Easily accessible from Sandakan, the adventure of visiting Selingan Island begins with an hour-long boat ride and is limited to a handful of visitors with only 25 rooms available at the chalet-style accommodation.

During the day, visitors to Selingan can unwind on the sun-soaked beaches, snorkeling or even scuba diving around the nearby reefs. Then, after dusk, when the female turtles come ashore to nest, visitors can not only witness the laying of eggs but also watch as local rangers transplant these eggs into the safety of a turtle hatchery. And perhaps the most unique experience of all? Watching as baby turtles are released and take their first stumbling steps down the beach, clambering over their siblings to reach the safety of Sulu Sea.