The Best of Borneo Small-Group Escorted Tour

THE BEST OF

The

jungle is a symphony of sounds, and Borneo is the conductor - Bob Malcolm

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a true natural wonder located in Southeast Asia. The name Borneo was first used by the Dutch during their 19thcentury colonial rule of the island and has since been used to describe this region. This enchanting island is known for its lush rainforests, stunning biodiversity, and vibrant indigenous cultures that truly make it ‘out of this world’. Home to a plethora of unique and endangered species, including the elusive orangutans, pygmy elephants, and vibrant hornbills, the island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Borneo sits astride the Equator in the humid tropical zone of Southeast Asia, surrounded by several straits and four oceans It has a similar population to the whole of Australia (23 7 million people) Half the island is waterlogged forest, with extensive areas of mangroves in river estuaries and around the entire coastline Further inland is characterised by its rainforests, mountains and freshwater wetlands.

Borneo can be defined by its diverse population, with a significant number of Islamic Malays coexisting alongside more than 200 distinct ethnic groups speaking 170 languages This includes a substantial community of non-Muslim Dayaks (many now Christians), as well as Chinese residents and a small minority of Europeans. These hundreds of ethnic groups all have diverse cultures and traditions, reflecting different indigenous tribes and sub-tribes. A colourful ethnic landscape has been created by multiple international influences over centuries. The most densely populated Indigenous areas are along the coasts, particularly in Southern Kalimantan

The natural beauty and ecological importance of Borneo have led to its recognition as a global conservation priority The island is a crucial focal point for eco-tourism and environmental preservation, providing an opportunity for travellers to witness the splendour of unspoiled nature while supporting sustainable practices. Borneo promises a journey of discovery and wonder that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit

BORNEO THE ISLAND OF

SABAH-SARAWAK BRUNEI-KALIMANTAN

The island of Borneo is divided into four provinces, administered by three very different countries. Travel Masters & The Travel Studio are proud to be the only company that will take you into all four of these diverse and captivating regions.

MALAYSIAN BORNEO (SABAH AND SARAWAK): Located in the northern part of the island, the Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak are renowned for their lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. Sabah is home to the iconic Mount Kinabalu, while Sarawak boasts the charming city of Kuching

INDONESIAN BORNEO (KALIMANTAN): The Indonesian province of Kalimantan encompasses the vast majority of Borneo's landmass Here, you'll find a mosaic of cultures and landscapes, from the bustling city of Pontianak to remote Dayak villages deep in the interior The region is known for its immense rainforests, diverse ecosystems, and indigenous traditions.

BRUNEIAN BORNEO (BRUNEI): The Sultanate of Brunei, nestled in the northern part of Borneo, is a land of opulence and tradition The capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, features magnificent mosques, a resplendent royal palace, and a blend of modernity and heritage.

The provinces of Borneo collectively offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a range of outdoor adventures From the dense rainforests and wildlife of Malaysian Borneo to the vast forest wilderness of Indonesian Kalimantan and the regal charm of Bruneian Borneo, this island is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.

FLORA & FAUNA

Borneo's flora and fauna is nothing short of extraordinary, being one of the most biodiverse places on the planet Borneo’s forests, some being more than twice as old as the 55-million-year-old Amazon, host an eco-system that has evolved over thousands of years. The forests have over 15,000 plant species. They can be found in 130-millionyear-old rainforests, with dozens more species discovered each year. These forests contain thousands of plant and animal species found nowhere else on earth

Forests cover 60% of the island, where more than 220 species of mammals live (44 of which are found only in Borneo), 420 resident birds (37 endemic), 100 amphibians, 394 fish (19 endemic), and 15,000 plants (6,000 endemic). There are over 150 species of frogs alone. Biodiversity is nothing short of remarkable. It’s a fascinating world of wildlife on the island of Borneo

Some of the planet’s most unique wildlife from sun bears to wide-eyed slow lorises are located in Borneo Biodiverse habitats mean wildlife is abundant and varied, with many endemic species. The island is renowned for being one of the last strongholds of the critically endangered orangutan, with the Bornean species finding sanctuary in its dense jungles. Unlike their Sumatran counterpart, Borneo’s orangutans are relatively larger and have rounder faces An encounter with a charismatic orangutan is one of the world’s great (and rare) wildlife experiences In their natural environment, these magnificent humanlike primates can be seen during river cruises through the forests, or on deep rainforest treks.

This unique tropical island’s ‘Big Five’ include the Bornean orangutan, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys,

Borneo's rainforests are home to an astounding variety of exotic plant life, with numerous endemic species. The rainforest systems play a vital role in sustaining the diverse range of species that reside within them Towering hardwood trees like the majestic dipterocarps dominate the canopy, while numerous orchids, ferns, and mosses carpet the forest floor. The island is famous for its carnivorous pitcher plants which can capture and digest insects. The Rafflesia Arnoldii is the official state flower of Sabah and is the world’s largest flowering plant species. Despite its appearance, it is not carnivorous, it attracts insects with its ‘rotting flesh’ smell to cross pollinate The flower blooms for just a few days each year Medicinal plants and herbs are also found in abundance, utilized by indigenous communities for generations The diversity and distinctiveness of the flora in this remote part of the world is truly remarkable and can be appreciated by even those with minimal plant knowledge.

BRUNEI UNVEILED

One of the world’s least-visited countries, the independent Islamic sultanate of Brunei (officially the State of Brunei Darussalam) offers a very different experience from the other destinations visited on this tour. Divided into two disconnected parts, Brunei Darussalam only occupies a tiny slither of land (less than 1% of the island) and is surrounded by Malaysian Sarawak Two-thirds of its people are Malay, the remainder are primarily Chinese, Indigenous and Indians - however English is widely understood.

It is one of the world's last remaining absolute monarchies, with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah as its reigning monarch The country is known for its remarkable stability, pristine rainforests, and considerable wealth due to its abundant reserves of oil and natural gas. Brunei has a unique blend of rich Islamic heritage and modern development, making it a captivating destination for tourists and a distinctive member of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) community.

Brunei's lush rainforests are a prominent feature of the country's landscape Much of Brunei (60%) is covered by virgin tropical rainforest which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including species such as pigtail macaques, gibbons, hornbills, sun bears, deer, pangolins and many others. The government has been proactive in conserving this natural heritage, and a significant portion of the country's land remains protected as national parks and reserves. Moreover, the nation's strict environmental regulations ensure the sustainable development of its oil and gas reserves, reducing the ecological impact of resource extraction

The Sultanate of Brunei boasts a high standard of living, thanks to its substantial oil wealth. This wealth is distributed among the citizens in the form of subsidies, free healthcare, and education, contributing to Brunei's reputation as a prosperous and ‘well-cared-for’ society The capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, showcases the country's modern infrastructure, including grand mosques and contemporary architecture. Visitors to Brunei can explore its unique blend of tradition and modernity, where centuries-old customs coexist harmoniously with technological advancement

Bandar Seri Begawan

Kota Kinabalu Sandakan

Kuala Lumpur Kuching

Attractions & Experiences

KALIMANTAN - SARAWAK - BRUNEI - SABAH

Unique Urban Environments & Ethnic Villages

Rich & Well-preserved Ethnic Cultures

Walk through Old Kuching & colourful markets

World's Largest Water Village - Kampong Ayer

Houseboat cruising (3-days) in orangutan country

Cruising through wildlife-rich Virgin Rainforests

World-famous Orangutan Rehabilitation Centres

Historically Famous Camp Leakey Research Centre

Forest Walks in Tanjung Puting National Park

Candle-lit Riverside Dinner & Wildlife Presentation

Naturalist-guided Hornbill Walk, Sukau Rainforest

Largest Taoist Temple in Southeast Asia

Pre-historic Wall Art, Stone-age Remains, Painted Cave

Historic Islamic Influences in Brunei

Spectacular Omar Ali Saifuddien 'floating' Mosque

Mass dusk-exit of Bats from World's Largest Cave

Nipa Palm Night-time Firefly Spectacle, Kalimantan

The 'Grand Old Lady', First Malaysian Oil Well

Cities, Villages, Research Stations

Kuching, Bandar Seri Begawan, Kota Kinabalu Camp Leakey, Tanjung Harapan Village

National Parks & Wildlife Reserves

Tanjung Puting NP, Kinabatangan Wildlife Res

World-Heritage Gunung-Mulu NP, Niah NP

Exotic Wildlife

Charismatic orange-haired Orangutans

Proboscis Monkeys & Macaques

Exotic Birdlife, incl famous Hornbills

Bornean Sun Bears - World's Smallest

Also Possible: Pygmy Elephant, Slow Lorise, Clouded Leopard & Pitcher Plants

Day1:Thursday3July

Brisbane-JakartaINDONESIA

ITINERARY

We begin our 17-day Borneo adventure with a daylight flight (approx 11-hours) from Brisbane to Jakarta (Indonesia), where we relax for the evening atourcomfortabletransithotel

Accommodation:JakartaAirportHotel Meals:In-FlightMeals

Day2:Friday4July

Jakarta-KumaiKALIMANTAN

An early morning flight takes us to Kumai in Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of the remarkable island of Borneo A unique sector of Borneo with a populationofsome17-million,Kalimantanoccupies the southern three-quarters of Borneo It's less developed and much less visited than the rest of Borneo Most people in Kalimantan live on the coast, while the forested interior remains wild and sparselypopulated.Thereareimpenetrablejungles, snaking rivers, low-altitude mountains, and unique opportunities for epic forest walks Most importantly, this is the premier destination for observing orangutans in the wild On arrival at Kumai, we meet our guide and transfer (20minutes) to our houseboat, home for the next 3days,wherelunchwillbeserved

Our comfortable houseboat adventure in Kalimantan is along the Seikonyer River (main river in the Tanjung Puting National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977) for rare observation of Borneo's famous endangered wild orangutans, consideredoneoftheworld'ssupremelyintelligent primates TheorangutansareKalimantan'sbiggest drawcard,andthemostillustriouscreaturetoroam its legendary jungles Because the orangutans are

We access the Seikonyer via the Kumai River Cruising upstream, we'll be constantly surrounded by lush vegetation, and on the lookout for wild orangutans,plusmysteriouslocalwildlifealongthe riverbanks - particularly proboscis monkeys, macaque,orangutans,andexoticbirdlife Proboscis monkeys are exceptional, and endemic - they can only be found in Borneo. It's the monkey species withthebiggestnoseintheworld-inrelationtoits bodylength Exceptionallyunique,thehugenoseis onlypossessedbythemaleofthespecies-itcanbe upto18-cminlength Thelargerthenose,themore ttractedthefemalesaretothem!

We stop for an hour mid-afternoon to pay a visit to he orangutan feeding in Tanjung Harapan, before ontinuing our journey upriver - spotting more ildlifealongtheway.Morethan90%oftheworld's ild orangutan population live in Borneo's interior ngles A friendly encounter with a charismatic rangutan is one of the world's great (and rare) ildlifeexperiences

Day3:Saturday5July

CampLeakey-PondokAmbungKALIMANTAN

Breakfast onboard precedes a continuation of our houseboatjunglecruise,aswesearchtheriverbanks formorninganimalactivity(theirmostactivetimeof day) on our way to internationally-renowned Camp Leakey Lunchisservedonboard

On arrival at Camp Leakey, we visit the Information Centre to discover and appreciate the work of anthropologist Dr Birute Galdikas Orangutans were first brought to world attention by Birute, who was studying them at Camp Leakey (Tanjung Puting NationalPark)inthe1970s AttheCamp,wetakethe opportunity to trek into the forest to observe and admire more adorable orangutan at the Camp's afternoonfeeding

Following this memorable experience at historic Camp Leakey, we return to our houseboat and continue our cruise-journey to Pondok Ambung Research Station. Here we're offered a special evening jungle trek to find and observe the forest's nocturnal animals (such as tiny tarsiers and tarantulas), before returning to our private houseboat

Accommodation:OrangutanDeluxeHouseboat Meals:Breakfast,Lunch&Dinner

Day 4: Sunday 6 July

Pondok Tangguy - Tanjung Harapan Village KALIMANTAN

We continue our leisurely journey towards Tanjung Harapan village After lunch, we pay a visit to the village to hear about (and perhaps observe) the villagers' conservation efforts through the Pelasat Forestry Project that grows forest tree seedlings for replanting in degraded areas

Our final orangutan feeding experience in the famous Tanjung Puting National Park is at 3pm near the Tanjung Harapan Camp This evening, while still wildlife spotting on the way, we cruise downriver to the Nipa Palm area, to witness a night spectacle - home to thousands of fireflies.

Accommodation: Orangutan Deluxe Houseboat Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast onboard, we cruise again and drop in to Pondok Tanggui Centre (a tropical flora & fauna reserve with wild orangutans) for a 9am orangutan morning feeding While orangutan sightings (even at feeding stations) can never be guaranteed, mornings are their most active time and usually best for photography - and this is Tanjung Puting National Park, where the world's largest population of wild and semi-wild orangutans live.

Day 5: Monday 7 July

Kumai - Kuala Lumpur MALAYSIA

After breakfast onboard the houseboat, we cruise back to Kumai and transfer out of Indonesian Kalimantan to mainland Malaysia's vibrant capital of Kuala Lumpur, via the Indonesian capital of Jakarta Jakarta is the oldest continually-inhabited city in Southeast Asia, and the second largest urban area in the world, with an estimated population of some 35-million Kuala Lumpur (or KL as it is known) is one of the fastest-growing cities in Asia, both in population (now approx 8 5-million) and in economic development

The international airports at both cities will provide us with a bit of a cultural study of their contemporary communities. We have two flights today, transiting through Jakarta - from Kumai to Jakarta (approx 1hr 15mins), and Jakarta to Kuala Lumpur (approx 3hrs 15mins), where we'll be met by our guide and transferred to the beautiful Shangri-La Hotel for the evening

Accommodation: Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur Meals: Breakfast, In Flight Meals

systems, rich and well-preserved cultures, as well as the unique urban environment of Kuching About half the Sarawak population are from 27 different ethnic communities, speaking 45 diverse languages and dialects On arrival, we're met by our guide and transferred to our Kuching Waterfront Hotel.

We begin our first day in introduction to its historic capi with colonial-era architecture, an nature and friendly small-town mid-1800s was the personal adventurer James Brooke, wh Rajah of Sarawak - the 'White name derives from the Malay consequently the city is awash w a population of some 630,000, it vibrant city in all of Borneo.

Our tour takes in the high Chinatown, the famous Cat Statu Kong Chinese Temple, the Ci Platform, and the world-fam Museum which features specia Bornean culture We travel pas City Mosque, and take a walk thr visit is made to the colourful Ce squeeze through labyrinthine crammed with spice dealers an spectacular and memorable cult

Continuing our journey, we pass by the heritage buildings of the White Rajah era - the Pavilion, Square Tower, Court House, Charles Brooke Monument, and the historic Post Office The final stop of our tour is to view 'Astana Palace', the former residence of the White Rajahs - viewed from across the river at the Kuching Waterfront. Having survived WW2 relatively intact, the waterfront has now been transformed into a landscaped esplanade of restaurants and shops Kuching is located 24-kms up the Sarawak River, where rare Irrawaddy dolphins frequent the local waters

Accommodation: The Waterfront Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Wednesday 9 July

Kuching - Mulu SARAWAK

This morning we have a short transfer flight (approx 1hr 40mins) to Mulu, where we'll explore mysterious and massive caves in the stunning UNESCO World Heritage listed Gunung Mulu National Park One of the most extensive limestone cave systems on earth, these include the 300-metre-high Deer Cave (the world's largest), and Clearwater Cave (Southeast Asia's longest). Eerie trees tangle and intertwine, guarding the entrances to over 200-kms of caves in total We take a casual 3km afternoon plank-walk to incredible Deer Cave and Lang Cave, before visiting a 'bat observatory' to witness (weather dependent) an estimated million bats soar en-masse from the cave entrance across the dusky sky - a unique spectacle!

Day 8: Thursday 10 July

Mulu - Miri SARAWAK

An early morning start today, with a quietly-thrilling longboat ride up the Melinau River to elegant Wind Cave to marvel at spectacular rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites. En-route we make a stop at a semi-nomadic Penan settlement, to learn something about their ‘molong‘ lifestyle The Penan were once a truly nomadic tribe, and have traditionally known how to live in harmony with the forest - although modern civilisation has been slowly eroding their traditional culture Today, the jungle still provides most of their necessities in life

At the Wind Cave, we see authentic examples of flow-rocks and rock corals, some of which are illuminated in the 'King’s Room'. We continue along a raised walkway flanking the limestone cliff, to admire the amazing nature and features of Clearwater Cave This is followed by a picnic lunch at Clearwater Rest House

Following lunch, we transfer to Mulu Airport for a short flight (approx 30-mins) to Miri, Sarawak's second largest city/town (Northern Sarawak, close to the border with Brunei), where we have an afternoon tour of the town (pop approx 300,000) This is the birthplace of the Malaysian petroleum industry - the first oil well (known as the 'Grand Old Lady') was at Canada Hill, drilled by Royal Dutch Shell in 1910. We also see the largest Taoist Temple in South East Asia (quite something!), the awardwinning urban park complex (Miri City Fan), and Miri Heritage Centre - plus visit the local farmers market (Taman Muhibbah) colourfully displaying the best tropical fruit and vegetables

Accommodation: Pullman Waterfront Miri Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Friday 11 July

Miri SARAWAK

This morning, we depart for Niah National Park which is roughly a two and a half hour scenic drive away. On arrival we first spend a brief time at the Information Centre to familiarise ourselves with this very special National Park, which is a particularly important Southeast Asian archaeological and ethnographic site Evidence of prehistoric human occupation (and a flourishing civilisation) have been found - over a hundred pieces of human remains from 40,000 years ago The most famous find was a human skull, carbon-dated to around 38,000 BCE

A short boat ride across the river takes us to visit Niah Museum, where we find archaeological artefacts that depict the cultural history. A 3-km plank-walk (about a 45-minute walk) takes us to the Niah Cave, famous for its edible bird’s nests found high-on the cave roof, almost 100-metres from the ground The nests of swiftlets roosting on the cave ceiling are privately collected bi-annually, by skilled collectors who often climb on a single pole to scrape the nests from the ceiling Next we visit the Painted Cave to view the remains of 1,200-year-old prehistoric wall paintings as well as the preserved remains of stone age people who lived in the park some 40,000 years ago

After returning on the plank-walk and a local lunch, we make our way to Tusan Beach in the hope of a spectacular sunset - Miri is recognised as one of the best places to view a Malaysian sunset

Accommodation: Pullman Waterfront Miri Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Saturday 12 July

Miri - Brunei BRUNEI

Early this morning we begin our overland journey (approx 2.5-hrs), crossing the border and proceeding to Bandar Seri Begawan - capital of the independent Islamic Sultanate of Brunei (officially the State of Brunei Darussalam) Brunei offers a very different experience from the rest of Borneo Occupying less than 1% of the island, this tiny slither of land has one of the highest per-capita incomes in Asia This is a very prosperous little country, almost totally dependent on its off-shore reserves of oil and gas - although the country is trying to diversify into other industries that are more science and technology based

About two-thirds of Brunei's population (approx 250,000) reside in the capital, surrounded by virgin rainforest, and 14-kms up the Brunei River It's a city of intense Islamic faith, royal riches, and river tranquility The prevalence of historic Islamic influences is evident in its magnificent public architecture In Bandar Seri Begawan, we explore the city, with stops at the Royal Regalia Museum (home to the Sultanate's heirlooms and amazinglyrich royal regalia) and the Jame Asr Mosque (one of the grandest monuments to Islam in this part of the world), plus a photo stop for the elaborate residence of the Sultan.

After lunch, we continue to the Malay Technology Museum, the nation's most extensive ethnographic museum, housing exhibits on traditional technologies used by Brunei's indigenous people Afterwards, we embark on a tour of Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village Hovering on stilts over the Brunei River, it's a collection of longestablished mini-neighbourhoods, interconnected by a rickety network of elevated walkways. Kampong Ayer has its own schools, mosques and shops. Approximately 13,000 Brunei Malays live here in traditional residences, as they have done for centuries - water taxis take residents from one place to the next Later, we visit the city's major attraction, the fabulous 'floating' Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque whose high golden dome dominates the capital Also visited are the city's most exclusive shopping complex (Yayasan Shopping Mall) and the popular riverfront Eco Park Both lunch and dinner today are at local city restaurants.

Accommodation: The Centrepoint Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Kampong Ayer

Day 11: Sunday 13 July

Brunei - Kota Kinabalu BRUNEI & SABAH

This morning we take a stroll through the interesting open market (Tamu Kianggeh) of Bandar Seri Begawan, and visit the Brunei Art and Handicraft Centre - Brunei is renowned for its skilled craftsmanship, especially its brass and silver artisans Also this morning we pay a visit to the tomb of the revered 5th Sultan (Sultan Bolkiah), who took the nation through the ‘Golden Age of Brunei‘ in the early 16th century.

After a local lunch, we have a quick photo stop at the attractive birth-place of the current Sultan of Brunei (His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah), It is then time to say goodbye to Brunei as we take our flight (approx 40-minutes) to beautiful Kota Kinabalu, capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah In times past, Sabah has been a land of legendary headhunting tribes, but today it's a scenic land of rural villages, peaceful forest-dwelling hunters, and seafaring nomads. Surrounded by rainforests, the capital Kota Kinabalu (KK for short) is today an attractive coastal city of some 576,000 residents, that has become a major trading port dealing in rubber, timber, palm oil and palm kernel

Accommodation: Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12: Monday 14 July

Kota Kinabalu - Dandakan - Sukau SABAH

This morning we take a flight (approx 1-hr) to the charming over-the-water maritime town of Sandakan (a "City on Stilts'), and proceed to the world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Established to protect these wonderful endangered creatures, the Centre adopts and cares for orphaned orangutans - returning them to the wild when they are able Here we learn about the plight of the area's orangutans, and the rehabilitation efforts being undertaken. Just a short ten-minute jungle boardwalk takes us to observe the orange-haired orangutans feeding. We then make our way to the new enclosed nursery area for young baby orangutans - very special!

Also at Sepilok, we visit the Sun Bear Conservation Centre which rescues illegally-captured bears, returning them when appropriate to the wild Observation decks provide a birds-eye view of the bears (world's smallest bear species, native only to Borneo), which are named 'sun bears' after the golden patch of fur on their chest.

Sabah only has one significantly-sized navigable river - the 560-km-long Kinabatangan. After lunch, we sit back and enjoy a 2 5-hour scenic boat ride along part of Sabah’s longest river to the amazing and very popular multi-award-winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge, our home for the next two nights This afternoon, from the Lodge, we cruise on the Kinabatangan into the tangled jungle interior in search of wildlife and birds, before happily enjoying a candle-lit dinner overlooking the riverbank Dinner is followed by an enlightened wildlife presentation from the local naturalist.

Accommodation: Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Sun Bear

Day 13: Tuesday 15 July

Sakau SABAH

The Kinabatangan River valley and catchment have a particularly rich eco-system, creating one of the best places in Southeast Asia to view wildlife. It's one of only two places in the world where ten species of primate can be found in one destination! We take an early morning sunrise river cruise to Kelenanap Oxbow Lake - one of the richest ecosytems on Borneo island Here we view birds and wildlife as the lake comes to life in early morning light Afterwards, we participate in an educational tour along the lodge’s Hornbill Boardwalk with the in-house naturalist, followed by late afternoon cruising to view the river, its prolific flora and fauna, in a different scenic light.

Accommodation: Sukau Rainforest Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14: Wednesday 16 July

Sukau - Sandakan - Kota Kinabalu SABAH

Day 15: Thursday 17 July

Kota Kinabalu SABAH

We return this morning by boat along the Kinabatangan River to Sandakan, and enjoy a local lunch before our one-hour flight back to Kota Kinabalu The remainder of the day is at leisure Gateway to the nearby idyllic tropical islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu is renowned for its markets (particularly the night market) and the spectacular blue-and-white waterfront Likas Floating Mosque

Accommodation: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Borneo is sparsely populated by Asian standards, but it's home to hundreds of ethnic groups with diverse cultures and traditions. On our final day in Borneo, we visit the outstanding Mari Mari Cultural Village, located on the outskirts of the capitalabout a 25-minute drive It offers an insight into the life of Sabah's different ethnic tribes, including exheadhunting tribes A variety of different homes reflects the differing ethnicities Architecturally, each home was built by descendants of the tribes they represent Visitors are able to acquaint themselves with the different tribal residents in the village, as they are welcomed into their homes and introduced to the variety of simple yet intricate lifestyles - an entree into the soul of Sabah. As we explore the village, we'll find demonstration huts where traditional tribal activities from times past are showcased. This includes traditional activities such as how to hunt using a blowpipe, tattoomaking (and its symbolisms), making rice wine, etc After returning to our beautiful resort hotel in Kota Kinabalu, what remains of the day is at leisure

Accommodation: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16: Friday 18 July

Kota Kinabalu - Brisbane SABAH

We have free time this morning after breakfast before making our way to the airport It's then farewell to Borneo as we commence our journey home

Accommodation: Overnight Flight

Meals: Breakfast, on board meals

Day 17: Saturday 19 July

Brisbane QUEENSLAND

We arrive back into Brisbane, and our incredible journey around Borneo comes to an end - with pleasant memories (and great photos) of our off the beaten track adventure, in a very unique part of the world.

Meals: In-flight meals

Kota Kinabalu

ACCOMMODATION

Shangri-LaHotel5☆

KualaLumpur-1Night

DeluxeRoomwithBreakfast

Perfectlysituatedintheheartofthecity,exploreand discoverwell-knownattractionsandactivitiesthatKuala Lumpurhastooffer Relaxbythepoolsideinthe tropical gardens,re-connectoverdrinksinthesun-drenched loungeorrejuvenateattheHealthClubandSpa

OrangutanDeluxeHouseboats

TanjungPuttingNationalPark-3Nights

DeluxeRoomwithBreakfast

Ventureintothehomeoftheorangutanasyoucruisealong serenerivers,withseveralopportunitiestospotmany speciesintheirnaturalhabitat Thecomfortableandecofriendlyhouseboatsprovideauniqueperspectiveonthe vibrantfloraandfaunaoftheregion,allwhileofferingthe convenienceandintimacyofafloatinghotel

TheWaterfrontHotel5☆

Kuching-1Night

PremierRoomwithBreakfast

TheWaterfrontHotelislocatedintheheartofKuchingCity, wheredecades-oldheritagebuildingssitsidebysidewith modernbuildings WithoneofthebestviewsofthePadang MerdekaandtheSarawakRiver

MuluMarriottResort&Spa5☆

Mulu-1Night

DeluxeRoomwithBreakfast

LocatedinthelushrainforestofBorneo,adjacentto GunungMuluNationalPark,aUNESCOWorldHeritage site,the5-starMuluMarriottResort&Spafeatures stunningviewsandwell-appointedroomsrestingon raisedwoodenwalkways Takepleasureinexploring therainforestandcaves,orcooloffintheoutdoorpool

PullmanWaterfrontMiriHotel5

DeluxeSeaViewRoomwithBreakfast

Thehoteliselegantinstyle,offeringtheultimateluxury experience ThescenicviewsfrontingtheSouthChina Sea,MiriRiverandthecity,makesitanidealoptionfor botharelaxinggetawayanddininginbreathtaking settings

TheCentrepointHotel4☆ BandarSeriBegawan-1Night

StandardRoomwithBreakfast

LocatedintheheartofBandarSeriBegawan,thishoteloffers acomfortableandconvenientstayforleisuretravellers With spaciousroomsandafriendlystaff,TheCentrepointHotelis theperfecthomeawayfromhome Itoffersanexceptional experiencewithtop-notchfacilitiesandservices Thishotel haseverythingyouneedforacomfortablestay

SukauRainforestLodge

Sakau-2Nights

BorneoVillawithBreakfast

GetatasteofluxuryinthemidstoftheBorneanRainforest attheSukauRainforestLodge.Thisawardwinning propertyisnestledonthebanksofoneofBorneo’smost importantwaterways,theKinabatanganRiver,whichis hometomanyofBorneo’smagnificentwildlife.Immerse yourselfinthetranquillityoftherainforestandthe cacophonyofitsinhabitants.

alu-1Nights

SeaviewwithBreakfast

fortravellerswhowantaclose siswheretheseameetsthe meawaitswithanextensive esandfacilities

Shangri-La Tanjun Aru Resort 5☆

Kota Kinabalu - 1 Night

Tanjung Wing Seaview Room with Brekfast

Just 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, amazing tropical coral islands and the city centre, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu is an ideal location The resort is home to the private STAR Marina, Chi, The Spa, a water play area, 6 restaurants and barsincluding the Sunset Bar, renowned as one of the world’s top seven places to watch the sunset

TOUR COSTS & INCLUSIONS

17 DAY COMPLETE BORNEO SMALL-GROUP ESCORTED TOUR

ALL INCLUSIVE DELUXE ESCORTED TOURING EX AUSTRALIA

SMALL-GROUP TOURING FOR MAXIMUM EXPERIENCE

Our exclusive tours are designed to experience the very best the region has to offer in one itinerary, at the very best time to visit. This is a highly personalised deluxe tour using high quality operators, accommodation and transfers

Departing Australia: 3 July 2025 • Returning Australia: 19 July 2025

COST: $15,995 per person, twin share

*SINGLE SUPPLEMENT ADDITIONAL $8,200

BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADES FROM $3,500 per person

BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY & PRICING AT THE TIME OF BOOKING

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Return international airfare Brisbane to Asiawith airport taxes

13 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 9 dinners

Gratuities to guides and drivers – whilst on group tour activities

Daily bottled water

Travel Masters experienced Tour Manager & local Tour Guides throughout

YOURTOURESCORT

The tour will be escorted by the highly experienced Neil Kirby, Joint Managing Director of Travel Masters & The Travel Studio

Neil has organised and led many tours to many of the world’s most interesting destinations He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience – and a passion for people and places of different cultures. You’ll find Neil will take every opportunity to make this tour one of life’s most outstanding memories

Accommodation - 3 nights houseboat, 10 nights in quality hotels

All sightseeing excursions outlined in itinerary Monument entrance fees

Experienced local English speaking guides All transfers by airconditioned vehicles

FIRST PASSENGER

Title: Surname (as shown on passport):

First Name (as shown on passport):

Preferred First Name:

Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE

Do you require single supplement? YES / NO

Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO

(Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you)

Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO

Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO

Are you a Frequent Flyer Member with Qantas/Emirates? If yes, Membership: (airline)

Do you have any dietary or seating requests:

Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality: Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / /

Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue:

Email Address:

SECOND PASSENGER

Title: Surname (as shown on passport):

First Name (as shown on passport):

Occupation:

Preferred First Name:

Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE

Do you require single supplement? YES / NO

Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO

(Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you)

Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO

Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO

Are you a Frequent Flyer Member with Qantas/Emirates? If yes, Membership: (airline)

Do you have any dietary or seating requests:

Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality:

Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / /

Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue:

Email Address:

PASSENGER/S CONTACT DETAILS

Occupation:

(Please attach details separately if Second Passengers Contact Details are different) Street Address:

Suburb: State:

Postal Address (if different from street address):

Suburb: State:

Postcode:

Postcode:

Home Tel: Work Tel: Fax:

Mobile No: Email:

TRAVEL INSURANCE

It is compulsory and in your interest to carry travel insurance for health, loss of luggage/belongings and in case of cancellation Would you like us to send a travel insurance brochure to you? YES / NO

I have read and understand the responsibility section detailed in this brochure and the General Information and Booking Conditions and accept them on behalf of myself and my party. I declare that I/they are not travelling against any medical advice

Signature:

Date: / /

EMERGENCY

CONTACT

(Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas)

Name: Relationship:

Street Address:

Suburb: State:

Postcode: Home Tel: Work Tel: Mobile No:

PAYMENT OPTIONS

1 Direct Deposit

2 Credit Card – Please debit my:

Visa / Mastercard / American Express / Diners Club

Card No:

Expiry: / /

Cardholder’s Name: Security code

Cardholder’s Signature:

(Payments by credit card will be subject to a 1 5% Merchant Administration fee/VISA & Mastercard

3 Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account Please call for bank details

DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT

The deposit of $3,000 per person is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled by Travel Masters A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment Final payment for the tour must be received by 9 May 2025

CANCELLATION FEES

If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing Cancellation charges will apply: up to 9 May 2025, loss of deposit After 9 May 2025, no refund is applicable No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour Deposits are nontransferable/non refundable

PASSPORT AND VISAS

You must be in possession of a CURRENT passport Your passport should be valid for at least a further 6 months from the date of our return to Australia post tour At the time of print, a tourist e-visa is required for entry into Indonesia (Approx $50AUD) Your Senior travel Adviser will assist you in obtaining this prior to departure A visa on arrival will also be required for Brunei (Approx $23AUD), and your Tour Escort will assist you in obtaining this visa when we arrive at the Brunei Border

PRICES

Tour prices stated on the tour brochure has been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print (June 2024) and are subject to change up until final payment for the tour has been received Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply

Travel Masters

PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211

Phone: (07) 5596 0511 / 1800 672 988

Email: sales@travelmasters com au

Tour Leader

The Travel Studio PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218

Phone: (07) 5572 7272

Email: lifestyle@thetravelstudio com au

Neil Kirby | 0411 296 611 | neil@travelmasters com au

Visit our website: www travelmasters com au

RESPONSIBILITY

MistvalePtyLtdtradingasTravelMastersand/orits associatedCompaniesor Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation,touroperationandotherservices Allreceipts,tickets,vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tourunderitsmanagement,sponsorship,procurementorotherwise Itistheresponsibilityofthepassengertomakesurehe/sheisinpossessionof the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance withcurrentgovernmentandtransportationcompanies’regulations Therightis reservedtomodifytheitineraryinanywayconsiderednecessaryordesirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, withoutallowanceorrefundbuttheextracost(ifany)resultingtherefrommust bepaidbythepassenger Therightisalsoreservedtocancelorwithdrawany tour,toreplaceanytourleaderwithanother,tocancelorwithdrawanybooking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour Thetransportationcompaniesorfirmsshallbeexemptfromallliabilitiesin respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger atanytimewhenthepassengerisnotonboardacarrierorconveyanceused oroperatedbythetransportationcompaniesorfirms

The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concernedshallconstitutethesolecontractbetweentransportationcompanies orfirms,andthepurchaseofthesetoursand/orpassenger Alltickets,deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other servicesprovidedtherebyareofferedorsuppliedbyowners,publiccarriers,or managingagents Theissuanceandacceptanceof receipts,tickets,vouchers, coupons,orexchangeordersshallbedeemedconsenttotheaboveconditions Thetourisbasedonflightsasdetailedintheitinerary,howeveranyotherIATA ornon-IATAcarriermaybeusedfortour co-ordination

UNAVOIDABLEANDEXTRAORDINARYCIRCUMSTANCES(FORCE MAJEURE)

ForceMajeure-TravelMasters&TheTravelStudioshallnotbeliableforany lossordamageincurredbyyouasaconsequenceofouragencyoranyofthe suppliers being unable to perform its obligations under your contract(s) due to the unusual or unforeseeable circumstances (a “force majeure event”) beyond the control of the party affected by the force majeure event The can include (but not be limited to) threat of war, industrial action, act of God, government enforced travel restrictions, riot, political unrest, global pandemic or natural disaster Should your travel arrangements be cancelled due to an Force Majeure event and a refund offered by the supplier(s) involved in your travel arrangements,TravelMasters&TheTravelStudioretainstheabilitytodeduct from any returned funds reasonable costs and/or the remuneration earned as partofthebookingprocedureandourcontinuedservice

DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT

A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $3,000 per person is required to secure your place We have striven to keep the tour costs down as low as possible, and therefore no allowance has been made for credit card charges If payment by credit card is important to you, credit card fees apply

SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT

If you are a sole traveller and would prefer to share, we will do our best to arrange a twin share, however this cannot be guaranteed If we are unable to find someone to share, the single supplement will be applicable

BUSINESS CLASS

Business class upgrades are available on international flights Please ask for full details

PRICE EXCLUDES

Meals other than specified, visa fees, insurance, items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, and phone calls

INSURANCE

It is a condition of joining this tour that you take out comprehensive travel insurance Our agency will provide details of travel insurance providers and assist you with your holiday insurance Do not travel without insurance

HOLIDAY VARIATIONS

The group holiday cost is subject to surcharges should they occur as a result of increased costs due to changes in the itinerary, government action, currency exchange rates, fuel costs, overflying costs, airport charges and increases in scheduled airfares The group tour price is subject to a minimum of 12 persons travelling together The tour itinerary is based on airline schedules, rail and launch schedules current at the time of preparation of this tour Hotel names are subject to change

Where these changes occur, it may be necessary to amend the tour to accommodate revised days of operation We will endeavour to include all the sightseeing and other features included, subject to the constraints of the revised scheduling You will be advised as these events occur The tour cost is based on scheduled airline fares, which are not guaranteed until tickets are issued Our chosen airline reserves the right to increase or decrease airfare at any time prior to ticketing The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury and by whom so ever caused and whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time

All ticket coupons and orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided are offered or supplied by the owners, operators, public carriers, management agents or agent The tour will be accompanied by an experienced Travel Masters escort We reserve the right to change tour leaders if circumstances determine this

CURRENT PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS

You must be in possession of a CURRENT passport Your passport should be valid for at least a further 6 months from the date of our return to Australia post tour At the time of print, a tourist e-visa is required for entry into Indonesia (Approx $50AUD) Your Senior travel Adviser will assist you in obtaining this prior to departure A visa on arrival will also be required for Brunei (Approx $23AUD), and your Tour Escort will assist you in obtaining this visa when we arrive at the Brunie Border

INCLUDED GRATUITIES

As in most countries these days, tipping is expected by guides, tour drivers, waiters and porters In an effort to reduce individual stress and make the holiday as hassle-free as possible, all tipping on the included activities is taken care of by our tour escort

HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS

There are no mandatory vaccinations necessary however, we strongly recommend that you consult your local Doctor or the Travellers Medical Centre at Southport (Ph 55 264444) for full medical advice prior to travel

CLIMATE AND CLOTHING

July is an excellent time to visit Borneo as it is in the middle of the dry season Although never guaranteed, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures should be enjoyed, however bringing a light waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes is strongly suggested Sunscreen and insect repellent is also highly recommended

PLEASE NOTE – DEGREE OF FITNESS

All Travel Masters itineraries are carefully planned and wellpaced to maximize the passenger experience, while at the same time ensuring a level of comfort is maintained at all times Given the nature of the journeys and cultural experiences etc , any person/s of a reasonable general fitness level will have no problems in gaining total satisfaction from the trip However, should any person be likely to find it necessary to require wheelchair assistance, or walking aid, it is unfortunately considered that participation on this tour would not be appropriate During this tour, there will be times when we are walking through tropical forests with uneven grounds, possibly in a humid environment If you have any doubts or concerns about your ability to complete the physical requirements of this tour, we strongly suggest you speak to your GP prior to confirming your place on this tour

FINALLY....

We hope this information will assist you plan for your holiday We would be delighted to have you join our Travel Masters escorted holiday tour Do not hesitate to telephone or call in, so that we can be of further assistance We want to make this a very happy and memorable tour for you

SPACES