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Sabah Adventure

Sabah Adventure

Explore a mystical land of natural beauty and rare wildlife on this 11-day Sabah Adventure. With its collection of unique animals, ancient traditions, hot springs, tribal villages, loveable orangutans and incredible views, Sabah has something for everyone. Experience the very best of this part of Borneo – climbing Mt Kinabalu, watching sea turtles lay their eggs with an expert local ranger by your side and sharing laughs with your local village hosts. Each moment of this incredible small group adventure will give you a fascinating insight into the wildlife of Borneo.

Tour At a Glance

  • Discover the natural and historical beauty of northern section of Borneo in the Malaysian state of Sabah, and understand why this one of the original and best-selling Intrepid Adventures.
  • Climb Mt Kinabalu – the literal pinnacle of all treks in South East Asia – with local guides whose families have trekked the mountain for generations, witnessing a stunning sunrise after a morning hike.
  • Spend time getting to know the unique wildlife of Borneo at conservation sanctuaries for orangutans, proboscis monkeys and sun bears.
  • Join a local ranger and witness the special life cycle of sea turtles coming ashore on Turtle Island to lay their eggs on the beach, with the hatchlings making a dash down the beach to their new life.
  • Cruise down the Kinabatangan River and search for wildlife in this rich and unique jungle ecosystem – if you’re lucky, you may spot wild pygmy elephants!
  • Tour code: TMSC
  • Group Adventure

11 Days fr £ 1594* pp

Itinerary details

  • Kota Kinabalu
    1 Kota Kinabalu

    Selamat datang! Welcome to Borneo, Selamat datang! Welcome to Borneo, Malaysia. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, why not immerse yourself in history of this intriguing city between the Borneo jungle and the South China Sea at the Sabah State Museum. You can also visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village, or perhaps explore the islands off Kota Kinabalu, excellent for swimming and snorkelling.

    Accommodation :
    Hotel ( Night)

    Optional Activities
    Kota Kinabalu - Sabah Museum entrance fee - MYR15Kota Kinabalu - Tunku Abdul National Marine Park Snorkeling Trip (Min 4) - MYR315

    Read More

  • Dusun Village
    2 Dusun Village

    Today, travel by minivan to a Dusun Today, travel by minivan to a Dusun village, nestled amid picturesque hills in the shadow of imposing Mt Kinabalu – the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea (approximately 2 hours). The Dusun people, the ethnic group of our guides on Mt Kinabalu, are wonderfully warm and friendly people, and while here you'll have the opportunity to learn about their way of life and spend a night in a village. Depending on the weather, you will take a hike through the surrounding fruit and rubber plantations. Your leader can point you in the direction of the river for a great way to cool off afterwards! To ensure your share the business around the community, you will split up to stay in a couple of different family homes. All the homes are in waking distance from each other and you will usually have other group members with you at each home. Enjoy a cultural performance in the village tonight after dinner.

    Accommodation :
    Homestay ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Dusun Village - Guided village walkDusun Village - Cultural performance

    Read More

  • Mt Kinabalu National Park
    3 Mt Kinabalu National Park

    This morning say goodbye to your ne This morning say goodbye to your new friends from the village and travel into the unspoiled wilderness of the World Heritage-Listed Kinabalu National Park (approximately 1 hour). Take some time to enjoy the surroundings and prepare for the climb. There are nature trails through the lowland tropical forest and a Botanic Garden to explore. Otherwise, just relax this afternoon and take in the cooler climate. Your leader will provide a safety briefing about the climb and assist with any last minute questions. Stay overnight at Kinabalu Park in a lodge with shared bathrooms. Nestled among the lowland forests, this is the perfect place to chill-out before the climb

    Accommodation :
    Lodge ( Night)

    Optional Activities
    Kundasang - War Memorial - MYR15

    Read More

  • Mt Kinabalu National Park
    4 Mt Kinabalu National Park

    Rise early and take a quick drive t Rise early and take a quick drive to Timpohon Gate to begin the climb up Mt Kinabalu. It's not an easy trek as it is uphill all the way, and you’ll need to be prepared to tackle a trail made up of steep steps that vary considerably in size. You may get quite hot but remember that the top of the mountain can be deceptively cold. There's no rush, so take your time and enjoy the pristine environment – this is an area that boasts a remarkable variety of plant life, including some 1000 species of orchid and the extraordinary carnivorous pitcher plant. You will cover 6 kilometres on the first day (approximately 4–6 hours) and stop at a resthouse near Laban Rata (3272 metres) for the night. Tonight will be an early night, so you're ready for the final ascent early in the morning.

    Accommodation :
    Hostel ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Mt Kinabalu National Park - Mt Kinabalu Climb

    Read More

  • Mt Kinabalu – Poring Hot Springs
    5 Mt Kinabalu – Poring Hot Springs

    Rise around 2 am in order to catch Rise around 2 am in order to catch the sunrise at the summit of Mt Kinabalu (4095 metres). It's difficult walking, but you'll feel a huge sense of achievement once you make it. The view from the summit is incredible – the jungles of Borneo in one direction, the South China Sea in the other, making every inch of the climb worthwhile. Be warned though, the temperature can change very quickly up on the mountain, so bring clothes for all weather conditions. The climb from Laban Rata to the summit takes 2-4 hours and, due to the altitude, can be hard going even for the very fit. The first section from Laban Rata is along man made steps passing through vegetation. Once clear of the tree line, you will be walking up a series of wooden steps all the way to the final check point at Sayat Sayat. After witnessing the morning sunrise, return to Laban Rata for a well-earned breakfast, and then descend the mountain (approximately 3-6 hours) to enjoy a rewarding lunch at the bottom. Once everyone is down from the mountain you will continue on to Poring Hot Springs by bus (approximately 1 hour). Tonight you will stay at a hostel located right inside the springs complex itself, with a light and airy lounge room for you to relax in. The hostel is multishare and mixed gender with shared facilities.Some rooms have bunk beds.

    Accommodation :
    Hostel ( Night)

    Read More

  • Poring Hot Springs
    6 Poring Hot Springs

    Poring Hot Springs is an ideal plac Poring Hot Springs is an ideal place to kick back for a day to recuperate after the mountain climb. These pools were developed by the Japanese during World War II, where warm sulphur water – believed to have healing properties for the skin – is piped into several man made open-air hot tubs. During school and public holidays it gets very busy here with local visitors. Depending on the time of year it might be possible to see the Rafflesia flower nearby. Rafflesia’s are the world’s largest flower and can grow up to a metre in size! Today, there are also a number of optional activities to choose from. There are graded paths leading through rich lowland forest to mountain rivers, waterfalls and bat caves, with birds and other wildlife often seen along the trail. A walkway in the tree canopy provides magnificent views or there's also a visit the enchanting butterfly farm. 

    Accommodation :
    Hostel ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Poring Hot Springs - Poring Conservation Fee

    Optional Activities
    Poring Hot Springs - Canopy Walk - MYR10Poring Hot Springs - Rafflesia Blooming Observation - MYR30Poring Hot Springs - Hot Springs (Open Bath Tub) - (3 hours) - MYR10

    Read More

  • Kinabatangan River
    7 Kinabatangan River

    Today, journey by private bus into Today, journey by private bus into the steamy rainforest to Bilit – a small village on the banks of the Kinabatangan River (approximately 5 hours). Take a short boat ride to the comfortable jungle lodge where you’ll spend the night. The lodge is located right on the riverbanks and is a good place to spot wildlife. In the early evening as the sun sets, head out by motorised boat in search of wildlife such as macaques, orangutan, proboscis monkeys and, if you’re lucky, even pygmy elephants! In the evening, take a night walk in search of nocturnal wildlife. Rubber boots and leech socks are available to hire. The lodge tonight is comfortable with private bathrooms.

    Accommodation :
    Jungle Lodge ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Kinabatangan River - Night jungle walkKinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Cruise

    Read More

  • Sandakan
    8 Sandakan

    This morning, take another early bo This morning, take another early boat safari in search of wildlife – different species come out at different times of the day, so keep your eyes peeled. After breakfast, say goodbye to your jungle lodge and hit the road in a private minivan to the coastal city of Sandakan (approximately 3 hours). Visit Sandakan War Memorial and gain an insight into the Sandakan's past at its War Memorial, built on the site of a Japanese Prisoners Of War camp. This site also marks the starting point of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, on which 2400 POWs were forced to walk through the jungles of Borneo. By the end of the march, only six Australians survived, and only because they had escaped.

    Accommodation :
    Hotel ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Kinabatangan River - Dawn wildlife cruiseSandakan - War Memorial

    Optional Activities
    Sandakan - Agnes Keith House - MYR15Sandakan - St Micheals and All Angels Church - MYR10

    Read More

  • Turtle Island
    9 Turtle Island

    This morning, leave your large bags This morning, leave your large bags at the hotel and walk 15 minutes to a nearby jetty. Travel by speedboat, past small fishing villages and bamboo fish traps, to Turtle Island Marine Park (approximately 1 hour), where green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs every night of the year. In the afternoon, there's time for swimming, snorkelling or some quality time lazing about on the beach of this tropical island. Snorkelling gear is available for hire. In the evening, join a select group of visitors and an expert local ranger and be touched by the sight of giant green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs under the moonlight. Watch the Rangers as they release protected hatchlings and guide them in their frantic dash to the ocean. It's a moving experience that could inspire you to join the turtle nest adoption program, with a certificate of adoption and updates on the development of your nest. Beware that this is a very delicate environment and you must follow instructions from your leader and the local rangers to ensure minimal impact on the turtles. You will spend the night on the island tonight.

    Accommodation :
    Chalet ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Turtle Island - Turtle Island Marine ParkTurtle Island - Turtle Hatchery Visit

    Optional Activities
    Turtle Island - snorkel hire - MYR35

    Read More

  • Sepilok
    10 Sepilok

    After breakfast, return to the main After breakfast, return to the mainland (approximately 1 hour), collect your bags, and continue by minibus to a guesthouse located near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (approximately 45 minutes). The centre was set up to help reintroduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or having been orphaned. From the viewing platform, you can watch and photograph these charming creatures as they swing into view and eat the supplementary diet of fruit that is laid out for them twice a day. Human contact must be kept to a minimum and it's essential that you follow the instructions of the park, as directed by your leader. Also included is a new nursery where you can view young orangutans as they learn how to climb on a specially constructed jungle gym. The viewing area is behind one-way glass so as to not disturb the animals. To see more of Borneo’s creatures, there’s the option to visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Here, rescued Sun Bears that have spent many years mistreated and locked away in cages are cared for, with hopes of rehabilitation and reintroduction into the wild. There’s also the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary where you can watch up close the amazing proboscis lazing and feeding – an experience that can only be found in Borneo. A 30-minute walk from your guesthouse is the Rainforest Discovery Centre, which also has a 620-metre long, 28-metre high canopy walkway with spectacular views of rainforest giants. Your accommodation is located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

    Accommodation :
    Resort ( Night)

    Included Activities
    Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

    Optional Activities
    Sepilok - Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary - MYR120Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre - MYR20Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre - MYR50

    Read More

  • Sepilok
    11 Sepilok

    Your Sabah Adventure comes to an en Your Sabah Adventure comes to an end today. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you’d like to stay in Sepilok longer, just get in touch ahead of time and we’d be happy to arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability). Flights depart most days from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur.

    Read More

   

Dates & Prices

Sabah Adventure

Is this trip right for you.

  • Climbing Mt Kinabalu is a challenge that shouldn't be underestimated. The elevation is approximately 4095 metres, and we rise early to summit in the dark in order to witness the sunrise. It's an unforgettable climb for sure, but you'll need an excellent fitness level to complete it.
  • Read our blog here for everything you need to know about climbing Mt Kinabalu:
  • You'll need to pack some specific items for this trip – check the ‘Packing List’ in the Essential Trip Information for more details so you are prepared.
  • You will get to experience a wide range of accommodation types on this trip – shared dormitory rooms in hostels, a homestay, resort, jungle lodge and hotels. Some may be a little more basic than our standard hotels, but their unique locations and close proximity to nature is what makes them special.
  • This trip has a focus on nature and wildlife – definitely one for those who enjoy being outdoors. If you are looking for a trip to Borneo with a bit more comfort and without climbing Mt Kinabalu, check out Intrepid’s Classic Borneo adventure – search trip code TMKB on our website for more information.

Accommodation

  • Chalet (1 night)
  • Resort (1 nights)
  • Homestay (1 night)
  • Hostel (3 nights)
  • Hotel (2 nights)
  • Lodge (2 nights)

Joining point description

Centrally located in down-town Kota Kinabalu, rooms are equipped with private en suite, TV, AC, phone, in room safe, tea/coffee making facilities, the hotel also provides a restaurant, free wi-fi internet access & 24 hour front desk.

Joining point instructions

    Intrepid offer a pre arranged transfer service option. Enquire with your agent and advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your trip departure. If you have purchased an arrival transfer you will be met after exiting customs. Our representative will be holding a sign with your name on it.

    At Kota Kinabalu Internal Airport If you have any problems and cannot locate our transfer representative on arrival (the driver is only able to wait for 1 hour past your scheduled arrival time) please go to the Airport Information counter (located on the same floor at arrivals) and ask them to call our transfer operator Vision Transport on +60 16 818 6890 or +60 19 818 6890 . If you flight is delayed or you have been put on a different flight number please call our local operator in advance to let them know.

    If you want to take a taxi on arrival please go to the taxi service counter – here the rate is a set rate of 35 MYR and they will issue a voucher to use with the taxi’s parked outside. If you arrive between 12am – 6am expect to pay a 50% surcharge

    Normal check in time at the hotel is after 2pm

Finish point description

Located 17km from Sandakan Airport, rooms are equipped with private en suite, AC, tea/coffee making facilities, the resort also provides a restaurant, free wi-fi internet access & 10 hour front desk.(7.30am – 5.00 pm)

Finish point instructions

  • If you have a transfer to the Sandakan Airport your transfer driver will collect you from your Guesthouse 3 hours before your flight time. If your transfer has not arrived within 15minutes of the scheduled pickup time please ask the hotel / guesthouse reception to call our transfer operator Sepilok Tropical Wildlife Adventure on their 24 hour number on +6012 860 0866. Your group leader will reconfirm this with you before departing.

Safety

  • Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.
  • TRAVEL ADVICE FOR EASTERN SABAH Some governments currently have increased foreign travel advice in place for Eastern Sabah. Insurance coverage may be affected by this level of advice. Travel insurance that covers all destinations and activities within your itinerary is compulsory to join this trip. Please check your government’s foreign travel advice before departure and contact your insurance provider to ensure you have the appropriate level of coverage for travel to all destinations and activities within your itinerary.
  • MT KINABALU: Please take time to read the following important notes concerning Mt Kinabalu: It will mainly be hot and humid, whilst the heights of Mt Kinabalu can be freezing. Please be prepared for such conditions and pack accordingly. If you commonly feel discomfort or suffer health issues when experiencing either freezing or extremely hot temperatures, consider if this trip is right for you. On rare occasions weather conditions may prevent us from reaching the summit of the mountain. In this situation, please respect the decision made by your guides and leader. Mt. Kinabalu is a rewarding but difficult climb, please see below the advice given by the Sabah Parks regarding the climbing of Mt. Kinabalu: Travel together in your own group and stay with the mountain guide(s). You should not climb Mount Kinabalu if you have a history of suffering from the following conditions: Heart Disease, Hypertension, Chronic Asthma, Peptic Ulcer, Severe Anaemia, Diabetes, Epileptic fits, Arthritis, Palpitations, Hepatitis, Muscular Cramps, Obesity or any other sickness that may be triggered by severe cold, exertion and high altitude. If you suffer from knee problems and intend to do the climb, please ensure you bring adequate support, i.e. a sports bandage. Please note that porter fees are not included for the climb. Acclimatisation and altitude sickness: Altitude sickness has the potential to affect all trekkers from 2500m and higher. We ascend slowly and give our bodies plenty of time to adjust to the smaller quantities of oxygen in the air. However it is important to be aware of the normal altitude symptoms that you may encounter BUT NOT worry about: - Periods of sleeplessness - Occasional loss of appetite - Vivid, wild dreams at around 2500-3800m in altitude - Unexpected momentary shortness of breath, day and night - Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally - Blocked Nose - Dry cough develops - Mild headache If you are feeling nauseous and dizzy be sure to let your group leader or local mountain guide know so that we can monitor your condition.
  • FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
  • SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
  • PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

Medical and health information

    GENERAL HEALTH

  • All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
  • When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
  • You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 
  • ALTITUDE SICKNESS

  • Parts of your trip go above 2800 metres / 9200 feet where it is common for travellers to experience some adverse health effects due to the altitude - regardless of your age, gender and fitness. It even happened to Sir Edmund Hillary!
  • Before your trip
  • Some pre-existing medical conditions are known to severely worsen at high altitude and be difficult to adequately treat on the ground, leading to more serious consequences. It is imperative that you discuss your pre-existing medical condition/s with your doctor. We understand certain medications are reported to aid acclimatizing to high altitude. Please discuss these options with your doctor.
  • During your trip.
  • While our group leader or local representative have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you are aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly.
  • Please read the following document carefully and, during your trip, utilise the table on the back daily to record your own perspective of your general health and any symptoms you may experience
  • DENGUE FEVER

  • Rare instances of dengue fever have been reported in this region. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn.
  • AIR POLLUTION

  • From June to October, Malaysia can experience air pollution from forest fires in Indonesia. The persistent hot and dry weather conditions also causes dust to remain suspended in the air and accumulate, causing haze. Please be aware of this if you suffer from any medical conditions exasperated by air pollution.
  • ZIKA VIRUS

  • There have been reports of transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus in this region and we advise all travellers to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, we recommend all women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant to consult with their doctors before booking their trip.

Food and dietary requirements

  • While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.

Important Notes

  • What you need to bring will vary according to when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances. As well as your underwear, toothbrush and other items you always need to pack for travel, below are some items that you specifically need for this trip.
  • LAUNDRY There will be limited laundry facilities on this trip. We recommend you pack a few sets of clothes to wear when you don’t have access to a laundry.
  • LOCAL DRESS

  • Malaysia is a liberal Muslim country, and many Malaysian women do not wear headscarves. However, Malaysia is very conservative compared to standards you may be accustomed to at home, and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders, cleavage, and knees should be covered when travelling in Borneo except on the beach. Wearing skimpy clothing is considered disrespectful to local culture in many of the small local communities we visit.
  • ESSENTIALS

  • T-Shirts/cotton shirts
  • Long-sleeved top (for evenings when mosquitoes are out)
  • Long trousers/long skirt/shorts (Denim not recommended due to humidity – cotton or quick-drying clothes are better)
  • Walking shoes or hiking boots with a good grip
  • Sandals/flip flops
  • Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Small to medium-sized day backpack (for overnight trips at Mt Kinabalu and Turtle Island)
  • Head torch (a head torch is best for when you are climbing the summit of Mt Kinabalu)
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Warm hat and waterproof gloves
  • Warm layers (While climbing Mt Kinabalu, it’s important to note that temperatures can drop to below freezing, so make sure you pack several layers that can be added/removed as you ascend/descend)
  • Waterproof bag cover or plastic bags
  • Swimming costume
  • You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium backpack for overnight trips (30-35 litres/8-9 gallons) that include Mt Kinabalu and Turtle Island. In this, you will need to carry a change of clothes, a head torch for trekking, toiletries, warm clothes and any other essentials. While trekking, you will leave your main piece of luggage at a central point and return following the trek.
  • RECOMMENDED

  • Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit, but we recommend you carry items such as mild painkillers, adhesive bandages and electrolytes.
  • Trekking pole(s)
  • Camera with spare batteries/charger
  • Electrical travel adaptor plug
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Water bottle – Some hotels may have filtered drinking water to refill your bottle.
  • Money belt or pouch
  • Water purification tablets
  • Backpack or bag with shoulder strap – rather than wheelie bags
  • OPTIONAL

  • A good book, a journal and music
  • Playing cards
  • Travel washing line and Bio-degradable washing detergent
  • We do not allow the use of video cameras when staying in the villages as the local people can perceive it as highly obtrusive.
  • MORE!

  • You can always check out our ultimate packing list for further packing tips.
  • BOTTLE

  • Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.

Passport and visas

PASSPORT

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative.

If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.

For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below:

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.

Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting:

When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in predominantly hot Asian climates. In many rural areas in Asia women will need to wear modest clothing even to swim. Singlets and tank tops for daily wear are not unusual attire. When visiting religious sites men often need to wear long trousers and women a long skirt or sarong.

BIRDS NEST SOUP

Birds nest collection is an ancient tradition dating back to 500AD which is used to make bird nest soup. Today birds nest collection is a regulated practice with locals requiring a government harvesting licence to climb to the roofs of caves to collect the birds nest. The first collection takes place early in the breeding season before the swiftlets lay their eggs. The birds then make another nest in which they lay their eggs. After the young have left the nest a second collection is made. Care must be taken to assure that the nests are collected only after the young swiftlets have abandoned these nests. Edible birds nests are protected under the Birds Nest Ordinance and the Forest Enactment of 1968. There are heavy fines and penalties imposed on unlicensed collectors and Intrepid Travel asks our passengers to refrain from consuming birds nest soup or products to discourage unlicensed collection.

PALM OIL

While travelling through Eastern Sabah, you will likely notice that much of the land is covered in palm oil plantations. Check out our Boeneo Destnation page for more information about this hot topic:

Love wildlife? Us too. We believe nature should be protected, respected and never exploited for our entertainment.  

That’s why we design all of our wildlife trips and experiences to meet the standards set out in our animal welfare guidelines (), created in collaboration with World Animal Protection. This ensures that the unforgettable animal encounters our travellers rave about are conducted responsibly, with the utmost respect for all creatures. 

What does that mean for you? Well, we never ride, feed or handle wild animals for a start. Take a closer look at our animal welfare policy () to learn more about how we champion responsible, cruelty-free experiences on our trips, and see how you can help make a difference when you travel with our animal-friendly travel tips (). 

Climate and seasonal

Please note occasionally the summit trail will be closed due to strong winds or heavy rainfall. When this happens no trekkers will be able to summit. This is a safety measure and is enforced by Sabah Parks staff and is beyond Intrepid's control. This can happen at any time of the year including outside of the wet season.

CHINESE NEW YEAR:

An important 15 day festival for the Malaysian Chinese, based on the lunar calendar in January or February. In 2024, the Year of the Dragon begins from the 10th of February.The Year of the Snake begins from the 29th of January 2025. This can be a busy time and some transport delays, shop closures and reduced opening hours at some sites may be expected, but there are also many fabulous festivals and rituals to observe during this time, so it's a great time to travel. Although we make all reasonable efforts to avoid disruption, a flexible approach from travellers is appreciated if choosing to travel during this time in Malaysia.

RAMADAN

The important month of Ramadan will be in progress 10 March to 08 April 2024 and 1 March to 30 March 2025 and  and the Eid ul-Fitr festival will be held directly at its conclusion for 3-4 days. Ramadan is a festival of sacrifice where the devout refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. During Ramadan, business hours are shortened, including opening hours at some tourist attractions. Alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and many restaurants will be closed. While you should expect some delays and inconveniences during this period, the month is a fantastic opportunity to travel in a Muslim country and witness this unique period, particularly the nightly celebrations when the sun sets and the fast is broken. Please note that although the Eid ul-Fitr festival can also be a fascinating time to travel it's a period of national holiday. Most government offices and businesses will be closed and some tourist site opening hours may be affected.

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