14 day itinerary
East Malaysia
Itinerary
East Malaysia is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and unique wildlife. Here’s a fun and engaging 14-day itinerary that will take you through the highlights of Sabah and Sarawak, the two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in
Welcome to East Malaysia! Arrive in , the capital of Sabah. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Don’t forget to try the grilled fish!
Day 2: Explore
Start your day with a visit to the for panoramic views of the city. Then, head to the for some local handicrafts and snacks. In the afternoon, visit the to learn about the rich culture and history of the region. Wrap up your day with a visit to the for some snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Kinabalu
Get ready for an adventure! Take a day trip to , a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can hike some of the trails or simply enjoy the stunning views of Mount Kinabalu. Don’t forget to visit the for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs before heading back to .
Day 4: Travel to Sandakan
Catch a morning flight to Sandakan. Once you arrive, visit the to learn about the history of the area during World War II. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to the to see these incredible creatures up close. You might even catch a feeding session!
Day 5: Safari
Embark on a two-day adventure along the . Start with a river cruise in the afternoon to spot wildlife like proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants. Spend the night in a riverside lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Day 6: Exploration
Wake up early for a morning river cruise to catch the wildlife at its most active. After breakfast, take a guided jungle trek to learn about the flora and fauna of the rainforest. In the afternoon, enjoy another river cruise before heading back to Sandakan for the night.
Day 7: Travel to Lahad Datu and Danum Valley
Travel to Lahad Datu and then transfer to . Check into your lodge and spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding rainforest. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Enjoy a night walk to experience the jungle after dark.
Day 8: Danum Valley Adventure
Spend the day hiking through the lush rainforest, visiting the and the . You might spot gibbons, orangutans, and various bird species. In the evening, relax at your lodge and enjoy the sounds of the jungle.
Day 9: Travel to
Head back to Lahad Datu and catch a flight to , the capital of Sarawak. After checking in, explore the and visit the . Enjoy a traditional Sarawakian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10:
Take a day trip to , known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Hike the trails, and keep an eye out for the unique proboscis monkeys. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and return to in the evening.
Day 11:
Visit the in the morning to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Afterward, explore the (yes, it’s a thing!) and the . Spend your evening shopping for souvenirs at the .
Day 12: Cultural Day in Sarawak
Take a trip to a local longhouse to experience the indigenous culture of Sarawak. Participate in traditional activities, enjoy local food, and learn about the customs of the Iban people. Return to for a relaxing evening.
Day 13: Travel to
Fly to , the gateway to the northern part of Sarawak. Visit the and explore the local markets. In the afternoon, take a trip to , a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see ancient cave paintings and learn about the history of the area.
Day 14: Departure
On your last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping in . Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time to visit for a final taste of Borneo’s natural beauty before heading to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A delightful 14-day itinerary that captures the essence of East Malaysia. From stunning landscapes to rich cultural experiences, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Safe travels, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌏✈️🌿