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 Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and subdivided among three countries – Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. The Malaysian Borneo states of Sarawak and Sabah are home to the world's oldest rainforests dating back 140 million years. Borneo's flora and fauna are among the most diverse on the planet, with nearly 15,000 species of flowering plants, 3,000 species of trees, 221 species of terrestrial mammals and 420 species of resident birds.
Long gone is the image of headhunters in the jungle, but the original wild men of Borneo – the tree-swinging Orangutans – remain as a protected and revered resident. From steamy jungle floors to the cloud-capped summit of Mt Kinabalu, Borneo's natural beauty and indescribable wonders hint at the secret paradise waiting to be discovered. Some of our lodges for this tour have only ten rooms, so the group size will be limited. This will surely be one of the greatest gay adventure tours of the year!
• Kuching, capital of Borneo's Sarawak State
• Longboats on Batang Ai Lake
• Cultural interaction with the Iban community at Nanga Sumpa
• Sandakan, Borneo's first European settlement
• Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
• Kota Kinabalu, capital of Borneo's Sabah State
• River cruises
• Jungle hikes
• Nocturnal wildlife walks
• Remote rivers, waterfalls and lakes
• Exotic rainforest lodges
Day 00 - Saturday, June 6, 2015
Borneo is a far-flung destination, requiring two or three stopover flights to get there. You will need to leave home on this day in order to be in Kuching, Borneo in time for our Welcome Dinner on Monday, June 8. When making flight reservations, use the airport code KCH for Kuching for your arriving flight, and the airport code BKI for Kota Kinabalu for your departing flight. If you are having difficulty booking the full itinerary, consider booking a round trip to Singapore (SIN) that way, and then for connecting flights to the tour beginning and ending point.
Day 0 - Sunday, June 7, 2015
You will spend the entire day today flying and making connecting flights, finally arriving in Borneo sometime in tomorrow, June 8. Because of the extremely long travel time, we recommend you consider arriving one day early (today) to give yourself time to recover from jet lag.
Day 1 - Monday, June 8, 2015
 Your flight should arrive in Kuching, Borneo by mid-afternoon. Collect your luggage, proceed through customs, and a driver will meet you and transfer you to our hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure. This evening, our group meets for the first time in the hotel lobby for introductions during the cocktail hour. We proceed to a local seafood restaurant for our Welcome Dinner. Overnight in Kuching.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Hotel: Hilton Hotel, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, 4*
Day 2 - Tuesday, June 9, 2015
 After an early breakfast this morning, we check out of our hotel and depart Kuching to drive to the Batang Ai reservoir. Our journey overland takes us through rural Sarawak, passing along pepper gardens, cocoa and rubber plantations. We stop at Lachau Bazaar and have lunch in a local coffee shop. Stroll around the shops and the small native market. We continue our journey, arriving at Batang Ai Lake in mid-afternoon. Board a longboat and travel upriver to Nanga Sumpa, arriving late afternoon (approximate boating time is two hours, although the exact time will depend on river conditions). Settle in at the lodge and have dinner. Overnight at Nanga Sumpa Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Nanga Sumpa Lodge , Nanga Sumpa, Sarawak, Malaysia
Day 3 - Wednesday, June 10, 2015
 Following breakfast hike the jungle trails along the river and then continue upriver by longboat. Our destination is the scenic Enseluai waterfall. Along the way (if conditions are suitable) your boatman may stop to demonstrate fishing Iban-style using a jala, or throw net. Arrive at the waterfall and have time to relax, swim and enjoy the rainforest surroundings. Enjoy a riverside BBQ lunch prepared by your Iban hosts. After returning to the lodge, we enjoy dinner of local delicacies served in the lodge. After dinner visit Nanga Sumpa longhouse. Relax on the ruai (common verandah) and spend time with the Iban people. Interact with the community; learn about their culture and enjoy some local rice wine. Overnight at Nanga Sumpa Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Nanga Sumpa Lodge , Nanga Sumpa, Sarawak, Malaysia
Day 4 - Thursday, June 11, 2015
 After breakfast at the lodge, enjoy a free morning to relax, swim in the river or take some photos around Nanga Sumpa. In the late morning, we have an early lunch in the lodge before departing to travel downriver to the Batang Ai Lake Jetty. We travel overland back to Kuching, arriving in early evening. After check-in at the hotel, we have the evening free. Overnight in Kuching.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Hilton Hotel, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, 4*
Day 5 - Friday, June 12, 2015
 We have the morning at our own leisure to explore the historic heart of Kuching, a short walk from the hotel. In late morning, we check out of our hotel and transfer to the airport for our afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu in the region of Sabah. Upon arrival in the mid-afternoon, our driver meets us and transports the group to our city center hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore or relax by the pool. You might consider going to bed very early tonight as we have a pre-dawn wake-up call tomorrow morning. Overnight in Kota Kinabalu.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 4*
Day 6 - Saturday, June 13, 2015
 Today we have a very early morning wake-up call to transfer to the airport for an early flight to Sandakan The short 40-minute flight departs around 7am. Upon arrival, we head to Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary where captive orangutans are prepared to be reintroduced into the wild. You will be able to observe them at their feeding stations in the rainforest and see a video presentation on the Orangutan rehabilitation program. Afterwards, we transfer to the Sandakan jetty for a boat excursion that brings you to the pristine Mangrove forests along the Kinabatangan River delta in search of proboscis monkeys, birds and reptiles. Lunch is provided at the Abai Jungle Restaurant. We continue by boat to Sukau and check in to our lodge. In the afternoon, go on a river cruise up the Kinabatangan River to Menanggul River in search of more wildlife. Overnight in Sukau at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge, Sukau, Sabah, Malaysia
Day 7 - Sunday, June 14, 2015
 Early morning is the best time to view wildlife, so we head out at the crack of dawn. Take a boat trip for bird watching and wildlife viewing at the nearby Ox Bow Lake. Trek the lush forest along the lake and then return to the lodge for a late breakfast. In the afternoon, venture out on another river cruise down the Menanggul River and along the Kinabatangan River. We return to the lodge at dusk for a free evening. Overnight at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge, Sukau, Sabah, Malaysia
Day 8 - Monday, June 15, 2015
 After an early breakfast, we depart Sukau at 7am and drive two hours overland to Lahad Datu. We take the scheduled 9:30am ferry for the two-hour journey to Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley. We attend a brief orientation before lunch. In the afternoon, depart for a guided walk on a boardwalk-circuit nature trail and a canopy walkway in the treetops. In the evening, enjoy dinner at our lodge. If weather permits, go for a night drive in search of nocturnal animals. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
Day 9 - Tuesday, June 16, 2015
 Following breakfast, depart for a trek along the "Coffin Trail" that leads to an ancient Kadazan-Dusun burial site. It's a 1.8 mile round-trip, involving a 40-minute climb to a magnificent lookout point. We return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, hike the Segama Trail and East Trail in search of wildlife before returning to the Lodge. After dinner, depart for a night walk in search of nocturnal creatures. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
Day 10 - Wednesday, June 17, 2015
 Enjoy a leisurely morning at our lodge to sleep in late or just relax. After lunch, we check out and depart at 1:30pm to transfer to Lahad Datu Airport for our late afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu (departs at 5:40 pm and arrives at 6:35 pm). Upon arrival we transfer to our resort. You will have a brief time to drop off your luggage in your room and freshen up before we head to the resort restaurant for our Farewell Dinner. Overnight in Kota Kinabalu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 5*
Day 11 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
The tour officially ends after breakfast this morning. Make your travel arrangement for a flight departing any time today. If you wish to extend your stay in Kota Kinabalu, we can extend your stay at our extraordinary beach resort. Toto Tours provides your transfer to the Kota Kinabalu Airport for flights out.
Meals: Breakfast
Day +1 - Friday, June 19, 2015
Depending on your connecting flights, you should finally make it back to your home city sometime on this date. Times vary according to your home location.
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• 10 nights hotel or lodge accommodations:
2 nights at Hilton Hotel in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia;
2 nights at Nanga Sumpa Lodge in Nanga Sumpa, Sarawak, Malaysia;
1 night at Le Meridien Hotel in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia;
2 nights at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge, Sukau, Sabah, Malaysia;
2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia;
1 night at Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Airport transfers at the beginning and the end of the tour;
• Hotel breakfasts daily plus Welcome & Farewell Dinners and other meals as specified in the itinerary;
• Three regional flights (from Kuching to Kota Kinabalu; from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan; from Lahad Datu to Kota Kinabalu);
• Ground transportation in air conditioned vehicles;
• Sightseeing activities and entrances as listed in the itinerary,
• Services of an English-speaking guide.
• This is a fully guided and escorted tour.
• International airfare to Kuching (airport code KCH) and returning from Kota Kinabalu (airport code BKI);
• Visa fees;
• Airport taxes and departure fees;
• Ground transportation and equipment for sightseeing on your own (taxis, local guides, kayaks, etc.);
• Meals and optional activities not specifically listed in the itinerary;
• Porterage; camera fees;
• Bottled water; alcoholic beverages;
• Travel Insurance;
• Laundry; telephone calls; faxes; or any other expenses of a personal nature.
• Tips to our drivers / guides are not included; we will provide suggested group tipping guidelines prior to departure.
Hilton Hotel, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Hilton Kuching hotel is the perfect base for exploring this charming Malaysian city in Borneo. Situated on the waterfront of the striking Sarawak River, this central Kuching hotel boasts captivating views over the city. Conveniently situated just a 25 minute drive from Kuching International Airport and within walking distance to many popular attractions, the central location of this hotel puts you close to the action in this exciting and vibrant city.
 Retire to a spacious guest room, suite or executive room at the hotel, with spectacular views of the city or Sarawak River. All rooms feature contemporary décor and high-speed internet access.
Unwind after a busy day by working out in the Hilton Kuching fitness center, swimming laps in the sparkling outdoor pool or simply relaxing with a cocktail. Indulge in a wide range of flavors at the hotel, as you choose between five tempting restaurants. In the evening celebrate with caviar and champagne or relax with a cocktail at the Senso bar.
Nanga Sumpa Lodge in Nanga Sumpa, Sarawak, Malaysia
 Located approximately a 1˝ hour longboat ride from the Batang Ai Lake, Nanga Sumpa Lodge provides clean lodging with western-style toilets, mosquito netting, mattresses and clean bedding. The lodge has a total of 18 rooms with raised sleeping platforms.
The majority of the rooms accommodate 2 people. The lodge has flush toilets and showers and piped water supply. A generator runs from 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm. After 10.30 pm traditional oil lamps are used to light the lodge.  Meals are prepared in the lodge and feature fresh jungle vegetables and other local delicacies.
Nanga Sumpa is a jungle lodge located in a relatively remote area of Borneo. The facilities reflect the remote location and are somewhat basic. Many of our guests don't mind this as the beauty of the area and the Iban people are the real attractions. However, we appreciate that the accommodation may not be as luxurious as some travellers require.
Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Featuring spacious and modern rooms, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is home to an outdoor pool with pool bar and 4 dining options.
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is approximately a 15-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Low Cost Carrier Terminal 2. Jesselton Point Waterfront, the city's terminal for boat transportation to nearby islands, is a 20-minute walk away.
 The luxurious rooms come equipped with flat-screen TV and DVD player. A safe, tea/coffee maker and minibar are also included. A private bathroom includes Le Meridien's signature bath amenities, a vanity mirror, separate bathtub and walk-in shower.
Work out at the hotel's fitness center or relax at the pool with a drink and enjoying the sunset. A sauna and spa are also available.
Circle Restaurant serves international cuisine in a casual setting. The lounge is a quiet place for refreshments and drinks.
Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge, Sukau, Sabah, Malaysia
 Situated in the village of Sukau on Borneo's famous Kinabatangan River lies the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. The lodge can be reached by boat or by road, staying here gives you the most comprehensive wildlife experience in the area.
The lodge has 33 stilted chalets, each containing either two or three separate en suite rooms which are simply furnished but clean and comfortable. All rooms have en suite shower rooms with hot water and ceiling fans. The lodge has an air-conditioned TV room showing documentaries about Sabah's wildlife and a restaurant/bar area.
 The Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge restaurant serves buffet meals. As well as the main dining area there are a couple of small, raised areas with tables and chairs where you can relax outside and enjoy the great views of the river. In addition to the bird tower on the riverfront. There is also a hilly walking trail behind the lodge that takes around 30 minutes to walk and may give you the chance to see some more wildlife.
The lodge is run by local power supply but there are occasions when this (and the lodges own back-up generator) can fail but it is a rare occurrence and is all part of staying in the jungle!
Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
 Award-winning Borneo Rainforest Lodge is nestled in a magnificent setting alongside the Danum River flowing through Sabah's largest protected Lowland Rainforest - Danum Valley Conservation Area.
The spacious main building offers an open veranda where the traveller can sit back and enjoy the incredible diversity of this forest environment whilst wooden chalets and bungalows provide comfortable lodgings for guests. The mist shrouded treetops and babbling river lull one to sleep after a day's wildlife spotting.
 Borneo Rainforest Lodge has only 31 individual chalets with fans and en-suite bathrooms. These two single-storey and one double-storey chalets combine minimalist design and green conservation exercising eco sensitive structure with minimal footprint. Each chalet has its own outdoor tub attached to spacious viewing deck for a panoramic view of the river and serene forest landscape.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
 Situated on Kota Kinabalu's Pantai Dalit Beach, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort offers an 18-hole golf course. Other facilities include 8 food and beverage options, 3 swimming pools and a spa.
Rooms at the Shangri-La's Rasa Ria feature a private lanais or balcony and free high speed internet access. Each room has air conditioning, a cable TV, minibar and pillow menu.
 Guests can visit the resort's nature reserve, which features a tree-top canopy walkway and wildlife like orangutans. Various water sports including jet skiing, parasailing and windsurfing are available at the beach.
Western cuisine is featured at the award-winning Coast Restaurant and Bar. Japanese, Indian and local cuisines are available at the other restaurants. A beachside bar offers drinks and light snacks
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