The Attenborough-inspired wildlife holiday that's worth the investment
Orangutans, pygmy elephants and more – Borneo offers the trip of a lifetime
If the first episode of David Attenborough's new BBC series Seven Worlds, One Planet inspired you to discover Earth's beautiful wildlife on your next holiday, the second instalment will have you ready to book a trip as it takes us to the fascinating corners of Asia where some of the world's most incredible creatures roam.
The episode invites viewers into the world of Borneo's critically endangered baby orangutans as they learn to climb the tallest jungle trees on the planet.
A well-known home to the orange-haired tree dwellers, the southeast Asian island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts whose visits are relied upon to fund the care of orphaned orangutans at centres like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. A visit here is an excellent way to give back and ensure your travels have a positive impact on the environment.
Aside from seeing its most famous residents, a wildlife holiday in Borneo provides fantastic viewing opportunities, where you can witness pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys, among other unique creatures.
It offers a truly varied travel experience too: you can relax on exotic beaches, visit architectural wonders in the cities and walk through UNESCO-protected national parks.
Borneo is shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, but it's Malaysian Borneo in particular that offers the most enriching experiences. You'll be amazed as you get up close to nature by crossing rope bridges, cruise scenic rivers and head out after dark to spot nocturnal species. Check out these photos of Borneo's extraordinary sights...
The Kinabatangan River
Wildlife watching on the Kinabatangan River
A stork-billed kingfisher perched on a broken tree over the river at the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
Mount Kinabalu in the UNESCO-protected Kinabalu Park
The large Oxbow Lake amid the tropical rainforest
Poring Hot Springs in the tropical forest
A proboscis monkey sitting on a tree branch in the rainforest of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque surrounded by a pool in Kota Kinabalu
A Borneo pygmy elephant near the Kinabatangan River
A view of Mount Kinabalu during sunrise with fog
A Barrier Reef anemonefish seen during a dive in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Manukan Island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
An expert's guide to the best ocean cruises
The 10 best weekend bags for your next mini break
Quiet luxury: Inside Christian Louboutin's hotel
6 easy ways to prep for your bucket-list trip
