# Discovering Sabah, Malaysia: An Expedition Through Borneo’s Rich Ecology and Heritage
Malaysia ranks among the globe’s 17 “megadiverse” nations, with its segment of Borneo being a pinnacle of biodiversity. As the third-largest island in the world, Borneo boasts ancient rainforests, coral reefs, and an astonishing variety of endemic species. Although Borneo is divided among Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, Malaysia’s Sabah state is prominent for its well-preserved forests, majestic mountains, vibrant indigenous culture, and robust tourism facilities.
In this article, we will guide you through a 12-day escapade in Sabah, featuring trekking alongside orangutans, scuba diving in the renowned Sipadan, embarking on a river safari, and discovering the finest experiences in Malaysian Borneo.
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## **Sabah Travel Itinerary**
### **Route & Duration:**
– **Sepilok** (1 day)
– **Kinabatangan River & Sukau** (2 days)
– **Sipadan Scuba Diving Expedition** (3 days, for certified divers)
– **Danum Valley Conservation Area** (2 days)
– **Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park** (2 days)
– **Kinabalu Park** (2 days)
– **Travel Days** (2 days for flexibility)
This itinerary provides a blend of Borneo’s rivers, rainforests, islands, mountains, indigenous heritage, and urban experiences.
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## **Sepilok, Northeast Sabah**
Situated near Sandakan, Sepilok is renowned for its wildlife conservation operations.
### **Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre**
Established in 1964, this center has been nurturing orphaned and injured orangutans within a 10,611-acre rainforest sanctuary. Guests can watch these fascinating primates during feeding sessions at 10 AM and 3 PM.
### **Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre**
This refuge rescues the smallest bear species on Earth, the sun bear, often held in captivity due to its charming looks.
### **Rainforest Discovery Centre**
This facility boasts an 80-foot-high canopy walkway, educational trails, and opportunities to view rare birds and nocturnal species like the Malayan Colugo.
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## **Kinabatangan River & Wildlife Sanctuary**
The Kinabatangan River is home to the “Borneo Big Five”:
1. **Pygmy Elephant**
2. **Orangutan**
3. **Proboscis Monkey**
4. **Rhinoceros Hornbill**
5. **Estuarine Crocodile**
### **Sukau Rainforest Lodge**
Recognized as a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, Sukau Rainforest Lodge serves as an eco-friendly getaway offering river safaris and wildlife experiences.
### **Kinabatangan River Safari**
Guided boat tours provide excellent opportunities to observe wildlife, including crocodiles, kingfishers, and even groups of pygmy elephants.
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## **Semporna & The Celebes Sea**
Semporna serves as the entrance to some of the finest diving locations globally, alongside being home to the Bajau Laut, a nomadic seafaring community.
### **Scuba Diving in Sipadan**
Sipadan is situated within the Coral Triangle, the most biologically diverse marine area on the planet. Diving here allows encounters with:
– **Bumphead Parrotfish**
– **Whitetip Reef Sharks**
– **Spotted Rays**
– **Green Sea Turtles**
For a truly memorable stay, consider **Seaventures Dive Rig**, a decommissioned oil platform repurposed into a dive resort.
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## **Danum Valley Conservation Area**
Danum Valley represents the largest area of untouched rainforest in Malaysia, housing over 340 bird species and 124 mammal species.
### **Borneo Rainforest Lodge**
This eco-friendly lodge offers guided jungle hikes, canopy walks, and night safaris.
### **Orangutan Tracking & Jungle Hikes**
Guests have the opportunity to track wild orangutans, visit ancient burial sites, and swim in waterfalls amidst the jungle.
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## **Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park**
Positioned off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, this marine park comprises five islands with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.
### **Manukan Island Resort**
A seaside resort providing opportunities for snorkeling, parasailing, and island-hopping excursions.
### **Water Activities**
Visitors can partake in scuba diving, banana boat rides, and exploration of hidden coves with crystal-clear waters.
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## **Mount Kinabalu**
At 13,000 feet, Mount Kinabalu stands as the tallest peak in Malaysia and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
### **Trekking to the Summit**
The two