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Day 1 | Kota Kinabalu

Selamat datang! Welcome to Malaysia.

You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 18:00. (This time may vary from time to time) Your leader will leave a note at reception telling you where this important meeting will take place and confirmation of the time. Please ask a member of reception for this information.

Please note your leader will collect your local payment at this meeting.

Check-in time at our joining point hotel is after 2.00pm. Early check-in is not guaranteed, however if you arrive early, luggage storage can be arranged. Speak to the hotel reception on arrival. Please note that luggage storage in our hotels is at your own risk and generally these areas are not locked or completely secure. Bring your own luggage lock.

Tonight we stay in a centrally located 2 star hotel close to major shopping centres and the Kota Kinabalu waterfront. Accommodation is basic twin share with private amenities.

As we depart Kota Kinabalu on Day 2, if you wanted to spend more time visiting the sights of Kota Kinabalu, we recommend you arrive a day or two early.

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is an intriguing city that was born between the Borneo jungle and the South China Sea. Having survived World War II bombings, 'KK' now has a charm that can only be found in a frontier town. In your free time, you can immerse yourself in history at the Sabah State Museum, visit the Monsopiad Cultural Village, once home to a notorious head hunter, or explore the islands off Kota Kinabalu, excellent for swimming or snorkelling. Allow approx. USD20 for an island visit, although costs can vary depending on your negotiating skills, the time you wish to spend on the island and the number of people with whom you go.

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Day 2 | Dusun Village

This morning we travel to the base of Mt Kinabalu (minivan, approx. 3 hours) to stay in the homes of the Dusun people, our guides on Mt Kinabalu. The Dusun are wonderfully warm and friendly people and while here, we learn about their spiritual, social and economic attachments to the mountain. The Dusun village we stay in is nestled amid picturesque hills in the shadow of the great Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea. The rock monolith looms over us as a daunting reminder of the climb we are about to embark on but don't be discouraged - our wonderful host Soppinggi will insist that you 'don't think about the mountain!'.

Please note that this village has had very few visitors and we expect our travellers to respect and to act responsibly in this community. Please listen to your group leader who will explain how we can minimise our impact on this village.

Tonight we stay in the grounds of the local village in multishare accommodation. Facilities are basic with outdoor bathrooms, cold water only.

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Days 3-4 | Mt Kinabalu

After a short guided walk around the village, we travel to the headquarters of Mt Kinabalu National Park (45 minutes). There are some beautiful nature trails you can follow, around the headquarters and through lowland tropical forest. Otherwise, feel free to just relax in the afternoon.

We stay overnight on day 3 at the National Park Headquarters in dormitory accommodation with shared facilities. Nestled amongst the lowland forests, this is the perfect place to relax before tomorrow's climb. Breakfast is provided.

We begin the climb up Mt Kinabalu early in the morning on day 4, carrying overnight packs. It's not an easy walk, being uphill all the way, and you need to be prepared to tackle a trail made up of steep steps that vary considerably in size. Altitude can also affect you, regardless of your fitness level, and it will certainly slow you down a fair bit. However, there's absolutely no rush so take your time and enjoy the pristine environment - this is an area which boasts a remarkable variety of plant life, including some 1,000 species of orchid, the extraordinary carnivorous pitcher plant as well as the rafflesia, the largest flower in the world. We cover 7.6 km today (approx. 5-6 hours) and stop at a resthouse in Laban Rata (3,272 m) for the night. Laban Rata has very basic multishare bunk rooms, additional blankets can be hired from the Park office. Go to bed early, so you're ready for the final climb the following morning.

We rise very early this morning in order to catch the sunrise at the summit of Mt Kinabalu (4,095 m). It is difficult walking, but you'll feel a huge sense of achievement! Also, the view from the summit is stupendous - the jungles of Borneo in one direction, the South China Sea in the other, making every inch of the climb worthwhile. Be warned though, don't underestimate the cold - bring warm clothes! The climb from Laban Rata to the summit takes between 2 and 4 hours. Even if you are very fit you may find this section of the climb difficult because of the altitude. This can make you feel quite nauseous and short of breath. The trail is marked by a white rope that is also useful to help you up some of the steep sections. Gloves are recommended to protect your hands from rope burn (as well as to keep them warm!).

After returning to Laban Rata for breakfast, we descend the mountain via the main trail (3-5 hours) in time for lunch at the park's headquarters.There are some beautiful nature trails you can follow, around the headquarters and through lowland tropical forest. Otherwise, feel free to just relax in the afternoon. Night 7 we stay in a guesthouse at the base of Mt Kinabalu with hot water showers and a great view of the mountain. This guesthouse is the ideal location to celebrate your climbing achievements and rest your weary limbs.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR CLIMBERS ON MOUNT KINABALU

1. Identify your mountain guide(s) who will display an identification card.

2. Travel together in your own group and stay with the mountain guide(s).

3. Alert your mountain guide(s) if you have any difficulty.

4. Display your climbing permit and show it to park officials at check points in Timpohon Gate, Laban Rata and Sayat Sayat on your way up and down.

5. If, for any reason, you are separated from your group on the mountain, please follow the white rope. If visibility is very low please hold onto the rope and follow it. (There is a thick white rope leading all the way from the vegetation belt above Panar Laban to the summit. This rope is marked with yellow reflective paint every 5ft and is helpful for climbing up while providing safety on walking down. PLEASE FOLLOW AND USE THE ROPE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY.)

6. The weather on the summit can deteriorate in a matter of minutes, with thick mist reducing visibility to 3 m, rain storms and wind up to 120 km/h can occur at times. Please hold the rope, which will lead you to safety.

7. If you are separated from your Mountain Guide or lose sight of the rope, STOP IMMEDIATELY, stay where you are and blow your whistle to attract attention. PLEASE DO NOT TRY TO FIND YOUR OWN WAY OUT.

8. When climbing the summit please make sure that you carry with you the following things -

• warm clothes
• a torch light (and spare batteries)
• a raincoat
• some energy food and water
• a whistle

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR NON-CLIMBERS 
We consider the Mt Kinabalu trek to be a huge highlight of the trip, but if you decide the trek is just not for you or your travel companion, we can provide alternative arrangements at an additional cost if advised at time of booking.

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Days 5-6 | Poring Hot Springs

We rise very early this morning in order to catch the sunrise at the summit of Mt Kinabalu (4,095 m). It is difficult walking, but you'll feel a huge sense of achievement! Also, the view from the summit is stupendous - the jungles of Borneo in one direction, the South China Sea in the other, making every inch of the climb worthwhile. Be warned though, don't underestimate the cold - bring warm clothes!

The climb from Laban Rata to the summit takes between 2 and 4 hours. Even if you are very fit you may find this section of the climb difficult because of the altitude. This can make you feel quite nauseous and short of breath. The trail is marked by a white rope that is also useful to help you up some of the steep sections. Gloves are recommended to protect your hands from rope burn (as well as to keep them warm!).

After returning to Laban Rata for breakfast at the restaurant, we descend the mountain (approx. 3-5 hours) in time for lunch. We continue on to Poring Hot Springs (approx. 1 hour by bus), where we have time to soak our weary limbs in the famous thermal pools - sheer bliss!

For the next 2 nights we stay in a very basic and well located guesthouse opposite Poring Hot Springs reserve. Your guesthouse is the ideal setting to spend the next couple of days exploring the waterfalls, sulphur pools and trails that abound within the reserve.

On day 6 there are a number of optional activities from which to choose. Traverse the canopy walkway, where you can view the jungle as the birds and monkeys do, or visit the enchanting butterfly farm. You may also choose to trek to the lovely Laganan Falls or just laze about in the hot and cold pools.

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Days 7-8 | Kinabatangan Jungle Camp/Homestay

From the steam of Poring Hot Springs, we enter the equally steamy jungle, travelling first through palm oil plantations on a morning bus ride (approx. 5 hours). Our program at Kinabatangan is run by a local ecological organization, MESCOT.

The MESCOT project aims to provide villagers with environmental education and the means of making a living from their forests, without the need for its destruction by chainsaws. Part of the program is to develop an ecologically sound wildlife and eco-tourism centre, owned and operated by the villagers themselves. After learning about forest rehabilitation, we head by boat (approx. 30 minutes) or on foot (approx. 1 hour, at an easy pace) into the jungle where we erect our own hammocks and spend the night. This is the best way to experience the true wild Borneo. Wild elephants are rarely seen but we will hopefully find crocodiles, macaques, wild orangutans and freaky-looking proboscis monkeys, while hornbills fly in the skies overhead. Be prepared for an adventure!

On day 8 we are invited into the homes of a local traditional Malay village for a night with basic cold water bathing facilities and basic sleeping arrangements. Experiencing the ways and traditions of the locals firsthand like this is an amazing privilege and your leader will explain local cultural expectations to ensure that we make the most of our stay. Tonight, we are billeted out into different homes throughout the village, where the sleeping and bathing arrangements are very basic.

During the rainy season (Nov to April) heavy rain can alter the MESCOT programme to 2 nights in the home of a local family.

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Day 9 | Sandakan

We travel overland by bus to Sandakan (approx. 1.5 hours), the commercial hub of the district. The journey into town gives a good indication of the vast areas of rainforest that have been cleared for palm plantations.

Sandakan was once the capital of British North Borneo and traditionally has strong trading ties with Hong Kong. We have free time here to catch up on laundry and banking, as well as to explore the city. The Cantonese influence here is evident in the lively harbourside market, the many Chinese temples and in the local cuisine. Try some local food in a kedai kopi (coffee shop) or get some insight into the city's history at the emotive war memorial park, which commemorates soldiers felled in battles on the island of Borneo.

Tonight we stay in a clean and comfortable hotel close to all amenities in Sandakan. There is no lift and our accommodation is on the 5th floor.

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Day 10 | Turtle Island

Travelling by speedboat (approx. 1.5 hours) past fishing villages and bamboo fish traps, we head out to Turtle Island where every night of the year giant green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Throughout the afternoon, there is time for swimming, snorkelling or lazing about on this tropical island where we stay for a night in 'chalets'. Snorkelling gear is available for hire.

Please refer to the Important Notes section regarding your compulsory Meal payment to Turtle Island.

In the evening, we hope to witness this heartwarming display and help the researchers as they release protected hatchlings and guide them in their frantic dash to the ocean. It is a moving experience that makes you think twice about trying illegally traded turtle egg delicacies! 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. Photographing the turtles is permitted by the local government but is not recommended as it disrupts the turtles. If you would really like to take home a memento with you, photographs are available for purchase.

Tonight we stay in twin share accommodation with cold showers, air-conditioning and fridge.

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Day 11 | Sepilok Orangutan Reserve

An early morning return to the mainland (45 minutes), we continue on to a guesthouse located near the Sepilok Orangutan Reserve (approx. 30 minutes by taxi). The reserve is set up to help re-introduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or having been orphaned. As we walk into the reserve to watch semi-wild orangutans being fed, it is essential that we follow instructions from the park warden. We are not permitted to hinder the orangutans as human contact must be kept to a minimum.

Tonight we stay in multishare accommodation with private amenities. Our guesthouse is centrally located, being only a short stroll to Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre.

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Day 12 | Kota Kinabalu

We fly back to Kota Kinabalu (Flight not included - see Important Notes for further details) where we conclude the Sabah part of our trip in a seaside guesthouse south of the city. Relax by the pool or explore the surrounding islands on foot or by boat.

We stay in a peaceful beach front resort. Clean, comfortable twin share bedding with private facilities including air-conditioning, tv, restaurant and pool.

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Day 13 | Miri

Today, we say farewell to Kota Kinabalu and fly to Miri (Flight not included - see Important Notes for further details) for the second part of our adventure in the jungle state of Sarawak. There are no activities planned during the day, but a group meeting and dinner will be arranged for this evening.

As this is a combination trip the composition of your group and your Group Leader may change today.

Miri is a booming oil town with a multicultural community of expatriates, Chinese traders and tribal people, the latter who come into town from the forest to trade. Head to the fresh produce markets to meet the Dayak tribespeople or immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the Chinese wet fish markets.

Please note that your leader will collect the second part of your local payment today.

Tonight our accommodation is twin share with private facilities in a hotel well located for exploring the city surrounds.

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Days 14-17 | Mulu National Park

Travelling for a full day (approx. 10 hours) upriver by express boat, we head into the heart of one of the most spectacular national parks in Asia, stopping en route for a meal. In Mulu, we spend time exploring caves before embarking on a 2-day guided adventure along the Headhunters' Trail. On night 14 we stay in a Mulu National Park Longhouse. With basic bedding and share facilities, the National park also has its own restaurant and information centres to maximize your Mulu experience.

Trekking into the forest, we carry just a small overnight pack (see luggage requirements) and spend both nights at Camp 5, in very basic lodgings. Located in the jungle and aside the Melinau Rivers, at Camp 5 you will sleep on mats on raised open air platforms, with shared bathroom facilities.

Days 15 and 17 are at a relaxed pace with 2-3 hours walking per day, as well as a riverboat trip that may include some boat pushing.

On day 16 you have the option to climb to the summit of the Pinnacles and back to Camp 5 (6-10 hours) or to take a less strenuous walk further along the Headhunters' Trail. The spectacular rocky outcrop of the Pinnacles is something very few see - and the view is something to cherish for years.

On our return to park headquarters (Day 17) we explore Clearwater Cave, which contains Asia's longest underground river. In the afternoon we walk out to the largest cave passage known to man - Deer Cave. This spectacular chamber offers the only path through to the Garden of Eden (an optional tour, ask your Leader at Group Meeting), a lush rainforest, isolated within sheer cliff walls. At dusk the millions of bats that live in the nooks and crannies of the cave ceiling emerge for their nightly feeding, looking like a black plume of smoke moving across the sky.

Night 17 is spent back at the Mulu National Park Longhouse.

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Day 18 | Kuching

We fly from Mulu, via Miri to Kuching (Flight not included - see Important Notes for further details) approximately 3 hours travel in total. Kuching is arguably the most pleasant city in Malaysian Borneo. It was home to the infamous White Raja of Sarawak, whose mysterious rule in this remote corner of the world sparked the imagination of many who dreamt of becoming royalty. Although Kuching means 'cat' in Malay, don't expect to see many running around town! Get your 'city fix' tonight, before we head off into the wilderness again.

Tonight we stay in a 2 star hotel with twin share with private facilities, air-conditioning and tv.

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Days 19-20 | Iban Longhouse

Leaving our main luggage in Kuching, we continue our journey by bus for about 5 hours to the riverbank where we meet our longboat crew. We then cruise upriver into the interior of Borneo (approx. 2-4 hours depending on river conditions). Be prepared to get out of the boat and help guide it through the rapids - our travellers rave about this part of the voyage! At our destination, we meet the wonderful Iban people who live in longhouses rarely visited by Westerners.

A single longhouse may be home to 15 or more families. Not too long ago, the Iban were headhunters, killing their victims with blowpipes, but now they are very friendly and hospitable people who have embraced urbanisation while retaining many of their traditions. While here, we spend time talking to the locals and learning about the history of the Iban people and maybe also taking walks into the surrounding forest, fishing, weaving or helping the longhouse people with their chores. At night, be prepared to indulge in tuak - the local firewater. We may also be lucky enough to see displays of traditional dancing, hunting or craftwork here.

Expect to rough it for the next 2 nights- the accommodation here is basic. We sleep on thin mattresses on communally on the bamboo deck of the longhouse to fully experience the sights and sounds of this remote jungle village. Washing is done in the river, and women must wear a sarong (which can be bought locally) to bathe. However, the Iban community is one of the warmest you are ever likely to meet. You may also get the chance to buy wood carvings and basketry direct from these talented craftspeople.

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Days 21-22 | Kuching

Travelling back along the extensive river systems (approx. 7-9 hours by boat and bus depending on river conditions), we arrive back in town for our last night in Borneo. We have time to explore the fascinating Kuching Museum, stroll along the banks of the great Sarawak River or do some last-minute shopping. Your group leader will be available to tell you where to find interesting shops, good markets and restaurants.

Tonight we stay in a 2 star hotel with twin share with private facilities, airconditioning and tv.

You are free to depart any time on day 22, as no activities are planned. However, we do recommend that you extend your stay in Kuching as there is so much to see and do. Please let Intrepid know if you would like to book extra accommodation and we'll be happy to arrange it. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.

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Itinerary Disclaimer

Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research and may change with no prior notice.

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