Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is located in Southeast Asia and is politically divided among Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Its geography includes dense tropical rainforests, extensive river systems, and mountainous interiors, including Mount Kinabalu, the island’s highest peak. These landscapes support one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth, much of it contained within some of the world’s oldest rainforest, estimated to be over 130 million years old. Borneo is a leading destination for wildlife photography, offering opportunities to capture rare and endemic species in their natural habitats. Its ecosystems and natural light conditions provide unique opportunities for striking imagery.
In Malaysia’s Sabah state, areas like the Danum Valley and Kinabatangan River are known for sightings of Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys. Bird species such as hornbills and pittas are also frequent photographic subjects, while elusive animals like the clouded leopard may occasionally appear.
Borneo’s lowland swamps, highland forests, and mangroves offer varied photographic environments throughout the year. Night excursions can reveal nocturnal wildlife, including flying foxes, rare amphibians, and bioluminescent fungi. With local guides and eco-tourism support, Borneo offers a rich, immersive setting for photographing some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife.
Journey through Borneo’s most biodiverse landscapes.
At Penda, photography and travel are what we do best. We understand that a great photo tour is built on small details: being in the right place at the right time, having space to work, and getting support that matches your skill level. That’s why our trips are designed to be small, focused, and tailored to help you grow as a photographer– whether you're just starting out or refining your technique.
Why travel with usBorneo is the third-largest island in the world, located in Southeast Asia, divided among Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.
Malay is the official language in Malaysian Borneo and Brunei; Indonesian is spoken in the Indonesian part (Kalimantan). English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is used in Malaysian Borneo, Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in Kalimantan, and Brunei Dollar (BND) in Brunei. While USD is sometimes accepted in tourist areas or for major transactions, it’s best to use the local currency for everyday expenses.
Borneo has a tropical rainforest climate, hot and humid year-round, with a wetter monsoon season from November to February and a drier season from March to October.
Borneo is home to unique wildlife such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards, sun bears, and diverse bird species including hornbills.
Yes, with proper guidance and respect for local regulations, Borneo offers safe opportunities to photograph wildlife in protected reserves and national parks.
Top spots include Sabah’s Danum Valley, Kinabatangan River, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sepilok, and Indonesian Kalimantan’s national parks.
The dry season (March to October) is best for clear weather and wildlife activity, though some areas remain accessible year-round.
Malaria risk exists in some areas, so preventive measures are advised. Vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine immunizations are recommended.
Visa requirements vary by nationality and the part of Borneo visited; many visitors can enter Malaysia and Brunei visa-free for short stays. Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan) usually requires a visa.
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