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This 12-day photography tour through Borneo is built for those who want more than just glimpses of wildlife – it’s about time in the field, patience, and access to some of the island’s richest ecosystems. With a strong focus on wild encounters and photographic potential, the itinerary moves through lowland rainforests, quiet rivers, canopy walkways, and conservation hubs, offering diverse settings and perspectives.
Beginning in Sandakan, you’ll photograph semi-wild orangutans at Sepilok and the elusive sun bear at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Walk among the treetops at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, ideal for bird photography and soft afternoon light. Then head to the Kinabatangan River, where daily cruises reveal proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, and , if you’re lucky, wild orangutans. Evening bat flights at Gomantong Caves and guided night walks add rare low-light opportunities.
From there, move deeper into remote reserves. In Tabin, you’ll track wildlife near mineral-rich mud volcanoes and photograph forest species at dusk and dawn. Danum Valley offers some of the most immersive rainforest experiences in Southeast Asia: canopy-level views, jungle treks, ancient burial sites, and riverside trails all deliver varied, high-quality shooting environments.
Throughout the trip, expert guidance and small group size mean you’ll have space, time, and support to focus on the work of observation and image-making – not just sightseeing. This tour is for those looking to slow down, stay curious, and come away with a meaningful body of work.
At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly
During your photo tour in Borneo, you’ll stay in a handpicked selection of lodges and hotels that blend comfort with proximity to nature, ensuring you're always close to the action. Whether nestled deep in the rainforest or located on the edge of a wildlife reserve, these accommodations provide a comfortable base from which to explore and photograph Borneo’s incredible biodiversity. Expect well-appointed rooms, hearty local cuisine, and warm hospitality, all set within or near prime wildlife habitats, allowing for immersive nature experiences from dawn till dusk. From the lush jungles of Sepilok and Danum Valley to the riverbanks of Kinabatangan and the remote wilderness of Tabin, each location offers unique opportunities to encounter Borneo’s iconic wildlife, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and a dazzling array of birdlife. The journey concludes with a stay in a modern, well-equipped hotel in Kota Kinabalu, offering a chance to relax and reflect on your photographic adventures. Across all destinations, your accommodation is designed to complement the natural environment while providing the amenities needed to recharge after full days in the field.
Charlotte Arthun
Charlotte is an American wildlife photographer and safari guide with a decade of experience capturing wildlife in remote regions across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. With a background in wildlife biology and conservation, Charlotte began her career as a resident photographer in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Her time in the field evolved into a passion for guiding others, and she now leads photographic safaris to some of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Based in South Africa, she offers both group and private tours tailored for photographers.
The tour spans coastal rainforests, riverbanks, cave systems, and primary jungle in places like Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tabin, and Danum Valley. Each location offers unique light, textures, and wildlife encounters.
Yes, photographers of all levels are welcome, and expert guidance is provided throughout the trip. You’ll learn to shoot in varied conditions, from canopy walkways to boat-based wildlife sessions.
Group sizes are kept small, max six, to ensure personalized instruction and a quiet, focused shooting environment. This allows for flexible scheduling and deeper engagement with your guide.
This is a photography-focused journey with time to observe, shoot, and build a meaningful portfolio across Borneo’s richest habitats. It’s designed for those who want to slow down and create intentional, place-based work.
Our photo tours and safaris will take you to the right place, at the right time, to get that epic shot. You'll be guided by a professional photographer, who will help you take your photography to the next level, and we keep our trips exclusive by traveling in small groups. Whether it's in Kenya's sprawling savannahs, Greenland's icy fjords, or the jungles of India, your journey will be filled with photography magic.
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