DISCOVER SARAWAK TOUR:
Borneo’s Culture, Rainforest & Wildlife Adventure

Kuching City Tour, Sarawak River Sunset Cruise, Siniawan Night Market, Bako National Park, Sarawak Cultural Village, Semenggoh Orangutan Center, Santubong River Cruise, Mulu National Park

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Perfect For Families With Children

Can Be Easily Combined With Other Tours

See The Best of Sarawak in 6 Days

6 Days / 5 Nights

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TOUR

Experience the essence of Borneo with our Malaysia travel agency's bespoke private tours, featuring stunning natural wonders, rich cultural activities, and top notch accommodations.

Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Malaysia with our fantastic Sarawak Tour in Borneo, “Discover Sarawak”. Explore Kuching's historic Old Town and picturesque waterfront, witness the unique Proboscis Monkey amidst the lush surroundings of Bako National Park with the help of your nature guide, and taste the authentic flavors of Sarawak cuisine, like fern salad and pitcher plant rice. In our exclusive Sarawak private tour, you cannot miss meeting the majestic orangutans of Semenggoh Wildlife Centre followed by a cultural show at Sarawak Cultural Village. We will also take you on a cruise along the Santubong River, seeking out the playful dolphins that grace its waters. Later on, fly deep into Sarawak and visit the mystical Mulu Caves, a World Heritage Site, home to Asia's longest underwater river and millions of bats. Malaya Travel, your premier travel agency for Malaysia and Singapore, crafted this adventure-filled Borneo itinerary in the land of the White Rajas to offer you a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure.

"Discover Sarawak Private Tour" promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Malaysia's Borneo: discover the history of Sarawak with one of our newest Malaysia tours, a testament to the beauty and wonder of Borneo's lush landscapes and vibrant heritage.

WHY WE LOVE THIS SARAWAK BORNEO PRIVATE TOUR

Personalized Exploration with Expert Guides: Experience tailored insights into Borneo's history, culture, and nature from licensed guides and drivers throughout your tour
Visit the majestic Mulu National Park: Explore the breathtaking Mulu National Park and its enormous cave systems, including Asia's longest underwater river and witness the famous bat exodus, an experience you will never forget.
Wildlife Encounters and Rainforest Adventures: Meet orangutans and proboscis monkeys, hike jungle trails, discover hidden beaches, and explore the lush rainforest at Bako National Park, with opportunities to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Enchanting Siniawan Night Market: Experience the charm of Siniawan Night Market, where historic wooden townhouses glow under traditional Chinese lanterns. Enjoy delicious local meals in this lively, atmospheric setting.
Taste Authentic Indigenous Cuisine: Savor traditional Dayak dishes like jungle fern salad (Midin Kerabu) and pitcher-plant rice (Lemang Periuk Kera) at local eateries, showcasing the unique flavors of Borneo.
Cultural Insights at Sarawak Cultural Village: Discover the rich traditions and cultures of native tribes at Sarawak Cultural Village, offering an enriching experience that highlights the diverse heritage of the region.

Highlights

Details

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY FOR YOUR
DISCOVER SARAWAK TOUR:
Borneo’s Culture, Rainforest & Wildlife Adventure

Click on 'Details' to explore each day's highlights. At Malaya Travel, our tailored itineraries and expert recommendations ensure your Sarawak adventure is crafted just for you.

Sunset view over Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia, with vibrant skies reflected on the river – part of Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

The Best of Kuching City Tour

Discover Borneo's Sarawak with Malaya Travel! After a smooth airport transfer, check-in to your stylish boutique hotel in Kuching, The Renee. Explore Kuching's Main Bazaar, Carpenter Street, and the Sarawak Museum with your licensed tour guide, and wander through vibrant markets and historic districts. Enjoy a sunset river cruise along the Sarawak River followed by an authentic Sarawakian dinner at a local restaurant, tasting dayak delicacies such as bamboo chicken and jungle fern salad.

Explore the Best of Kuching - Top Attractions and Cultural Highlights

Colorful shophouses with bustling shops and eateries along Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – a highlight of Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Iconic cat statue in the heart of Kuching, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – a notable landmark on Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Luxurious suite at The Ranee Boutique Suites in Kuching, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – accommodation included in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Malaya Travel welcomes you to the Land of Hornbills, Sarawak! Kuching is a culturally diverse city nestled along the picturesque Sarawak River. Renowned for its lush greenery, historical landmarks, and rich culinary scene, Kuching offers visitors a delightful fusion of modern urban attractions and the natural splendor of Borneo. Over the next six days, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique part of Borneo on your private Malaysia tour.

This tour can be used as an extension to another Malaysia or Singapore Private Tour or can be enjoyed on its own as well. We recommend arriving in Kuching before 11 am to fully enjoy this day as your Kuching exploration starts today! Alternatively, you can arrive the previous day for more comfort as well!

Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will spend the next few days at The Ranee Boutique Suites. The Ranee Boutique Suites is a stylish reconstruction of two traditional 19th-century shophouses in the heart of Kuching's Old Town. What sets it apart is the individuality, charm, and character of each spacious room and suite. During your stay, you'll be accommodated in one of their signature suites. These suites are inspired by and named after prominent women in Sarawak's history, including Margaret de Windt, Sarawak's first Ranee, and her descendants.

Your private Borneo tour starts with the exploration of Kuching. Embark on a 3-hour private city tour with a local tour guide through the heart of the Old Town. Begin at the Main Bazaar, a lively thoroughfare lined with charming shophouses and colonial-era buildings. Continue to Carpenter Street, where century-old shophouses whisper tales of the past. Marvel at the Old Courthouse, the Round Tower, the Pavilion Building, and the grand Central Post Office. Venture to the Sarawak Museum for profound insights into the region's history. Engage with locals to learn about the mystique of Sarawak gambir, known for its unique properties, and savor the renowned Sarawak pepper. This journey through Kuching's past and present also unveils the intriguing history of the White Rajas and their influence on Sarawak, shedding light on the dynamics of colonial rule and its lasting impact.

Following your Kuching City Tour, spend some free time along Kuching Waterfront, a distinctive landmark with its own historical significance. Once a row of "godowns" housing trade supplies, it now offers breathtaking views of old Kuching. It also serves as a hub for river taxis known as "sampans," which have been a popular means of river transportation for centuries, connecting both sides of the river.

Later this afternoon, we invite you to join us to marvel the majestic sunset and Kuching's skyline from a Sunset River Cruise on the Sarawak River – an unforgettable way to experience this charming city. Along the way, you'll spot landmarks such as the Astana (the governor's residence) and the State Parliament, as well as stilt homes, houseboats, and the timeless river activities. After your 1.5-hour river cruise, we will take you to a local restaurant to savor some delicious regional specialties. The Lepan Restaurant (or something similar) has a cozy atmosphere which is a replica of a traditional farm-hut. You will get the chance to try their signature dishes, including manok pansoh (chicken cooked in bamboo, a Dayak Harvest Festival delicacy), terung asam soup (a popular chicken soup made with native wild eggplant), and Midin Kerabu (a Sarawak salad crafted from local fern), all served with Bario brown rice wrapped in isip leaf (dinner is not included in this itinerary, however we are happy to include and arrange it for you).

Hotel: The Ranee Boutique Suites

Meals: None

Included Services: Private Airport Transfer, Private Kuching City Tour, Sunset River Cruise, Dinner Transfer

Close-up of a proboscis monkey's face at Bako National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – featured wildlife experience in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Visit Bako National Park & Siniawan Night Market

Explore Bako National Park, renowned as one of Asia's smallest yet most diverse national parks on a full-day tour from Kuching. With your experienced private nature guide, tailor treks to your specific interests, gain fascinating insights into Bako National Park's unique biodiversity, and spot Proboscis Monkeys, macaques, and flying lemurs! Afterward, return to Kuching and immerse yourself in the vibrant Siniawan Night Market for a taste of local delights.

Visit Bako National Park & Siniawan Night Market

Proboscis monkey perched on a tree at Bako National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – an unforgettable wildlife encounter in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Charming Siniawan street scene with traditional houses and restaurants at dusk, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – part of the cultural experience in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

A single day is all you need to uncover the beauty of Bako National Park, one of Southeast Asia's smallest national parks. Your today’s adventure starts with an early 20 miles car ride from Kuching to Kampung Bako, followed by a brief 20-minute boat ride to reach the park. Bako National Park is a treasure trove of Bornean flora, teeming with abundant wildlife, hidden beaches, hiking trails, jungle streams, and enchanting waterfalls. Keep an eye out for the park's charismatic star, the Proboscis Monkey, a comical rainforest inhabitant known for its big nose and pot-belly. This star performer shares the stage with long-tailed macaque monkeys, silvered leaf monkeys, monitor lizards, squirrels, and flying lemurs, all easily spotted within the park's lush backdrop, which houses an astonishing diversity of plant and animal life.

Your visit to Bako National Park will be made even more special with the guidance of an experienced nature guide. They will help you plan your treks based on your interests and preferences, offering suggestions, creating a tailored itinerary, and sharing insights into the park's ecological wonders and history. Don't forget to pack appropriate clothing and supplies for your treks. Spend the day inside the National Park with your local guide, explore the area and head on a trek to find the famous residents of the park!

Upon returning to Kuching in the late afternoon, you can spend your evening at your comfortable hotel. If your visit falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, consider exploring the vibrant Siniawan Night Market, located 21 kilometers from Kuching city. This picturesque town comes alive in the evening, offering a delightful experience of food and merriment. Siniawan's charming street is flanked by historic wooden townhouses illuminated by traditional Chinese lanterns. In recent years, Siniawan has invested in its weekend night markets, promoting local traditions and cultures while boosting the economy through tourism. Be sure to savor local delights such as pitcher plant rice, locally known as Lemang Periuk Kera, and a variety of traditional Chinese, Malay, and Dayak cuisines. Don't miss out on Lui Teh and Ngo Hiang; they come highly recommended. Later on, you will be transported back to the hotel.

Hotel: The Ranee Boutique Suites

Meals: Breakfast

Included Services: Private Full-Day Bako National Park Tour with all transfers and licensed nature guide, Siniawan Return Transfer from Kuching

Visit The Sarawak Cultural Village & See Orangutans and Dolphins

Embark on a full-day excursion exploring Semenggoh Wildlife Centrewhere you can witness orangutans during their feeding time and learn about conservation efforts. Then, visit Sarawak Cultural Village and explore authentic longhouses representing Sarawak's diverse ethnic groups, engage in cultural activities, and savor local specialties. Conclude with a scenic cruise from Santubong Boat Club, searching for the rare Irrawaddy dolphin amidst mangrove swamps.

Visit The Sarawak Cultural Village & See Orangutans and Dolphins

Large male orangutan feeding at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – a memorable wildlife encounter in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Cultural performance at Sarawak Cultural Village with performers in traditional costumes, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – an immersive experience on Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Iban longhouse nestled in the rainforest at Sarawak Cultural Village, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – featured cultural heritage site in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Irrawaddy dolphin spotted during a Santubong River cruise, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – a highlight of Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Your day begins early with a thrilling adventure to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, located just 20 kilometers south of Kuching. This nature reserve, is the largest Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak. Established in 1975, its primary mission is to provide a safe haven for injured, orphaned, or illegally held pet orangutans. Today, it serves as a habitat for these incredible creatures and as an educational hub for visitors. You'll arrive at the center by 9:00 am, just in time for the morning feeding session. For an hour, you'll have the unique opportunity to observe these magnificent orangutans up close, learning about their behavior, habitat, and the crucial conservation efforts taking place. Discover the striking fact that orangutans share 97% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

After your exciting orangutan encounter, you'll head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, an award-winning living museum that spans across 17 acres of lush land, conveniently located near the Damai Beach Resort and Hotels. This half-day adventure is your gateway to understanding the rich cultural tapestry of Sarawak. Your visit begins with a cultural show in an air-conditioned theater that showcases the diverse ethnic groups and cultures of Sarawak. You'll have the opportunity to witness enchanting performances, from Charming Orang Ulu maidens following the pattern of the hornbills to the rugged Iban warriors performing the ngajat dance with deep gongs and rainforest musical instruments.

After the cultural show, it's time for a well-deserved lunch at Restaurant Budaya, where a delicious meal is included in your program. Savor local specialties, such as soup of young cucumber leaves, minced fish, and chopped petai beans with ikan bilis. During your free time at Sarawak Cultural Village, take a stroll to visit various cultural houses representing different ethnic groups:

Bidayuh Longhouse: Step into the round head-house known as the Barok, filled with gongs, war drums, weapons, and wooden masks. Experience the rhythm of Bidayuh's rural activities.
Iban Longhouse: Climb a notched log staircase to enter an Iban traditional longhouse. Be entertained by drums, gongs, and activities like Pua weaving while discovering their culture.
Orang Ulu Longhouse: Visit the Orang Ulu Longhouse, set amidst lush tropical greenery. Be mesmerized by intricate beadwork and serenaded by the sounds of Sape and Jatung Utang.
Chinese Farmhouse: Explore the Chinese farmhouse built at ground level, showcasing unique architecture and a pepper garden.
Melanau Tall House: Discover the Melanau's massive house built high above the ground. Learn about sago processing and hear tales of spirits and demons.
Malay House: Explore the wooden Malay House, built on stilts. Engage in traditional games like Gasing and Congkak and admire the house's artistic details.
Penan Hut: Observe how Penan shelters are quickly constructed, and learn about the art of blowpipe making. You can even try your hand at blowpipe shooting.

Following the visit at the Sarawak Cultural Village, you'll drive to the Santubong Boat Club, a 30-minute journey, where you'll embark on an exciting cruise. This cruise will take you towards the mouth of the Santubong and Salak Rivers, home to the elusive and rare Irrawaddy dolphin. The Irrawaddy dolphin is known for its unique appearance and resides in rivers, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters. Santubong is one of the prime locations in Sarawak to spot these fascinating creatures. During your two-hour journey, you'll also get to explore the heavily silted mangrove swamp, teeming with reptiles, crustaceans, and various fish species, including crocodiles, water monitor lizards, otters, and more. Seeing the dolphins is rare. After this unforgettable adventure, your driver will take you back to your hotel. This day will undoubtedly be filled with excitement, cultural enrichment, and a deeper understanding of Sarawak's diverse heritage and remarkable wildlife.

Hotel: The Ranee Boutique Suites

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Included Services: Full Day Private Tour visiting Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans, the Sarawak Cultural Village with guide and lunch included and Santubong River Cruise to see the Irrawaddy dolphins. Entrance tickets are also included.

Impressive entrance of Deer Cave at UNESCO-listed Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – a key feature in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Fly to Mulu & Experience Mulu National Park's Famous Bat Exodus

Embark on an adventure into the deep rainforests of Mulu National Park and discover the UNESCO-listed park's stunning biodiversity and the renowned Mulu Caves, among the world's largest. Explore Deer Cave and Lang's Cave, marveling at their vast limestone formations and stalactites. Witness the spectacular bat exodus at dusk before returning to the Marriott Mulu Resort & Spa for a relaxing evening and dinner.

Journey to Mulu National Park

Jetty at Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa on the Melinau River, Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – luxurious accommodation featured in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Luxurious Deluxe Room with balcony at Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – premium accommodation in Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

After an early breakfast, head to Kuching Airport for a flight to Mulu, where you'll transfer to the hotel situated near the Gunung Mulu National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, pristine old-growth tropical forests, and impressive karst features. Within this park lies the famed Mulu Caves, one of the largest and most awe-inspiring cave systems on our planet.

Nestled in the lush Borneo rainforest, the luxurious 5-star Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa offers breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations. Designed in the style of ethnic longhouses, Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa was built on wooden stilts, three meters above the ground. You will be staying in a comfortable Deluxe King Room with balcony. The Resort has its own water treatment plant, which supplies all guest rooms with clean and safe water. Every room enjoys a spacious veranda, which offers guests a stunning view of either the rich surrounding jungle or the Melinau River.

Upon your arrival, you may have the opportunity to check in at your hotel. If time does not permit, you'll proceed directly to the park HQ. Please bear in mind that all National Park tours are group activities, not private. At 2:15 pm, rendezvous with your guide at Park HQ and embark on a 3-kilometer journey through the rainforest via a boardwalk. The park, listed as a World Heritage site, boasts mesmerizing limestone formations, including colossal caves, extensive cave networks, rock pinnacles, cliffs, and gorges. Its cave system is the largest known in the world, sculpted over time by surface water, resulting in massive passages through the bedrock.

Your adventure will take you to the jaw-dropping Deer Cave, one of the world's largest cave passages, spanning 2.2 kilometers in length and reaching a height of 220 meters at its zenith. This limestone mountain was once traversed by a powerful underground river, which sculpted the cave into its current magnificent form, with most sections reaching heights of up to 148 meters. You'll even spot a remarkable rock formation within the cave that resembles the profile of President Lincoln. The sheer enormity of the cave is a sight to behold and must be seen to be fully appreciated.

After your exploration of Deer Cave, your guide will lead you to Lang's Cave. While not as vast as Deer's Cave, Lang's Cave is renowned for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, making it a must-see within Mulu National Park. Following your visit to both caves, you'll make your way to the bat observatory to witness the mesmerizing bat exodus, usually occurring around 5:30 pm. Within the caves, a total of 12 bat species have been recorded, including a staggering 2.5 to 3.5 million wrinkle-lipped bats. As the sun approaches the horizon, bat hawks assemble on the cliff face, anticipating the mass bat exodus. After this captivating spectacle, you'll return to Park Headquarters via the 3-kilometer boardwalk trail, with the opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife along the way. Later, you'll return to your hotel for a delightful dinner and a restful night's sleep.

Hotel: Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Included Services: Kuching Airport Transfer, Hotel's Shared Transfer, National Park Entrance Fees And Deer Cave & Lang Cave Hike

Asia's longest underwater river system inside Clearwater Cave, Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – an awe-inspiring adventure on Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Exploring Wind and Clearwater Caves and Native Tribes in Mulu National Park

Your second day takes you up the Melinau River on traditional longboats to the Wind Cave. Explore the "King's Chamber" and stunning stalagmite and stalactite formations. Later on, discover Clearwater Cave, home to Asia's longest underwater river, and enjoy a picnic by the riverbank. Cool off in Clearwater Pool before returning to Park HQ, passing Penan settlements and a local market. Relax with a spa session or unguided park tours, followed by dinner at the resort.

Exploring Wind and Clearwater Caves in Mulu National Park

American tourists exploring the rainforest from the Canopy Walkway in Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia – part of the adventure on Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, preparing you for an exciting day of exploration and relaxation. Head to the National Park Entrance to embark on your adventure. First, you will board a traditional longboat at the National Park Entrance for a picturesque 20-minute journey up the Melinau River. Along the way, you'll make a stop at a Penan handicraft market, where you can admire and purchase unique local crafts. Upon your arrival at Wind Cave, embark on an enchanting exploration. Discover the "King's Chamber" and wander through the mesmerizing forest of stalagmites and stalactites within the cave. Learn about the geological processes that have shaped these incredible formations over time.

Return to your longboat and continue just a few minutes up the river to Clearwater jetty. Here, you'll climb 200 steps to reach the main entrance of the Clearwater Caves, which spans a remarkable 227 kilometers and houses Asia's longest underwater river. Explore the captivating wonders of this extensive cave system. After visiting both caves, savor a simple picnic by the river, surrounded by the lush Borneo rainforest. Take the opportunity to cool off and rejuvenate with a refreshing dip in Clearwater Pool. Hop back onto your longboat for a 20-minute scenic ride back to the Park HQ. Along the way, you'll pass by Penan settlements, providing insight into the local culture and way of life.

After your scenic return to Park HQ, enjoy a free afternoon at the resort or take time to explore other unrestricted areas of Mulu National Park at your own pace. For those seeking relaxation, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a pampering spa treatment at the renowned Mandara Spa. Dinner will be served at the resort's restaurant.

Hotel: Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa

Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Included Services: Clearwater & Wind Cave Tour

Two boats navigating the Melinau River in Mulu National Park on the way to a Penan settlement during a day trip – featured adventure on Malaya Travel's Discover Sarawak Private Tour

Departing Mulu: Flights and Next Adventures Await!

Bid farewell to Mulu after breakfast and head to Mulu Airport for daily flights to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, or Miri. Convenient flight connections open doors to further exploration. Extend your Borneo adventure with our Sabah Splendors tour or explore Malaysia & Singapore with Singapore Discovery or Kuala Lumpur EXTRA!

Departing Mulu: Flights and Next Adventures Await!

After enjoying a final breakfast surrounded by the incredible beauty of Mulu, it's time to prepare for the next stage of your journey. You'll make your way to Mulu Airport, where daily flights are available to take you to exciting destinations such as Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Kuching, or Miri. For travelers heading elsewhere, convenient connecting flights are easily accessible, ensuring a smooth transition to your next adventure.

As your Sarawak Private Tour comes to a close, the opportunities for further exploration in Borneo and beyond are endless. If you're eager to continue your Borneo Tour, consider combining this experience with our Sabah Splendors tour, offering a deeper dive into the natural wonders of Malaysian Borneo. Alternatively, expand your travels by exploring some of our other Malaysia and Singapore tours, like the Singapore Discovery or Kuala Lumpur EXTRA.

As a Malaysia Specialist Travel Agency, Malaya Travel is here to tailor every part of your journey to your interests. Whether you want to continue discovering Borneo or explore the vibrant cities of Malaysia and Singapore, we're here to create personalized itineraries that match your travel preferences. Your adventure doesn't end here—it only opens the door to more unforgettable experiences across Southeast Asia.

Hotel: none

Meals: Breakfast

Included Services: Mulu Airport Transfer provided by the hotel

I’ve explored every corner of Malaysia and Singapore, I can't wait to share my passion with you! What sets our tours apart is the personal care we put into every itinerary—crafted with our love for Southeast Asia and our deep local experience to ensure your trip is truly unforgettable. to make sure your trip is unforgettable. Let’s chat and start planning your adventure today!"

Call: (786) 833-0625

Email: peter@malayatravel.com

Or Let's Start Planning!