Headed for Borneo: Sabah or Sarawak?

[Leyla Giray Alyanak]

I don't have a lot of time - about 10 days - and I'm torn between Sabah and Sarawak... I'll be backpacking, not going to resorts. High on my list are wildlife, rainforest, beautiful scenery, some infrastructure (doesn't have to be much)... and it seems as though both provinces qualify.

Is there anything that could sway me either way? I'll be traveling in July. Thank you!

[Sandra & John Scott]

I suggest you read Into the Heartland of Borneo!   We have been to both but not as backpackers.  I think Saba is more developed.  But I bet both have homestay in traditional houses.. I know Sarawak does... good luck

[Diana Gaban]

Hi, i would recommend you to visit Sandakan and Lahad Datu in Sabah (situated in the East Coast of Sabah). Sandakan is about 45 minutes flight from our capital city, Kota Kinabalu. In Sandakan, visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and the Rainforest Discovery Centre (for wildlife and rainforest). for budget stay, there are B&B and lodges in this area. Sukau (Kinabatangan River) is also a very good area to spot our wildlife, the Proboscis Monkey (long nose monkey) or if you are lucky you will be able to see pygmy elephants! Homestays are available in Sukau area. For more adventure, spend a 4D/3N in Danum Valley where you are able to experience wildlife and jungle trekking in the rainforest. Enjoy beautiful scenery early in the morning from the canopy in Danum Valley or go for water tubing at Danum River. For budget stay, Danum Valley Field Centre offers hostel accommodation or you can also choose to camp there.

 

Hope this would help in planning your trip to Sabah, Malaysian, Borneo!

for more information, check out www.sabahtourism.com

[David Hogan]

Hi Diana :) Long time no see!

[Diana Gaban]

Hi David! :)

[David Hogan]

As I am always going back there every other month, my suggestion would be Sabah. You get the best of everything in just one state. They have good infrastructure in the main cities while the wildlife there is simple amazing. You have many choices in Sabah compared to Sarawak where mostly are pure rainforest, eco and nature only. Traveling time around Sarawak is a lot longer that in Sabah. Good luck and visit MalaysiaAsia if you want more information about Sabah and Sarawak.

David

[Leyla Giray Alyanak]

Perfect, David, I will and thanks so much for the advice!