Borneo Wildlife Discovery

Overview
The fun doesn't stop there. On this tour, you'll explore the jungles, the beaches and the markets of Borneo. Enjoy three cruises along the Kinabatangan River, explore Kinabalu National Park on a guided walk, tour the fascinating Rainforest Discovery Centre and even go snorkelling at beautiful Manukan island. Plus, take the opportunity to visit the Sandakan War Memorial Park, the Nabalu Village markets and the Mari Mari Cultural Village among many other local attractions. Includes return international flights, eight nights hotel and lodge accommodation, 23 meals (including a dinner in a Colonial-style teahouse), English-speaking tour guides and more.
Want more? Choose from Arrive Early in Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan, Malaysia, and Stay Behind in KL and Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Alternatively, extend this incredible adventure on a 12 day tour with Luxury Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort Extension.
Tour Inclusions
- Explore Kota Kinabalu, Ranau, Sukau and more
- Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Witness a morning orangutan feeding in the forest
- Go snorkelling at beautiful Manukan Island in Sabah
- Explore Kota Kinabalu National Park on a guided walk
- Delve into Borneo's past at Mari Mari Cultural Village
- Enjoy the scenic views on a drive through Crocker Range
- Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs at Nabalu Village markets
- Visit the historic Kundasang War Memorial Park
- Experience a fish spa (foot massage) at Kampung Luanti
- See the world's smallest bear at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Enjoy up to 3 cruises along the Kinabatangan River
- Visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkeys Sanctuary
- Search for Proboscis monkeys, Macaques and more
- Look for Bornean pygmy elephants on a Kinabatangan River cruise
- Enjoy a guided city tour of Sandakan
- Tour Sabah's fascinating Rainforest Discovery Centre
- Search for exotic flora and fauna native to Borneo
- Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
- 8 nights standard and lodge accommodation
- Enjoy 23 meals including a dinner in an English-style tea house
- Transportation by private A/C vehicles
- Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
- Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
- Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location. (See checkout for details)
- Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary. (See checkout for details)
- Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class. (See checkout for details)
- Premium Accommodation: Upgrade your accommodation package. (See checkout for details)
- Guaranteed Airline: Fly with a guaranteed airline. (See checkout for details) Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.
Accommodation
- 2 nights luxury resort accommodation at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort
- Stay in a well-appointed Garden Wing Deluxe Room
Dining
- Daily Buffet Breakfast
Itinerary Itinerary Brochure Download
Today, depart for Sandakan via Kuala Lumpur. Fly with award winning Malaysian Airlines.
Upon arrival you will be met and assisted at Sandakan airport transfer to the Hotel. This evening meet at the lobby and transfer to a local restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Please note: due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on day 0. Affected customers must be available to depart the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents, issued 4-6 weeks before departure.
Please note: Due to limited flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan, some customers may experience a layover in Kuala Lumpur of up to 6.5 hours and lounge passes can be purchased at your own expense.
Overnight: Sabah Hotel, Sandakan
Meals included: Dinner; In-Flight
After breakfast, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. On arrival, proceed to the outdoor nursery to witness the amazing conservation work being done. The nursery is where young orangutans learn to socialise and play with each other under the close supervision of their human carers. Afterwards, head to the feeding platform for the morning feeding and then watch a video presentation to further understand the objective and purpose of the centre.
Next, you will visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, which is home to rescued Sun Bears, the world’s smallest bear. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, drive to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary (approximately 30 minutes away) and witness the feeding of these endemic animals in their natural habitat. On a lucky day, one might also see the silver leaf monkey or a Bornean Hornbill.
Afterwards proceed onwards to the Sandakan War Memorial Garden, where the World War II tragic tale of the Sandakan Death March is told at the site of the POW camp, from where the marches began. Finish the day back at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon free at leisure. In the evening meet in the hotel lobby and proceed for dinner at The English Tea House before returning to the hotel.
Overnight: Sabah Hotel, Sandakan
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After breakfast you will visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre and explore one of Sabah’s finest examples of remaining tropical forest by experiencing the guided canopy walkway famed for bird watching or birding photography. After the guided canopy walk, proceed to the Botanical Gardens - home to at least several hundred both endemic and introduced plants - and conclude your visit at the exhibit centre. Mid-morning depart for Sukau, in Kinabatangan (approximately 2.5 hours away) and arrive in time for lunch and to check-in to the hotel.
Enjoy afternoon tea before a river cruise in search of Proboscis Monkeys, Macaques and other fascinating wildlife that gather along the Kinabatangan River - the longest river in Sabah. Return in time to freshen up for dinner at the lodge.
Overnight: Borneo Nature Lodge, Sukau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Wake up early this morning for a sunrise cruise to search for more wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bornean pygmy elephant, native to the tropical rainforests of Borneo. One of the world's most charming and unique pachyderms, these pint-sized elephants are known for their small stature and gentle disposition in comparison to their much larger African cousins.
Cruise for approximately one hour with the option of a short jungle walk at Ox Bow Lake before heading back to the lodge for breakfast.
Enjoy free time before meeting at the lodge restaurant for afternoon tea and embarking on the late afternoon river cruise to search for more wildlife, or alternatively relax and enjoy leisure time at the lodge.
Overnight: Borneo Nature Lodge, Sukau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After breakfast, check out of the lodge and depart for Sabah Tea Garden Plantation (approximately 4 hours away) in time for lunch at Sabah Tea Garden. Then, after lunch, indulge in some free time at your leisure before enjoying a fish spa (foot massage) at Kampung Luanti. Enjoy dinner at Sabah Tea Garden Plantation.
Overnight: Sabah Tea Garden Cottages, Ranau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
This morning, after breakfast, tour the Kundasang War Memorial Park. The park is made up of four beautiful gardens: the Australian Garden, the English Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool, which represent the different nationalities involved in the Borneo campaign during World War 2. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Kinabalu National Park for a guided walk in the Botanical Garden in search of native plants and wild orchids. Lastly, drive through the Crocker Range with amazing scenic views and along the way stop at Nabalu Village market to browse for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks. Check-in to the respective hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After a sleep in and breakfast you will transfer to Jesselton Point Jetty to catch a boat to Manukan Island. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling around a tropical island, as well as a buffet lunch. This afternoon you will return to the mainland and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Today, depart after breakfast to the Mari-Mari Cultural Village. The village is located about 25 minutes away from the city. The journey will explore tropical jungles and local villages. Arriving at Mari-Mari take in the colours of cultural diversity, where visitors can savour the soul of Sabah. Enjoy tours of the local ethnic communities' traditional homes, with culinary, craft and dance demonstrations.
Each home was built by descendants of the tribes they represent and offer a truly genuine experience. Not only does this village portray these tribes through the architectural genius of their traditional house, but also through a range of simulated lives of the olden epoch by the residents of the village. Acquaint yourself with each tribe as they welcome you into their house and simple yet intricate lives. While traversing the village, find demonstration huts along the main houses in which daily activities of old times come into life. There is plenty to do for everyone; the making of blowpipe, starting a fire with just a bamboo tree, tattoo-making and more. An unforgettable encounter of the Sabahan homeland. Lunch will be at Mari-Mari Cultural Village.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Today transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Please note: some travellers may have an evening departure this day, and luggage storage facilities will be available at the hotel so you may explore Kota Kinabalu at leisure before your flight.
Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight
Today, depart for Sandakan via Kuala Lumpur. Fly with award winning Malaysian Airlines.
Upon arrival you will be met and assisted at Sandakan airport transfer to the Hotel. This evening meet at the lobby and transfer to a local restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Please note: due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on day 0. Affected customers must be available to depart the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents, issued 4-6 weeks before departure.
Please note: Due to limited flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan, some customers may experience a layover in Kuala Lumpur of up to 6.5 hours and lounge passes can be purchased at your own expense.
Overnight: Sabah Hotel, Sandakan
Meals included: Dinner; In-Flight
After breakfast, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. On arrival, proceed to the outdoor nursery to witness the amazing conservation work being done. The nursery is where young orangutans learn to socialise and play with each other under the close supervision of their human carers. Afterwards, head to the feeding platform for the morning feeding and then watch a video presentation to further understand the objective and purpose of the centre.
Next, you will visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, which is home to rescued Sun Bears, the world’s smallest bear. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, drive to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary (approximately 30 minutes away) and witness the feeding of these endemic animals in their natural habitat. On a lucky day, one might also see the silver leaf monkey or a Bornean Hornbill.
Afterwards proceed onwards to the Sandakan War Memorial Garden, where the World War II tragic tale of the Sandakan Death March is told at the site of the POW camp, from where the marches began. Finish the day back at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon free at leisure. In the evening meet in the hotel lobby and proceed for dinner at The English Tea House before returning to the hotel.
Overnight: Sabah Hotel, Sandakan
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After breakfast you will visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre and explore one of Sabah’s finest examples of remaining tropical forest by experiencing the guided canopy walkway famed for bird watching or birding photography. After the guided canopy walk, proceed to the Botanical Gardens - home to at least several hundred both endemic and introduced plants - and conclude your visit at the exhibit centre. Mid-morning depart for Sukau, in Kinabatangan (approximately 2.5 hours away) and arrive in time for lunch and to check-in to the hotel.
Enjoy afternoon tea before a river cruise in search of Proboscis Monkeys, Macaques and other fascinating wildlife that gather along the Kinabatangan River - the longest river in Sabah. Return in time to freshen up for dinner at the lodge.
Overnight: Borneo Nature Lodge, Sukau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Wake up early this morning for a sunrise cruise to search for more wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bornean pygmy elephant, native to the tropical rainforests of Borneo. One of the world's most charming and unique pachyderms, these pint-sized elephants are known for their small stature and gentle disposition in comparison to their much larger African cousins.
Cruise for approximately one hour with the option of a short jungle walk at Ox Bow Lake before heading back to the lodge for breakfast.
Enjoy free time before meeting at the lodge restaurant for afternoon tea and embarking on the late afternoon river cruise to search for more wildlife, or alternatively relax and enjoy leisure time at the lodge.
Overnight: Borneo Nature Lodge, Sukau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After breakfast, check out of the lodge and depart for Sabah Tea Garden Plantation (approximately 4 hours away) in time for lunch at Sabah Tea Garden. Then, after lunch, indulge in some free time at your leisure before enjoying a fish spa (foot massage) at Kampung Luanti. Enjoy dinner at Sabah Tea Garden Plantation.
Overnight: Sabah Tea Garden Cottages, Ranau (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
This morning, after breakfast, tour the Kundasang War Memorial Park. The park is made up of four beautiful gardens: the Australian Garden, the English Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool, which represent the different nationalities involved in the Borneo campaign during World War 2. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Kinabalu National Park for a guided walk in the Botanical Garden in search of native plants and wild orchids. Lastly, drive through the Crocker Range with amazing scenic views and along the way stop at Nabalu Village market to browse for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks. Check-in to the respective hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
After a sleep in and breakfast you will transfer to Jesselton Point Jetty to catch a boat to Manukan Island. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling around a tropical island, as well as a buffet lunch. This afternoon you will return to the mainland and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Today, depart after breakfast to the Mari-Mari Cultural Village. The village is located about 25 minutes away from the city. The journey will explore tropical jungles and local villages. Arriving at Mari-Mari take in the colours of cultural diversity, where visitors can savour the soul of Sabah. Enjoy tours of the local ethnic communities' traditional homes, with culinary, craft and dance demonstrations.
Each home was built by descendants of the tribes they represent and offer a truly genuine experience. Not only does this village portray these tribes through the architectural genius of their traditional house, but also through a range of simulated lives of the olden epoch by the residents of the village. Acquaint yourself with each tribe as they welcome you into their house and simple yet intricate lives. While traversing the village, find demonstration huts along the main houses in which daily activities of old times come into life. There is plenty to do for everyone; the making of blowpipe, starting a fire with just a bamboo tree, tattoo-making and more. An unforgettable encounter of the Sabahan homeland. Lunch will be at Mari-Mari Cultural Village.
Overnight: Hotel Shangri-la, Kota Kinabalu (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Today check out and transfer to another Shangri-La property - the nearby luxury Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort (approximately 1 hour outside of Kota Kinabalu).
Escape out of the city and journey into nature; where the sea meets the rainforest, and a warm welcome awaits. Create memories at this 400-acre beach resort with a 3 km private beach, 64-acre forest reserve and 18-hole golf course. Soak in the sun, sand and the sea or enjoy the great outdoors with over 60 activities at the resort.
Overnight: Shangri-la Rasa Ria Resort (Garden Wing Deluxe Room), Kota Kinabalu
Today is a free day to enjoy the resorts facilities and beaches.
Overnight: Shangri-la Rasa Ria Resort (Garden Wing Deluxe Room), Kota Kinabalu
Meals included: Breakfast
Today transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Please note: some travellers may have an evening departure this day, and luggage storage facilities will be available at the hotel so you may explore Kota Kinabalu at leisure before your flight.
Important Info
After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.
Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Qantas Tours packages are non-refundable. If your Qantas Tour package is affected by Covid-19 related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other Qantas Tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.
We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).
This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 18th September 2024.
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies.
• 10 Day Package: $600
• 12 Day Package: $950
Departure Dates
2023
September: **25
October: *2, 9, 16, *23
November: 6, 13, 20, *27
December: **4, **11
2024:
February: *7, 21
March: 6, 13, 20
April: *10, *24
May: 1, 8, 22, 29
June: 5, 12, *19, *26
July: **3, *24, *31
August: *7, 14, 21, 22, 28
September: 4, *11, *18
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.
Surcharges
• dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $350 per person.
• dates/months with a ** incur a high season surcharge of $500 per person.
Departure Cities
Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, *Brisbane, *Adelaide or *Auckland (New Zealand)
Departure City Surcharges
Adelaide: $100 per person
Brisbane: $350 per person
Auckland: $1,050 per person
Full-Service Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Airlines: Malaysian Airlines plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability).
Please note: TripADeal cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.
Guaranteed Airline surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Singapore Airlines: $850 per person
Please note:
• Guaranteed airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased guaranteed airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the guaranteed airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Guaranteed airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners.
Arrive early in Sandakan, Malaysia
$300per person (only available for purchases over the phone)
High season dates range up to $700 per person, subject to availability
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024
Stay behind in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
$300 per person (only available for purchases over the phone)
High season dates: up to $700 per person, subject to availability
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024
Stopover Packages (Pre-Tour Only)
*Kuala Lumpur
Twin share: $900 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1200 one way
*Singapore
Twin share: $1,200 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,800 one way
Includes:
• 2 nights in superior accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers
Please note:
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased guaranteed airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the guaranteed airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
Stopover not available during the following dates:
2024
- Singapore Taylor Swift Concert: 01 - 10 March 2024
- Singapore Grand Prix: 18 - 24 September 2024
*F1 Calendar 2024 - https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.formula-1-announces-calendar-for-2024.XL3c5Cxi0ZOQzPrUu5izL.html
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed; subject to aircraft configuration.
Accommodation Used
• Standard Properties
Sandakan: Sabah Hotel
Kota Kinabalu: Hotel Shangri-la
Ranau: Sabah Tea Garden Cottage
• Speciality Lodge
Sukau: Borneo Nature Lodge
• Luxury Resort
Kota Kinabalu Area: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort
Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
Extra Nights
Not available at check-out.
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour.
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for Children 6 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.
Triple Share
Not available.
Bedding Configuration
2 x Single Bed or 1 x Queen (subject to availability).
Adjoining/Interconnecting Rooms
Subject to availability and at the hotel's discretion. Please inquire upon booking if you require this option.
Minimum group size 10, maximum group size 24 per vehicle.
Love the tour but fancy a private guide, driver and vehicle? This tour can run exclusively with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10 for a $500 supplement per person for either itineraries (a single supplement price can be found under ‘Offer Essentials’, dependant on which itinerary is chosen).
Important notes:
• Private tour guide (not applicable on free days with no included activities)
• All transfers and land transportation is on a private basis
• Visa fees and requirements
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping
• Optional activities/tours
• Malaysian Tourism Tax: 10 RM (approx. $3.50 AUD) per room per night collected on tour
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
ACCOMMODATION TERMINOLOGY USE
Standard / Simple
The property offers clean and basic accommodation. In-house facilities such as restaurants, luggage handling, and fitness and recreation facilities are limited or unavailable. Guest rooms include a private bathroom and minimal additional amenities. The location may vary from central areas to properties that may require public transport, taxi or rideshare to the centre at your own expense.
Luxury
Properties offer the highest dining standard, comfort, service, decor, attention to detail and a high staff-to-guest ratio. Fitness and recreational facilities and wellness centres are generally on-site. Guest rooms are spacious and include luxurious bedding, bath products, and extensive amenities. Centrally located within easy access to a range of dining, entertainment and shopping options.
Specialty / Boutique / Homestays / Heritage / Lodge
Unique properties include tented camps, heritage properties, rural or village homestays, floating hotels, or tree-top accommodation. Generally independent properties with a selection of amenities and individual character and charm. Some destinations (tents, tea houses in Nepal, gers in Mongolia), may have shared bathroom facilities and non-western style toilets. Properties may follow enhanced sustainability practices, support local communities and generally employ local people who may not be as well trained in service standards.
Resort
A destination that attempts to offer guests everything they need in one location: accommodations, dining, drinks, leisure activities, shopping, and entertainment. Often located in popular vacation destinations such as beaches, ski parks or historic areas. Some resorts are all-inclusive, allowing travellers to pay one price for unlimited service.
TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group.
Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined.
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured.
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Borneo
As part of the Sabah area, Kota Kinabalu features a typical equatorial climate with constant temperatures. Kota Kinabalu's average temperature ranges from 26°C to 28°C. April and May are the hottest months, while January is the coolest one. The average annual rainfall is around 2,400mm and varies markedly throughout the year.
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
At Qantas Tours, we do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
COACH TOUR
Meals
Most meals in total are included in the package. For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify Qantas Tours of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and offloading of bags from the vehicle.
OTHER
Mobility
If you would love to travel with Qantas Tours and require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
Fitness Level Required
Easy/Low
Light walking on well-maintained surfaces, occasional climbing of stairs and ability to get on and off vehicles without assistance and stand for a minimum of 30 mins in hot/humid conditions. A general level of fitness and mobility.
Please note: If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
Yellow Fever
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival.
You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
Gratuities / Tipping
Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour.
Please note: tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.
Sightseeing
Please note: If entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).
Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts.
Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.
A 90 day tourist visa will generally be granted upon arrival into Borneo, Malaysia if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport.
Important:
Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19.
Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Please note: Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.
Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
Supplier Fees
In the event the Qantas Tour you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.
You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
To earn Qantas Points with Qantas Tours, Members will be required to provide a valid Frequent Flyer number and last name at checkout. Only the lead traveller, the primary contact for the booking, will earn 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent (including GST) on eligible holiday packages. Qantas Points will not be earned and cannot be redeemed on any amounts payable directly to the hotel. Conditions apply. Qantas Points will be credited to a member's account up to 8 weeks after tour completion. Qantas Points will not be earned on cancelled bookings.
In addition to the 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent, each Frequent Flyer member who enters their Qantas Frequent Flyer number into the booking will also earn Status Credits and Qantas Points on the flight component of the package. The amount you earn depends on your flights, the operating airline, fare class and member status. Find out how many Qantas Points you could earn on your next Qantas Tours flights with our online Points Calculator. Terms and conditions apply.
Points Plus Pay allows you to choose the number of Qantas Points you redeem above the minimum level of 4,000 and pay for the remainder of the booking value with an accepted payment method. TripADeal booking terms and conditions apply.