Highlights of Kuala Lumpur & Borneo Suggested Itinerary

This carefully designed itinerary takes you from Kuala Lumpur's cacophony to the rainforest's serenity and the oh-so-beautiful beaches of Kota Kinabalu.

On a holiday of contrasts, begin with an urban adventure in Kuala Lumpur before flying to Malaysian Borneo for old-world charm and exceptional food in Kota Kinabalu. Then you’ll retreat to the rainforest where orangutans, monkeys, and Borneo elephants thrive before spending your final few days winding down in a luxury beach resort.

Duration 12 nights

Visiting 12 nights Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Danum Valley, Kota Kinabalu or Gaya Island

Interest Adventure, Wildlife, Culture

Recommended itinerary

Days 1-3

Kuala Lumpur

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia — a place where modern towers sit side-by-side with colonial architecture. Stay at The Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur and you're right at the heart of the city in what is quite the urban sanctuary thanks to its gardens, state-of-the-art spa, pool set against a backdrop of skyscrapers. There’s enough time to visit the famous Petronas Towers, get swept up in colourful night markets, and revel in gastronomic delights.

Street food, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Days 4-5

Kota Kinabalu

A two-and-a-half-hour flight will take you to Malaysian Borneo, home of Kota Kinabalu city, affectionately known as KK. It’s a gateway to the region’s magnificent scenery, but linger here first to enjoy this foodie paradise with a seemingly endless choice of restaurants and hawker stalls before escaping the city for the coast, where the rainforest meets the sea at Shangri-La Rasa Ria.

Street food, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Day 6

Danum Valley

Catch a short early flight from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu, where your rainforest adventure starts with a drive to the Borneo Rainforest Lodge in the Danum Valley. You’ll head out into the jungle on a trek along a 360-metre-long treetop canopy walkway to get among the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The outdoor activities continue after nightfall when you hop in an open-air jeep and set off on a nature drive searching for nocturnal animals.

Red leaf monkey, Malaysia

Western tasier, Malaysia

Day 7

Danum Valley

Today starts with a trek to Coffin Cliff, an ancient burial site where wooden coffins are wedged into the cliffside. Your efforts are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Danum Valley. On your return journey, there’s time for a refreshing dip in a natural pool. Later, you can choose a jungle trek or try tubing down the Danum River in the afternoon, and then a thrilling night walk rounds off a memorable day.

Danum Valley. Malaysia

Day 8

Danum Valley

Your final adventure is up to you: birdwatching along the canopy walkway or a guided walk along the trails. Relaxation lies ahead when you return to Kota Kinabalu for a few beach days.

Aerial view, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort, Malaysia

Watersports Centre, Shangri La Rasa Ria, Malaysia

Days 9-13

Kota Kinabalu

Head back to Shangri-La Rasa Ria and the beach for some post-adventure R&R surrounded by forest-clad landscapes.

Suggested hotels

Kuala Lumpur 5 stars

Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

A favourite choice in Kuala Lumpur, with award-winning dining and an outdoor pool.

Borneo 5 stars

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Backed by rainforest and overlooking a white sand bay, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is both escapist and adventurous.

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