Getting around Borneo

Welcome to Borneo, the world's third-largest island, a breathtaking mosaic of ancient rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and diverse cultures spanning three nations: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. As a traveler, whether you're an eco-tourist looking to explore the dense jungles and exotic fauna or a culture enthusiast eager to experience the unique traditions of the indigenous Dayak people, knowing how to navigate this vast island efficiently is paramount.

Navigating Borneo can be challenging due to its sheer size and the varying availability of transport options across its different regions. Modes of transportation can vastly differ between the more urbanized areas and the remote locales, where sometimes rivers are the main highways. Efficient travel strategies in Borneo not only save you time but also enhance your experience, allowing you to cover diverse landscapes and cultural sites with ease.

In this guide, we'll dive deep into the various transportation options available in Borneo, equip you with practical tips, and highlight essential travel practices to help you plan a seamless adventure. Whether you're island-hopping, exploring the dense interior, or moving between cities, understanding your options will significantly impact your Borneo adventure.

Understanding Borneo’s Geography and Key Destinations

Borneo is a vast island, divided among three countries: Indonesia's Kalimantan takes up the southern and central parts, while Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak cover portions of the north and the entire northwestern coast, respectively. Brunei, nestled on the north coast of the island, occupies a small but affluent region.

Must-Visit Destinations:

Kota Kinabalu (Sabah, Malaysia): Often the entry point for travelers heading to Sabah, it’s renowned for its bustling markets, beautiful waterfront, and as a gateway to Mount Kinabalu.
Kuching (Sarawak, Malaysia): The capital city of Sarawak is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, colonial architecture, and proximity to national parks like Bako and Semenggoh.
Balikpapan (Kalimantan, Indonesia): Known for its ecotourism and conservation efforts, this city offers a mix of urban and natural attractions.
Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei): The Bruneian capital is noted for its majestic mosques, serene water village, and the regal Istana Nurul Iman palace.

Understanding the geographic layout and what each region offers helps in planning your travel routes and the modes of transport you might choose.

Modes of Transport in Borneo

Over the Road: Buses, Cars, and Motorbikes

Travel by road, whether by bus, car, or motorbike, offers the most flexibility and is ideal for exploring major cities and towns as well as connecting to rural areas.

Buses: An economical option for covering long distances, especially within Malaysian Borneo. State-run and private buses serve routes between major cities and towns.
Car Rentals: Renting a car gives you full control over your itinerary. Road conditions are generally good in Malaysian Borneo, but less so in Kalimantan.
Motorbikes: Suitable for adventurous travelers. They offer a way to navigate through tighter spots and can be a thrill when exploring Sabah and Sarawak’s scenic routes.

By Air: Domestic Flights Between Key Locations

Given Borneo's vast area, flying is a time-saving mode of transportation. Major cities like Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and Balikpapan host international airports, with numerous domestic flights linking small airstrips to bigger urban centers.

Domestic Airlines: Services such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Garuda Indonesia offer extensive networks within Borneo.

On Water: Ferries and River Boats

Exploring Borneo’s rivers and coastal regions by boat provides a unique perspective and is essential in areas where roads are scarce.

Ferries: Connect mainland points with islands like Labuan and Indonesian archipelagos.
River Boats: Essential in regions such as the remote areas of Kalimantan and along the Rajang River in Sarawak.

The Unique Option: Borneo’s Railways

Rail travel in Borneo is limited but offers a scenic way to travel, particularly in Sabah where the historic North Borneo Railway runs from Tanjung Aru to Tenom, providing stunning views of the countryside.

Railway Routes in Sabah:

Tanjung Aru to Papar: Covering 38 kilometers, this route passes through scenic landscapes, paddy fields, and rural villages.
Kota Kinabalu to Tenom: This route spans 134 kilometers, taking passengers through lush rainforests and picturesque valleys.

For a truly immersive experience, consider selecting a railway journey that aligns with your desired destinations.

Tips for Efficient Travel in Borneo

Planning is crucial to navigate Borneo effectively:

Understand Regional Differences: Transport availability varies greatly between Kalimantan, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Combine Transport Modes: Often you’ll need to combine flying, driving, and boating to reach your destination efficiently.
Culture and Eco-conscious Travel: Respect local customs and consider eco-friendly travel options to minimize environmental impact.

Top Travel Tips for Navigating Borneo Efficiently:

Research and choose the transportation mode that best suits your needs and desired destinations.
Plan your itinerary in advance, allowing time for regional variations in transport schedules.
Check for online booking options, especially for flights, to secure the best fares.
Be prepared for unplanned delays due to weather conditions or infrastructure limitations.
Consider guided tours or travel agents who can help arrange transportation and provide local insights.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to navigate Borneo's diverse landscapes and make the most of your time on the island.

Navigating Borneo: Practical Examples

To better illustrate how different transportation options can be combined for efficient travel, here are a few practical examples:

Example 1: From the Airport to Wildlife Encounters at Sepilok, Sabah

Arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport: Take a taxi or rideshare service to Sandakan.
Sandakan to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Catch a local bus or hire a car for the 25 km journey.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to Tabin Wildlife Reserve: Organize a transfer or join a guided tour to reach Tabin, as there are no direct public transport options.

Example 2: Exploring Sarawak’s Cultural Hub, Kuching

Arrival at Kuching International Airport: Take a taxi or rideshare service to your accommodation.
Exploring Kuching: Utilize local buses or walk to explore the city center and nearby attractions such as the Kuching Waterfront and Sarawak Museum.
Day Trip to Bako National Park: Arrange a transfer to the Bako Jetty and then take a boat to Bako Village. From there, a park shuttle and guided walks will help you explore this beautiful wildlife haven.

These examples demonstrate the importance of considering different transportation options to reach desired destinations efficiently.