Borneo
Volunteer in Borneo
Discover the allure of Borneo, where the symphony of bird songs, insect chatter and primate calls ring out as a declaration of the island's biodiversity. Renowned for its opulent rainforests and expansive beaches, Borneo is the motherland to a staggering array of unique species, many found nowhere else on Earth.
Over the years, Borneo's seemingly never-ending resources have been chipped away, unveiling a bleak future for the wildlife and plant species that call the region home. Deforestation and forest fires, alongside increasing levels of illegal wildlife trade, threaten many species with extinction - most notably the critically endangered orangutan. Join us on a volunteer project in Borneo, where passion meets purpose and wildlife conservation is at the forefront of your adventure. As a volunteer in Borneo, you'll delve deep into the rainforest, lending a hand at a world-renowned orangutan sanctuary like the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Volunteer Project or helping to reforest the 'Corridor of Life' on The Great Orangutan and Pygmy Elephant Project. Whatever you choose, you'll forge unforgettable connections with the wildlife and people you meet.
Projects Do More
7 - 28 Nights from $994.00
Volunteer with orangutans on this award-winning orangutan project at Matang Wildlife Centre in beautiful Borneo!
View project
12 - 26 Nights from $1,869.00
Work on enrichment for 112 orangutans and 72 sun bears at the world-renowned Samboja Lestari Rescue Centre
View project
6 Nights from $1,094.00
Travel with your family to Borneo, and see how you can aid orangutan conservation whilst meeting indigenous tribes-people on this exciting wildlife safari!
View project
11 Nights from $1,807.00
Help to restore Borneo’s rainforest and provide a safe home for wild orangutans and pygmy elephants.
View project
12 - 26 Nights from $1,494.00
Help to rehabilitate the largest number of rescued orangutans in the world by volunteering at this orangutan sanctuary – made famous by the TV show Orangutan Jungle School!
View projectTours See More
Wildlife
Borneo's tropical rainforests provide the perfect home for over 1,400 different wildlife species and well over 15,000 plant species, with huge percentages endemic solely to the island. The biodiverse treasure trove found within the depths of the forests draws in many scientists each year in hopes of discovering and naming new species; in a 15-year period, over 600 new species were brought to light. However, it's Borneo's better-known animals that draw wildlife holiday enthusiasts to the island, with visitors flocking to the rainforest to catch a glimpse of pygmy elephants, rhinos, bats, monkeys, sun bears, and, of course, the country's most renowned great ape, the orangutan. Yet, if more isn't done to combat the sharpening incline of deforestation, habitat fragmentation and rampant poaching, no forests and wildlife may be left to visit. Join a wildlife conservation project in Borneo and help preserve this unbelievable habitat and the unique animals that call it home.
Culture
The richness of Bornean culture comes from a fascinating blend of influences shaped by its varied history. While the island is home to diverse ethnic groups, the Malay community takes the lead in numbers. Yet, it's the indigenous Dayak tribes that steal the spotlight, with the Ibans (Sea Dayaks) and Bidayuh (Land Dayaks) residing in traditional longhouses, offering a unique cultural immersion. Explore Iban tribal villages, where remnants of their headhunting past, including a collection of skulls, showcase a gripping history. The culinary scene in Borneo is equally diverse, complementing its human history dating back over 40,000 years, and some of the world's oldest cave paintings bear witness to the country's longstanding artistry. Uncover Borneo's past and present by embarking on a volunteer holiday in Borneo that allows you to live alongside locals. Immerse yourself in an extraordinary experience, learning from those deeply connected to Borneo's land and the stories it holds.
Popular Sights
Extending far beyond its famed wildlife, Borneo offers a diverse range of incredible experiences for the intrepid traveller. With so many hot spots to explore, you're spoilt for choice. The enchanting Mulu National Park boasts the world's largest cave passage and breathtaking landscapes. In Kota Kinabalu, the imposing 4,095m Mount Kinabalu commands attention, surrounded by crystal-clear waters that transform the area into a diver's paradise. Meanwhile, the vibrant city of Kuching invites exploration with its dynamic ambience, featuring amazing restaurants, scenic beaches, and a rich historical backdrop. Borneo unfolds as more than just an ancient rainforest; it reveals many popular attractions and excursions, promising a unique and unforgettable volunteer holiday in Borneo.
Destination Information
The best orangutan sanctuary in Borneo depends on your interests. In Malaysian Borneo, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is ideal for visitors seeking an accessible and educational experience. At the same time, Matang Wildlife Centre offers a more intimate setting, especially through volunteering on The Great Orangutan Project. Semenggoh Wildlife Centre provides a relaxed atmosphere for a visit to observe semi-wild orangutans.
In Indonesian Borneo, Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary is renowned for large-scale rehabilitation; although it is not open to tourists, it does have a volunteer programme, and its sister-site Samboja Lestari Orangutan Sanctuary combines orangutan and sun bear care with habitat restoration and an eco-lodge that both volunteers and visitors can enjoy. Sepilok and Semenggoh are great for eco-tourism and education visits. However, for meaningful volunteer work, Matang Wildlife Centre, Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary or Samboja Lestari Orangutan Sanctuary offer deeper conservation involvement.
You can see wild orangutans in Borneo in several protected areas and national parks. The following offer great opportunities to see wild orangutans:
Malaysian Borneo
- Danum Valley Conservation Area: A pristine rainforest known for its biodiversity, including wild orangutans. It offers excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.
- Kinabatangan River: A popular spot for river cruises, where you can often see wild orangutans along the riverbanks, along with pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys.
- Tabin Wildlife Reserve: A lesser-known destination for spotting wild orangutans, this reserve offers guided jungle walks and wildlife experiences.
- Batang Ai National Park: Known for its population of wild orangutans, the remote park offers longboat trips and treks to see these great apes in the wild, along with the opportunity to experience Iban culture.
Indonesian Borneo
- Gunung Palung National Park: Home to one of the largest populations of wild orangutans, providing rewarding wildlife treks.
- Tanjung Puting National Park: Famous for its orangutan population and river-based wildlife tours, where you can explore the park by boat to spot orangutans along the riverside.
Borneo is generally a safe destination for tourists, but taking a few precautions is important. Be mindful and respectful of wildlife and keep a safe distance. Tropical diseases, including malaria and dengue, are present in some areas, so use mosquito repellent and consider antimalarial medication if travelling around Borneo. The terrain can be challenging with steep, slippery trails, especially during the rainy season, so hiking with guides is best. In rural areas, drink bottled or purified water and be cautious when eating street food. Petty crimes, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist spots, so keep an eye on your belongings. With these measures, Borneo offers a safe and enriching eco-tourism experience.
The Orangutan Jungle School was filmed at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Indonesian Borneo.
