by Jia Ying Chia
Whether you’re new to the scene or a seasoned wilding, finding a way to experience the call of nature across Borneo Island on any budget. Roughly half of Borneo is covered in lowland forest with 10% designated as protected areas so you’re never far from an exciting chance to be in the thick of it all. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite choices to experience the lush greenery across the island.
Remember to always contact park officials or tourism offices in the area if you are planning to set up your own tents and for confirmation on whether those sites have any safety advisories, especially if it’s remote area or during harsh weather conditions.
ECOPONIES, LAMUNIN, BRUNEI
Want to immerse yourself in a farm environment and traditional Dusun food and culture? This adorable homestay with its own local organic herb and veggie garden, camping spots available where you can set up your tent and get a warm meal for a small fee. They also do traditional Dusun cooking classes and hold cultural performances from time to time.
IG: @eco_poniesgarden
BINTUDOH GREEN SPRING RESORT, LAMUNIN, BRUNEI
Craving a bit of excitement and something to keep everyone in the family occupied? This self-contained resort has a great reputation for stargazing with its location further inland in the Tutong district, and it’s also a great spot for a digital detox filled with activities like ATV rides, boating in the lake and a flying fox.
IG: @bintudohgreenspringresortbn | Visit: www.bintudoh.com
BERAKAS FOREST RESERVE, BERAKAS, BRUNEI
A popular open beach front and plenty of facilities like public toilets, outdoor showers and a dedicated campsite area with ample parking, this is a great option for those wanting to do a back to basics experience without being too far away from civilisation. You’ll need to book a space through Forestry Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism before you can stay there.
THE ABODE, BATU APOI, BRUNEI
Easily accessible from the Temburong bridge, the Abode’s breathtaking safari-style tent villas are the epitome of glamorous camping. If you’re looking to spoil yourself or loved ones, the luxurious four-poster bed and riverside balcony are enough reason to visit. Whether you want to unwind at the spa or take the iconic Land Rover to the river for an afternoon of relaxation, you are do it all in style.
IG: @abodebrunei | Visit: www.abodebrunei.com
SUMBILING ECO-VILLAGE, BATANG DURI, BRUNEI
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
IG: @sumbilingecovillage Visit: www.sumbiling.com
KOKOL HOBBITON FOREST, KOTA KINABALU, SABAH
Truly a unique experience, there hobbit-style houses tucked away in a 13-acre woody forest will transport you to another world. Just 40 minutes away from KK City centre, the area around Kokol Hobbiton Forest is lush with natural landscapes particularly cascading waterfalls. Kokol Hobbiton has extra luxuries like air conditioning, a TV and an ensuite bathroom with toilet.
Visit: www.hounon.com
THE CLOUD, KUNDASANG, SABAH
You’ll literally be in Cloud 9 staying at this dome glamping site in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia! Nestled into the side of a mountain, The Cloud gives you a good introduction to glamping with access to resort facilities and the excitement of waking up on chilly mornings surrounded by fog. You might even forget you’re in Borneo! The road leading up is steep, so caution is advised if you are driving there. There are no restaurants onsite but you can bring your food to cook and utensils and cookware is provided.
FB: The Cloud Kinabalu – Glamping & Homestay Visit: www.thecloudecostay.com
SECRET PLACE, KUDAT, SABAH
Tucked away at the base of a beachside cliff range, this family-run campground and cafe has idyllic sea views — imagine zipping open your tent to a serene clear water bay that feels like your own deserted island! They’ve kept things deliberately simple to encourage guests to connect with each other and nature. Spend your days exploring the area of Borneo’s northern tip and come back to catch the famous sunsets, with a drink in hand and no worries at all.
FB: Secret Place Cafe & Camping Visit: www.secretplace.jimdofree.com
UNCLE TAN WILDLIFE CAMP, KINABATANGAN, SABAH
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
Visit: www.uncletan.com
ARA DINAWAN ISLAND RESORT, SABAH
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
KIYAU CAMPSITE, KG. SAPIT, SARAWAK
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
FB: KIYAU Campsite – Kampung Sapit
SAMPADI FAMILY HIDEOUT, SARAWAK
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
IG: @sumbilingecovillage Visit: www.sumbiling.com
SUMIRAN ECO PARK & RESORT, SARAWAK
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
IG: @sumbilingecovillage Visit: www.sumbiling.com
PINGGIR SIAK, SARAWAK
Making use of the classic A-frame structure, this glamping resort in Temburong is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for more creature comforts like a proper bed or fans to beat the heat and mosquitoes. The simple luxury Sumbiling Eco-Village offers in the heart of the jungle forest is a great way to get away from it all and still be comfortable.
IG: @sumbilingecovillage Visit: www.sumbiling.com
