Discover
Borneo

Sabah, on the island of Borneo, is a land of breathtaking rainforests, rare wildlife and rich indigenous cultures.
Journey through ancient jungles, meet unique communities and encounter some of the world's most incredible animals – from orangutans to pygmy elephants. With its stunning landscapes and deep-rooted traditions, Sabah offers an unforgettable adventure filled with learning, exploration and meaningful cultural exchange.
Icon for nights 7 - 28 nights
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Ideal for Geography, Biology & Conservation, Outdoor Expeditions

Highlights

  • Encounter orangutans, sun bears and river wildlife

  • Hike Kinabalu Park’s biodiverse rainforest trails

  • Engage with local schools and communities

  • Learn hands-on jungle survival skills from local experts

Sample itinerary

Here’s how your school trip to Borneo could look. Take this as a starting point and tailor it to your school (including duration, locations and activities).

Day 1

Your Borneo trip begins in Kota Kinabalu

After landing in Kota Kinabalu, you will be met by your Gapforce leader and transferred to your accommodation. There you will have an orientation and some time to unwind before enjoying a welcome meal. 

Day 2

Kudat – night hike

Travel north to Kudat and settle into your rustic jungle huts. As the sun sets, grab your torch and join our expert guide for a night forest walk - keep your eyes peeled for glowing fungi, frogs, and nocturnal wildlife. A real-life jungle adventure begins! 

Day 3

Kudat – Jungle survival course

Today, it’s all about learning to live like a local in the rainforest! You’ll be taught essential jungle survival techniques - from shelter building and water sourcing to fire making. Put your skills to the test and connect deeply with the environment. 

Day 4

Kudat – Local school visit

Head into a local school where you'll take part in a rewarding community service project - interact with local students, help with classroom or outdoor improvements, and make unforgettable connections. A day of teamwork, learning, and cultural exchange. 

Day 5

Kiulu Valley – Village walk and jungle hike

Transfer to Kiulu Valley, surrounded by stunning green hills. Get to know this peaceful region with a village walk, learning about Dusun culture and traditions. In the afternoon, tackle a scenic hike through rainforest trails before settling into camp under the stars. 

Day 6

Kiulu Valley – community project and tree planting

Spend the morning supporting local community initiatives - this might be painting, gardening, or assisting with infrastructure. In the afternoon, take action for the planet by planting native trees to help reforest and protect this amazing ecosystem for generations to come. 

Day 7

Kota Kinabalu – UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park forest exploration

Head to the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park, home to Malaysia’s highest mountain. Explore the stunning botanical gardens, brimming with rare orchids and pitcher plants, before setting off on a 2.5km rainforest hike – an unforgettable journey into one of the world's most biodiverse areas. 

Day 8

Sepilok – Travel to Sepilok

Enjoy a scenic journey across Sabah to Sepilok, gateway to incredible wildlife conservation. Settle in and relax this evening in your new surroundings, ready for a day of epic wildlife encounters. Anticipation is in the air! 

Day 9

Sepilok – Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sun Bear conservation centre and river cruise

Meet Sabah’s most famous residents at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, followed by a visit to the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. In the afternoon, cruise down the Kinabatangan River, spotting wild proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and maybe even pygmy elephants. 

Day 10

Bilit – Kinabatangan River cruise and wildlife eco action

Wake early for a serene morning river cruise through misty jungle waterways. Later, help plant elephant grass to create safe corridors for wildlife. End the day with one final magical cruise as the sun sets over the Kinabatangan - nature at its finest. 

Day 11

Heading home, reflecting on challenges embraced and adventures achieved

Farewell Sabah

After days packed with discovery, it’s time to journey home. As you make your way to the airport and reflect on all you’ve experienced – the challenges you embraced, the landscapes you explored, and the people you met – you’ll realise how much you’ve seen and achieved in a short time.

This trip will broaden horizons, strengthen skills, and offer a deeper connection to the world. Students return not only with memories, but with perspectives and experiences that will continue to shape their futures.

Learning beyond the classroom

Discovery is one of the most powerful ways to learn. Through cultural immersion, hands-on projects, outdoor adventures and meaningful local interactions, students experience learning in action while developing confidence, curiosity and a deeper connection to the world around them. Below are some of the curriculum areas this expedition can support.

  • Community Impact:

    Support conservation and meaningful local development projects.

  • Adventure & Outdoor Learning:

    Jungle survival skills, rainforest exploration and wildlife expeditions.

  • Field Studies:

    Explore tropical ecosystems and human-environment interactions.

  • Wildlife & Conservation:

    Study rainforest biodiversity and endangered species conservation.

  • Cultural Immersion:

    Experience Dusun traditions and local community life.

  • Sustainability:

    Explore reforestation, habitat protection and conservation solutions.

learning outcomes

Students will:

  • See the curriculum come to life through real-world experiences.

  • Encounter rare wildlife and support real conservation efforts.

  • Gain insight into Sabahan culture through meaningful interaction with local communities.

  • Embrace adventure by trekking jungle trails and navigating rivers.

  • Build confidence and teamwork by facing physical and personal challenges in nature.

feeling inspired

If you like what you see and want to find out more, download our brochure, or fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

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