Escorted Tours 2023-2024

Exuding blissful serenity and nestled within a remote region of dense forestland, spend the afternoon at leisure in the sleepy village of Sukau before heading back out onto the river for another chance to observe Borneo’s biodiversity. Day 6: Sukau to Kota Kinabalu B/L Today, travel back to Sandakan and visit the spectacular Puu Jih Shih Temple, which boasts stunning panoramic views overlooking Sandakan Bay from its privileged position on the hilltop of Tanah Merah. Illuminated by an explosion of red and gold, the temple’s elaborately embellished interior hosts a magnificent collection of gilded Buddha statues, dragon-entwined pillars and ornate Chinese dragons. Following a tasty lunch, transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu. A melting pot of culture, Sabah’s captivating capital is a bustling city whose Chinese, Kadazan and Malaysian influences are displayed through its architecture and tasted in its night markets. Day 7: Kota Kinabalu B/L This morning, discover the home of five tribes at the Mari Mari Cultural Village to gain a fascinating insight into Borneo’s indigenous people. Witness the sculpting of blowpipes, learn traditional bamboo cooking, sample the curiously shaped Jala ‘net’ cake and encounter the Murut people who were the last tribe to renounce head-hunting. Following lunch, spend an afternoon at leisure exploring the many sights that Kota Kinabalu has to offer. Choose to study Sabah’s diverse culture and history showcased within the captivating exhibits of the Sabah Museum, wander aromatic night markets to enjoy delicious street eats, or head to the grand Imago Mall for a unique South East Asian shopping experience. Day 8: Kota Kinabalu B/L Journey to Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest mountain. Enjoy a guided nature trek of Borneo’s dynamic bio-diversity including the unusual Nepenthes rajah, a carnivorous plant that attracts birds and small mammals into its deadly urn-shaped trap. Continue to the nearby Poring Hot Springs to relax in the natural warm baths, whose sulphuric water is believed to contain healing properties, before traversing a 134ft Menggaris tree canopy walkway, which provides a breathtaking view across one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Return to Kota Kinabalu for your final evening in Borneo. Day 9: Kota Kinabalu to the UK B Depart for your return flight, via Kuala Lumpur or continue on to your chosen extension. Kuala Lumpur Kota Kinabalu City Mosque Kinabatangan River Sun Bear Conservation Centre Proboscis monkeys Meal plan: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners Accommodation: Sandakan, 4 H Sabah Hotel Sandakan Sukau, 4 H Borneo Nature Lodge Kota Kinabalu, 4 H Horizon Hotel Flights: London Heathrow to Borneo with Malaysia Airlines (via Kuala Lumpur) Tour pace: Intermediate Extend your tour Kuala Lumpur city stay, 3 nights, 4 H B&B from £299 Kota Kinabalu beach stay, 3 nights, B&B 3.5 H from £259 or 5 H from £429 Private Tour Upgrade Upgrade to a private tour to include your own guide and transport, plus your choice of departure date from £249 Departures & from prices 12 Apr 23 £2,499 6 Mar 24 £2,399 26 Apr 23 £2,399 10 Apr 24 £2,599 17 May 23 £2,499 24 Apr 24 £2,599 7 Jun 23 £2,399 15 May 24 £2,099 5 Jul 23 £2,449 5 Jun 24 £2,199 30 Aug 23 £2,599 3 Jul 24 £2,599 6 Sep 23 £1,999 28 Aug 24 £2,599 13 Sep 23 £2,099 4 Sep 24 £2,299 27 Sep 23 £2,199 11 Sep 24 £2,399 4 Oct 23 £2,299 25 Sep 24 £2,399 18 Oct 23 £2,349 2 Oct 24 £2,399 8 Nov 23 £2,399 16 Oct 24 £2,399 21 Feb 24 £2,399 6 Nov 24 £2,399 • A single supplement starts from £379 • Tipping paid locally at your discretion 73 Hundreds more escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk East Asia