Where to Stay in Borneo

From luxury beachfront resorts and secluded rainforest lodges to boutique hotels, traditional guesthouses and remote island retreats, Borneo offers accommodation for every style of travel.

Discover where to stay in Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Indonesian Kalimantan, whether you’re looking for an adventurous expedition, a wildlife escape or a relaxing tropical holiday.

Sabah — Island Resorts, Wildlife Lodges & Mountain Retreats

Sabah offers some of Borneo’s most varied accommodation, from luxury coastal resorts overlooking the South China Sea to remote rainforest lodges surrounded by wildlife.

Kota Kinabalu is the main accommodation hub, with international hotels, waterfront properties and island resorts nearby. It is a convenient base for exploring Sabah’s west coast.

Kinabatangan River is particularly appealing for wildlife enthusiasts. Riverside lodges provide access to guided boat safaris, with opportunities to observe proboscis monkeys, hornbills and Bornean elephants.

Danum Valley offers a more secluded rainforest experience, with specialist accommodation in one of Sabah’s most remarkable natural environments.

Semporna and the surrounding islands attract divers and marine enthusiasts, with accommodation ranging from simple dive lodges to exclusive island resorts.

Kundasang and the Mount Kinabalu region offer cooler mountain surroundings, scenic retreats and spectacular views.

Best for: Wildlife holidays, diving, tropical island resorts and rainforest experiences.

Sarawak — Heritage Hotels, Rainforest Retreats & Longhouses

Sarawak combines distinctive cultural experiences with historic cities, rainforest accommodation and some of Borneo’s most remarkable natural attractions.

Kuching offers a wide selection of hotels, riverside accommodation and characterful properties, making it an excellent base for exploring southern Sarawak.

Damai and Santubong provide coastal resort accommodation close to rainforest landscapes and cultural attractions.

Mulu National Park offers accommodation ranging from national park facilities to comfortable rainforest resorts, with access to extraordinary cave systems and guided adventures.

Batang Ai and the interior offer more remote experiences, including rainforest lodges and selected community-based longhouse stays.

Miri provides a convenient base for exploring northern Sarawak, with city hotels and access to coastal and inland destinations.

Best for: Cultural travel, rainforest retreats, caves and distinctive heritage accommodation.

Brunei — Refined Hotels, Heritage & Rainforest Escapes

Brunei offers a quieter accommodation experience, combining international-standard hotels, traditional hospitality and access to protected rainforest.

Bandar Seri Begawan is the principal base for visitors, with established hotels and convenient access to the capital’s mosques, museums and waterfront attractions.

Jerudong is known for its spacious coastal surroundings and high-end resort accommodation.

Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s historic water village, offers opportunities to experience traditional waterside life, including selected homestay accommodation.

Temburong is the destination for rainforest experiences, with nature-oriented accommodation and access to guided excursions into the region’s protected forests.

*Best for: Comfortable