The Ancient Jungle & Island Frontier

VIP tarmac reception at Kota Kinabalu International Airport. private guide transfer to the Shangri-La Rasa Ria in the Ocean Wing Junior Suite — tucked between a private nature reserve and the ocean. Stunning South China Sea views, the majestic silhouette of Mount Kinabalu in the distance, and lush tropical gardens. Early arrivals explore Kota Kinabalu's bustling markets and beautiful waterfront. Welcome dinner at the resort.

Private luxury speedboat to explore the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park — snorkelling the pristine shallow reefs of Manukan and Sapi islands with schools of clownfish and vibrant star corals. Chilled champagne on a private beach boardwalk as the sun sets directly behind the majestic silhouette of Mount Kinabalu in the distance.

Short private air hop to Sandakan to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre — walking along elevated wooden boardwalks to view young orangutans learning to climb in the lush rainforest canopy. Watching feeding sessions as orangutans descend from the trees. The adjacent Sun Bear Conservation Centre: the world's smallest bear species with their distinctive orange chest patches foraging in natural habitat.

Private luxury 4x4 SUV deep into the interior to the hidden gem of the Danum Valley Conservation Area — a pristine 438-square-kilometre primary rainforest completely untouched by logging where the world's tallest tropical trees stand. Check-in at the world-renowned Borneo Rainforest Lodge in a luxury river villa with an outdoor plunge pool suspended over the Danum River.

Rising at dawn to walk across the spectacular Danum Valley Canopy Walkway — a 300-metre suspension bridge hanging 26 metres above the ancient jungle floor. Gazing down through the morning mist for wild orangutans and hornbills feeding on wild figs with the towering trees stretching to the horizon. A luxury white-linen champagne brunch by a private chef set up in an open jungle clearing after the canopy walk.

Private 4x4 safari and walking trek with an elite naturalist guide — a spectacular sight: tracking a family herd of the world's smallest elephants, the highly endangered Bornean Pygmy Elephants, as they feed along the muddy riverbanks. Observing these gentle giants with their large ears and baby-like faces as they move through the forest. Guide explains the ecology and conservation efforts in place.

Hiking a private trail up to Coffin Cliff — a historic cliffside burial site used by the indigenous tribes of the valley over 200 years ago. Viewing the ancient ironwood coffins resting inside deep rock crevices with stunning views of the rainforest valley below. Guide explains the history and cultural significance of the site and the traditions of the indigenous tribes who used this extraordinary location.

A relaxed afternoon enjoying a wellness massage on the private villa deck listening to the rushing Danum River. The day culminates in a grand torch-lit jungle bonfire feast served around a roaring bonfire on the lodge's open panoramic viewing deck under a brilliant blanket of stars — the sounds of the ancient Bornean rainforest night surrounding the table.

Travel to a nearby valley to interact privately with community elders of the indigenous Murut heritage — the deep history of longhouse architecture, traditional lansaran trampoline dance ceremonies, and the rich cultural heritage of the Murut people. Watching skilled artisans craft traditional tools and weaving. Private performance of historic folk storytelling and ritual bamboo-pipe music in a forest clearing. Farewell dinner at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Relaxed luxury breakfast watching the ancient jungle rivers. Smooth 4x4 and private flight transition back to Kota Kinabalu. Complementary spa session at your city hotel. Private guided tour of Kota Kinabalu — historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and beautiful waterfront — if missed on Day 1. International departure the following day.