Travel facts Borneo
Got a question regarding travel to Borneo? We've got answers. Feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have.
Where is Borneo?
Borneo is an island located off of the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is the third largest island in the world and part of three countries: Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia.
When is the best time to visit Borneo?
Borneo is great to visit anytime of the year. Typically hot and humid it can be wet at anytime, although most rain falls between November and January and less so between June and August. Temperature fluctuates little throughout the year; the average is between 21 C and 32 C. With few activity exceptions Borneo is a year round destination that is outside the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' so does not suffer from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions or even tropical cyclones.
Peak Tourist season is June-August so some areas may be busier during these months.
What language do they speak in Borneo?
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language spoken in the Sabah and Sarawak. Other widely spoken languages include Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, Hokkien, Hakka, Hainan, Foochow), Tamil and English. All the indigenous tribes in Borneo also speak their own language.
Do I needs a visa in Malaysian Borneo?
British Citizens do not need a visa to enter Malaysia, please see our visa information page for additional countries.
Do I need any vaccinations for Borneo?
You will need to check with your doctor or travel clinic as travel advice changes. You do not need a yellow fever certificate to enter Malaysian Borneo unless you are travelling from a country where yellow fever is prevalent. There is small risk of malaria in some areas but it is often recommended you take anti-malarial medication for extended jungle stays- please consult a travel clinic for up to date information.
What is the currency used in Malaysian Borneo?
The Borneo currency is called Ringgit (the same as Malaysia) and you can buy these in the UK very easily at a bank or foreign exchange outlet. In all the major towns and cities there are many ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted.
What is the time difference and phone code for Malaysian Borneo?
Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the international dialling code is +60.
Do I need a plug adaptor?
Electric supply is on a 240-volt 50-cycle system. The plug type is G which is the same as we have in the UK.
What are medical facilities like in Borneo?
Malaysia has a top class medical support system, with excellent hospitals and emergency facilities. You must make sure you have travel insurance. In the event of an emergency you can go to any one of several private hospitals or clinics.
Is it safe to travel to Borneo?
Malaysian Borneo is one of the safest destinations in the world to visit, crime levels are low generally and particularly rare against visitors though of course you should exercise normal levels of vigilanace as you would at home.
What flights can I take to Malaysian Borneo?
Most international flights arrive into Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. However, it is also possible to arrive in Miri, Sandakan or Tawau via Kuala Lumpur too. There are many airlines to choose from but if you want to include the regional sector then have a look at Malaysian Airlines or Air Asia.