FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers about booking tours, trip preparation, payments, and what to expect during your Sabah adventure. If you need help beyond this, contact us anytime.

What makes Remarkable Borneo different from other tour operators?

We’re locally rooted professionals who genuinely know Sabah’s landscapes, cultures, and hidden corners. Rather than treating tourism as a transactional service, we build experiences that create lasting connections with the environment and people. Our team personally reviews each booking to ensure customization fits your actual interests, not a template.

We keep groups deliberately small, limiting environmental impact while improving your experience. A significant portion of what you pay directly benefits the local communities and conservation efforts we partner with. This isn’t a marketing claim, it’s our operational model. We’re responsive to genuine requests, willing to adjust plans when weather or circumstances warrant, and we prioritize your experience quality over rigid itineraries.

Yes. We’re a registered company (Remarkable Borneo Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd) operating under Malaysian business law and tourism industry standards.

You can also verify licensed travel agencies directly through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) official portal here: Check Here

Our team has years of combined experience running successful adventures. We maintain proper licensing with Sabah Parks for mountain activities and hold the required tourism permits.

Client satisfaction is our foundation—word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat travelers are our primary source of growth because guests return and refer others.

We are open to background checks or credential verification before booking. Our office, team, and operations are transparent. You can contact us directly to speak with staff or verify details anytime.

We bring years of combined experience in Borneo tourism and hospitality. Our commitment to quality and authentic experiences has made us a trusted name for travelers seeking genuine Malaysian Borneo adventures rather than cookie-cutter packages.

We specialize in wildlife-focused tours, cultural experiences, adventure activities, nature conservation trips, and customized multi-day expeditions. Whether you’re interested in orangutans, diving, trekking Mount Kinabalu, or visiting indigenous longhouses, we design trips tailored to your interests.

We offer comprehensive tours across both Sabah and Sarawak. We can organize standalone Sabah trips, standalone Sarawak trips, or multi-state itineraries combining the best of both regions, including unique cross-border experiences.

What documents do I need to travel to Sabah or Sarawak?

You’ll need a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months) and an appropriate visa. Citizens of many countries receive a visa-free entry or a visa-on-arrival stamp for Malaysia. We recommend checking the Malaysian embassy website for your specific nationality. We can guide you through visa requirements during the booking process.

While no vaccinations are mandatory, we recommend consulting your doctor about yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and malaria prophylaxis (depending on destinations). Dengue fever is present, so bring insect repellent. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is highly recommended, especially for remote areas.

The dry season (March to September) offers the most stable weather for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. However, the monsoon season (November to February) has advantages: fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and unique wildlife behaviors. Each season has distinct benefits; we help you choose based on your priorities.

This depends on the specific trip. Our wildlife tours and cultural visits suit most fitness levels. Adventure activities like Mount Kinabalu climbing require good fitness and training preparation.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof jacket, hat, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent (DEET-based), and any personal medications. For wildlife tours, bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. We send detailed packing lists upon booking.

Yes. Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.

A comprehensive policy should include:

  • Medical coverage for illness or injury during your trip
  • Trip cancellation or interruption protection
  • Emergency evacuation, especially from remote or jungle areas
  • Coverage for lost or damaged personal belongings

This is particularly important in Borneo because some destinations are remote and may require helicopter or boat evacuation in emergencies.

How do I book a tour with Remarkable Borneo?

You can contact us via our website, email, or social media. We’ll discuss your interests, dates, and budget. Once you’ve selected a tour, we’ll send you a customized quotation, booking form, and payment instructions. A deposit secures your date; the balance is due before departure.

Most of our group tours operate with a minimum of 4–6 participants (depending on the tour type). We also welcome solo travellers and small groups, who can either join existing group departures or opt for a private itinerary at adjusted rates.

We also manage large group bookings, including corporate groups, school trips, and special interest travel, with full coordination support.

Contact us for specific minimum requirements based on your selected tour and group size.

Absolutely. We specialize in custom-designed itineraries. Tell us your interests, duration, budget, and any specific requirements (dietary, accessibility, pacing), and we’ll create a tailored trip. Custom tours typically require 4-8 weeks’ planning time.

In Sabah, availability can be limited quickly, especially for popular routes, guides, and accommodations. Ideally, we recommend booking around 6 months in advance to secure your preferred dates and ensure smooth arrangements for permits, guides, and logistics.

For peak travel periods such as May to September school holidays and Chinese New Year, early planning is even more important as slots can fill up faster than expected.

That said, shorter notice is still possible depending on availability. Some trips can be arranged within 8–12 weeks or even less, especially during non-peak periods or with flexible itinerary planning.

If your travel date is near, don’t hesitate to contact us early. We’ll check real-time availability and do our best to make it work where possible.

Date changes are subject to availability and our cancellation policy terms. Changes requested more than 30 days before departure are usually accommodated with minimal or no fee, provided the new dates have availability. Changes within 30 days may incur penalties. Contact us immediately if you need to reschedule.

Inclusions depend on the specific tour and are clearly stated in your itinerary.

In general, group tours usually include:

  • Accommodation
  • Selected meals
  • Activities and entrance fees
  • Licensed guides
  • Ground transportation within Sabah or Sarawak

The following are usually not included:

  • Airfare (air tickets to and from your destination)
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (such as shopping or extra snacks)
  • Travel insurance

 

We always provide a clear and detailed breakdown so you know exactly what is covered before your trip.

What is the Tourism Tax (TTx) in Sabah and Sarawak?

Tourism Tax (TTx) is a mandatory levy introduced to support sustainable tourism development in Malaysian Sabah and Sarawak. All overnight accommodation is subject to TTx. The rate is RM10 per room per night.

We clearly state in each quotation whether Tourism Tax (TTx) is included or not.

In most cases, our advertised prices are excluding TTx, and it will be added to your final invoice. However, some all-inclusive packages may already include TTx.

We always recommend confirming this during the quotation stage so everything is clear and there are no unexpected charges.

Tourism Tax (TTx) is paid to the accommodation provider, such as the hotel, resort, or lodge. It is usually collected during check-in or included in your hotel bill.

As a tour operator, we do not cover this tax on behalf of guests. However, we will clearly include it in your invoice when applicable so you have a full and transparent breakdown of the total cost.

Tourism Tax (TTx) is paid to the accommodation provider, such as the hotel, resort, or lodge. It is usually collected during check-in or included in your hotel bill.

As a tour operator, we do not cover this tax on behalf of guests. However, we will clearly include it in your invoice when applicable so you have a full and transparent breakdown of the total cost.

What will a typical day on an organized tour look like?

A typical day on an organised tour depends on the type of itinerary you choose, but the structure is usually well planned for a smooth experience.

For wildlife tours, the day often starts early, around 5–6 AM, when animals are most active. This is followed by breakfast, a rest period during the hotter mid-day hours, and then afternoon or evening activities such as guided walks or river cruises. Dinner is usually served at the lodge or campsite.

For cultural tours, the pace is more relaxed. Activities may include village visits, guided cultural walks, hands-on experiences like local food preparation, and time spent interacting with communities. Evenings are often reserved for shared meals and informal gatherings.

Across all tours, we also include downtime so guests can rest, recharge, or explore at their own pace.

Your comfort and safety are paramount. Inform your guide immediately of any concerns. We can arrange alternative activities, modify pacing, or provide additional support. No activity is mandatory. We work closely with you to ensure the experience remains enjoyable.

Alcohol consumption is generally permitted only in a responsible and moderate manner and is typically allowed during free time or at accommodation where it is legally and operationally permitted. Guests are expected to avoid excessive drinking, as intoxication can affect safety, group activities, and overall tour experience.

Smoking is strictly not allowed during group activities, in tour vehicles, or in enclosed/shared spaces, including transport and guided excursions. This is to ensure safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility for all participants. Smoking may only be done in designated smoking areas at accommodation or approved stops, where available.

All guests are expected to follow guide instructions and local regulations at all times, especially during outdoor and wildlife-related activities where safety and environmental protection are priorities.

Photography is generally allowed and encouraged during our tours, especially for wildlife viewing and nature appreciation. However, it must always be done responsibly to avoid disturbing animals or their natural behaviour.

In protected areas and national parks, certain restrictions may apply, such as no flash photography or maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. Some highly sensitive conservation areas may have additional rules or require permits, which our guides will advise you on before or during the tour.

Photography of indigenous communities or individuals is only allowed with prior permission and respect for local customs, as some communities may prefer not to be photographed. Our guides will always help you approach this appropriately.

We also follow ethical wildlife photography practices, ensuring minimal disturbance, no feeding or baiting of animals, and compliance with park regulations at all times.

Overall, the priority is responsible tourism—capturing meaningful photos while protecting wildlife, habitats, and local communities.

We follow established responsible wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure animals are not disturbed or put under stress. This includes maintaining appropriate viewing distances, limiting the time spent observing wildlife, and avoiding any form of feeding, touching, or provoking animals.

Our tours strictly avoid activities that involve animal exploitation, such as wildlife performances or interactive shows that are not aligned with conservation principles.

We work with guides and partners who prioritise wildlife protection and habitat conservation, and we support lodges and operators that follow eco-certified or conservation-focused practices where possible.

Guests are briefed on ethical behaviour before and during wildlife activities, ensuring all encounters remain respectful, low-impact, and aligned with local conservation regulations.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept several secure payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), and selected online payment platforms, depending on the booking arrangement.

Payment details and instructions will be clearly provided together with your official quotation or invoice.

To confirm and secure your booking, a 50% deposit is required upon confirmation.

The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before the tour date. This allows us to finalize arrangements with accommodation, transport, permits, and other service providers, especially during peak travel periods.

Your full payment schedule will be clearly stated in your booking confirmation or invoice.

Please note that deposits are generally non-refundable, as they are used to secure services in advance.

To confirm and secure your booking, a 50% deposit is required upon confirmation.

The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before the tour date. This allows us to finalize arrangements with accommodation, transport, permits, and other service providers, especially during peak travel periods.

Your full payment schedule will be clearly stated in your booking confirmation or invoice.

Please note that deposits are generally non-refundable, as they are used to secure services in advance.

If you need to cancel due to illness or an emergency, please contact us as soon as possible and provide supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate or relevant proof.

Refunds, if applicable, will depend on the timing of the cancellation and the terms set by accommodation, transport, and other service providers. Some components may be non-refundable if they have already been confirmed or paid in advance.

How can I contact Remarkable Borneo with questions?

You can reach us through the following channels:

📞 (+6) 019-549 1400 (Hotline / WhatsApp available)
📞 (+6) 019-863 6700 (WhatsApp available)
☎️ 088-701 125 (Office line)
📧 enquiry@remarkableborneo.com

📱 Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)

Our office operates Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Sabah time). We aim to respond as quickly as possible, typically within 24 hours during business days.

For urgent matters, WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us, and we will respond as promptly as possible.

Your assigned tour guide is your primary contact during the trip. They’re trained to handle logistics, answer questions, and resolve issues in real time. You’ll also have an emergency contact number for our office accessible 24/7 for genuine emergencies outside guide hours.

Address concerns immediately with your guide first. Most issues can be resolved on the spot. If unresolved, contact our office via provided emergency lines. After your trip, you can submit formal feedback via email. We take all complaints seriously and use them to improve our services.

Address concerns immediately with your guide first. Most issues can be resolved on the spot. If unresolved, contact our office via provided emergency lines. After your trip, you can submit formal feedback via email. We take all complaints seriously and use them to improve our services.

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Want to get in touch? We’d love to hear from you. Here’s how you can reach us…

BEST SABAH TOUR AGENCY

Remarkable Borneo Travel & Tours is a Malaysian tour operator based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. We offer a wide range of affordable and appealing Sabah tour packages, such as Mount Kinabalu climb, Borneo tours, Sabah diving and island packages and Sandakan tours. Our mission is to provide memorable travel experiences that allow our customers to discover the wonders of Borneo.

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