Step away from it all with a visit to the refreshing island of Borneo. From primal rainforests to sparkling seas, there’s nowhere quite like Borneo.

Whether you’re longing to explore the exotic wilderness, dive into the clear waters, relax on white sandy beaches or even hit the floating markets in one of the major cities, a visit to Borneo will captivate you.

The vast island of Borneo sits in the tropical waters of Southeast Asia, surrounded by the South China, Sulu, Celebes and Java seas. It is part of the Greater Sundra Archipelago, which also includes the islands of Sumatra and Java.

Borneo is diverse in both landscape and culture. The third largest island in the world, it is comprised of four distinct territories – the Indonesian province of Kalimantan, the Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak and the independent Sultanate of Brunei. All regions of the island are open and inviting, welcoming visitors with unparalleled natural beauty and diverse culture.

An abundance of tours is available. You can venture into the rainforests, or dive deep into the waters off Borneo’s beautiful shores for an underwater adventure. Many tours are customizable for an experience that will be all yours to enjoy and remember. Walk the jungles and see rare animals including colorful rhinoceros hornbills and orangutans, as well as unusual flowers like pitcher plants. With a little luck, you might even see the beautiful giant Rafflesia, found nowhere else in the world! 

If you’re so drawn to the majestic rainforest that you wish you didn’t have to leave it, stay in the heart of the jungle at the richly impressive Rainforest Lodge, located in the Danum Valley Conservation region of Sabah. The lodge is a jungle oasis of unique chalets with sun-filled rooms offering lavish accommodations including private balconies, outdoor baths and spectacular views of the beautiful jungle paradise all around. For more information on the Rainforest Lodge, visit www.borneonaturetours.com/www/brl_default.aspx.

If the waters call to you, Borneo offers the best diving sites, some with unbelievable sea caves! Sipidan is renowned as one of the best places to scuba dive in the world. Abundant sea life and crystal waters are as promising as the sandy beaches also found there. Other breathtaking beaches of note are located in Similajau National Park in the region of Sarawak; the beaches there are a refuge and nesting ground for turtles.

Also in the Malaysian region of Sarawak, the city of Kuching offers plenty to do if your idea of an island escape includes a shopping excursion and dining at excellent restaurants. A stay at one of several attractive hotels, including the Hilton Kuching or the Riverside Majestic Hotel, will put you in the heart of this active city.

In Indonesian Kalimantan, a visit to the city of Pontianak, in the west, will surely be memorable. Built along a river, you can stroll across bridges and browse at the city’s floating marketplace. Pontianak also features a cultural museum and an equator monument, and is a fine place to sample local cuisine.

Experience something new and inspiring with a visit to the Sultanate of Brunei, Borneo’s wealthiest region. A sovereign nation governed by monarchy, Brunei flourishes with a rich history and culture. Enjoy a river tour of Bandar Seri Begawan, the largest water village settlement in the world. In Brunei, you can find topnotch accommodations at a number of hotels including the Empire Hotel and the Rizqun International Hotel.

Discover yourself in Borneo; it’s only natural! For more information on the island of Borneo, visit www.borneotourism.com.