Faces in the Forest

Exciting destinations await us as we voyage aboard the Orion II (2012) or Orion (2013) along the southern and western coastlines of Borneo, the third largest island in the world. We explore undiscovered gems including Camp Leakey, an active research center on orangutan behavior in Tanjung Puting National Park, and lush Bako National Park, with its secluded beaches and rainforest. This is an ideal place to experience the wonders of Borneo’s rich ecosystem—among the planet’s most biologically diverse. The park provides a refuge for Borneo’s 15,000 species of plants, 222 species of mammals, 420 resident birds, and numerous  reptile, amphibian, and fish species. We also visit the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, established for the rehabilitation of captured wild animals, and enjoy snorkeling excursions among the fringing coral reef systems of isolated island archipelagos. Our voyage begins in Bali and ends in Singapore (or reverse).

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Bali, Indonesia

Arrive in Benoa, Bali, and embark aboard the Orion II (2012) or Orion (2013). Day 2 is at sea en route to Borneo.

Day 3-5
Tanjung Puting National Park / Camp Leakey / Gunung Palung

Tanjung Puting protects vast tracts of wetlands and tropical forest. We explore by local boat, visiting orangutan feeding stations as well as Camp Leakey itself for the rare opportunity to interact with orangutans. Tanjung Puting also boasts the bizarre-looking proboscis monkey and seven other primate species in addition to more than 220 species of birds.

Days 6-7
At Sea / Kuching, Sarawak / Semenggoh

After a day at sea, we head to Kuching, the capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak and home to the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. We we will visit the Centre and witness the work they do in caring for orangutans and other wildlife of Borneo.

Day 8
Bako National Park, Sarawak

In addition to abundant wildlife, Bako National Park has lush rainforests, secluded beaches, jungle streams and waterfalls, and numerous hiking trails. We take a nature walk to see wildlife including proboscis monkeys and macaques, and enjoy a barbecue on a beautiful secluded beach.

9-11
Natuna and Anambas Archipelagos / Singapore

On snorkeling excursions, we explore the abundant coral reefs and diverse marine life of the isolated island archipelagos of Natuna and Anambas. Disembark in Singapore and depart.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. There are shore excursions featuring walks, and it is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active.

Explanation of Trip Levels