When it comes to marine safaris, Borneo stands out as a truly exceptional destination. This tropical paradise offers an underwater world that is as captivating as its lush rainforests. For those who yearn to explore beneath the waves, Borneo provides a great opportunity to experience some of the most diverse marine life on the planet. Whether you are an experienced diver or a snorkelling enthusiast, a journey to Borneo promises a marine safari like no other.
A marine safari in Borneo is more than just a diving trip—it’s an immersive adventure that brings you face-to-face with the wonders of the underwater world. From the moment you descend into the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by a dazzling array of marine species. The warm, inviting seas are teeming with life, from the tiniest nudibranchs to majestic turtles and reef sharks. Every dive or snorkel session reveals a new part of Borneo’s aquatic realm, making each experience unique and unforgettable.
The beauty of a marine safari in Borneo lies in its diversity. The island’s position within the Coral Triangle—a region known for its extraordinary marine biodiversity—means that you’ll encounter a staggering variety of underwater creatures and vibrant coral reefs. This is a place where you can swim alongside manta rays, spot rare pygmy seahorses hiding in the coral, and marvel at the playful antics of dolphins and turtles. The thrill of discovering this underwater paradise is something that will stay with you long after your journey has ended.
Borneo is home to some of the world’s most renowned diving locations, each offering its own unique underwater experience. If you’re into diving we’d often recommend one of these spots either before or after your main Borneo safari. Here are a few that should be at the top of your list:
Often ranked among the best dive sites in the world, Sipadan Island is a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. This oceanic island, rising 600 metres from the seabed, is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the sheer abundance of marine life.
Schools of barracuda, green sea turtles, and white-tip reef sharks are common sights, and the drop-offs here are truly spectacular. Sipadan offers an adrenaline-pumping dive experience with its steep walls and fast currents, making it ideal for more experienced divers.
Just a short boat ride from Sipadan, Mabul Island is known for its incredible macro life. It’s a paradise for underwater photographers and those fascinated by the smaller, more unusual creatures of the ocean.
Here, you can find frogfish, cuttlefish, and the mimic octopus. The shallow waters around Mabul are perfect for both diving and snorkelling, making it accessible to enthusiasts of all levels.
Located in the Sulu Sea, Lankayan Island offers a more tranquil diving experience. The calm, clear waters are home to colourful coral gardens and a wide variety of fish species. Lankayan is also a nesting ground for turtles, and if you’re lucky, you might witness a hatching during your stay. The wreck dives around the island are particularly fascinating, offering a glimpse into the area’s maritime history.Lankayan Island
This remote atoll, located in the South China Sea, is a true diver’s paradise. Known for its pelagic encounters, Layang-Layang offers the chance to see hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and even whale sharks during the right season. The deep waters and strong currents make it a spot for advanced divers looking for big thrills.
Join us on this photographic safari, specialist-led by a seasoned professional in the realm of photography, Charlie Ryan. Capturing the essence of Borneo’s wildlife through his lens, Charlie’s work has been published in National Geographic, BBC, and Netflix.
From swinging orangutans and honking proboscis monkeys, to sandy beaches and exploring the jungle; this safari is perfect for families with just the right mix of wildlife, relaxation and adrenaline.
From 7000 per person
Begin you luxury Borneo adventure by venturing into the rainforests and along the river in search of proboscis monkeys, orangutans and pygmy elephants, before ending your journey relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Pulau Tiga.A wild adventure into Borneo’s jungles in search of the fascinating wildlife that call it home; from swinging orangutans to honk-nosed proboscis monkeys.
From 17500 per personFor those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkelling in Borneo offers an equally captivating experience. The island’s shallow reefs are brimming with life, making it easy to explore without the need for extensive diving gear. Here are a few of our suggestions:
Located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, this marine park is a popular spot for snorkelling. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginners and families, with plenty of colourful coral and fish to discover.
The park is made up of five islands, each offering its own unique snorkelling sites. Manukan and Sapi Islands are particularly well-known for their beautiful reefs and abundant marine life.
Situated north of Kota Belud, the Mantanani Islands offer some of the best snorkelling in Borneo. The waters here are crystal clear, with visibility often exceeding 30 metres. The coral reefs are home to a diverse range of species, including clownfish, parrotfish, and sometimes even dugongs. The islands’ remote location ensures that the reefs are well-preserved and relatively uncrowded.
Another gem in the Sulu Sea, Pom Pom Island is a fantastic spot for snorkelling. The fringing reefs are shallow and easily accessible, with an array of hard and soft corals that attract a wide variety of fish. Snorkellers can expect to see everything from playful anemonefish to graceful eagle rays gliding by.
Whether diving or snorkelling, you’ll have the chance to encounter a wide range of marine wildlife. Here is a summary of just a few of the marine animals you could encounter:
Planning a marine safari in Borneo requires careful consideration to ensure that you make the most of your experience. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
The best time for diving and snorkelling in Borneo is generally between March and October, when the weather is warm, and the seas are calm. However, conditions can vary depending on the location, so it’s always a good idea to check local reports before your trip.
Whether you’re diving or snorkelling, having the right gear is essential. If you’re not bringing your own, make sure to rent equipment from a reputable provider. Most dive resorts in Borneo offer high-quality gear, and the staff can help you choose the best options for your needs. One of our team can discuss equipment logisitics with you when creating your Borneo itinerary.
Borneo’s marine ecosystems are fragile and must be treated with care. Always follow the guidelines provided by your dive or snorkel operator, avoid touching the corals, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.
A marine safari in Borneo is more than just an adventure—it’s a journey into one of the most diverse and vibrant ecosystems on Earth. Whether you’re diving into the depths of Sipadan or snorkelling the shallow reefs of Pom Pom Island, Borneo offers an underwater experience that is truly unparalleled. The island’s rich marine biodiversity, combined with its stunning natural beauty, makes it the perfect destination for those seeking both excitement and tranquillity.
If you’re ready to explore Borneo’s underwater world, let us help you create a bespoke marine safari that meets your every need. From choosing the best dive sites to arranging accommodation and travel, we’ll ensure that your journey is as seamless as it is unforgettable. Contact us today to start planning your adventure.
