Where to Stay in Borneo: A Guide for First-Time Travelers

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and the small but fascinating nation of Brunei. Each region offers a unique slice of the island’s incredible biodiversity, rich culture, and adventure opportunities.

In Malaysian Borneo, travelers are drawn to Sabah’s stunning beaches, world-class diving spots like Sipadan, and the iconic Mount Kinabalu, as well as Sarawak’s lush rainforests, orangutan sanctuaries, and vibrant riverside cities like Kuching. In Indonesian Kalimantan, vast jungles, remote rivers, and eco-lodges near orangutan habitats await. Meanwhile, Brunei offers a mix of pristine rainforests and cultural landmarks in a compact, easily explored destination.

With so much diversity, figuring out where to stay and where to go in Borneo can be overwhelming. After extensive research and traveling across the island, I’ve crafted this guide to help first-time travelers plan their trip.

Overview: Where to Stay in Borneo

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world at 743,330 square kilometers, is shared by Malaysia (26%), Indonesia (73%), and Brunei (1%). Despite Indonesian Kalimantan occupying the majority of the island, over 80% of Borneo’s international travelers visit Malaysian Borneo, with 4 million visitors annually, compared to Kalimantan’s fewer than 1 million.

This is due to Malaysian Borneo's well-developed tourism infrastructure, iconic attractions like Mount Kinabalu and Sipadan, and convenient access via major international airports. Here's what you need to know about each area of Borneo:

• Malaysia’s Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak): The most tourist-friendly with excellent infrastructure, offering iconic destinations like Mount Kinabalu, the Kinabatangan River, and Mulu Caves. It’s ideal for wildlife lovers and those seeking comfort and accessibility.
• Indonesia’s Kalimantan: A more rugged, off-the-beaten-path destination with dense jungles, river expeditions, and cultural encounters with the Dayak people. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers wanting a remote experience.
• Brunei: A small, serene option for cultural heritage and small pockets of untouched rainforests, suitable for travelers seeking a quieter pace and luxury accommodations.
• Activities & Seasons: The dry season (March–October) is the best time to visit anywhere in Borneo, with diving, wildlife spotting, and trekking as the top activities across all regions.

Where to Stay in Sabah (Malaysian Borneo)

Sabah, located in the northern part of Borneo, is where I recommend first-time travelers stay in Borneo. With 3.5 million visitors annually, Sabah is the most popular place to visit and best known for iconic attractions like Mount Kinabalu (Southeast Asia’s highest peak), the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River, and Sipadan, one of the world’s best diving destinations.

Here are the best places to stay in Sabah:

• Kota Kinabalu: Urban hotels, beachfront resorts, and proximity to island getaways.
• Sandakan: Rainforest lodges, city accommodations, and access to Sepilok and the Kinabatangan River.
• Semporna: Budget stays and upscale dive resorts near Sipadan Island.
• Kundasang: Quaint guesthouses and mountain retreats near Mount Kinabalu.

My Recommended Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is Sabah’s capital and the main entry point for most travelers, offering easy access to Mount Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and island-hopping tours. There are many great places to stay in Kota Kinabalu, from urban hotels near Jesselton Point and luxury beachfront resorts along Tanjung Aru and Karambunai.

1. Hilton Kota Kinabalu - Luxury

The top luxury 5-star choice in Kota Kinabalu. Perfect for those wanting to relax with the top-of-the-range level of service and facilities. Boasting buffet breakfasts and high-teas.

2. TooJou - Unique Stay

Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu TooJou is a great option for those wanting a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. It even has its very own indoor adult slippery slide.

3. Homy Seafront Hostel - Budget

Perfect for backpackers looking for a cheap sleep with comfortable beds within the main area of Kota Kinabalu. It offers a communal kitchen and lounge area with sea views.

My Recommended Hotels in Sandakan

Sandakan is the gateway to Sabah’s wildlife attractions, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Kinabatangan River (one of the best places to see wild orangutans in Sabah). Accommodations range from rainforest lodges near Sepilok to convenient city hotels for those exploring historical sites like Agnes Keith House.

1. Sepilok Nature Lodge - Luxury

An incredible retreat surrounded by lush rainforest, perfect for nature lovers with comfortable rooms and within close proximity to the Sepilok Orangutan Centre.

2. Sabah Hotel - Unique Stay

A well-equipped hotel with an outdoor pool, gym, and spacious rooms, offering great for families facilities and a quiet location near Sandakan town.

3. Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit - Kinabatangan River

Offering bungalows with balconies and dorms for budget travelers, surrounded by rainforest and wildlife. Enjoy meals at the restaurant and join river tours to spot orangutans, monkeys, and elephants.

My Recommended Hotels in Semporna

Semporna serves as the launch point for world-class diving at Sipadan Island and nearby marine parks like Bohey Dulang and provides access to popular Mabul Island. The town itself offers budget-friendly stays, while nearby islands feature upscale dive resorts for a more immersive experience.

1. Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort Luxury

A luxurious overwater escape for honeymooners, and couples with ocean-view chalets, direct access to vibrant dive sites, and amenities like a buffet restaurant and dive center just minutes from Mabul and Sipadan.

2. Maglami-lami Water House Mid-Range

A peaceful mid-range stay perfect for snorkelers, offering spacious modern rooms, an on-site restaurant with amazing breakfast, and direct access to vibrant marine life.

3. Ozzy Lodge Budget

It is close to the harbor but far enough to still be clean and less chaotic. Super friendly owner who can organize cheap island-hopping trips.

My Recommended Hotels in Kundasang

Nestled at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, Kundasang is known for its cool climate, rolling hills, and attractions like Desa Dairy Farm and the Kundasang War Memorial. Visitors can choose from cozy guesthouses with mountain views or countryside homestays.

1. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges - Luxury

Nestled in Kinabalu Park, this mountain retreat offers spacious lodges with kitchens, fireplaces, and breathtaking views. One of the best places to stay in Kundasang.

2. J Residence - Mid-Stay

Located just 100m from Kinabalu Park hiking trails, this affordable option features modern rooms with private balconies, ideal for hikers and those exploring the park.

3. Happy Garden - Budget

A budget-friendly stay with pod rooms and stunning mountain views, providing a simple and quiet base for travelers visiting or climbing Mt Kinabalu.

Where to Stay in Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo)

Sarawak, covering the southern part of Malaysian Borneo, is renowned for its dense rainforests, rich cultural heritage, and iconic national parks. With 1.5 million visitors annually, Sarawak attracts travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, from exploring the UNESCO-listed Mulu Caves to experiencing traditional Iban longhouse culture along the Rajang River.

Here are the best places to stay in Sarawak:

• Kuching: Riverside hotels, boutique stays, and access to cultural sites and national parks.
• Mulu: Jungle lodges and accommodations near Mulu National Park, famous for its caves and biodiversity.
• Bako: Limited accommodation but worth a day trip to spot monkeys
• Sibu: Budget-friendly hotels and authentic longhouse experiences along the Rajang River.
• Damai Beach: Relaxing beachfront resorts and luxury retreats near Mount Santubong.

My Recommended Hotels in Kuching

Kuching, Sarawak’s capital, is a vibrant base for exploring the state’s rich heritage and natural attractions. Accommodations range from riverside hotels like The Waterfront Hotel to boutique stays like Ranee Artisan Boutique Hotel, offering charm and comfort close to cultural sites and eateries.

1. The Waterfront Hotel - Luxury

A modern hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and direct access to shopping and dining, located near Kuching's waterfront.

2. Ranee Boutique - Boutique

A heritage-inspired boutique hotel with elegant, individually designed suites, housed in a restored 19th-century shophouse along Kuching's waterfront.

3. Upspot Kuching Waterfront Premium Hostel - Budget

A modern hostel with dorm & private rooms with comfortable common spaces, located steps from the Sarawak River and bustling street markets.

My Recommended Hotels in Mulu

Mulu is home to the UNESCO-listed Mulu National Park, where travelers can stay at luxurious options like the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa or choose rustic jungle lodges for an immersive rainforest experience near the park’s famous caves and trails.

1. Mulu Marriott Resort - Luxury

A luxurious retreat with spacious rooms, a stunning pool, and jungle views, located near Mulu National Park and offers a laid-back rainforest experience.

2. Mulu National Park - Unique Stay

Stay in simple chalets or dorms right inside the park, with easy access to iconic caves and trails in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Mulu Village - Budget

A family-run guesthouse with basic, cozy rooms and a welcoming vibe, located just outside the park for an affordable and authentic stay.

My Recommended Hotels in Sibu

Sibu is the gateway to cultural experiences along the Rajang River, with budget-friendly hotels in the city and traditional longhouse stays for those seeking an authentic Iban cultural immersion.

1. Kingwood Hotel Sibu - Luxury

A riverside hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, offering a comfortable stay with scenic views of the Rajang River.

2. Starlink Hotel - Top Pick

A stylish and affordable hotel close to Wisma Sanyan Mall and local food spots like Café Café and Aloha Corner, making it a great base for shopping and dining in Sibu.

3. Win Hotel - Mid-Stay

A budget-friendly hotel offering simple, cozy rooms and great value for travelers, located within walking distance of Sibu's central market and other attractions.

My Recommended Hotels in Damai Beach

Damai Beach, just outside Kuching, offers relaxing beachfront resorts like Damai Beach Resort and unique retreats like The Culvert, ideal for those combining nature and relaxation near Mount Santubong.

1. Damai Beach Resort - Luxury

A beachfront resort with spacious rooms and chalets, two pools, and easy access to the Santubong area, offering relaxation with stunning South China Sea views.

2. Damai Lagoon Resort - 5-star

A secluded luxury retreat with lagoon-facing villas and tropical gardens, known for its tranquil ambiance and proximity to Damai Golf & Country Club.

3. Permai Rainforest Resort - Budget

An eco-friendly stay featuring treehouses and cabins nestled in the rainforest, perfect for nature lovers wanting direct access to hiking trails and beaches.

Where to Stay in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo)

Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, covers 73% of the island and is known for its vast, untamed rainforests, rich Dayak culture, and remote river systems. With fewer than 1 million visitors annually, Kalimantan is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, such as exploring Tanjung Puting National Park or cruising the Mahakam River.

Here are the best places to stay in Kalimantan:

• Pangkalan Bun: Gateway to Tanjung Puting National Park with eco-lodges and riverside accommodations.
• Samarinda: Urban hotels and river cruises along the Mahakam River, with access to Dayak cultural experiences.
• Balikpapan: A bustling coastal city offering modern hotels, business stays, and proximity to Bukit Bangkirai rainforest.
• Derawan Islands: Beachfront bungalows and eco-resorts ideal for snorkeling and diving with manta rays and turtles.
• Palangkaraya: Accommodations ranging from boutique stays to eco-lodges, perfect for exploring Sebangau National Park and orangutan habitats.

My Recommended Hotels in Pangkalan Bun

Pangkalan Bun is the main entry point to Tanjung Puting National Park, famous for its orangutan rehabilitation centers and Klotok river cruises. Stay in riverside eco-lodges or rustic accommodations like the Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge for a close-to-nature experience.

1. Mercure Pangkalan BUN - Luxury

A modern luxury hotel offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and international dining, located conveniently for travelers heading to Tanjung Puting National Park.

2. Grand Kecubung Hotel - 3-Star

A comfortable mid-range hotel with clean, air-conditioned rooms, a pool, and an on-site restaurant, situated near Pangkalan Bun’s town center and local markets.

3. Rimba Orangutan Eco Lodge - Unique

A small eco-lodge set along the Sekonyer River that offers simple rooms surrounded by rainforest and easy access to Tanjung Puting’s orangutan habitats via the unmissable Klotok River cruises.

My Recommended Hotels in Samarinda

Samarinda is a hub for exploring the Mahakam River, offering urban hotels for comfort and convenience. It’s a great base for those wanting to experience Dayak culture and traditional longhouses along the river.

1. Mercure Samarinda - Luxury

A stylish hotel connected to Big Mall Samarinda, offering modern rooms, a pool, and a spa, perfect for travelers wanting the ultimate comfort and convenience.

2. FUGO Hotel Samarinda - Unique Stay

sleek hotel with a contemporary design, known for its panoramic city views, rooftop pool, and proximity to the Mahakam River for cultural excursions.

3. Swiss-Belhotel - Mid-budget

A clean and comfortable hotel with a pool, and easy access to Samarinda Central Plaza for shopping and dining.

My Recommended Hotels in Balikpapan

Balikpapan is Kalimantan’s coastal gateway with a mix of modern hotels and resorts. It’s ideal for travelers looking to explore Bukit Bangkirai’s rainforest canopy walk or relax before heading deeper into Kalimantan.

1. Golden Tulip Balikpapan Hotel - Luxury

A beachfront hotel with spacious rooms, a pool, and direct access to Balikpapan Ocean Square Mall, perfect for a relaxing coastal stay.

2. Astara Hotel Balikpapan - Water Park

Located inside Pentacity Shopping Venue, this hotel features modern rooms and a water park, offering a fun and convenient experience for families and shoppers.

3. Whiz Prime Hotel Balikpapan - Good Value

An affordable hotel offering clean, cozy rooms with modern amenities. Its prime location near E-Walk Balikpapan Mall and a variety of local restaurants makes it a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.

My Recommended Hotels in Derawan Islands

The Derawan Islands offer beachfront bungalows and eco-resorts like Arasatu Villas & Sanctuary, perfect for divers and snorkelers exploring vibrant reefs and swimming with manta rays and turtles.

1. Arasatu Villas & Sanctuary - Luxury

Offering exclusive overwater villas with private decks, where you can wake up to turquoise waters and uninterrupted views of the sea. Perfect for honeymooners the resort provides a quiet escape while offering easy access to the Derawan Islands' renowned diving and snorkeling spots, including manta ray and turtle habitats.

2. Sienna Resort - Unique Stay

Sienna Resort is ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat with direct access to vibrant coral reefs. Guests can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and island-hopping tours right from the property.

3. Maratua Dive Center And Lodge - Diving

A dive lodge catering to adventurous travelers and diving enthusiasts. Located on Maratua Island, the lodge offers simple, clean rooms and direct access to world-class dive sites.

My Recommended Hotels in Palangkaraya

Palangkaraya is the gateway to Sebangau National Park, home to orangutans and peat swamp forests. Accommodations include eco-lodges and boutique stays for nature enthusiasts and conservation-minded travelers.

1. Swiss-Belhotel Danum - Luxury

A modern hotel with spacious rooms, a pool, and a fitness center, offering a comfortable base for exploring Palangkaraya and Sebangau National Park.

2. Hotel Neo Palma - Mid-Price Stay

A trendy hotel in the city center with a modern design, located near Palangkaraya Mall and dining options like Warung Kopi Sari Bumi for local Indonesian dishes and Rumah Tjilik Riwut for traditional Dayak cuisine.

3. Bukit Raya Guesthouse - Treehouse

A cozy eco-stay with treehouse-style rooms surrounded by nature, ideal for travelers needing a base for exploring Sebangau National Park and learning about the Dayak culture.

Where to Stay in Brunei

Brunei, a small nation occupying just 5,765 square kilometers (just 1% of Borneo), is known for its immense wealth, fueled by oil and gas reserves, and its pristine rainforests. It's a much more expensive place to stay in Borneo and most visitors base themselves in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, to explore its stunning mosques, cultural landmarks, and Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest water village.

While small, over 70% of Brunei’s land is covered in protected rainforest, including the biodiverse Ulu Temburong National Park. Brunei is a tranquil, more luxurious destination in Borneo ideal for travelers seeking culture, nature, and relaxation.

Here are the best places to stay in Brunei:

• Bandar Seri Begawan: Upscale hotels and boutique accommodations close to cultural landmarks like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
• Ulu Temburong National Park: Eco-lodges and rainforest retreats offering immersive stays in pristine nature.

My Recommended Hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei’s capital, offers a mix of luxury hotels like The Empire Brunei and boutique accommodations near key attractions like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Kampong Ayer, the iconic water village.

1. Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam - Luxury

A centrally located hotel with modern rooms, a pool within close proximity to top attractions like the Royal Regalia Museum and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

2. The Empire Brunei - Unique Stay

An incredible beachfront resort featuring opulent rooms, a private cinema, and a world-class golf course, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

3. Badi'ah Hotel Brunei - Mid-Budget

A comfortable option with large rooms, a pool, and a convenient location near Kampong Ayer and the local markets. A great choice for couples.

My Recommended Accommodation in Ulu Temburong National Park

Ulu Temburong National Park offers eco-lodges like Sumbiling Eco Village, where guests can enjoy guided rainforest treks, canopy walks, and serene stays surrounded by untouched jungles.

1. Sumbiling Eco Village - Jungle Lodge

An eco-friendly lodge offering simple accommodations surrounded by pristine rainforest. Guests can enjoy guided treks, canopy walks, and cultural experiences with local communities, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and those wanting to experience something unique.