Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests on the planet, making it a brilliant destination for seeing species you won't find anywhere else.
There are around 222 species of mammal within Borneo's forests, rivers and wetlands, 44 of which are endemic, as well as 420 species of bird. In the vast tracts of equatorial rainforest that remain undiscovered, there could be species of mammals, birds and insects we haven't encountered before.
We've highlighted five animals that showcase the island's biodiversity and how Wendy Wu's guided tours can take the hassle out of planning, so you can focus on seeing them up close.
Sun bear: bears that can mimic facial expressions
You may not associate Borneo with bears, but hidden within its rainforests lives the sun bear: the smallest bear species on Earth. Unlike most other bear species, sun bears spend much of their lives in trees, climbing the canopy in search of fruit, insects and honey.
Sun bears are also noted for their intelligence and a 2019 study described their ability to skilfully mimic facial expressions, with comparable precision to gorillas and humans. They're a reminder that some of Borneo's most remarkable wildlife is also its least expected.
How can you see them?
The Sepilok and the Sun Bear Centre is one stop on Wendy Wu's Best of Borneo tour.
Rhinoceros hornbill: 'king of the worldly birds'
The Rhinoceros hornbill is of significant importance to the Indigenous Iban people in Borneo, calling it 'Kenyalang' or 'king of the worldly birds'. They're defined by the distinctive casque that resembles a horn, which amplifies their cries across the forest canopy.
Part of the hornbill's intrigue lies in their unusual mating practice, which sees the female seal herself inside a hollow tree, leaving only a narrow opening through which the male delivers food.
How can you see them?
They can be seen as you drift along on Kinabatangan River cruises, which feature on day 13 of Wendy Wu's Borneo tour.
Wendy Wu has many more animal-focused tours, including safaris, cruises and gorilla treks.
Proboscis monkey: Borneo's most unusual primates
Found only on the island of Borneo, these distinctive monkeys can often be found gathering in riverside trees. The journal Science Advances suggests that the monkey's enlarged nose acts not only as an echo chamber to amplify their calls, but also as a way to intimidate rivals and impress females.
How can you see them?
On the Best of Borneo tour, you'll explore the Bako National Park with a guide, following trails along streams, past caves and across plateaus where you could see these unique monkeys.
Borneo pygmy elephant: the smallest elephants in the world
Around 300,000 years ago, Borneo pygmy elephants became isolated from other Asian elephant populations, leading to distinct evolutionary changes like a smaller stature, longer tails and straighter tusks compared to their mainland cousins.
How can you see them?
There's a chance you could see them on the Kinabatangan River cruise, as herds feed or bathe along the muddy river banks.
Slow loris: the only venomous primate
With its large eyes that are adapted for the dark, the slow loris is one of Borneo's most distinctive nocturnal mammals. Despite its gentle appearance, it's the world's only venomous primates with poison glands located on the insides of its forelimbs.
How can you see them?
Guided walks in Sepilok Nature Resort in the early morning and evening can sometimes result in a slow loris sighting (orangutans, rare birds and flying squirrels can also be seen).
Why travel with Wendy Wu?
- It offers ethically curated and fully guided wildlife adventures, ensuring you receive expertise and peace of mind on complex, remote journeys. Read more on Wendy Wu's commitment to responsible travel and its modern slavery and human trafficking statement.
- The price of a tour covers practically everything, including flights, hotels, meals, and the visa service. Things like excess baggage costs, passport costs and vaccinations aren't included. You can see everything that is or isn't included in tour prices here.
While orangutans may be one of Borneo's most famous residents, they aren't the only reason why you should visit. It's the combination of endemic and unexpected species that make the island such a wonder.
Book your Borneo holiday and save up to £600 per person*
*Offers subject to availability and may change – please check the website for current pricing and terms.
Wendy Wu Tours is financially protected – ABTA: W7994, ATOL: 6639 and IATA. Learn more here.
