Borneo wildlife and Riau Islands: Indonesia trip
Plan and book with vetted Indonesia experts
IndonesiaBegin your Borneo wildlife and Riau Islands journey with one of those Indonesia trips that feels truly immersive from the very start. Wake to the sounds of the rainforest and fall asleep to the gentle hush of the sea, far from crowds and routine.
This experience invites you to slow down and notice the details. Watch mist rise over the river at sunrise, spend evenings by firelight on soft sand, and share quiet moments beneath open skies filled with stars.
Designed for travelers who value authenticity and meaningful connection, this journey is not about ticking off sights. It is about feeling present, at ease, and fully engaged with places that remain beautifully untouched.
Borneo wildlife and Riau Islands trip highlights
- Close encounters with Borneo’s wildlife: Glide along jungle rivers at sunrise, spotting wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and colorful birdlife in their natural habitat.
- Immersive rainforest and local culture: Walk through ancient rainforests with expert naturalists and visit remote villages, learning about indigenous traditions.
- Secluded island retreat in Riau: Unwind on soft, uncrowded beaches and swim in clear turquoise waters at a romantic island hideaway.
- Wellness, spa, and sunset moments: Share sunset views over the sea after rejuvenating spa treatments and slow breakfasts.
- Fully customized trip flow Seamlessly combine wild Bornean nature with gentle Riau lagoon days, adjusting activities as you go.
| Day | Location | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jakarta | • Arrival in Jakarta and transfer to hotel • Settle in and relax • Time at leisure to unwind or stroll | Jakarta |
| 2 | Borneo river | • Flight to Borneo • Board a private riverboat • Cruise through the rainforest • Kayaking and candlelit dinner | Riverboat |
| 3 | Borneo river | • Cruise on Rungan River • Visit the orangutan conservation center • Explore Dayak village • Dinner on board | Riverboat |
| 4 | Jakarta | • Canoe to Kaja Island sanctuary • Village visits and local life • Flight back to Jakarta • Evening at leisure | Jakarta |
| 5 | Batam | • Flight to Batam Island • Transfer to the island retreat • Relax by the sea | Batam |
| 6 | Telunas Resort | • Sea transfer to Telunas Resort • Check in to an overwater villa • Pool, spa, or activities | Batam |
| 7 | Telunas Resort | • Breakfast in bed • Garden or beach walks • Spa, pool, or sunset drinks | Batam |
| 8 | Telunas Resort | • Private villa relaxation • Kayaking or nature walks • Spa or leisure time | Batam |
| 9 | Telunas Resort | • Day at leisure • Boat ride or beach time • Spa and dining experiences | Batam |
| 10 | Departure | • Transfer to the ferry terminal • Boat to Singapore • Journey home | — |
Arrival in Jakarta and restful start
Selamat datang, welcome to Indonesia, where your Indonesia travel experience begins with a smooth and easy arrival in Jakarta. You will be greeted at the terminal and guided to your airport hotel, ensuring a relaxed and seamless start to your journey.
Spend the rest of the day unwinding at your own pace. Enjoy the comforts of your hotel or take a quiet stroll as you begin to adjust to the tropical atmosphere.
Journey into Borneo and river cruise experience
After breakfast, fly to Borneo and board your private riverboat, where your cabin becomes a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
Begin a slow cruise along the river, passing through one of the world’s oldest and most expansive rainforests. Along the way, your captain shares insights into the region, from its rich biodiversity to the traditional floating houses that line the riverbanks.
As evening falls, take to the water for a gentle kayaking experience on calm, reflective waters. Return on board for a candlelit dinner, accompanied by the sounds of the jungle and a sky filled with stars.
Orangutan conservation and Dayak village experience
Cruise along the tranquil Rungan River, passing traditional riverside villages as you make your way to Nyaru Menten in the Bapallas Islands, one of the best places to visit in Indonesia for wildlife encounters. Visit the BOS Orangutan Foundation Center and learn how dedicated teams work to protect and rehabilitate orangutans as their rainforest habitat continues to shrink.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch on board as you glide toward the river village of Kanarakan, home to the Dayak Ngaju tribe. Meet village elders, step inside traditional homes, and sample local delicacies while gaining insight into their way of life.
Return to your boat in the evening for a dinner on the calm water, surrounded by the quiet sounds of the jungle.
Kaja Island sanctuary visit and return to Jakarta
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before setting out on an early morning canoe ride to Kaja Island, an orangutan pre-release sanctuary surrounded by lush rainforest. Glide across calm black water lakes, watching for wildlife and taking in the stillness of this unique environment.
Later, visit nearby villages for an authentic glimpse into local life, with time to walk through quiet lanes and observe daily routines.
Return to the boat for lunch, then continue to the airport for your domestic flight back to Jakarta. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax for the night.
Flight to Batam and island retreat
Start your day with breakfast before your private transfer to the airport. Fly to Batam Island in the Riau Archipelago, a refreshing addition to your Indonesia itinerary, where coastal landscapes and gentle sea breezes create a sense of calm.
On arrival, settle into your carefully selected retreat and take time to unwind. Relax by the water, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and ease into a slower rhythm in this tranquil island setting.
Arrival at Telunas and overwater villa experience
Your day begins with a warm welcome at the airport, followed by a scenic sea transfer to Telunas Resort, your private hideaway in a pristine island setting.
On arrival, settle into your overwater villa at Telunas Island Resort, where wide views of the azure sea and the rugged coastline of Sugi Island create a sense of seclusion and calm.
Spend the rest of the day at your own pace. Drift in the infinity pool, enjoy a massage on your private veranda, or choose from a range of sea and land activities, all designed to help you unwind in this peaceful environment.
Day at leisure in your island retreat
Ease into a slow morning as you take in the peaceful beauty of your surroundings. Begin with breakfast in bed, then wander through lush tropical gardens or along the quiet shoreline.
In the afternoon, continue at your own pace. Relax by the pool, enjoy a soothing spa treatment, or share a private drink as the sun sets over the sea.
Private villa living and island experiences
Wake up in your elegant sea villa, where wide views of the South China Sea and the rugged beauty of Sugi Island stretch out before you. Ease into the morning with a swim in your private infinity pool or a soothing massage on your veranda.
Shape the day around your mood. Paddle along the coastline by kayak, follow quiet nature trails through the island’s lush landscape, or simply unwind in complete privacy, enjoying the calm and space of your surroundings.
Final day of relaxation in Riau
Savor your last full day with slow, unhurried moments. Wake to birdsong, take a gentle stroll through lush greenery, or enjoy a quiet boat ride as you soak in the tropical surroundings.
Let the day unfold in complete relaxation. Spend time by the pool or on the beach, indulge in soothing spa treatments, and enjoy intimate meals that highlight fresh, local flavors.
Departure to Singapore and journey home
Enjoy a final tropical breakfast as your time in Indonesia draws to a gentle close. Take in the last views of the island before your transfer to the ferry terminal.
Board your boat for a scenic journey across the water to HarbourFront in Singapore, a relaxed and fitting finale to your trip.
Every detail can be tailored to your preferences, from timings to comfort and special touches, ensuring your final day feels as seamless and memorable as the journey itself.
