City Lights & Borneo Wildlife
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day, 10-night journey that seamlessly blends vibrant urban experiences with breathtaking natural landscapes. From dynamic metropolitan centres to tranquil rainforest retreats, this thoughtfully crafted itinerary offers the perfect balance of culture, relaxation and adventure. Discover a destination where modern sophistication meets extraordinary biodiversity, creating memorable moments at every turn. Whether exploring at your own pace or immersing yourself in the beauty of your surroundings, this captivating journey promises an enriching and unforgettable travel experience.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets, and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Trip Highlights
Destinations that include planned activities and/or overnight stays.
- Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur
- Sandakan
- Sepilok
- Sukau
- Thailand
- Bangkok
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to Bangkok (if the Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way economy class airfare from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur, from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, from Sandakan to Kuala Lumpur and from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.
- Private transfers to and from airports, and for all excursions and sightseeing tours as per the itinerary, unless noted otherwise
- 10 nights in Comfort Accommodation (3 nights in Kuala Lumpur, 1 night in Sepilok, 1 night in Sukau, 4 nights in Bangkok)
- Daily breakfast
- Lunch and dinner as per itinerary
- Entrance fee to landmarks and monuments as mentioned in the itinerary
- More moments inclusions:
- Kuala Lumpur half-day orientation city tour
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre visit
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre visit
- Afternoon Kinabatangan River boat ride
- Morning Kinabatangan River boat cruise
- Menanggul River boat cruise
- Bangkok full-day city tour
- Half-day Blue Elephant cooking class
- Hotel taxes, fees and service charges
- Government tax and service charges
- Service of an English-speaking local guide as per program
- Bottle of water on transfers and sightseeing tours
Itinerary
Days 1 & 2
Depart Canada
Depart from Canada bound for Bangkok’s International Airport.
Day 3
Welcome to Kuala Lumpur
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, you will be required to clear customs and immigration in Thailand. Once cleared, you’ll proceed to the luggage collection area, collect your belongings and check-in for your connection flight to the vibrant capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. After clearing, head to the exit where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check in.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 4
Kuala Lumpur
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an exciting half-day orientation tour of Kuala Lumpur, discovering the city's iconic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and the unique blend of modern architecture and rich cultural heritage that defines Malaysia's dynamic capital.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day Orientation city tour
Enjoy the perfect introduction to one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic capitals as you discover its harmonious blend of rich cultural heritage, historic architecture and modern sophistication. Visit some of the destination's most celebrated landmarks, with photo opportunities at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the majestic King's Palace, the impressive National Mosque and the National Monument. Your tour also includes exterior visits to the historic *Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the *National Museum, where you can admire their remarkable architecture and cultural significance.
*Important Note: Admission to these landmarks is not included. Should you wish to explore either attraction from the inside, entrance tickets may be purchased locally during your visit, subject to availability and opening hours.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5
Kuala Lumpur - Sandakan - Sepilok
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll meet your local representative, who will assist you with your transfer to Kuala Lumpur International Airport for your flight to Sandakan, often regarded as the gateway to Borneo's remarkable wildlife and one of the world's best destinations to encounter orangutans in their natural habitat.
Upon arrival, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall, where a local representative will be waiting to welcome you and escort you to your transfer. From there, you will be driven to your lodge to check in.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to relax or begin exploring at your own pace.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 6
Sepilok - Sukau
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll meet your local representative and begin your journey to the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, followed by a visit to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, both dedicated to the protection of Borneo’s unique wildlife.
Continue through the scenic Sabah countryside, passing traditional villages during a picturesque 2.5-hour drive to the jetty. From there, check in to your lodge, where you can refresh before your afternoon adventure.
Later, you’ll embark on a relaxing boat ride along the Kinabatangan River, Sabah’s longest waterway and one of Borneo’s most biodiverse habitats. As you navigate through the rainforest-lined riverbanks, watch for native wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, exotic birds and other fascinating species before returning to your lodge for a peaceful evening at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre visit
World-famous conservation facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and protection of orphaned and displaced orangutans. Set within the lush rainforest of Sabah, the centre offers a unique opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in a natural environment while learning about ongoing efforts to preserve one of Borneo’s most treasured species.
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Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre visit
Dedicated facility focused on the rescue, rehabilitation and conservation of the world’s smallest bear species. Located within the rainforest surroundings of Sabah, the centre provides a rare opportunity to observe these fascinating animals while learning about the challenges they face and the important efforts underway to protect them and their natural habitat.
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Afternoon Kinabatangan River boat ride
Cruise through lush rainforest landscapes and tranquil waterways while keeping watch for the region’s incredible biodiversity, including proboscis monkeys, exotic birds and other native wildlife that call this unique ecosystem home.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7
Sukau
Begin your day with an early-morning cruise along the Kinabatangan River to the tranquil Kelenanap Ox-Bow Lake, a peaceful haven renowned for birdwatching and wildlife encounters. Keep an eye out for Borneo’s unique species as you explore the serene waterways before returning to the lodge for breakfast and leisure time.
Later, embark on another river cruise to further discover the region's rich flora and fauna before returning to the lodge for a relaxing evening.
More Moments Activities Included
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Morning Kinabatangan River boat cruise
Unforgettable journey through one of Borneo’s richest wildlife habitats, with opportunities to spot exotic birds, native wildlife and the incredible biodiversity that makes this region so remarkable. Weather permitting, you’ll continue with a short jungle walk to experience the sights, sounds and natural wonders of Borneo’s wilderness before returning to the lodge.
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Menanggul River boat cruise
Enjoy an intimate wildlife experience as you explore the tranquil rainforest waterways, offering a quieter and more immersive setting to discover Borneo’s remarkable biodiversity. Keep watch for native birds, monkeys and other fascinating species as they appear in their natural habitat, surrounded by the serenity of the rainforest.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8
Sukau – Sandakan – Kuala Lumpur
After breakfast and check-out, you will meet a local representative who will assist with your transfer to Sandakan International Airport. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through Sabah's beautiful landscapes before boarding your flight to Kuala Lumpur.
Upon arrival, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall, where a local representative will be waiting with an Air Canada Vacations sign displaying your name. They will assist you with your transfer to the hotel for check-in.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Kuala Lumpur - Bangkok
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll meet your local representative in the hotel lobby, who will assist you with your transfer to Kuala Lumpur International Airport for your flight to Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city.
Upon arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. Once cleared, you’ll collect your luggage and exit the arrivals hall. A local representative will be waiting to welcome you with an Air Canada Vacations sign displaying your name. They will assist you with your transfer to the hotel to check in.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Bangkok
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set out on a full-day guided exploration, offering an immersive glimpse into the destination’s culture, heritage and local way of life.
At the end of the tour, you’ll return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day City tour
Begin today's adventure with a visit to Wat Traimit, home to the magnificent Golden Buddha, a remarkable 700-year-old statue crafted from over five tons of solid gold. Continue to the vibrant streets of Chinatown, where traditional customs, colourful markets and local food stalls showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. The journey continues to Wat Pho, renowned for its colossal Reclining Buddha and historic massage school, before visiting the Grand Palace Complex and the revered Wat Phra Kaew, home to Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist image. Following a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride through the klongs of outer Bangkok, offering a fascinating glimpse into the traditional riverside lifestyle along the Chao Phraya River.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 11
Bangkok
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide and embark on a flavourful half-day culinary journey at the renowned Blue Elephant Cooking School, where you'll discover the rich flavours, traditions and artistry behind the destination’s celebrated cuisine. This immersive experience offers a unique introduction to local food culture through expert guidance and hands-on learning.
Following this memorable experience, you’ll return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half Day Blue Elephant Cooking Class
You’ll begin this class with a refreshing Thai herbal welcome drink before joining your chef-instructor to explore the ingredients and flavours featured in a traditional four-course menu. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll enjoy a visit to a local morning market, where you'll learn about the fresh fruits, vegetables, aromatic herbs and vibrant spices that form the foundation of Thai cooking.
Back at the school, you’ll attend a cooking demonstration led by an experienced chef before stepping into your own fully equipped workstation. Under expert guidance, you’ll learn authentic techniques as you prepare a selection of classic Thai dishes, including favourites such as steamed minced chicken and crabmeat, spicy seabass soup and mung bean jasmine cake. To help recreate these flavours at home, you'll receive a recipe booklet featuring the dishes prepared during the class. You’ll conclude your experience by savouring your culinary creations in the elegant setting of the Blue Elephant Restaurant.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 12
Bangkok
Enjoy your last full day at leisure, the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and make the most of your time in this captivating destination. Whether you choose to take time for yourself or simply embrace the vibrant atmosphere at your own pace, this day offers the flexibility to create your own memorable experience before your journey continues.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 13
Bangkok - Canada
After breakfast, you’ll meet a local representative who will assist you with your transfer to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport for your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Comfort Accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 3 adults
Accommodation important notes:
The accommodations in Sepilok and Sukau are not star-rated due to their unique nature. Instead, this exceptional experience provides guests with an unforgettable journey, blending comfort, adventure and cultural immersion in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.
Ideal for
Guided tours
Let us show you around. Tour packages include (varies by tour):
- Round-trip flight with Air Canada
- Private airport transfers
- Hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Train transportation
- Motorcoach transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel luggage service
- Experienced guide throughout
- Aeroplan® points
Earn more with Aeroplan
In addition to accumulating points on the flight portion of your trip, you’ll earn up to 4,000 extra Aeroplan points on select tour packages.
- Members ages 2 to 12 will receive extra points equivalent to 50% of the points granted to members ages 13 and up.
- Travel completion by December 31, 2026.
Important Information
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August 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027
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Tours Exclusions
- Camera & video fees (where applicable)
- Malaysia tourism tax
- Gratuities of any kind
- Visa expenses (where applicable)
- Expenses of personal nature, including travel insurance
- Festive dinner/meal and festive surcharge at each hotel
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above
- Drinks
- Transfers for any optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above
- Excess baggage fees
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather-related conditions.
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- Car for all airport-hotel-airport, inter-city and sightseeing transfer services
- Plane from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur, from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, from Sandakan to Kuala Lumpur, and from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.
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- Camera & video fees may apply in the Malaysia part of the itinerary. Please ask your local guide before using it.
- Tourism Tax of 10.00 Malaysian Ringgit (RM) per room/night will be payable by guests upon check-in/check-out. Payable in local currency only.
- The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited, or day excursions occur, may change due to operational restrictions, such as accommodation availability, weather, national events, strikes, etc.
- Driving times indicated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary due to traffic and road conditions.
- Visits to sacred temples:
Visitors must wear discreet and respectful clothing, like blouses or shirts that cover their arms and shoulders.
Dress code for the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves (no tank tops). If you're wearing sandals or flip-flops, you must wear socks (no bare feet). Women must be similarly modestly dressed. Skirts need to fully cover the legs, no see-through clothes, no bare shoulders, etc. - All tours are operated in English only.
- Passport information required for train/air tickets (Name, Date of Birth, Nationality, Passport # and expiry date)
- Inter-City flights weight restiction for checked bags is 20KG, 1 bag per person
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Compulsory Malaysia Tourism Tax to be paid upon check-in/check-out directly to hotel in Malaysia. Currently 10.00 Malaysian Ringgit per room , per night (amount subject to change without notice)