Borneo wildlife volunteer project
Under 18's are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
Description of Borneo wildlife volunteer project
This project allows you to venture into the lush rainforests of Sabah, in search of wild orangutans and the rare pygmy elephant. Observe the awe-inspiring biodiversity of the protected 'Corridor of Life', a vitally important region intent on creating a balance between the indigenous communities, their wildlife, and land-development activities. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the jungle, and take part in important reforestation activities in the hopes of securing a future for the endangered animals that reside here.
For much of the project's duration, volunteers will have the unique opportunity to stay with an indigenous community in the rural village of Sukau. Here, you will spend plenty of time with the 'Orang Sungai' ('People of the River'), hearing their stories and, in turn, educating the local population on the importance of conservation and sustainable living.
While the majority of the programme revolves around activities in and around the Sukau village or along the Kinabatangan river, you will also spend some time working alongside project staff on exciting wildlife monitoring activities, embarking on river cruises and rainforest treks.
This is arguably the most 'wild' of all of our projects, with a number of incredible animals residing at the wildlife sanctuary you visit towards the end of your trip: in addition to the orangutans and pygmy elephants, you may also spot gibbons and hornbills, among other species. To visit this haven of biodiversity, is an opportunity that should not be missed.
Price information
Under 18's are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
Check dates
2027: 21 Jun, 21 Jul, 21 Aug, 21 Sep
Travel guides
Reviews
2 Reviews of Borneo wildlife volunteer project
Reviewed on 08 Jul 2023 by Atsuko Otsuka
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It's hard to choose one as there are so many. But perhaps the most exciting part for me was working on forest restoration. It was so gratifying and therapeutic.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring a camera with a long lens and a good pair of binoculars as you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy watching amazing wildlife.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. This project was very well designed to achieve these goals.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was fantastic. One of the best holidays I've had.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2017 by Cathy Dowdle
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it!! Seeing orang-utans in wild and incredible opportunity to see many other animals and birds so close with expert guide. Teamwork sense of achievement in conservation work.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pack a plentiful first aid kit - needed lots of plasters for blisters on work site. Antihistamines and mosquito repellant clothing good idea. Ensure good level of fitness.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely, very integrated with local community eating meals at locals' houses - reciprocal benefit. Our expert guide believed that the project would in real terms support conservation
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic opportunity. Beautiful location, adequate facilities. Emphasis always on our health and safety. I am inspired to do more volunteering of similar nature.
Responsible Travel
Planet
Pygmy elephant and orangutan populations in Borneo are under threat from the deforestation of their habitat. This project is vital in reversing this trend, allowing the species to thrive in their natural habitat once more.As well as working on the reforestation of the area, volunteers on this project also track pygmy elephant migration patterns and observe any conflicts with humans or villages. This allows the behaviour patterns of small groups of the species to be monitored, and the greater our understanding of this issue, the easier it becomes to work effectively on avoiding such conflicts.
People
This project strives to emphasise the importance of elephants to the local community, rebuilding the relationships between the indigenous people and wildlife that have become strained of late.The reforestation work completed by volunteers will help to regenerate rainforest corridors (which have been destroyed through logging) and bridge the gaps between one forest area and the other. This allows for animals to increase their habitat, and consequently, population numbers may also increase. This also means that the animals are less likely to come into contact with the local people, thus improving the relations between wildlife and the indigenous community. The work carried out by this project and its volunteers is indispensable in the fight against deforestation and threats to Borneo's incredible wildlife.
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