Borneo, the planet’s third-largest island, attracts adventurous travellers eager to glimpse some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna. But like all wild destinations, visiting Borneo isn’t risk-free. Getting lost in the jungle, kidnapped by pirates or even eaten by a crocodile, these are just a few things that could happen to you (though admittedly, you’d need to be very unlucky)!
Using my own experience travelling in Borneo, as well as official statistics and the combined knowledge of thousands of travellers in our South East Asia Backpacker Community, I’ve put together this safety guide to Borneo – keep reading for everything you need to know when it comes to avoiding trouble on a trip of a lifetime!
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Is Borneo Safe for Tourists? ✈️
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In short, yes, Borneo is safe to visit.
The island is split between three countries – Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Each of these have their own laws and rules to be aware of.
A decade ago, visiting Borneo, especially the Malaysian State of Sabah, was riskier than it is today. Kidnappings, while not common, weren’t unheard of and a militant terrorist organisation was wreaking havoc along the coast of Eastern Sabah. However, this situation is well under control now and almost everywhere in Malaysian Borneo is safe to visit.
In Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo, there have been more recent terror attacks and tourists are considered a viable target by the local terror organisation. But the chance of being caught up in an attack is very low. Just be aware of your surroundings when in public spaces.
Check Official Advice 🧑⚖️
Before planning your trip to Borneo, check the official advice from your government. Travel warnings change frequently, often without notice. If your government declares an area unsafe to visit, your travel insurance may not cover you in that area. Always check official sources and your policy wording before you travel.
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, an internationally recognised database comparing several data points related to safety across the globe, Malaysia is the 10th safest country in the world, Indonesia is 48th and Brunei, while not listed on the GPI has exceptionally low crime rates. For some reference on the GPI, the UK is 34th and the USA is 132nd.
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Crime in Borneo 👮
As with most places, crime that affects tourists is concentrated in Borneo’s towns and cities. Bag snatching, pickpocketing and general theft are the most common crimes. In most cases, these can be avoided by practising common sense strategies like keeping valuables hidden (or better still, leaving them at your accommodation), keeping your bag secure and paying attention to what’s going on around you.
Crime rates in Brunei are the lowest in Borneo, while Kalimantan has the highest crime rate – although this is still lower than in other parts of Indonesia. Overall, crime rates in Malaysia are very similar to the UK.
The most striking and newsworthy crimes affecting tourism in Borneo are terror threats. Pirates and terrorist organisations marauded Sabah’s East Coast for several years in the early 21st century.
After a spate of kidnappings and attacks on both tourists and locals, the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) was set up to protect Eastern Sabah from these threats. Along with a protected area, where it’s illegal to sail from 18:00-06:00 along Sabah’s east coast, the ESSCom have successfully prevented kidnappings and attacks in the area.
There has not been a reported kidnapping or terror attack in Sabah since 2016. However, many official recommendations say to avoid the islands off the coast of Eastern Sabah even today.
Attacks have occurred more recently in Kalimantan, with the most infamous recent incident being an attack on a police station in 2020.
There is almost no threat of terrorism in Brunei.
“We [visited Borneo] in 2023 and never felt unsafe! I’d recommend staying in Sandakan for one night. Then you can take a grab to Sepilok. This allows you to walk to the Orangutan Sanctuary, Rainforest Discovery Centre, and the Sun Bear Sanctuary.”
Kate, South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
Is Borneo Safe for Solo Travellers? 🚌
Yes, Borneo is a safe destination for solo travellers. While the travel scene in Borneo isn’t as sociable as in other Southeast Asian countries – there are few hostels and higher prices deter many shoestring backpackers – it’s still a fantastic destination for lone travellers.
Outside a few big towns and cities, there’s not much of a party scene – at least, not compared to that of Thailand and Cambodia. Borneo is more about nature and wildlife tourism, so there are fewer opportunities to find yourself in trouble! Most tours are group trips, so you’ll likely meet some like-minded folk along the way.
“Borneo is really easy for solo travel, everyone is super nice and helpful. There are minibuses that go everywhere plus bigger coach buses too.”
Fee – South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
The main downside for solo travellers in Borneo is the solo traveller supplement on trips. Most tour providers in Borneo base their pricing on two people, so if you’re alone, expect to spend a few more dollars to secure your spot. Alternatively, try talking to other travellers at your accommodation and see if you can buddy up – the more people that book a trip, the better the price for everyone!
Is Borneo Safe for Female Travellers? 👩
I am not a solo female traveller, so rather than give you my impression of the country here are some quotes from women who know more about travelling solo in Borneo than I do!
“I was in Malaysian Borneo last year, Kota Kinabalu, Sepilok and Sandakan and never felt unsafe. I’m a solo woman and travelled on local buses. Generally, Kinabatangan tours will pick you up from Sepilok or Sandakan and the river itself felt perfectly safe. There’s no need to worry – enjoy Borneo!”
Lisa, Writer at South East Asia Backpacker
“I didn’t feel comfortable walking the streets alone in Kota Kinabalu and Semporna (a lot of stares, catcalling and questions if I was married/had a boyfriend), so I ended up staying inside as soon as it got dark.”
Andrea, South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
“I went there solo last year and was fine everywhere except the town Lahad Datu, where local women actually warned me not to go out after dark alone. I found Borneo one of the friendliest places in SE Asia. You do get lots of questions about being single but these were from women as well as men. I think they don’t have much exposure to Western culture there so don’t take it personally. I just explained that in the UK it is fine to be single or married or have a partner etc. Or I just lied and said married when I couldn’t be bothered!”
Fee, South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
“It is safe to visit everywhere in Borneo. I travelled alone in Borneo – both Sarawak and Sabah. I felt safe. If someone asks you if you’re single or married just ignore it. ”
Jojo, South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
Can I Drink Tap Water in Borneo?🚰
Tap water in Borneo is considered unsafe to drink. In a pinch, you can drink boiled water in Borneo but we recommend sticking to bottled or filtered water wherever possible.
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Tap water in Borneo is fine to use for washing and brushing your teeth – just don’t swallow it. And if you’re swallowing water while showering, you need to rethink your washing strategy…
Are There Dangerous Animals in Borneo? 🐊
Yes, there are dangerous animals in Borneo. Crocodiles, snakes, elephants and a variety of primates all call Borneo home. As do a vast array of insects with a powerful bite or sting. However, you’re unlikely to stumble across these animals without a guide present, unless you go AWOL on your tour. If you do come across dangerous wildlife, just avoid them. Don’t harass them or get too close (or you may end up getting bitten or worse…!).
The best way to avoid coming into contact with dangerous animals in Borneo is to stick to marked trails when out exploring. Going far off these trails not only increases your chances of getting lost but it also makes it more likely that you’ll stumble across an animal in its domain!
Arguably, the animals that pose the biggest threat to travellers in Borneo are dogs. Be aware of our four-legged friends whenever you’re out exploring.
“I came across a few dogs that I felt threatened by during my month-long backpacking trip through Borneo. The worst occasion was when I was hiking in Kinabalu National Park, near Mt Kinabalu, and there was a pack of them following me. They barked at me aggressively and got upset every time I overtook them on the trails. While they put me on edge a bit, I avoided making eye contact and tried to walk decisively, giving them space and trying to avoid showing my fear. There were no issues thankfully!”
Sheree, Editor at South East Asia Backpacker
Leeches in Borneo are relatively common, especially in jungle areas like Kinabalu National Park. Most leeches aren’t dangerous to humans, although they are pretty gross! However, occasionally, leeches can pass on blood-borne infections, so it’s best to try and avoid being bitten! Long trousers and sleeves are the best way to prevent bites when walking in the jungle – you can tuck your trousers into your socks for added protection.
Malaria in Borneo 🦟
There is a very low risk of Malaria across Borneo. If you’re staying near the coast, you won’t need to worry about anti-malarial tablets. The same is true for short visits to the interior of the island. However, if you’re high risk, or will be spending a lot of time in rural areas in Borneo, anti-malarial medication is recommended. You can buy anti-malarial tablets from pharmacies throughout Southeast Asia for much cheaper than getting them at home!
Dengue fever is a problem in Borneo, so you should always try to avoid mosquito bites by wearing insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under mosquito netting where possible.
Zika virus is also active in Borneo. While illness is generally mild, catching Zika while pregnant can lead to birth defects. As with dengue fever, bite avoidance is the only way to remain safe from Zika.
Road Safety in Borneo 🚧
Driving in Borneo is a common way for travellers to get around. Transport infrastructure isn’t great and car/motorcycle hire is very affordable. Fuel is very cheap too. Driving standards in Borneo are better than in much of Southeast Asia and while the roads aren’t quite on par with Europe or the USA, they’re better than in many countries in the region.
Speed limits are low too. Make sure you stick to them and follow road rules. Not all signage is in English, so it’s a good idea to look up important translations before you start driving!
I rented a car and drove during my trip to Borneo. The experience was much better than I expected. The roads, while not as good as I’m used to, were in reasonable condition and most drivers were very courteous. Driving was much better than relying on inconsistent and confusing public transport!
Tim, Writer at South East Asia Backpacker
Other Risks and Safety Advice for Travellers Visiting Borneo
Vaccinations 💉
Tetanus, diphtheria, measles, mumps and rubella vaccines are all recommended for travellers to Borneo. As are typhoid and hepatitis vaccines. You can also be asked for a yellow fever vaccine certificate when visiting – even though yellow fever isn’t present in Borneo. A rabies jab should also be considered if you’re going to be travelling in Borneo for more than a week or two.
Altitude Sickness 🤢
Not a common issue across most of Borneo but altitude sickness can affect travellers trying to summit Mount Kinabalu. Towering at over 4,000 meters above sea level, Mt. Kinabalu can cause altitude-related issues for some travellers. If you experience the symptoms of altitude sickness, the best thing to do is come down a short way and allow your body time to acclimatise.
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Burning Season 💨
Burning season affects Borneo most commonly in October. Unlike other parts of Southeast Asia, Borneo’s burning season isn’t caused by slash-and-burn farming. Instead, it’s a symptom of water being drained from flammable peatlands in Kalimantan.
This means that by the end of the dry season, these peatlands are a tinderbox just waiting for a spark. And when they burn, they really burn! October is prime burning season in Borneo. Travellers with respiratory issues may want to avoid visiting at this time of year. The smoke and haze travel over much of Malaysian and Indonesian Borneo.
The best time to visit Borneo is April to September. You’ll get the best weather without the haze of October!
Hospitals in Borneo 🏥
Even in Borneo’s big cities, medical facilities are lacking compared to what you’re probably used to. If you have a serious accident or illness, you may need to transfer to the mainland for treatment. Make sure your travel insurance offers transfers to good medical facilities.
LGBT+ Safety 🏳️🌈
LGBT+ safety is a hot topic for travellers to Borneo. Officially, homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia and Brunei – as is identifying with any gender not assigned at birth. However, for tourists to Borneo, there is little risk of trouble as long as you’re discreet.
In Indonesia, homosexuality is legal, although it’s frowned upon in this majority Muslim nation. Again, discretion is the better part of valour.
Avoid Demonstrations 🪧
This is pretty common travel advice for safety while on the road. But avoiding demonstrations is even more pertinent in Malaysia where it’s illegal for foreigners to join protests. Jail time is a real risk if you get caught up in a protest!
Borneo Safety FAQs ⁉️
Is Sabah safe?
Yes, Sabah is safe to visit. Official government advice usually says to avoid the coast around Eastern Sabah due to terror threats but these warnings are outdated. There has been very little trouble in Sabah since 2016.
Is Sarawak safe?
Yes, Sarawak is a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low and the people are extremely friendly. As always when travelling, practice common sense safety techniques and you should have a trouble-free visit.
Is Kalimantan safe?
Official records state Kalimantan, at least on paper, isn’t as safe as Sarawak or Sabah. However, crime rates are still low and most travellers have no problems. Kalimantan feels rougher around the edges than Malaysian Borneo, with more poverty and less infrastructure for tourists.
Is it safe to swim in Borneo?
In short, it depends. Swimming at many of Borneo’s beaches is fine but keep your eyes peeled for warning signs which will alert you to any risks. Swimming in most of Borneo’s rivers isn’t recommended due to leeches and crocodiles.
Contributors:
South East Asia Backpacker is a ‘travel diary for everyone’. This article has been written with the help of backpackers and local experts. We would like to thank…
🙏 Sheree | Editor at South East Asia Backpacker
🙏 Lisa | Writer at South East Asia Backpacker
🙏 Kate | South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
🙏 Andrea | South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
🙏 Fee | South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
🙏 JoJo | South East Asia Backpacker Community Member
Tim Ashdown | Gear Specialist
After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book, From Paralysis to Santiago, chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.
