A Journey to Find the Proboscis Monkey

Highlights of the Trip 

For animal lovers, visiting Borneo provides a unique opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including the elusive proboscis monkey. Found in abundance along the coastal estuaries and mangrove forests of Brunei, the curious primates can be hard to spot, but make for a truly rewarding experience.

As a species native to the island of Borneo, the proboscis monkey often goes unnoticed due to its highly arboreal lifestyle. Primarily active during the day, these primates spend most of their time in the high canopy of the trees where they look for food and escape potential predators. While they are mostly found in the coastal lowlands of Brunei, the monkeys can be spotted in lowland forests and even urban gardens.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit 

Borneo

• Istana Nurul Iman: Pass by this magnificent residence. This is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei and the largest residential palace in the world.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Trip

Proboscis Monkey: These odd-looking primates are easily recognised by their distinctive long, fleshy noses that hang down over their mouths. Interestingly, only the males have these large noses, which can grow up to seven inches in length.

Itinerary

Day Tour Highlights

Starting at 0730 or 1530 but we highly recommend the morning time to see the wild primates.

Take a tour of two different worlds at once – on one side witness the modern developing capital city of Brunei, while the other side offers the calming serenity of the largest Malay water village in the world. Once you’re picked up from your hotel, you’ll be transferred to a boat jetty and board an open deck local wooden boat that will start your journey along the Brunei River. As you sail, you’ll get the chance to take in the beautiful sights of the Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei and the world’s biggest presidential palace with 1,788 rooms. Keep your eyes peeled for any of the mangrove forests, mudskippers, kingfishers, white egrets, and night herons that line the riverbanks and creeks. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the rare and endangered proboscis monkey, which typically visit the water’s edge in the earlier parts of the day. Finally, you’ll be taken back to your hotel as the tour comes to an end.

Price

£89

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Embark on a captivating journey through Brunei, beginning with a scenic boat ride along the Brunei River. Marvel at the grandeur of Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest presidential palace, and keep an eye out for wildlife like proboscis monkeys along the riverbanks. Conclude the tour with a return to your hotel, enriched by the contrast between Brunei’s modern capital and the tranquility of the Malay water village.

FAQs

1. What is the duration of the tour?
   • The tour typically lasts around half a day, starting either at 7:30 AM or 3:30 PM.
2. Are proboscis monkeys guaranteed to be seen during the tour?
   • While sightings are common, the presence of proboscis monkeys depends on various factors such as the time of day and their natural habitat.
3. What landmarks are included in the tour?
   • Highlights include the Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest presidential palace, and the serene Malay water village, offering a blend of modernity and traditional charm.
4. How is transportation arranged for the tour?
   • Participants are picked up from their hotels and transferred to a boat jetty, where they board a local wooden boat for the river journey. The tour concludes with a return transfer to the hotel.
5. Can participants choose between morning and afternoon departures?
   • Yes, both morning and afternoon departure times are available, although the morning option is recommended for a better chance of spotting wildlife like proboscis monkeys.

Tour Map