Best Borneo Travel Guides of 2026

The Habitats of the World: A Field Guide for Birders, Naturalists, and Ecologists is a comprehensive book that accurately identifies and describes 189 major land habitats. The book features concise identification descriptions, over 650 color photographs, 150 distribution maps, and 200 diagrams. It also includes illustrated climate boxes for easy comparisons between habitats and clear explanations of complex phenomena affecting habitats. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to have a deeper understanding and appreciation of the habitats around them. The book is well-written and informative, making it a must-have for any nature enthusiast.

Chasing Plants: Journeys with a Botanist through Rainforests, Swamps, and Mountains is an exhilarating account of botanist and artist Chris Thorogood's adventures in search of the world's most extraordinary plants. Thorogood takes readers on a wild ride across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, encountering bizarre and beautiful plant species along the way. The book features electric paintings by Thorogood, which bring the plants to life and challenge readers to see their intrigue and character. Overall, Chasing Plants is a must-read for anyone with an interest in botany or adventure travel.

The Birds of New Guinea: Second Edition (Princeton Field Guides, 97) is an essential guide for anyone interested in the birds of New Guinea. This comprehensive guide covers all 780 bird species reported in the area, including 366 endemics, and contains 111 vibrant color plates and 635 range maps. The expanded and updated species accounts provide details on identification, voice, habits, and range. The revised classification of birds reflects the latest research. This book is a must-have for ecotourists, field researchers, and bird enthusiasts alike. The stunning illustrations and updated information make it a valuable addition to any natural history book collection.

National Geographic Traveler Vietnam, 4th Edition is a comprehensive guidebook that showcases the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Vietnam. From ancient Hindu temples to lush rice fields and stunning tropical beaches, this illustrated guidebook offers walking and driving itineraries to well-known wonders and hidden treasures within the country. It also provides useful maps and practical information on when to go, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. Active travelers will find plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs with self-guided walks through the shops of the Old Quarter of Hanoi and along the legendary Mandarin Road. Overall, this is an excellent guidebook for anyone looking to explore the best of Vietnam.

Living in the Ulu: Letters from a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malaysia, 1967-68 is a travel memoir written by Ed Demerly, a former Peace Corps volunteer. The book is based on his letters during his two years in a remote, rainforest village in Borneo where he faced primitive circumstances, yet discovered a rich culture and developed a strong bond with the villagers. The book offers an intriguing and absorbing narrative about the excitement, trials, and personal sacrifices of an early Peace Corps volunteer. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the sacrifices of time and comfort made by dedicated representatives of the United States.

This fourth edition of Bradt's Borneo is an essential guide for those planning to visit Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei. It includes practical information and insider tips for touring the island, regional capitals, rural outposts, and national parks. The author, Tamara Thiessen, also covers the political situation and conservation issues, as well as the island's exceptional biodiversity and exotic tribal cultures. The book's highlight is the coverage of Brunei's Ulu Temburong National Park, the coral reefs of the east and west coasts, and the Danum Valley and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah. Overall, this book is an invaluable companion for travellers seeking to discover Borneo's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The "Bali Travel Guide" is a comprehensive guidebook that highlights the hidden gems of the Indonesian island. It features top attractions, when and what to do, and insider experiences to plan a perfect vacation. The guidebook is an ideal companion for first-time travelers to Bali, providing insider tips and professional recommendations. It covers everything from the island's lush green forests to its dynamic cultural scene, and from ancient traditions to opulent resorts. The book is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to Bali, and it is an excellent resource for discovering the mysteries of this gorgeous location like a pro.

The Lonely Planet Malay Phrasebook & Dictionary 5 is an excellent pocket-sized language guide for those who want to immerse themselves in the Malay culture. With over 3500 words and phrases, this guide covers all the travel situations one might encounter, including practical phrases, emergency situations, and even food ordering. The layout is user-friendly, and the survival phrases at the front cover are useful for on-the-spot cues. The book is perfect for language students and travelers who want to interact with locals and get a true sense of the culture. Overall, this is a must-have for anyone traveling to Malaysia.

In the Time of Madness is a compelling account of Richard Lloyd Parry's experience in Indonesia during the end of General Suharto's dictatorship. The book is a vivid and honest portrayal of a country on the brink of chaos, capturing the moments when history is about to be made. Parry's elegant and understated prose offers a bubble of sanity amid the madness. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Southeast Asian history and politics, and it stands out as a forecast of worse to come in the world's flirtation with darkness.

The Last Wild Men of Borneo is a gripping true story of two adventurers, Bruno Manser and Michael Palmieri, who set out to find the treasure of the legendary “Wild Men of Borneo.” One man found riches and fame, while the other vanished into the jungle, sparking worldwide speculation. New York Times bestselling author Carl Hoffman delves into the mysteries surrounding their fates, revealing the blurred lines between good and evil in the world’s last Eden. This book is a fascinating read, shedding light on the complex issues of cultural preservation and exploitation. It is highly recommended for those interested in adventure, anthropology, and environmentalism.