Price: US $3,500
Group size: 6 guests (private accomodation)
This expedition takes you deep into Borneo’s forests in search of pit vipers, kraits, flying frogs, gliding lizards, and some of the rarest reptiles and amphibians on the planet. From the cool, misty slopes of Mount Kinabalu to the steamy lowland jungles near Ranau, every night is a chance to encounter species found nowhere else. This is an unforgettable field experience for those who want to get close to wildlife, walk the trails, feel the rain, and immerse themselves in raw biodiversity. If you’ve dreamed of seeing Borneo’s most elusive herpetofauna in their natural habitat, this is your chance.
Mount Kinabalu
Days 1 - 4
We begin with four nights in the cool, moss-draped forests of Mount Kinabalu. This mountain range holds some of Borneo’s most iconic herpetofauna, many of which are found nowhere else. Our primary target is Malcolm’s pit viper (Trimeresurus malcolmi), a bright green montane viper that grows impressively large and favors high elevations. After heavy rain, we also search for the elusive Chasen’s mountain pit viper (Garthius chaseni), a cryptic, ground-dwelling species endemic to this region. The more abundant Sabah pit viper (Trimeresurus sabahi) may also appear, often resting low in vegetation along trails.
These montane forests are home to venomous snakes such as the black-striped coral snake (Calliophis nigrotaeniatus) and the rare but spectacular Kinabalu krait (Bungarus flaviceps baluensis), a local subspecies known for its bold coloration. Daytime exploration can reveal the stunning Kinabalu crested lizard (Hypsicalotes kinabaluensis), an uncommon species often seen basking, and the more frequently encountered Kinabalu gliding gecko (Gekko rhacophorus).
Frogs are ever-present and equally fascinating. We often encounter the massive Kobyashi's horned frog (Pelobatrachus kobyashii), the unusual broad-headed fanged frog (Limnonectes kong), and several tree frog species including the Kinabalu green bush frog (Philautus bunitus), mossy bush frog (Philautus macroscelis), and the rare Kinabalu flying frog (Rhacophorus baluensis), which sometimes appears gliding between trees during night hikes.
Ranau
Days 5 - 10
We then descend into the tropical lowlands near Ranau, where towering trees and dense understory create prime habitat for another wave of remarkable species. Here, the Sumatran pit viper (Trimeresurus sumatranus) becomes a key target, often found coiled in low vegetation near water. The Bornean leaf-nosed pit viper (Craspedocephalus borneensis) is another highlight, typically appearing after heavy rains. Trails through secondary and disturbed forest also offer reliable opportunities to find large females of the Bornean keeled pit viper (Tropidolaemus subannulatus), often resting in trees within reach.
Kinabalu kraits (Bungarus baluensis) are known to move through this area in short seasonal bursts, and our team monitors known herping hotspots closely to maximize chances. On wetter nights, we may come across the vibrant yellow-morph red-tailed racer (Gonyosoma oxycephalum), the electrifying Bornean blue coral snake (Calliophis bivirgata tetrataenia), or even the massive Bornean short-tailed python (Python breitensteini) crossing muddy paths. In previous expeditions, we’ve also encountered the formidable Sumatran spitting cobra (Naja sumatrana), often during night drives.
Colubrids and other snakes add further diversity. The eight-striped kukri snake (Oligodon octolineatus) remains one of the most exciting possible finds, and the twin-barred flying snake (Chrysopelea pelias) sometimes appears gliding across short gaps near forest clearings.
Among the lizards, the Bornean angle-headed lizard (Gonocephalus borneensis) stands out—adult males with impressive horned crests often cling motionless to trunks. We also find the secretive cat gecko (Aeluroscalabotes felinus) and Peter’s bent-toed gecko (Cyrtodactylus consobrinus) around rocky outcrops and leaf litter.
The frog diversity is equally strong in the lowlands. We may encounter Everett’s tree toad (Rentapia everetti) perched above pools, Wallace’s flying frog (Rhacophorus nigropalmatus) in overhanging branches, the charming tree frog (Feihyla kajau) deep in vegetation, and the long-nosed horned frog (Pelobatrachus nasuta) tucked in the leaf litter near streams.
Why Join This Tour?
This 10-day herping expedition in Borneo is built for wildlife photographers, reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, and nature lovers seeking an immersive rainforest experience. You’ll explore two of Southeast Asia’s most biodiverse ecosystems: the surroundings of Mount Kinabalu and the lowland rainforests of Ranau, both home to an incredible variety of snakes, frogs, lizards, and geckos.
What makes this tour unique is its dual focus: expert-led field herping combined with in-depth wildlife photography instruction. Whether you’re aiming to photograph reptiles and amphibians or simply want to observe rare species, this expedition offers great access to some of the most iconic herpetofauna in Asia.
You’ll join a small group of like-minded adventurers, guided by experienced herpers and naturalists who know the terrain and behavior of Borneo’s reptiles and amphibians like no other. Photographers of all levels are welcome, and non-photographers will enjoy the same high-quality field experience, with the flexibility to focus on observation and species discovery.
Tour Highlights
Search for rare Bornean reptiles and amphibians across two ecosystems: highland cloud forest and lowland tropical rainforest
Photograph all six pit viper species found in the region, including Trimeresurus malcolmi, Tropidolaemus subannulatus, and Craspedocephalus borneensis
Field photography workshops focused on macro and low-light techniques, creative composition and post production
Guided by expert herpers and wildlife photographers with deep knowledge of Borneo’s herpetofauna
High chances of encountering pit vipers, kraits, coral snakes, flying frogs, gliding lizards, and other tropical species in natural settings
Intimate group size (max 6 guests) for better field access, one-on-one guidance, and more flexibility
Perfect for photographers and passionate field naturalists looking for an immersive, personalized wildlife experience
Stay in comfortable rainforest lodges with access to prime herping trails and photography opportunities
What’s Included?
This expedition is fully designed to give you a smooth, immersive, and rewarding experience from start to finish. Here's what’s covered in your package:
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights in comfortable, nature-surrounded hotels (4 nights in the highlands and 5 nights in the lowlands). All accommodations are located within quick reach of our herping sites. Ech guest will have a private room. Basic amenities, 4G mobile coverage, and Wi-Fi (in some areas) are available.
Meals
Two full meals per day are included (breakfast and dinner) with drinking water and beverages served during meals. You’ll enjoy a mix of local dishes and the option for Western food when available. We also stop at small towns where you can purchase snacks, coffee, and soft drinks for night walks.
Transport
All ground transportation is covered. We travel in two private vehicles: a 7-seater SUV for passenger comfort and a 4x4 pickup with a canopy for gear and luggage. Airport pickup/drop-off in Kota Kinabalu is included.
Field Access and Permits
All required national park permits, herping site fees, and ranger or guide costs are covered. We have legal access to all forest areas on the itinerary, including ranger-accompanied night walks in protected zones.
Guiding and Instruction
You’ll be guided by experienced herpers and wildlife photographers who know the terrain and target species intimately. For those interested in photography, nightly instruction covers lighting setups, composition, macro techniques, and more.
Ready to Join?
If you’re passionate about reptiles and amphibians, love field exploration, or want to take your wildlife photography to the next level, this expedition is for you. With limited spaces and exclusive access to some of Borneo’s most iconic herping locations, it’s the perfect blend of adventure, learning, and discovery.
Spaces are limited to just 6 guests, secure yours now and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of Borneo.