Borneo 2026

RMS Explorers Return from the Trip of a Lifetime in Borneo!

'In January 2025, we were given the opportunity to go on an incredible trip, and a year and a half later we have arrived home from Borneo.

During the lead up to the expedition, we fundraised up to £4000 and bonded as a team. There was a practice weekend in the New Forest where we learned skills for the expedition, met our leader and had a glimpse into what life would be like in the country.

The first night in the country was amazing - we went out, watched the sunset and immersed ourselves in the atmosphere of a vibrant night market. On our way home, we were invited on stage with a group of local performers! It was a great welcome to Borneo. Giles even bought a traditional bamboo hat, which he wore every day!

Whilst in Borneo, we explored the amazing heritage of the island through a two day jungle trek where we were able to go wild swimming in a river. We stayed with locals and got to know them, hearing about their culture and village as we helped with dinner. We were also able to contribute to the development of a coffee farm, in the hopes of helping to reduce the palm oil plantations that have taken over so much of the island. We learnt a lot from Tam and his team about the importance of sustainable farming. 

The highlight on the trip for many of us was seeing some of the rare and indigenous wildlife. We went on a river cruise, a night walk and an amazing snorkelling trip, but our favourite part was going to the orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries in Sepilok. It was amazing to see such rare animals, but also sad because they are so endangered. We also saw some of the hilarious indigenous proboscis monkeys!

On many evenings, we played cards and talked through our days. On one particular night, we sat out on a hammock under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Everyone on this trip had an incredible time; we have all learned invaluable lessons and have made friends and memories that will last a lifetime. We are so grateful to have had this opportunity.'

Written by Emma G and Emily H (Team 1 Students)
 

'On 23rd July, a team of excited Robert May’s students and staff set off on an extraordinary expedition to Borneo, embarking on a journey packed with culture, conservation, physical challenge, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Once we landed, the adventure began on the water with a scenic river cruise, giving everyone a chance to swim and soak in the surrounding landscape. Moving on to Tenom, the team stayed at Padas Farmstay and rolled up their sleeves to plant coffee bean plants—meaning in three years, our very own RMS-planted beans will be ready for the cup!

Trekking through the shadow of Mount Kinabalu proved to be a major highlight, offering breathtaking views, visits to local rice paddies, and fresh pineapple tastings (alongside a few humorous moments, including mistaking giant, colorful butterflies for rare birds!).

The trip provided incredible opportunities to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts firsthand:

• Sepilok: Visiting the world-famous Orangutan and Sun Bear sanctuaries (where everyone also took full advantage of the laundry facilities!).

• Kinabatangan Nature Reserve: Exploring virgin rainforest via speedboats, spotting proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and crocodiles, plus braving a humid jungle night walk guided by a local expert who had previously worked alongside Sir David Attenborough.

• Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: Wrapping up the adventure snorkeling off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, swimming among pufferfish, clownfish, and giant clams against white sandy beaches.

Team 1 embraced local culture fully, enjoying Chinese-influenced meals (mostly delicious chicken and rice!) and venturing out to the local fish market to sample seafood they had never tried before. Throughout long bus journeys across the country, the students experienced the warmth and friendliness of the local people—and saw firsthand the complex impact of palm oil farming as plantations stretched as far as the eye could see.

It was a truly transformative experience for our students, filled with teamwork, personal growth, and memories that will last a lifetime. A huge thank you to all the staff, organisers, and local guides who made this expedition possible!'

Written by Miss Bennett (Team 1 Group Leader)