The
Essential Borneo Birding Guide
Bird Watching in
Borneo
If you're looking for a birding experience that changes the way you travel, pack your binocular and camera, Borneo is waiting.
Where to Go
Main Birding Locations
Explore the diverse habitats of Borneo, from lowland rainforests to mangrove ecosystems.
Kutai National Park
Home to over 300 bird species, Kutai National Park is a sanctuary for lowland rainforest specialists. It offers a prime window into the island's avian soul, protecting diverse habitats including ironwood forests and mangroves.
- ✓ Hornbill
- ✓ Bornean Bristlehead
KHDTK Samarinda
A vital research and education forest, KHDTK Samarinda provides accessible birding opportunities near the city. It serves as a refuge for many urban-adapted and secondary forest species.
- ✓ Bornean Black-capped Babbler
- ✓ Crimson Sunbird
Sungai Wain Balikpapan
A protected forest reserve known for its pristine primary rainforest and diverse wildlife. Sungai Wain is a critical catchment area and a haven for biodiversity just outside Balikpapan.
- ✓ Trogon
- ✓ Bornean Ground-Cuckoo
The Avian Archive
Discover the Residents
Borneo is home to high-altitude specialties and lowland gems. Use the interactive tools below to explore the diverse families and conservation status of the species you might encounter.
Filter Birds
Conservation Status
Distribution of threatened species in the checklist.
Borneo Bird Checklist
Data: eBirds, 2025 & LocalsThe Best Settings for Bird Photography
Wildlife photographer Whelan advises a two-step process for that perfect background blur: wide aperture and distance management. Try the simulator below to understand the concept.
"The background is distracting. Open up the lens!"
Why You Need a Guide
No one knows Indonesian Borneo like the local guides. They are knowledgeable when it comes to birding and having them around is a massive advantage. They are sharp-eyed, friendly, and turn a simple trek into a unforgettable experience.
Expert Spotting
Guides know exactly where to find secretive species like the Bristlehead.
Safety & Navigation
Never get lost in the jungle. Focus on the birds, not the map.
Cultural Context
Learn the stories and respect for the land that defines Bornean culture.
Your Essential Partner in the Birding
Making the decision to visit Borneo is easy, but planning the logistics can be challenging. Borneo Local Journey ensures your trip is seamless, so you can focus entirely on the birds.
100% Tailor-Made
Your entire birding trip is designed completely around your target list and requirements.
All Inclusive
We handle cars, hotels, foods, permits (Prevab), and professional guides.
98% Recommended Us, 2% Is Just Lazy
Our clients trust us to deliver outstanding, species-rich adventures.
The
Essential Borneo Birding Guide
Bird Watching in
Borneo
If you're looking for a birding experience that changes the way you travel, pack your binocular and camera, Borneo is waiting.
Where to Go
Main Birding Locations
Explore the diverse habitats of Borneo, from lowland rainforests to mangrove ecosystems.
Kutai National Park
Home to over 300 bird species, Kutai National Park is a sanctuary for lowland rainforest specialists. It offers a prime window into the island's avian soul, protecting diverse habitats including ironwood forests and mangroves.
- ✓ Hornbill
- ✓ Bornean Bristlehead
KHDTK Samarinda
A vital research and education forest, KHDTK Samarinda provides accessible birding opportunities near the city. It serves as a refuge for many urban-adapted and secondary forest species.
- ✓ Bornean Black-capped Babbler
- ✓ Crimson Sunbird
Sungai Wain Balikpapan
A protected forest reserve known for its pristine primary rainforest and diverse wildlife. Sungai Wain is a critical catchment area and a haven for biodiversity just outside Balikpapan.
- ✓ Trogon
- ✓ Bornean Ground-Cuckoo
The Avian Archive
Discover the Residents
Borneo is home to high-altitude specialties and lowland gems. Use the interactive tools below to explore the diverse families and conservation status of the species you might encounter.
Filter Birds
Conservation Status
Distribution of threatened species in the checklist.
Borneo Bird Checklist
Data: eBirds, 2025 & LocalsThe Best Settings for Bird Photography
Wildlife photographer Whelan advises a two-step process for that perfect background blur: wide aperture and distance management. Try the simulator below to understand the concept.
"The background is distracting. Open up the lens!"
Why You Need a Guide
No one knows Indonesian Borneo like the local guides. They are knowledgeable when it comes to birding and having them around is a massive advantage. They are sharp-eyed, friendly, and turn a simple trek into a unforgettable experience.
Expert Spotting
Guides know exactly where to find secretive species like the Bristlehead.
Safety & Navigation
Never get lost in the jungle. Focus on the birds, not the map.
Cultural Context
Learn the stories and respect for the land that defines Bornean culture.
Your Essential Partner in the Birding
Making the decision to visit Borneo is easy, but planning the logistics can be challenging. Borneo Local Journey ensures your trip is seamless, so you can focus entirely on the birds.
100% Tailor-Made
Your entire birding trip is designed completely around your target list and requirements.
All Inclusive
We handle cars, hotels, foods, permits (Prevab), and professional guides.
98% Recommended Us, 2% Is Just Lazy
Our clients trust us to deliver outstanding, species-rich adventures.