This summer, 19 intrepid Sixth Form pupils from Hampton and Lady Eleanor Holles embarked on the Hampton School Adventure Society’s flagship expedition—three extraordinary weeks exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of Borneo.
The journey began in Kota Kinabalu, where pupils had the chance to acclimatise and experience the vibrant coastal city. A short boat ride to Manukan Island offered a welcome opportunity to swim in the warm South China Sea and take in the natural beauty of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park.
From there, the group travelled to the remote jungle region of Tampat do Aman—meaning “place of peace” in the local Rungus language. Pupils undertook community work, helping to build fencing and flood protection structures for the local church, while also admiring the legacy of previous Hampton expeditions, including a wall built by the 2016 team. Sleeping in longhouses deep in the Bornean jungle, the adventurers enjoyed sunsets at the stunning local beaches, and one night was spent in hammocks on a jungle expedition, persevering through the rain and several unexpected wildlife encounters.
The second week brought one of the expedition’s most anticipated challenges: the ascent of Mount Kinabalu, South East Asia’s highest peak at 4,095 metres. After two demanding days battling high altitude, sleep deprivation, and physical exhaustion, the entire group reached the summit shortly after sunrise, rewarded with spectacular views on a clear morning. On the descent, half the group opted to brave the world’s highest via ferrata, clinging to vertical cliff edges while taking in incredible sights.
Following their return to the mountain’s base, the pupils travelled to Sepilok Rainforest Resort—a welcome return to comfort after the climb. Months of fundraising culminated in a donation to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where pupils saw first-hand the importance of the organisation’s work in restoring balance to the island’s fragile ecosystem. They also delighted in watching young orangutans thrive in the nursery environment.
The group then spent a night at the Greenview Lodge by the Kinabatangan River, where evening and night cruises offered unforgettable wildlife encounters. Orangutans, crocodiles, and dozens of pygmy elephants were spotted in the wild—an exceptionally rare sight and one of the Adventure Society’s luckiest moments in Borneo. A further day in Sepilok included a visit to the famous Gomantong bat caves, before the journey continued with a boat transfer to Dolphin Bay Resort.
Spending three nights there, the pupils enjoyed a secluded beach setting, with days devoted to rest and exploration of the crystal-clear waters. Snorkelling among coral reefs provided an up-close experience of the island’s rich marine biodiversity.
The Borneo expedition offered pupils a unique insight into the region’s rich biodiversity, culture, and environmental challenges. It was, without doubt, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will live long in the memories of all who took part.
Back to All Articles
