Semporna is a town located on the island of Borneo, in the Sabah state of Malaysia. The enchanting coastal landscape, as people calls it the “Malaysian Maldives”, Semporna is the gateway to one of the best snorkeling and diving location in the world!

The majority of the population here is Bajau, also known as Bajau Laut, or Sea Gypsies, or Palau people. Most Bajau people are living in sprawling stilt villages over the water on the outskirts of Semporna. They are one of the few nomadic seaborne peoples in the world. For centuries, this ancient community of seafarers have lived on the sea and on the boat for most all their lives. The Bajau Laut community have mastered the art of free-diving, with some being able to dive for 20 meters deep while holding their breath for several minutes long!

Join us for the upcoming tour to Semporna. Immerse yourself into the amazing snorkeling experience (even if you never done it before!), and photograph the unique Bajau way of life!

For inquiry, please e-mail me at: kahwailin (AT) outlook (DOT) com

Day 1-2: Tawau – Semporna – Mataking

Upon arrival in Tawau Airport (TWU) in Sabah, Malaysia, we will transfer you to Semporna town overland and proceed to the paradise Mataking Island. After the long journey to Malaysia, all you have to do in the first two days is relax and enjoy the beautiful white sang beach. Other than photography, there’s also activities like glass boat ride and snorkeling.

Mataking Island, located in the Celebes Sea off Semporna, is one of the most captivating islands in the region, famed for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and luxurious dive resorts. The island is actually made up of two parts — Mataking Besar (the larger island with the resort) and Mataking Kecil (the smaller, uninhabited isle) — connected by a picturesque natural sandbar that appears during low tide. A paradise for divers and snorkelers, Mataking’s surrounding reefs are rich with marine life including turtles, barracudas, and colorful corals, and it is also home to Malaysia’s first underwater post office, a unique attraction where divers can send waterproof postcards. With its mix of stunning scenery, world-class diving, and serene atmosphere, Mataking is often described as a “Maldives of Malaysia” and a must-visit gem in the Semporna archipelago.

Day 3: Timba Timba Island – Pandanan Island – Pom Pom Island – Semporna

Today we will proceed to Timba Timba island, Pandanan and Pom Pom Island for snorkeling, these are the world-class locations for snorkeling and photographing underwater world.

Timba-Timba, Pandanan, and Pom Pom are three idyllic islands in the Semporna, each offering its own unique charm. Timba-Timba Island is a narrow sand cay known for its powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and turtle nesting grounds, making it a favorite for sunbathing, photography, snorkeling, and diving. Nearby, Pandanan Island is larger and more laid-back, with lush greenery, traditional Bajau Laut (sea gypsy) communities, and vibrant reefs teeming with marine life — perfect for those seeking both cultural encounters and underwater adventures. Just to the north, Pom Pom Island is a tiny coral island fringed by rich reefs and famous as a turtle sanctuary. Together, these three islands showcase the natural beauty, cultural richness, and marine biodiversity that make Semporna one of Malaysia’s most enchanting island-hopping destinations.

Day 4: Bodgaya Island – Bohey Dulang Island – Sipuan Island

First, visit Bodgaya Island to photograph the Sea Bajau community, then trek up to the viewpoint on Bohey Dulang for a stunning panoramic view. Continue to Sipuan Island for lunch, followed by snorkeling and a close encounter with vibrant marine life.

Bodgaya, Bohey Dulang, and Sibuan Islands form part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park in Semporna, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Bodgaya Island, the largest in the park, is a volcanic island with dense rainforest and the traditional home of the Bajau Laut sea gypsies, giving visitors a glimpse into their unique seafaring lifestyle. Just beside it, Bohey Dulang Island is famed for its dramatic volcanic crater and panoramic viewpoint, where a short hike rewards travelers with breathtaking views of turquoise lagoons and surrounding islands. Meanwhile, Sibuan Island is a postcard-perfect sandbar island with soft white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving, while also serving as a resting spot for sea gypsy families. Together, these islands highlight the incredible diversity of Semporna — from rich marine ecosystems and adventurous landscapes to vibrant local culture.

Day 5: Maiga Island –Mantabuan Island

First proceed to Maiga Island by speed boat to visit the Sea Bajau settlement for photography, then lunch on Mantabuan Island and snorkeling.

Maiga and Mantabuan Islands, part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park in Semporna, are two serene gems celebrated for their beauty and cultural richness. Maiga Island is a small, idyllic island dotted with coconut trees and surrounded by shallow turquoise waters, where Bajau Laut sea gypsy communities live in traditional stilt houses, offering visitors a glimpse of their unique lifestyle. Just nearby, Mantabuan Island is the smallest inhabited island in the park, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling sites teeming with vibrant corals, turtles, and reef fish. With their blend of cultural encounters and untouched marine beauty, both Maiga and Mantabuan offer an authentic and tranquil island experience away from the crowds.

Day 6: Blue Star – Ormadal Island

One full day excursion on Ormadal Island. Omadal Island is a small island best known as one of the main settlements of the Sea Bajau, who live in stilt houses along its shores and continue their seafaring traditions. The island is fringed by white sandy beaches and clear waters, with nearby reefs supporting fishing and seaweed farming, which are the primary livelihoods of the community. Unlike the resort-focused islands in Semporna, Omadal offers a more cultural and authentic experience, giving visitors a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the Sea Bajau people, who have lived in harmony with the ocean for generations.

Day 7: Tiga Island – Mabul Island – Kapalai

Another day to explore Bajau settlement on Tiga Island if the tide conditions allow, then relaxation on the beautiful Mabul Island, lastly snorkeling at Kapalai.

Tiga, Mabul, and Kapalai Islands in Semporna each offer a distinct charm that together make them a paradise for photographer, divers and ocean lovers. Tiga Island, a lesser-known spot, is peaceful and relatively untouched, with beautiful reefs and rich marine biodiversity perfect for snorkeling and relaxed exploration. Just nearby, Mabul Island is world-famous as a base for diving trips to Sipadan, and is equally celebrated for its incredible ocean alongside its vibrant fishing village atmosphere. A short boat ride away, Kapalai is not a true island but a sandbank with a luxury water-village resort built on stilts, surrounded by crystal-clear shallows and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Together, these three islands showcase the diversity of Semporna — from laid-back escapes and cultural encounters to world-class adventures.

Day 8: Tawau

Check out from your hotel in Semporna and transfer to Tawau Airport for your flight home, bringing back wonderful memories and a collection of amazing photos.