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3D2N Kinabatangan River Adventure

• Kinabatangan River Tour , Tour

Day 1: A Wildlife Safari Awaits

Arrival and welcome, check-in and room comfort, river cruise: a quest for wildlife, dinner amidst nature, nightfall in the jungle, day 2: exploring bilit and the kinabatangan river, morning wildlife cruise, trekking to ox-bow lakes, lunch and leisure, evening river expedition, dinner and a night in nature, day 3: a morning serenade, wake up to nature's symphony, morning river cruise: a new day of discovery, breakfast amidst wilderness, check-out and fond farewell.

After breakfast, it’s time to check out from the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort. However, your journey isn’t quite over yet.

Package Details

Tour Code : AG 307 Duration : 3 Days 2 Nights Departure : 1230 Min. Pax : 2 Meals Plan : Full board

• Tour and transfer as stated on Seat In Coach basis
• English speaking guide
• Relevant entrance fees only
• Accommodation on twin share basis Meals as stated only
• Expenses of personal nature
• Other accommodation & meals not stated
• Camera fees (if any)
• Travel insurance
• Other incidental charges
• Jungle Night Walk
• Insect repellent
• Wear sturdy shoe
• Camera/Phone
• Binocular (optional)
• Use comfortable light cotton casual attire with long or short pants is recommended as humidity is high throughout

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Discover more local experiences.

• Kinabatangan River |
• Sandakan Day Tour |
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Where to Stay

• Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort |
• Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort |
• Hotel Hsiang Garden
• Asia Green Travel Sdn Bhd

Get in Touch!

KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE IN SABAH BORNEO: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE!

WANDERING HOW TO PLAN A KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE WHEN VISITING SABAH BORNEO?

When we visited Borneo for 2 weeks for our honeymoon, we were surprised by how little information there was on what exactly a Kinabatangan river cruise was and how / where to book them, which we found very frustrating.

Now armed with new found knowledge from our personal experience here, we have specifically written the blog post below to explain everything you need to know about planning a Kinabatangan River cruise to save you the same annoyance!

Includes: All cruise booking options, how to get to Kinabatangan River, accommodation options, wildlife to spot (including the iconic Borneo Big 5 ), tips and more!

KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE: AN INTRODUCTION

Located north of Sabah, Borneo is the mighty Kinabatangan River, the second longest river in Malaysia. The enriched river banks and dense canopies are home to the highest concentration of wildlife in one place in Borneo!

The ability to take a cruise down the Kinabatangan River allows visitors to head deep into this epicentre of activity with ease to spot the very best of Borneo’s wildlife.

When we visited Borneo, the majority of wildlife we saw – including orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, macaques, dozens of birdlife and saltwater crocodiles – was on a Kinabatangan River cruise!

When we say cruise, we’re not talking a big catamaran. A river cruise on Kinabatangan River is always in a small motor boat, with usually no more than 6 to 8 guests plus guides.

From our own personal experience, we compiled all of the information below to help you easily plan your own epic experience on the Kinabatangan River.

PLANNING A KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE

Before we headed to Borneo, there was very little information about how to plan a Kinabatangan River cruise. We were under the assumption that you had to be part of an organised, all-inclusive tour to be enrolled on a cruise.

So when we arrived, it surprised us to find out that in fact most accommodation dotted along the Kinabatangan River (from the luxury Sukau Rainforest Lodge to the budget lodges) offer their own in-house cruise experiences on the Kinabatangan River.

There really is an option to suit everyones travel preferences and budget. We explain the two options in more depth below:

OPTION 1: ALL-INCLUSIVE HOTEL & CRUISES

The first option is to book your stay at Kinabatangan on an all inclusive basis, which includes all transfers from the airport and onward travel, all food and drinks throughout your stay and – most importantly – all river cruises already reserved and booked.

Many visitors may prefer this for peace of mind that everything is already sorted before you arrive, all you have to do is turn up!

If you do decide this option, we highly recommend using local tour agency Sticky Rice Travel. We personally used them to organise our trip to Kinabatangan and they provided a great, reliable service. Check out all of their Kinabatangan River all-inclusive tour options here .

While this option may be the most expensive, Sticky Rice Travel do give 3 accommodation options to choose from to help cater to different budgets, ranging from ultimate luxury at Sukau Rainforest Lodge (where we stayed) or mid-range premium at Borneo Nature Lodge or Borneo Eco Camp.

OPTION 2: BOOK CRUISES INDEPENDENTLY AT CHOSEN ACCOMMODATION

The second option is perfect for those who don’t mind not going all-inclusive and looking for a more budgeted, independent travel experience.

You can easily find some great budget Kinabatangan River lodges (we recommend Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge ), which you can easily reserve the best deal yourself on Booking.com.

You can contact them directly before you even arrive to confirm they do provide Kinabatangan River cruises, and even pre-pay / pre-book river cruise time slots for the duration of your stay for added peace of mind.

In 2023, a cruise per person at Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge is 80 MYR (Approx. £13 GBP / $17 USD).

If you aren’t too fussed about pre-booking, you can always book your cruises when you arrive (though we recommend to pre-book during Borneo’s busier period between May to September).

GETTING TO KINABATANGAN RIVER

As the Kinabatangan River is in a protected and relatively remote location, it’s super handy to know all viable options on how to get there easily. We lay out all of the best options to consider below. You will notice we have broken this down into two simple steps:

• Arrive into Sandakan Airport (SDK)
• Land transfer to Kinabatangan River

ARRIVE INTO SANDAKAN AIRPORT (SDK)

The closest airport to the Kinabatangan River is Sandakan (SDK), a very small local airport on the North coast of Sabah. You can fly into Sandakan from multiple nearby airports:

INTERNALLY FROM BORNEO:

✈️ You can fly direct from Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Sandakan Airport (SDK) . Kota Kinabalu is Borneo’s main International airport, located on the left-hand side of Borneo. From Kota Kinabalu, there are multiple internal flights to Sandakan every day. The flight duration is 50 minutes.

✈️ You can fly direct from Lahad Datu (LDU) to Sandakan Airport (SDK) . Lahad Datu is a tiny airport located on the right-hand side of Borneo. There is 1 direct internal 35 minute flight available every day. As a side note, Lahad Datu is the closest airport to Borneo Rainforest Lodge in the Danum Valley .

FROM MALAYSIA:

✈️ You can also fly directly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK) airport. There are multiple direct 2 hour 50 minute flights available every day. We personally did this option, and flew with AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur straight to Sandakan.

LAND TRANSFERS FROM SANDAKAN AIRPORT TO KINABATANGAN

From Sandakan airport, it is roughly a 2 hour drive to Kinabatangan River . On reaching the river, some Kinabatangan lodges require an additional 5 minute boat ride to get to their river bank location if they are not accessible by road. An example of this is Sukau Rainforest Lodge.

There are multiple ways you can arrange a land transfer from Sandakan airport to your Kinabatangan River accommodation:

PRIVATE TRANSFER (PRE-ARRANGED TOUR)

If you want zero hassle and all transfers booked before you arrive in Borneo, booking a pre-arranged tour is the best option for you.

From our personal experience, we recommend local tour agency Sticky Rice Travel. Check out their Kinabatangan River all-inclusive tour options here , which include all land transfers, accommodation and food.

This can also be arranged as part of a longer bespoke itinerary throughout Borneo, not just specifically for Kinabatangan. If this is of interest, contact them directly for more information.

PRIVATE TRANSFER (HOTEL PICK-UP)

If you haven’t got a fully pre-arranged tour but you have reserved Kinabatangan accommodation yourself (i.e. on Booking.com ), it is very common practise to pre-arrange a transfer from Sandakan airport directly through your accommodation before you arrive.

This will be an additional cost you will settle directly with your accommodation. The average price for a private vehicle charter from Sandakan airport is around RM300 per way (approx. £56). This is a convenient option as it will ensure you are taken directly to your accommodation, including the boat ride (if required).

USE GRAB (MALAYSIA’S VERSION OF UBER)

Another option is to book a taxi ride using GRAB , Malaysia’s version of Uber which is widely used throughout Borneo. We recommend downloading the app and setting up your account before you arrive for a seamless process.

You can check approximate fares to any destination using their Fare Check service beforehand to see which is the most cost effective option.

This option however only covers the land transfer up to the river. Check with your accommodation whether it requires an additional boat ride from the river. If so, arrange a pick-up point and approximate ETA for them to then collect you.

HIRE A CAR AND SELF-DRIVE

For those wanting full control of their itinerary, another option is to hire a rental car and drive from Sandakan airport to your Kinabatangan River accommodation. For this option, first check that your accommodation is road accessible, and your lodge caters for parking).

It’s worth noting the road leading up to Kinabatangan for the last hour or so is pretty bumpy, so we would only recommend this option to confident drivers.

ACCOMMODATION AT KINABATANGAN RIVER

Dotted along the Kinabatangan River, there are approximately 15 different accommodation options to choose from, with lodges ranging from budget-friendly options to the pricier luxury lodges.

All accommodation along the Kinabatangan River will offer Kinabatangan River cruise options, either included as part of the stay or at an additional cost, which you can easily pre-book with them beforehand or just arrange once you arrive.

We have listed a few popular options to suit different budgets:

LUXURY OPTION: SUKAU RAINFOREST LODGE 💰💰💰

MID RANGE OPTION: BORNEO NATURAL SUKAU BILIT RESORT 💰💰

BUDGET OPTION: KINABATANGAN WILDLIFE LODGE 💰

LUXURY OPTION: SUKAU RAINFOREST LODGE

Sukau Rainforest Lodge is unquestionably the most popular (and most expensive) Kinabatangan River accommodation – and for good reason!

Beautifully integrated into the surrounding landscape, this eco-friendly lodge provides a sense of luxury, the perfect choice for honeymooners in Borneo!

With 40 rooms available ranging from Superior Rooms to Villas , this lodge also provides morning, afternoon and evening river cruises with incredible tour guides, has a riverside restaurant and bar, 2 dip pools with sun loungers and a nature boardwalk.

If you want to be ultra Deluxe and your budget allows, we would recommend staying in a Villa at Sukau Rainforest Lodge! While the Superior Rooms we stayed in were nice, they were smaller than expected and the Villas (from the outside) looked amazing and very big!

We personally recommend this accommodation after our stay here. You can contact them directly via their official website or alternatively, book a stay with them through our recommend local tour company, Sticky Rice Travel.

MID-RANGE OPTION: BORNEO NATURAL SUKAU BILIT RESORT

The Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort is a mid-range Kinabatangan River accommodation with an added sense of grandeur.

All room options are all-inclusive of food, drink and tours – with prices ranging from £75 per night (single dorm) to £227 a night (deluxe room, 2 day 1 night package).

The tours included during your stay here are morning and afternoon river cruises, plus guided walks to point out smaller creatures and fauna around the resort.

Nestled directly on the Kinabatangan River bank, this idyllic location does however mean there is no option to park a hire car, however the resort does offer private airport pick-up from Sandakan. Contact them to arrange in advance.

BUDGET OPTION: KINABATANGAN WILDLIFE LODGE

The Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge is a very budget-friendly Kinabatangan River accommodation, at approximately £60 per night for a private double room (including breakfast).

Situated just a 5 minute walk away from the Kinabatangan River, the lodge offers two cruise time slot options: Early morning (6am) and afternoon (4pm). You can book these during your stay.

To top it off, Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge offers private vehicle transfers from Sandakan airport at 300 MYR per way (approximately £50 GBP / $64 USD). This lodge is accessible by road, so an additional boat ride is not required to get to the lodge.

Free private parking is also available on-site, perfect for those arriving by rental car.

KINABATANGAN RIVER WILDLIFE

Of course, it is down to luck and circumstance to what wildlife you will see during your visit to the Kinabatangan River.

Nonetheless, it is worth noting that best times to visit to see wildlife on the Kinabatangan River in Borneo is between May to October. This is when Borneo is at its driest and the trees begin to fruit.

This tempts all manner of creatures, especially Orangutans, down to the lower parts of the tree canopies and increasing your chances of spotting them!

To give a rough idea of what you might be able to expect, the wildlife we saw during our Kinabatangan River cruises in the month of September are:

• Pygmy Elephants
• Estuarine Crocodiles
• Red Leaf Monkeys
• Proboscis Monkey
• Long-Tailed Macaques
• Pig-Tailed Macaques
• Hornbills (Pied / Oriental)
• Storks and countless small, colourful birds.

KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE: “KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S

Where is the kinabatangan river.

The Kinabatangan River is located on the North East of Borneo island, specifically in the state of Sabah. It is the second longest river in Malaysia, and is well known for being one the best places to see wild Orangutans in Borneo!

IS KINABATANGAN RIVER WORTH VISITING?

Yes! The Kinabatangan River is absolutely worth visiting for anyone visiting the Sabah region of Borneo. Kinabatangan River cruises allow for the best chance to see some of Borneo’s most amazing wildlife in the wild, including wild Orangutans, Pygmy elephants, Proboscis monkeys, Saltwater crocodiles and more!

HOW TO VISIT KINABATANGAN RIVER?

To visit to Kinabatangan River, you can either pre-arrange an all-inclusive tour with a local tour agency (we recommend Sticky Rice Travel). Alternatively, you can book your accommodation and cruises independently. Click here to see descriptions of both options in-depth.

HOW TO GET TO KINABATANGAN RIVER FROM SANDAKAN?

To get to Kinabatangan River from Sandakan, there are multiple land transfer options you can choose from that best suits your travel preferences or budget. Click here to see all of the best options available.

HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY AT KINABATANGAN RIVER?

From our own experience, we would suggest 3 days and 2 nights is the perfect amount of time to stay at the Kinabatangan River.

With a Kinabatangan River cruise basically being the main thing to do here, 3 days worth of cruises in the morning, afternoon and potentially at even night will give you plenty of opportunities to spot as much wildlife as possible!

WHAT TIME IS A KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE?

It is worth noting most Kinabatangan accommodation will offer 2 daily cruise slots, typically early morning (6am) and late afternoon into sunset (4pm).

However, some will also offer an additional night-time Kinabatangan river cruise to spot nocturnal animals. If this is something that interests you, be sure to book an accommodation which offers this service.

One such accommodation that does offer night time cruises daily is Sukau Rainforest Lodge , where we stayed. It was possible to book the night cruises last minute on the day.

CONCLUSION: KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE

In conclusion, from our own personal experience we would recommend a Kinabatangan River cruise to anyone visiting the Sabah region of Borneo.

The Kinabatangan River is one of the core protected areas and wild animal sanctuaries left in Borneo, meaning it is one of the best places to see a colossal amount of wildlife.

As mentioned previously, we strongly advise to visit between May to October. This is the best time to visit Kinabatangan and see Borneo wildlife, being the driest season with plenty of fruiting trees that coax Borneos wonderful creatures – especially wild Orangutans – for you to see!

With regard to accommodation, there are plenty of options dotted along the Kinabatangan River to suit all travel preferences and budgets. Likewise, there are multiple easy private transfer options to choose from to get to Kinabatangan River.

We hope you have the most incredible time, and truly wish you the best of luck seeing the ‘Borneo Big 5’ wildlife check list on your river cruises!

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

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Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

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2D1N Kinabatangan River Wildlife Tour

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• Tour Code : BC-SO-K2
• Availability : Everyday
• Duration : 2D1N
• Departure Time : 11.45 am onwards
• Drop Off : Sandakan City
• Minimum Age : No Limit
• Minimum Pax : 1 Person
• Pick Up : Wisma Khoo/Sabah Hotel/Airport/Sepilok

WHY CHOOSE US?

1. VALUE FOR MONEY

Best Price, no hidden fees! (Our prices are always affordable)

2. WE PRACTICE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Contribute to the local community! (We hire local experts and promote local products)

All start time are estimated and for reference purposes only. Actual timing will be provided prior to your departure.

2D1N KINABATANGAN RIVER WILDLIFE TOUR

Validity: 1 Jan 2023 – 31 Dec 2023 (MYR/Pax For All Market)

Optional add on tour (myr/pax).

CHILD RATE:

1) Child rate: Applied to a child aged 2 – 11 years old.  50% of tour fee will be charged.

2) Aged 12 years old and above considered as adults, and adult rate will be applied.

3) Infant below 2 years old is Free of Charge.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:

1) Add on  RM100 per pax  on top of the package rate stated above.

1) Tour is based on Seat-in Coach Basis and subject to weather conditions.

2) There are four standard pick-up points: Wisma Khoo in Sandakan city, Sabah Hotel, Sandakan Airport, and Sepilok area only. Pick-up times vary depending on the individual pick-up location. Please inform us of your preferred pick-up point at least 1 day before tour departure.

3) Federal Tourism and Culture Ministry of Malaysia has imposed a Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTX) effective from September 2017. Foreign tourists are required to pay a flat rate of MYR 10 per room per night  regardless of hotel star level. The tax will be collected from every check-in guest directly at the resort which is not included in the package.

4) All rate are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia & Nett  (No hidden cost unless otherwise stated)

5) All passports and visas must be valid at least 06 months from the date of entry into the country destination.

PACKAGE DETAILS

Return Land Transfer

• Hotel > Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort > Hotel/Airport

One Night Accommodation

• At Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort (On twin sharing basis)

River Cruise

• TWO (2) Scheduled river cruise (Day1 – Afternoon cruise, Day 2 – Morning cruise)

Full Board Meal Free Flow Coffee and Tea In-house Guide

Air Fare Travel Insurance Camera Fees (If any) Guided Night Walk (Upon request with RM30/pax) Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTX) Others not stated

Insect Repellant Sun Block Lotion Binocular Camera Headlamp / Torch Light Leech Sock Sandal Hat & Raincoat

**Wear comfortable light cotton casual attire with short/long pants is recommended

After commencement of tour service there will be no refund in part or full, will be made for unused service/activity.

Full passport/IC number, name, nationality, gender, confirmed flight details and pick up point are required.

Sightings of wildlife animals are not guaranteed.

Tour activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised to best meet operational situations.

The safe keeping of your personal belongings are at your own responsibility.

We strongly recommend that all guests take up adequate travel insurance that covers accident, loss caused by cancellations, loss of baggage, personal property, medical expenses, medical evacuation and weather disruption that caused any acitivity cancellations.

Borneo Calling shall be relieved of all its obligation and liabilities in the event and to the extent of its performance of this agreement is delay or prevented in whole or in part by any cause beyond its control, including without limiting to, act of God, change of laws, war, riot, strikes civil unrest, fire, flood, earthquake or explosion, sale, essential construction, to the property, epidemics as confirmed by the government of Malaysia or/and act of terrorism.

SANDAKAN > KINABATANGAN RIVER

Pick up from Sandakan city and proceed to Kinabatangan River . A trip up the river at dawn or dusk is the best opportunity to see Borneo’s wildlife.  The journey will take approximately 2 hours drive and passing through rustic countryside. Upon arrival at the resort, you will be greeted by the resort’s crew and refreshment will be served followed by briefing featuring the overview of the resort routes & safety. Check in to your room.

At 1600 hrs, embark on the adventure of your life to spot the elusive Proboscis Monkey, Orang Utan, Silver-Leaf Monkeys, Macaques, Crocodile, birds, and many more. Enjoy cruising along the mighty Kinabatangan River and be mesmerized by a myriad of wildlife along the riverbank.

You might even sight the world smallest elephant – Borneo Pygmy Elephant in search of food at the riverbank during certain seasons. Apart from that, all the eight species of hornbill found in Borneo make this river their home too! When the sun goes down, its time for dinner.

After dinner, Overnight at Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort. (Optional night walk – upon request with RM30/pax top up and subject to weather conditions) Geared with your headlamp or torchlight, taking uncertain steps into the dark jungle trail to look for interesting insects, frogs, sleeping birds, and nocturnal wildlife that may turn up after dark. Enter a world inhabited by the shy night creatures before the day end. 

KINABATANGAN RIVER > SANDAKAN

Wake up to the calls of gibbons and hornbill. Proceed for an early morning cruise along the Kinabatangan River to observe more wildlife and birdlife. Return to the resort for breakfast. Check out and depart for your return journey to back to Sandakan city.

TOUR DETAILS

Scheduled Transfer

• Schedule transfer only applicable on tour arrival and departure date, based on seat-in coach basis.
• Package prices are inclusive of land transfer on the check-in and check-out day only. Additional fees will be charged for unscheduled transfer which is not included in the package.

Meal Timing

Check in & check out.

ABOUT KINABATANGAN RIVER

Kinabatangan River

Kinabatangan River , Sabah’s longest river, flowing 560km from the mountainous interior to the Sulu Sea, is one of the most exciting and accessible places to explore the rich biodiversity of  Sabah , Borneo. Along its lower reaches, where the river winds as sinuously as a snake across the flatland, it rises and spills over its bank every monsoon season to create Sabah greatest freshwater floodplain.

The river offers an incredible opportunity to see a large range of wildlife including  Proboscis Monkey   (an endemic species to the island of Borneo), the Orang Utan,   Borneo Pygmy Elephant , crocodiles, otters, and countless rare and beautiful birds.

ACCOMMODATION

BORNEO NATURAL SUKAU BILIT RESORT

The resort is approximately 2.5 hours drive from Sandakan and has the most enviable location. Comprises 6 types of room and each of them is hewn and hand-crafted by local tradesman using the Borneo Iron Wood – a rare timber tree native to the Borneo and are exquisitely designed and decorated with local materials to blend harmoniously into the natural landscape of the rainforest.

Nestled along the bank of the Kinabatangan River, the resort is surrounded by quaint local village that provides a unique “close to nature” experience with plenty of opportunities for river cruise, jungle trekking, stroll through traditional villages and chance to see the proboscis monkeys, the orang utan, pygmy elephants, the oriental darter, hornbills, kingfishers and many living in their natural habitat.

It is a heaven for nature lovers and for those who need to retreat into nature, to recharge and to escape to a different reality. With the unique and classic ethnic room designed resembling the typical and traditional village house, the resort rests on the 4ft wooden stilts rising within the nature forest with the cottages scattered among the ancient trees and linked by series of boardwalk with each room comes with its own balcony. It is truly a great escape to enjoy the sounds of nature at its finest. 

Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

Types of Room At The Resort

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Kinabatangan river cruise – The best trip in Borneo (amazing experience)

Posted on Last updated: October 27, 2022

Categories Sabah , Visit Malaysia

Our East Sabah trip is not complete without the Kinabatangan River trip.

Kinabatangan is Sabah’s longest river, beginning from the southwest and ending at the Sulu sea east of Sabah. Kinabatangan is 560 kilometers long, the longest in Sabah and Malaysia’s second longest river.

The lower Kinabatangan wildlife reserve has the highest concentration of wildlife in Borneo. The river cruise at the Kinabatangan area is the best way to observe the animals along the riverside.

That is why we have planned to stay at Bilit Adventure Lodge for three days, exploring the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary by joining the river cruises and jungle walks.

Don’t miss the video shot at Kinabatangan River. It is at the end of this article. 👇👇

1. Our trip from Kuala Lumpur to Kinabatangan river

Since there is no international flight to Sandakan, you must fly to either Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur and then take the internal flight to Sandakan if you come from another country.

As Malaysians, we took the internal flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, which is the most convenient way. We spend a few days visiting the Sandakan town, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary before heading to Kinabatangan River.

Bilit and Sukau are two villages located at the lower Kinabatangan river, where you can book lodges to stay during your visit. The road trip from Sandakan Airport to Bilit and Sukau Village is about two hours, depending on the traffic.

This article will share what we have seen during our trip to the Kinabatangan river. You can read our review of Bilit adventure Lodge here .

2. Where did we stay while visiting the Kinabatangan river?

We arrived at Billit Adventure Lodge in the afternoon at about 4:00 pm and immediately prepared to join the evening cruise starting at 5:00 pm.

It is located on the Kinabatangan riverbank, making it super easy to join the river cruise in the morning and late afternoon. According to our guide, we expected to spot different wildlife in the morning and afternoon.

The lodge is quite basic but has all the basic amenities required. Our room was spotless, with an attached bathroom and air conditioning. That was the lodging we looked for as we were here for the wildlife, not aiming to stay at a luxurious resort. The cost is also quite competitive.

Bilit Adventure Lodge is located opposite the river near Kampung Bilit. There is no road or vehicles on this side of the river as it is a virgin jungle. 

If you are looking for more luxurious accommodation, check out Sukau Rainforest Lodge at Sukau village.

3. Additional stuff we brought for the Kinabatangan trip

Here is a list of specific things we carried during our Kinabatangan river trip.

• Binoculars . Since we stayed on our boat during the cruise, binoculars are essential to locate the birds, monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants.
• I also brought my full-frame camera and telephoto 100mm-400mm zoom lens . Full frame camera allowed me to crop in during postproduction, as some animals were just too far from me. I also had a tripod , which is handy for photographing wildlife. 
• As suggested by our guide, I used the insect repellent called Mosi Guard , which is effective for leeches.
• Since we had jungle tracking, our headlamps were helpful during our night trekking tour.
• We purchased our leech socks , but Bilit Adventure Lodge can provide them for the guest for a small fee. 
• I used my regular trekking shoes . My wife purchased the locally made Addidas Kampong in Sandakan, which locals widely use for trekking. It is especially useful when crossing rivers and streams, as it has good grips and is quick to dry.

Note : If you are using your iPhone, I suggest purchasing a telephoto lens dedicated to iPhones. Telephoto Moment lenses are made for iPhone. It can increase the focal length up to four times, greatly useful for wildlife photography.

4. Animals that we spotted during the Kinabatangan river safari

We joined the early morning river cruise and afternoon cruise because different animals will come out at other times of the day.

Although we have seen orangutans and the proboscis monkey at Sepilok, seeing them again in the wild is a different experience. The Kinabatangan river is the natural habitat for various primates, including the proboscis monkey, long and short-tailed macaques, and orangutans.

The cruise offers a relatively easy way to observe wildlife along the riverbanks. The late afternoon Kinabatangan river cruise took about two hours. 

A. Borneon pygmy elephants

These elephants have separated from relatives like Asian elephants since 300,000 years ago. As a result, during the evolution process, they become smaller and endure significant body changes.

They have long tails, large ears, and a straight tusk. They are relatively small, about 8 to 9 feet tall, even when fully grown.

We were lucky to sight a herd of Bornean pygmy elephants at the riverbank. No one can guarantee that we could see the elephants, depending on our luck. The elephants roamed into the inner land the following day, and visitors could only see one elephant the next day!

Hunting, poaching, and reduced genetic diversity due to the small population contributed to the near extinction of Bornean pygmy elephants. As a result, they are considered endangered species. It is only estimated about 1500 remain in the wild of Borneo. 

Although you can spot the pygmy elephants in Borneo at Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the easiest place to spot these elephants is along the Kinabatangan riverbank.

B. Proboscis monkey

Proboscis monkeys are the largest monkey species in Asia. The male is generally about 70 centimeters tall, and his weight can go up to 20 kilos. They have a large and long noses for males. Female noses are not as large as the males but larger than most monkeys. In addition, both females have bulging stomachs that look like potbellies.

Proboscis monkeys are an endangered species in Borneo. Their predators are large lizards, crocodiles, and some large birds, like eagles.

Their natural habitats are mixed dipterocarp-kerangas, mangroves, and lowland forests near freshwater and rivers.

They were pretty naughty and jumped from one tree to another. One of the proud males nearly fell to the ground. After that, he just sat there quietly. His expression is like saying, ‘Oh my God, what have I done?’

C. Orangutans

Orangutan is also an endangered species in Borneo.

The best way to get closer to orangutans is to visit them at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

Orangutan has long arms and short legs. They have reddish brown hair covering their bodies. The male can weigh up to 75 kilos while females can reach about 37 kilos. Fruit is the most crucial component of the diet. 

Orangutans spend most of their time in trees. Our guide helped us to spot a few wild orangutans during our river cruise.

D. Saltwater crocodiles

We saw a few saltwater crocodiles during our cruise, but it was pretty tricky to photograph because they were mostly beneath the water.

Saltwater crocodiles have a reputation as one of the most aggressive crocodiles when they are fully grown. So we were a little bit nervous initially, but our local guide said that as long as they were not disturbed, we were saved from observing them from afar.

E. A variety of birds

We spotted a variety of birds during our cruise. 

It wasn’t easy to find them initially, but our guide with trained eyes spotted them quickly. Otherwise, we could not locate them except the great egret on the riverbank.

Among all the birds we spotted are storm’s stork, oriental pied hornbill, rhinoceros hornbill, falconet, green imperial pigeon, and stork bill kingfisher.

5. Guided jungle walk at the riverine forest

Besides the Kinabatangan River tour, we went for a guided jungle walk after dinner and another during the day.

a. Night walk in the jungle

Since the jungle is located in the wetland, the trail can be pretty muddy.

The lodge has provided boots for us as the regular trekking shoes were not suitable in the swampy area. We also wore leach socks to prevent getting bitten by the leeches.

Walking in the jungle at night was a different kind of experience because it was pitch dark.

We were asked to switch off our headlamps and torch at one point for a minute to let us experience how it feels in total darkness. It was a unique experience for anyone who had never tried that before, as we saw absolutely nothing.

Our guide helped us spot insects, nocturnal animals, and birds while meandering through the muddy bushes. It was such a good experience that we joined the night walk again on the second night.

Our guide also spotted a slow loris that had not been seen for the past three years. Unfortunately, it was too dark, and we did not manage to take a good photograph.

b. Trekking through a swampy area

The following day, our guide brought us to a different area without any clear trail at certain parts. 

This area is swampy, and the boots given to us came in handy. Not many animal animals were found, but walking through the swampy area was quite an experience.

6. What’s next in our itinerary?

Our stay at Kinabatangan river is a new experience. We spotted many animals, insects, and birds we had never seen before. Our next stop was Tabin Wildlife Reserve at Lahad Datu, where we enthusiastically anticipate seeing more rare species and visiting the mud volcano.

6. More information about the Kinabatangan River trip

A. what is the best time to visit the kinabatangan river.

Anyone can visit the Kinabatangan river in Borneo any time of the year. However, it is best to visit during the dry season between March and September. April to October is the best time if you like bird watching because that’s the birding season.

Avoid the monsoon season, especially between December and January, as it will rain a lot, and sometimes the river and the channels are flooded, making it inaccessible.

B. How long should you plan your trip to Kinabatangan river?

Since it takes about 3 hours to travel from Sandakan to Kinabatangan river, I suggest you stay here for at least two nights.

During your stay, you can join the morning and evening cruises, where you will spot different wildlife.

In addition, don’t miss out on the jungle trail walk during the day and at night. There is a high chance you will see some rare nocturnal animals and birds that can only be able to find at night.

Watch our video shot during our stay at Kinabatangan River . 👇👇

If you have read this blog post this far, don’t miss out on the video shot at Kinabatangan River. Click the image below to watch on YouTube (shot in high definition!).

Other places we visited in Sabah, Malaysia

If you like this article, you may also want to read about other articles we wrote during our visit to Sabah, Malaysia.

• (EP1 Sabah) Sandakan food guide: Ten best restaurants in Sandakan
• (EP2 Sabah) Sandakan Heritage Trail & Memorial Park guide- Best places to visit in Sandakan
• (EP3 Sabah) Sepilok Jungle Resort review- Our true experience (with amazing hospitality)
• (EP4 Sabah) Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary- feeding session (amazing photos)

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

Hi, what company did you use for your travel guides for your Sabah trip? Thanks

Monday 6th of March 2023

The tour company is Sepilok Tropical Wildlife Adventure. Here is their website: http://www.stwadventure.com/main.php

Kinabatangan River Cruise: A Must-do in Borneo (2024 guide)

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

The Kinabatangan River is an area with tropical lowland rainforest vegetation and unique ecosystems.  It’s a popular place to spot wildlife.

Do you have plans to visit this lush green region during your Borneo trip? A Kinabatangan river cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In this article, we share the best time to visit the Kinabatangan river, how to get there, some excellent all-inclusive Kinabatangan river lodges, and what it is like to spend a day in the jungle.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

In a Hurry? Here you will find the most important information about making a Kinabatangan River Cruise

• The Kinabatangan River in Borneo can be visited almost all year round.
• The most popular way to get here is to fly to Sandakan. That’s also how we got here.  Most Kinabatangan river lodges include transportation to and from Sandakan airport in their bookings.
• The price of your Kinabatangan river cruise package depends on many elements. We advise taking an all-inclusive package.  You will have nothing to worry about because your tours and your meals will be included. As you are in the jungle there are no other restaurants around.
• We stayed in the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Lodge and loved our stay.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit the Kinabatangan River

The Kinabatangan River in Borneo can be visited almost all year round. March to early September are the driest months.

This is a great time to see wildlife near the Kinabatangan river.

From April to October is a good period for bird lovers as it is the flowering and birding season.

We went in July and we had nice weather with blue skies and we saw a lot of wildlife including orangutans and pygmy elephants.

The wettest months are November to March. This season has its advantages and disadvantages.

The main advantage is that you can enter deeper into the river channels and you will have more chances of spotting wildlife.

The disadvantage is that it will rain a lot and sometimes the river and channels are flooded. Especially during the monsoon season in December and January.

We recommend you to avoid the monsoon season.

How to get to the Kinabatangan River in Borneo?

The most popular way to get here is to fly to Sandakan.  That’s also how we got here.  Most Kinabatangan river lodges include transportation to and from Sandakan airport in their bookings.

If you are not sure if it’s included, you should check this with your lodge.

The journey involved a long drive in a minibus and then just a few more minutes over the Kinabatangan River.

This will be the case for most Kinabatangan river accommodations as most of them are located close to the pier at the main road.

Kinabatangan Riverside Lodges

The price of your Kinabatangan river cruise package  depends on many elements.  The level of comfort of the accommodation will make a difference but there will also be differences in what’s included in your package.

Some Kinabatangan river lodges offer all-inclusive packages (typically including all meals and 2 daily Kinabatangan River Cruises) but some only include your accommodation.

We advise taking  an all-inclusive package.   You will have nothing to worry about because your tours and your meals will be included. As you are in the jungle there are no other restaurants around.

If you are just like us a big nature fan,  opt for a 4 days/3 nights package  so you can enjoy 3 full days in the Malaysian wilderness. You will have more chances to see the orangutans and pygmy elephants. We saw different animals on each river cruise.

There’re many Kinabatangan river tours and accommodations. Remember that you are in the jungle and that these river accommodations may not offer all the amenities that you are used to.

Here we share 3 comfortable Kinabatangan accommodations with air conditioning that offers all-inclusive packages.

Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

We stayed in the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort, one of the more comfortable Kinabatangan riverside lodges. It’s the only lodge in Kinabatangan rated 2 stars. 

The manager took really good care of us and we were treated with delicious meals after every river safari.  

We comfortably enjoyed the pleasures of the jungle :-).

Check prices and availability here:

Booking.com

Nature Lodge Kinabatangan

The Nature Lodge Kinabatangan offers basic clean rooms with air conditioning.  

Incredibly friendly staff.

The tours are good and the group sizes are considerably smaller than other tours.

Kinabatangan Wildlife Lofe

The Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge offers spacious rooms with air conditioning.  

They offer a reasonable selection of well-prepared food, Very friendly and helpful staff.

The river safaris are excellent and the guides are good at spotting wildlife.

If you aren’t convinced of these hotels, you will find a lot of other hotels along the Kinabatangan river on booking.com: Booking.com

Jungle days with Kinabatangan river safaris

A typical day in the jungle takes an early start mostly around 5 or 6 o’clock in the morning.

A small snack and some coffee will be waiting to help you wake up before you head to the boats to do a Kinabatangan cruise at sunrise.

2 hours later you will get back to your lodge where you will enjoy breakfast.

After breakfast, you have time to read that good book that you wanted to read for so long.  You could take a nap or if you’re like me you could unwind by just listening to the sounds of nature.

You will be amazed at how quickly it is time for lunch…

Most packages will include all meals and morning- and evening river safaris

After lunch, you have time until 4 PM to do more of the same. At 4 PM it is time for another Kinabatangan river cruise.  Your sunset cruise typically lasts 2 hours and returns to the lodge after dark.

Dinner will be waiting for you when you get back to the lodge.

Most Kinabatangan river accommodations offer all-inclusive packages with all meals (no drinks) and morning and evening cruises included.

You can choose to add some extra excursions to your Borneo river safari packages like a night walk, a night cruise or an excursion to a nearby village.

The forest is alive day and night and a night excursion is particularly interesting if you want to see the nocturnal animals. (think, among other things, of big hairy spiders)

You can also approach birds more easily to take some really good close-up pictures.

We were hoping to see the Pygmy elephants but when we inquired as to their location upon arrival our hopes were quickly scuttled.  The main group of elephants had moved to a location that was too far away, out of reach for our boat safaris.

We had set our hopes for elephants but the orangutans, birds, and snakes we saw on the first day generously made up for failing to see any elephants.

If you love nature this is definitely a place you should go to.

Things only got better from there. You can imagine how excited we were when we encountered some elephants during our evening cruise on the second day.

We became even luckier on the third day when we got to see some elephants swimming. At the end of our 3 days we had spotted orangutans, snakes many proboscis and macaques and lots of birds (kingfishers, raptors, eagles, owls, …)

Some of the lodges include optional tours upon arrival and departure.

We opted to include these tours when we booked our package at the Borneo Nature Lodge and visited the Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation center on our way to the lodge and the Gomatong cave upon departure.

Very often a Borneo orangutan tour is included, a tour where you visit an orangutan rehabilitation center, but other lodges may offer different Kinabatangan river tours.

The Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation center

Since earlier on we visited  the Semenggoh rehabilitation center  we can make a good comparison of both and I think Sepilok beats Semenggoh. 

Not that we didn’t like Semenggoh, as animal lovers I would visit each center if I could, but if you have to choose between the two my first choice would be Sepilok. 

They have a professional and very informational visitor center where you learn a lot about these interesting animals. 

The presentation and the video in the center make your visit somewhat more worthwhile.

The 3 best activities to do in Kuching .

If you only have time for one Borneo orangutan tour our advice would be to visit the  Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation center.

The creepy Gomatong caves on our way back

On our last day, we got to sleep late, actually just a normal hour but if you have to get up at 5 for the morning cruise it’s a treat to sleep until 7 for once.

After breakfast, we headed to the Gomatong cave .

One part of the cave is open to the public and here you can witness the conditions in which twice yearly the edible bird’s nests are harvested.  These swallow nests are a delicacy in China and they pay big money for it.

But not only swallows are living in the cave… A population of bats lives in the cave and their pile of guano has attracted millions of cockroaches and centipedes.

As soon as you stopped walking those little creatures started walking across your feet which means I haven’t taken any pictures and share some pictures taken by other braver visitors (credit in the picture’s caption).

I do respect the guards that live in the cave day and night to protect the bird’s nests

I think I could say our visit was disgusting but interesting at the same time.  We witnessed an ecosystem here as we had never seen one before.

The Gomatong cave is situated in a wildlife protected area and as you make your way along the walkway towards the cave you should keep your eyes open for orangutans. We did see 2 of them.

Other people reported that they had also seen lemurs and colorful kingfishers.

Nature enthusiasts should definitely put a nature lodge stay along the Kinabatangan river on their bucket list. The river safari in Borneo is an unforgettable experience.

You adopt the pace of nature and in just a few days you will leave recharged with some great memories.

Staying in a comfortable lodge in the middle of the jungle has something magical.

We did it in Peru and we repeated it here in Kinabatangan and both times it was one of the best memories of our trip.

Don’t forget your binoculars!

A torch can come in handy to use during your night walk (usually torches are provided).  You might also need it as some hotels don’t have 24/7 electricity.

As soon as the sun sets the mosquitos come out.  Make sure to bring mosquito repellent to avoid becoming a mosquito buffet.

One day seems too short to visit this vast region but if that’s all you have you should have a look at this one-day Kinabatangan excursion .

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• Sandakan & Kinabatangan Wildlife Adventures

2D1N Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort - Kinabatangan River Cruises & Jungle Walk (Budget)

2D1N Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort - Kinabatangan River Cruises & Jungle Walk (Budget) Print

FROM MYR 430

Our price value guarantee.

Travel Period: 01 January 2024 till 31 December 2024

• Rate Per Person is based on Join-In Tour Basis (shared guide & vehicle).
• All rates displayed are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR) .
• All rates are inclusive of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
• Minimum 2 Adults to go

CHILD POLICY

• Child rate applies for children between 3 - 11 years old are charged at 50% from adult rate.
• Infant below 3 years old is FOC.

PRIVATE TOUR SERVICE

• Request for Private Tour at a reasonable fee (private guide & vehicle).

OVERVIEW OF THE LOCATION

Approximately 2 and a half hours drive away from Sandakan, the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort (BNSBR) is an eco-resort set at the renowned Kinabatangan River and surrounded by lush, tropical greenery – one of the best of Sabah’s untouched wilderness.

Visitors will be whisked on a magical wildlife experience to observe Borneo’s highlights, which include Proboscis Monkeys, Orang Utans, Pygmy Elephants, all 8 species of Hornbills, and Crocodiles, amongst other wildlife. This is also the ultimate birdwatcher’s haven with over 200 species of birds in the area. 

The resort prides itself in providing simple comforts without omitting the rustic feel of a Bornean adventure. After a long day of exploring, relax in your very own eco-lodge.

A stay at BNSBR is perfect for adventurous families and groups of friends, but has also gained popularity amongst audacious couples looking to level up their romantic escapades.

Sample Itinerary

Sandakan / kinabatangan river cruise (pm) / borneo natural sukau bilit lodge.

• Pick up from designated location in Sandakan town.
• Travel to the village of Bilit located in Sukau and proceed to the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort by boat along the Kinabatangan River.
• Arrive at Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort.
• A short briefing on the overview of the resort and general safety precautions will be given by the staff.
• Check-in to your eco-lodge.
• At 1600hrs, river cruise adventure along the Kinabatangan River in search of Bornean-endemic wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orang utans, pygmy elephants, and many more!
• Head back to the resort for dinner.
• After dinner, return to your eco-lodge for an overnight stay at Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort.

Dinner Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE (AM) / SANDAKAN

• Awaken to the calls of gibbons and hornbills prompting you out of your room for an early morning river cruise along the Kinabatangan River!
• Return to the resort to recharge with a hearty breakfast.
• Check out of your lodge.
• Depart to Sandakan Airport or your respective hotel in Sandakan town.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Recommended attire.

• Comfortable and Good Walking Shoes
• Cooling Tee shirt
• Long/Short Pants
• Easy & Relaxed Attire

THINGS YOU SHOULD BRING ' title="Our list of items simply acts as a guideline and may come in handy while on adventures with us. However, you can choose to forgo certain items as we are still able to proceed with the tour."> ?

• Light raincoat
• Insect repellent
• Leech socks

Note: You may rent or get rubber boots, binoculars, torchlight, leech socks or insect repellent from the resort.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Please ensure you are holding air ticket to Sandakan.
• 1145hrs @ Wisma Khoo / Behind Suntos Supermarket
• 1215hrs @ Sandakan Airport (Strictly for guest arriving before the pick up time only)
• 1245hrs @ Sepilok Area (Sepilok Centre / Accommodation)
• 1345hrs @ Medan Selera Coffee House, Bukit Garam Kota Kinabatangan
• Standard check-in and check-out times for most hotels & resorts are 1400 Hrs & 1200 Hrs. However, check-in & check-out times may vary depending on each accommodation. So kindly check with us to get accurate check-in & check-out times of your accommodation.
• The night walk activity is available as an optional tour and can only be arranged upon arrival at the resort.
• Effective as of 1st September 2017, the Tourism and Culture Ministry of Malaysia will be implementing a Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTX). Foreign tourists will be required to pay a flat rate of MYR 10 per room per night regardless of accommodation star level.The TTx is to be paid upon check-in. Malaysians or permanent residents residing in Malaysia are exempted from TTx and is required to present a valid identification upon check-in for the exemption.
• Recommended flights details Click Here . 
• The above flight timings are suggestions and subject to changes. Please always check with the airline schedules for the correct flight timings that are most suited to your needs.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO NOTE

• This package is based on join-in basis of shared guide and transport vehicle.  Private Guide or Tour is available upon request at a reasonable fee.  Please inform us when making the bookings. 
• Activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised to best meet operational situations.
• Amazing Borneo Tours does not guarantee wildlife sightings.
• Departure time is approximate and varies from different hotels due to traffic conditions, please reconfirm with our staffs. Should the transport be delayed, please call the relevant telephone number as stated on the voucher before making alternative arrangements.
• Amazing Borneo Tours reserves the right to alter routes, timetables, itineraries and accommodation reserved should conditions beyond our control render it necessary.
• Tipping is like giving a hug. Although it’s never expected, it’s always very much appreciated.

Why Travel With Amazing Borneo

Tailored local experiences, the amazing team, value price guarantee, eat like a local, share this page.

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Kinabatangan River: Everything You Need To Know

Considering visiting the Kinabatangan River? Great choice! This area is fantastic for wildlife spotting and is an easily accessible and good priced Sabah jungle experience.

The Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia (and longest in Sabah). It’s 560 kilometres long and starts in Borneo’s interior before making its way to the sea. It’s a chocolate colour and surrounded by rainforest which is home to much wildlife.

This is a great place to spot wildlife although for a sad reason. The forest that lines the river is getting smaller and smaller as palm oil plantations grow. This means that the wildlife is more concentrated making them easier to spot.

It’s easy to explore this area thanks to the lodges that line the river and can take you on cruises and treks to help you appreciate this area.

Of course, when you haven’t been here before, it can be confusing to work out what you need to do, and if it’s even worth your precious vacation time to take a Kinabatangan River trip in the first place.

Below, I walk you through it all with everything you need to know to make the decision to go including how to book your Kinabatangan River Borneo trip. I also share all my experiences from visiting here myself in this Kinabatangan River blog as well as a full video walk through of the experience of visiting the Kinabatangan River.

If you already know you want to go and simply want to book a tour to the Kinabatangan River, you can find my guide to the best Kinabatangan River day trip and longer trip options here.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Why Visit The Kinabatangan River?

Exploring the Kinabatangan River and its banks is a fantastic choice for nature lovers and anyone wanting to experience the diverse wildlife of Sabah.

It is the only place in the region where visitors can observe ten different primates, including the iconic orangutan, Bornean gibbon, macaques, proboscis monkeys and tarsiers. The area is also home to other fascinating creatures, such as monitor lizards, crocodiles, wild boars and Borneo pygmy elephants, providing a remarkable experience for those interested in wildlife observation.

The Kinabatangan River is a haven for birdwatchers, with various Bornean hornbill species, pittas, kingfishers, and many other birds to spot.

Accessing the area is relatively easy as it is only a couple of hours’ drive from Sandakan or Sepilok to the lodges where river cruises along the Kinabatangan begin.

However, planning ahead is necessary as it is not possible to reach here via public transportation. Booking a tour in advance is the best and most feasible way to visit here.

Where Is Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia?

The Kinabatangan River is south of Sandakan. The lodges are located between the main AH150 highway pictured below and the coast.

Here is a Kinabatangan River map.

Kinabatangan River Wildlife

There are lots of Kinabatangan River animals that you have a chance to spot.

The main ones are:

• Pygmy elephants
• Bornean gibbon
• Long-tailed and pig-tailed macaques
• Proboscis monkeys
• Silver-lead and maroon langurs
• Monitor lizards

Also, keep a look out for birds. You can see all varieties of Borneo’s hornbills, pittas, kingfishers, storm’s stalk, white-fronted falconet, oriental darter and more.

Of course, this isn’t a zoo and nothing is guaranteed. You would be unlucky not to spot at least a few of these animals though.

For the best chance of spotting wildlife, stay as long as you can and do as many cruises as you can especially at different times of the day.

Kinabatangan River Cruises

The main Kinabatangan activity is taking river cruises. This is a must-do activity.

All Kinabatangan River cruise overnight packages include a cruise in the early morning and late afternoon. I recommend you do as many of these as you can. Night cruises are also often available, usually at an extra charge.

Early morning and late afternoon are considered the best times for wildlife spotting, but each time of day or night has a chance of spotting different animals. So I recommend you go on at least one cruise at each time option.

The early morning cruise is best for birds and orangutans, afternoon for proboscis monkeys and evening for crocodiles and nocturnal birds.

On my cruises, I saw a range of monkeys, birds and crocodiles. I especially loved the morning cruise. It was so peaceful and calm.

This is why I don’t recommend a day trip to Kinabatangan River if you can avoid it. Day trips only go on a late afternoon cruise. This is better than not visiting the Kinabatangan River at all though.

Cruises may not only cover the Kinabatangan River, but also its tributaries.

The cruises themselves are on small boats with a guide and driver. There are usually 10-16 people per cruise on small seats with full views of the surrounding area. Cruises last 1 – 2.5 hours.

Trekking At Kinabatangan River

In addition to cruises, you can also go trekking along the Borneo Kinabatangan River. Most lodges offer some time of trekking, with night treks being particularly popular to see insects, frogs, sleeping birds and nocturnal wildlife.

I did a night trek at the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort. This involved trekking through the mud (they supplied rubber boots) and looking out for creatures such as insects, frogs, sleeping birds and nocturnal animals.

If you do a multi-night package, there is usually trekking on the middle day during the daytime as well.

How To Get To Kinabatangan River

As mentioned before, there isn’t public transport to the Kinabatangan River Malaysia lodges. However, package tours or day trip to Kinabatangan River will just about always include transfers from the Sepilok/Sandakan region.

This means it makes the most sense to get to the Sandakan area and then travel from Sandakan to Kinabatangan. You could also get a taxi here or hire a car and drive yourself.

If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Kinabatangan River or from Kota Kinabalu to Kinabatangan River, you can first fly to Sandakan and then travel onwards as stated. Flights are usually great value ( check here ). There are also buses from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan here.

Because I wanted to travel on to Lahad Datu after I visited the Kinabatangan River, I arranged a taxi through my lodge. It was pricey though, so if you are looking to save money, you best option is to go back to Sandakan afterwards and travel onwards from there.

Kinabatangan River Accommodation

There are a few lodge choices along the Kinabatangan River. Here are some options.

Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

This is a beautiful resorted located right by the river with fabulous views. The whole resort is built from local wood on stilts and there are boardwalks between the villas and the main resort area. It helps the resort buildings fade into the surrounding rainforest.

It has a chill-out vibe and is a great place to hang out between activities with comfortable beds for night time.

There a range of room types. All are heavily constructed in wood and have decor hand-crafted by local tradesmen.

Dorm rooms are available for budget travellers with three bunk beds. There are also cottage and deluxe villas with twin beds, fans, desks and clothes racks. There is also a triple room with a queen and a single bed.

I stayed in a deluxe villa here which was just amazing. It had a great balcony looking out over a lake area (pictured above).

All rooms have their own bathrooms, a balcony and air-conditioning.

There is a restaurant and seating area on-site with great views over the river. The meals and staff are great and I had a fantastic time at this resort.

Packages here include early morning and late afternoon cruises, evening night walks, meals and transfers to and from Sandakan.

Click here to see the latest package prices or see my full review here.

Bilit Adventure Lodge

This fabulous riverside lodge offers similar packages to the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort above with morning and afternoon river cruises, transfers, jungle hikes and all meals.

For rooms, you can choose between air-conditioned rooms and cheaper rooms with fan only. All have private bathrooms with the air-conditioned rooms also offering hot showers and tea and coffee making facilities.

There is a restaurant on-site and great views,

Click here to see the latest prices. You can also find their three day/two night package tour here .

Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp 

To really get away from it all, consider the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp. This is owned and operated by a local tribe with proceeds supporting local community projects.

It’s in a more remote location so you are more likely to have your river cruises free of other boats. They also only allow 12 guests maximum at any one time so you can definitely have a more intimate experience at this place.

Stays are by package tour only. They include all meals as well as morning, afternoon and night cruises giving you a great chance of spotting lots of different wildlife.

Click here to see their latest 2 day/1 night package prices or here for their 3 day/2 night package price.

How To Visit The Kinabatangan River

The best (and easiest) way to visit the Kinabatangan River is with a package tour purchased before visiting.

As mentioned above, this is the best way to get to the area and you’ll want a deal which includes river cruises and accommodation (if you’re starting overnight) anyway.

River lodges are also spread out so it’s not really a place to just show up and then try to find your accommodation.

Luckily for you, it is very easy to book beforehand.

Here are some more details or you can find our full write-up of travel package and day tour options here.

You can day tour to Kinabatangan River but note that these will only include an afternoon boat ride.

Here are your options:

Overnight Trips

Staying by the Kinabatangan River is definitely the way to go if you have the budget and time. This will give you more opportunities to spot wildlife and it’s just a great place to chill and hang out.

How To Book Your Trip To The Kinabatangan River

Work out which lodge you want, how many nights and then you can simply click on the links in the tables above to book your trip to Kinabatangan River. They all include everything you need.

If you book elsewhere, it’s important to ensure that the twice-daily river cruises are included in the price. While night cruises, walks and other activities may require an additional fee, be sure to read the details carefully. After all, the river cruises are the main attraction.

When To Visit The Kinabatangan River

You can visit year round, although note that the area can flood in the rainy season (October to March) which can stop tours if your lodge is affected. Heavy rain can also stop river cruises and trekking.

The upside is that there is more area to explore with more rain as there are more tributaries.

Wildlife spotting is usually best from March to September with bird spotting best April to October (when it’s flowering).

What To Take To The Borneo River Kinabatangan

I recommend you take the following to Kinabatangan River:

• Any cash you need (there are no ATMs)
• Poncho or rain jacket
• Torch or headlamp for night walks
• Hiking shoes
• Mosquito Repellent
• Long shirt and pants
• Long socks (or leech socks)

Kinabatangan River Video Walk Through

To get an even better idea of what you’ll do and what to expect at Kinabatangan River, watch our full video walk through below.

It shows you everything from the journey here to inside a resort to the animals we saw on the cruises.

Final Words

I absolutely loved visiting the Kinabatangan River, and I’m sure you will too. The wildlife spotting is superb and it’s hard to get an easier way to see wildlife in their natural habitat than from sitting in a boat.

The lodges can also be great. I particularly loved staying at the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort.

I hope you have enjoyed this full guide to Kinabatangan River. It’s a fabulous experience that should be on all itineraries to Sabah.

It can seem a little complicated when you first look into visiting here, but all you need to do is book a package tour and you’ll be all set to go.

You can find all the best Kinabatangan river cruise packages and tours here or all our guides to Sabah here .

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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Kinabatangan River Cruise on Your Own

Though we had been in Malaysia before, we had never seen its wildlife. We decided to travel to Sabah , on the island of Borneo , since it’s less touristic than Sarawak. The best way to watch wildlife in Sabah is along the Kinabatangan River cruise. Exactly, this narrow strip of land along the river is home to numerous cute animals. As usual, we wanted to discover Kinabatangan River on our own and avoid any packaged tour. We did, and though it was a bit of an extra effort, it was totally worth it!

Kinabatangan River

At 560 kilometres long, the Kinabatangan River is Sabah’s longest and Malaysia’s second longest. The river begins at the mountains in southwest Sabah and crosses different forests, lakes, swamps and mangroves ending in the sea near the city of Sandakan. We humans have damaged most ecosystems along the river. Yes, our addiction to palm oil has been devastating to the region. However, the few unaltered areas that remain have been grouped into wildlife sanctuaries . Different animals, such as orang-utans, proboscis monkeys, macaque monkeys, gibbons, tarsiers, slow lorises, pygmy elephants, snakes, crocodiles, sharks, dolphins and plenty of birds populate these areas.

How to Avoid Crowds Around the Kinabatangan River

Several web pages and agencies in Kota Kinabalu offer 2 or 3 day Kinabatangan River cruise. It includes so called premier accommodation , transport, food and local excursions. Not our thing. On the one hand, we reckon that the fancier the hotel the bigger the environmental footprint. Likewise, paying extra to be surrounded by people makes no sense. To us, the epitome of luxury in natural spots is privacy and space. Likewise, our hotel has to be comfortable, with the least impact possible and be part of the local community. We were able to get all that we wanted in a place called Sukau, in the middle of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

What is Sukau Like?

Sukau is a tiny village of barely a dozen houses next to the Kinabatangan River. There is a small square with a mosque, a school and a cemetery. Houses, a couple of guesthouses, restaurants and small shops dot both roads (Sukau and Kampung Sukau) leading to the village. People are relaxed and nice and it seems tourism hasn’t altered life in the village. Since few cars pass through the village, the road belongs to monkeys!

How to Get to Sukau

Getting there wasn’t that difficult. Malaysians speak good English and bus schedules are more or less reliable. In Sandakan we took a 2 hour bus to Lahad Datu and got off at a roundabout where the road to Sukau village is. A small van was parked there so we hopped on and in less than an hour we arrived at our destination. The trip is extremely sad and embarrassing. Palm tree plantations occupy 80 percent of all land in Borneo. Yes, the developed world had the brilliant idea of putting palm oil into almost everything, destroying paradise to make a quick buck.

Getting to Sukau by Minibus

There are two ways to go directly from Sandakan to Sukau. The first one is via direct minibus . One leaves every day at 1PM from the minibus lot near Sandakan’s waterfront. The other one is to arrange a direct transfer with a man called Choy . His phone number is 019-536-1889. We advise you to check both options beforehand. Nevertheless, if unsure, take the bus to Lahad Datu and get off at the roundabout at the road to Sukau just as we did. Vans wait there for travelers.

You can also visit Sukau and Kinabatangan River on a day trip .

How to Get to Sandakan

Sandakan is a middle sized city well connected to Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur. Several buses a day connect Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. The ride is pretty long (about 6 hours) and quite monotone, passing through endless palm tree plantations. We arrived by plane from Kota Kinabalu. Take note that Malaysian Airlines and Air Asia operate daily flights to Sandakan from both Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur .

Kinabatangan River Accommodation

As mentioned before, we didn’t want to take any organized Kinabatangan River cruise. Hence, we found decent accommodation in Sukau on our own. Of the dozen small guesthouses that operate around the village, three can be booked online:

Sukau RB Lodge is the closest to the village.

Sukau Greenview Bed & Breakfast is a bit further away.

Sukau Backpackers B&B is the furthest away.

Where to Stay in Sukau

We chose Sukau Greenview Bed & Breakfast and it proved to be exactly what we wanted. Located at the edge of Sukau it has a great chill out veranda with Wi-Fi next to the river. They offer daily meals too. Though en-suite rooms are basic, they are spotless and comfortable. Additionally we met several world travelers at the veranda, including our friend Clo, an interesting French lady who regularly visits the area.

How to Organize a Private Kinabatangan River Cruise

Although all guesthouses offer their own excursions we decided to rent a boat with a driver directly. We toured the area both at day and night and were practically alone. In fact, the few boats we saw were big and packed with tourists from the fancy operators. We met one of our drivers at a restaurant north of the village and the other one at a store next to the mosque. Both were very professional and experienced, they took us everywhere and would stop the engine so we could hear the noise of the jungle and not disturb the animals. What a luxury!

When to Visit Kinabatangan River

You can tour the Kinabatangan River throughout the year. Since the months of April to October are generally dry, when flowers and fruits bloom, it is a good time to spot wild animals. From November to March it is monsoon season, so expect plenty of heavy showers especially in the afternoons. Though December and January are the wettest months, it’s a great time to visit. While the whole area is flooded, you can reach oxbow lakes which boast the highest concentration of wildlife.

What Else to Do in Sukau

Another reason why it’s best to avoid the packaged tours is to visit Sukau village. We loved it! Locals lead their everyday lives pretty much ignoring tourists. We had to convince one to take us on a tour! Likewise, you can walk to any of the restaurants that line the river. Food is absolutely tasty : Malaysian rice, noodles, vegetables and meat. From our hotel we would walk along the road to the village watching monkeys and kids play . At nights, we spent hours chatting with other travelers on our veranda. Though there are a couple of caves close to the town, we decided to skip them. Sukau is the perfect place to forget about activities and become one with nature !

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

After a couple of days of complete relaxation in the jungle, we decided to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre just outside Sandakan. The center takes good care of orangutans in a pretty large area of dense rainforest. There are no words to describe the joy that seeing these lovely creatures up close gave us. Even to this day, remembering the centre brings a smile to our faces! Then we went to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which does a similar job keeping several cute sun bears safe. We saw them going up and down trees, sleeping, and just being absolutely adorable.

If you are short of time, you can visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan River in one day .

Where to Stay in Sepilok

We came all the way to Borneo to do the Kinabatangan River cruise and to see the world famous Borneo Orangutans. Initially, we considered basing ourselves in Sandakan and taking a day tour to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. A much better option is to stay in the  Sepilok Jungle Resort  next to the orangutan sanctuary. Though the resort is a bit dated, it’s still in decent shape. However, what makes this place so special is its outstanding garden. The garden is enormous, full of plants and trees, with a lake in the middle. What’s more, you move around the hotel via several wooden bridges admiring the garden. Our room had a private balcony where we would sit to listen to the monkeys sing. Fantastic!

With 150 000 citizens Sandakan is Sabah’s second largest city. Founded in the 15 th Century during the Bruneian Empire, the city has almost no historical buildings. In fact, Sandakan was completely destroyed during Second World War, but it wasn’t rebuilt due to the high cost. Today it is a modern city with very few landmarks to visit. Nevertheless , there is an interesting Mosque, Sandakan District Mosque, a Buddhist temple, Puu Jih Shih Temple , and an Anglican church, St. Michael’s . We definitively recommend staying at the Four Points by Sheraton , a fancy tower with a pool and fantastic views.

Lessons from Borneo

Both the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre are doing the best they can to rehabilitate animals, so they can go back to nature. Unfortunately most of the orangutans and bears will never be strong enough to leave the centers and even if they were, where will they go back to? Every year more and more land is sold to palm tree plantations and the animals have literally nowhere to go.

So, before buying beauty products, cookies and chocolates check if they contain palm oil and if so, think about the poor animals before buying it. Likewise, whenever you hear any of that ‘first world’ or ‘we, the developed’ nonsense, remember what the rich blatantly do to the planet. We believe it’s pretty embarrassing.

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14 Responses

Oh my god what is this? what’s the name of this animal???? bear ??

happyfrogtravels

Hi Sara, It’s a sun bear. A tropical bear from Southeast Asia.

idjerouidene

Thanks a lot for all the advices! Do you remember how much you paid for your private boat tours on Kinabatangan river?

Not exactly, but it was very cheap. Something like 10 euros for one hour ride. We didn’t even bargain, since we thought it was more than acceptable.

Thanks for some really good recommendations.

We are four people going in the end of September to visit some of the same places of Sabah. We are considering to rent a car, so the tranfers between the places are more convenient. Would you recommend this? Or did it seem difficult to drive by yourself?

Thanks in advance.

Hi Ragnhild. I don’t think that it’s difficult to drive in Malaysia. I personally don’t see the point of doing it, except if you are visiting some faraway places. For Kinabatangan River you need to get there and then hire boats along the river. There is not much to explore in the area by car.

Hi. I would like to hear your advice. We are planning to visit the 3 places you mentioned and plans to stay in Sepilok, is it possible to just go to Sukau a d just hire a boat? Is it easy to find? Thanks. It would greatly help.

Hi Jolina, Thank you for your comment! So you are planning to go to Sukau for a day, right? I would definitely advise on staying there at least one night. You’ll be able to hear and feel the jungle at night. That said, yes, you can go directly to the village and ask the locals to take you on a boat tour. I would ask at a small shop next to the square. I am not sure about the price though. We asked at our accommodation first, and then hired a boat with the driver. It was cheaper than what our accommodation offered, and it was only 2 of us on the boat!!! Please let me know if there is anything else I can help. Cheers, Milos

What kinds of animals did you see on your river boat ride? I am on the hunt to see an orangutan in the wild and was wondering if just taking day cruises from Sukau will provide a good chance to see them.

Hi Simon. We saw plenty of differnet monkeys, but we didn’t see any orangutans. As far as I know there are few left in natural habitat. And they are certainly not in the area of Sukau. If I were you I would contact the Sepilok sanctuary; they might know more.

Thanks for the clear, concise explanation. Exactly what I needed. Just wanted you to know your efforts are appreciated!

Thanks Thomas. That’s nice to hear!

Hello! Thank you so much for all this information. I’m planning a trip to the Borneo this January and this has really helped me plan my trip. If you had the time, I could reallly use some help answering these questions:

I’ve seen there are lodges downstream from Sukau in the lower wetlands (such as Abai Jungle Lodge and Kinabatangan wetlands resort). I’m curious if planning on getting to these places via boat from Sukau is possible/logical.

I also NEED to know if there’s any possibility of accessing Kinabatangan/Sukau via boat from Sandakan. It looks fairly possible to get to Sukau via the rivers mouth (not far from Sandakan). Is this possible?

I would SO appreciate your help with these questions, even though your post has already been so helpful and greatly appreciated!

Hi Joe, Thank you for your comment. Kinabatangan river is an amazing place and I am sure you will enjoy it. Tourism in the area centers around organized trips and packages. That means that there are very limited options of moving around independently. When we visited, there were no boats from Sandakan, and those two lodges you mention didn’t exist. I would advise you to contact them directly and ask if they organize transport and if they offer some boat trips. Trust me, being on a private boat on this beautiful river is an unforgettable experience. And its actually quite affordable! Good luck with your trip and let us know how it went! Best, Milos

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Daytrip Kinabatangan River

• 2D1N Kinabatangan River
• 3D2N Kinabatangan River
• 4D3N Big 5 Of Borneo - Kinabatangan River
• 3D2N Deramakot Forest Reserve
• 2D1N Sepilok, Bornean Sun Bear & Kinabatangan River
• 3D2N Orangutan, Borneon Sun Bear & Kinabatangan River
• 3D2N Gomantong Cave & Kinabatangan River
• 2D1N SELINGAN TURTLE ISLAND
• Bed & Breakfast
• Getting Here
• ENQUIRY NOW

 Experience the thrill of Borneo on our Kinabatangan Rivercruise daytrip! Spot borneon's widlife on an afternoon rivercruise, and savor delicious local Sabahan cuisines. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

Pickup Schedule

*Pickup schedule for land transfer to Sukau Greenview B&B

Day 1 

• REFUND : In the event of heavy rain, for the safety of our guest, we reserve the right not to conduct the boat cruise or jungle walk. Any cancelled activity will be changed to a morning cruise on Day 3 (for those taking the 3D2N package) and RM30.00 per person for those taking the 2D1N package. No refund is available for cancellation after the tour has commenced, or in respect of any accommodation, transport or any other services. For cancellation at least 48 hours before the tour commences, 50% will be refunded (from deposit or full payment made).
• RESPONSIBILITIES : The organizer has the sole and absolute discretion to cancel or shorten duration of any tour in the event of force majeure, hostilities, accident or other circumstances beyond the control of the organizer which render it necessary in the organizer reasonable opinion that such steps be taken. The organizer shall be relieved from all liabilities and obligations resulting there from.

Budget Accommodation in Sukau, Kinabatangan

Sukau eco camp, affordable wildlife and nature experience.

Established in 2019, Sukau Eco Camp offers budget travellers a comfortable lodging in 5-star wildlife and nature destination. Equipped with 6 twin sharing rooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 toilets, workstation, kitchen, laundry and common area.

SEC is built on a 7.7-acre parcel of land along the Kinabatangan River known as the Borneo Land Conservancy (BLC). BLC is part of conservation project headed by BEST Society and Borneo Eco Tours aim to advocate and promote responsible and sustainable practices in businesses and the communities around Kinabatangan.

Wildlife sighting

Research & studies, budget accomodation, wildlife sigthing, research and studies, budget accomodation, where we are.

Tour packages: WILDLIFE SAFARI TOUR

On arrival at Sandakan Airport via noon flight, meet and depart for an estimated 2 hours overland journey to Sukau Eco Camp (SEC). Take an afternoon river cruise in search of wildlife and birds using a boat with hybrid system of outboard and electric motor (depending on river current).

Remark: Scheduled Overland Transfer from Sandakan to Sukau: 1330HRS Note: Unscheduled Transfer will incur an additional surcharge

Enjoy home – cooked dinner. Stay overnight at the Sukau Eco Camp.

Note: Every boat for the river cruises are equipped with outboard engines and electric motor. With its clean and quiet operation, the electric motor will be turned on to maneuver the boat only during wildlife viewing (if location and river current permits). This way, you will be able to truly enjoy the wildlife experience without disturbing the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings.

Day 2: Check-out

After breakfast, return to Sandakan by overland journey. We will proceed to airport for drop off.

Remark: Scheduled Overland Transfer from Sukau – Sandakan: 0900HRS Note: Unscheduled Transfer will incur an additional surcharge

Note: For the comfort and convenience of our guests, it is recommended to travel light by preparing an overnight bag, per person before arriving in Sukau Eco Camp. Complimentary storage is provided for any extra luggage. (For guests departing & returning to Sandakan Only)

Bring along sun block lotion, personal toiletries, torch light, insect repellent, drinking water bottle, walking shoes, binoculars, camera, hat & raincoat.

Includes : Tours and transfers, accommodation, meals as specified, and English-speaking guide.

Excludes : Domestic airfare (Kota Kinabalu/Sandakan/Kota Kinabalu), Beverages, Travel Insurance, Tourism Tax, entrance fees, camera fee, and items not mentioned.

On arrival at Sandakan Airport ETA 0800HRS – RECOMMENDED TIME ARRIVAL , transfer to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. We proceed to watch a video show about the plight of the Orang Utans and the rehabilitation efforts ongoing at the Centre. Walk ten minutes through the rainforest on wooden boardwalks to witness the feeding of the orang utans at 1000hrs, and then we continue to the newly completed enclosed nursery area for young orang utans.

Note on Camera Use at Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre: For any camera with zoom lens from 100 to 400mm, video camera or other video recording equipment for personal use are chargeable at RM10.00 per unit. For any camera (fixed-lens – 400mm and above) or any film-making equipment are chargeable at RM1,000.00 per unit. Mode of payment is cash only.

OPTIONAL TOUR TO SUN BEAR CONSERVATION CENTRE **ADDITIONAL SURCHARGE OF RM50 PER PERSON Thereafter, visit the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about the conservation of the world’s smallest bear.

Depart for an estimated 2 hours overland journey to Sukau Eco Camp (SEC). Take an afternoon river cruise in search of wildlife and birds using a boat with hybrid system of outboard and electric motor (depending on river current). Enjoy home-cooked dinner. Stay overnight at the Sukau Eco Camp.

Sukau Eco Camp –  Dormitory room with shared bathroom Lunch and dinner

Note: Dinner is prepared by villager. Note: Every boat for the river cruises are equipped with outboard engines and electric motor. With its clean and quiet operation, the electric motor will be turned on to maneuver the boat only during wildlife viewing (if location and river current permits). This way, you will be able to truly enjoy the wildlife experience without disturbing the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings.

Day 2: Sukau Eco Camp

Take a 0600hrs morning river cruise up the Kinabatangan River to Kelenanap oxbow lake to view more birds and wildlife. Return to the SEC for breakfast. Free at leisure. In the afternoon, lunch at the SEC. Optional tours are available during free time. Dinner at SEC. Stay overnight at the Sukau Eco Camp.

Sukau Eco Camp –  Dormitory room with shared bathroom Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Note: Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared by villager.

Day 3: Check-Out

After breakfast, return to Sandakan by overland journey. After lunch, we will proceed to airport for the 1430hrs flight to Kota Kinabalu. For those taking the evening flight 1800hrs, we will have a chance to visit Rainforest Discovery  Centre. Take a bird view of the centre from the canopy walk and hanging bridge, explore the botanical garden, home to various species of flora. Transfer to Sandakan Airport for your flight.

Breakfast, lunch

Note: Breakfast is prepared by villager.

Includes : Tours and transfers, accommodation and meals as specified, entrance fees and English-speaking guide.

Excludes : Domestic airfare (Kota Kinabalu/Sandakan/Kota Kinabalu), Beverages, Travel Insurance, Tourism Tax, camera fee, and items not mentioned.

Kinabatangan River Cruise (Abai & Sukau) 3D2N

Book This Tour

Day 1 sepilok – kinabatangan river – abai (l/d).

0800 hours pick up from your hotel in Sandakan and visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary where captive orangutans are reintroduced into the wild. You will be able to observe them at their feeding stations in the rainforest and at the nursery (if open). Watch the feeding session at 1000 hours. Then proceed to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC). This centre rescues captured sun bears and is involved in sun bear conservation, welfare rehabilitation and education. Over 30 sun bears live at the centre in the bear house and outdoor enclosures.

1115 hours depart Sepilok and proceed to the jetty in Sandakan. 1200 hours depart for a 1-hour boat cruise up the Lower Kinabatangan River, passing pristine mangrove forests and searching for wildlife. Arrive at Abai Jungle Lodge and have lunch. After lunch, free to relax or explore the surrounding area on the nature boardwalk. 1630 hours go on a Kinabatangan river cruise in search of proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, birds, reptiles and other wildlife. As night falls witness the glittering of fireflies on the mangrove trees. Return to the lodge for dinner.  After dinner, go on a guided night walk around the Lodge’s nature boardwalk and search for insects, birds and other wildlife. Overnight at the Abai Jungle Lodge.

Note: The nursery at Sepilok is sometimes closed to visitors. This occurs if any of the young orangutan are sick. As such there is no guarantee that the nursery will be open.

Day 2 Pitas Lake – Sukau – Menanggul River (B/L/D)

0630 hours – depart on a boat trip for bird watching and wildlife viewing at the nearby Pitas Lake. Return to lodge around 0800 hours and have breakfast. After breakfast cruise upriver to Sukau, searching for wildlife along the way. Arrive Sukau, check-in to Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge and have lunch. 1630 hours go on a river cruise up Kinabatangan River to the Menanggul River in search of proboscis monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Day 3  Sukau – Sandakan (B/L)

After breakfast depart the lodge and return to Sandakan. Have lunch at a local restaurant and then be dropped off at your hotel or Sandakan airport.

English speaking guide, tours & transfers, entrance fees, meals as indicated, 1 night stay at Abai Jungle Lodge and 1 night stay at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Airfare: KK - Sandakan – KK, alcoholic beverages, juices, camera & video fees

2 adults per order

Accommodation

Abai Jungle Lodge is situated 47 km from the mouth of the Kinabatangan River, about one hour by boat from Sandakan. The lodge offers 30 chalet-style rooms. All rooms have attached bathroom, toilet, hot shower, ceiling fan and netted windows. Other facilities include a restaurant, a sun deck facing the river and a rainforest boardwalk.

Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge is a clean and comfortable lodge offering 39 rooms (22 twin rooms, 13 double bedrooms, 1 triple room and 3 family rooms). All rooms have attached bathroom, toilet, hot shower, ceiling fan and netted windows. Other facilities include a restaurant, a sun deck facing the river, swimming pool and library.

Recommended Flights

Flights out of Sandakan should depart after 2 pm.

There are no ATMs at Sukau or Abai. If you need cash go to an ATM in Sandakan before the trip.

These tours operate on the principle that you may be in a small group of other people.

Interested in this tour? For more information on this tour and our other tours contact us

Also look at these tours inSabah:

Tabin Rainforest Lodge 3D2N

Stay at Tabin Rainforest Lodge, experience the rainforest and search for wildlife on this 3 days / 2 nights tour

Selingan Turtle Island & Sepilok 3D2N

3D2N Tour of Sepilok and Selingan Turtle Island.

Imbak Canyon Discovery 4D3N

4 day, 3 night tour of Imbak Canyon Conservation Area

Danum Valley Field Centre 3D2N

3 day / 2 night tour of Danum Valley with accommodation at the Danum Valley Field Centre

Enquire about Kinabatangan River Cruise (Abai & Sukau) 3D2N

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