Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Kinabatangan Wildlife Safari

The Sungai Kinabatangan, stretching 560 km from Sabah’s mountainous southwest to the Sulu Sea near Sandakan, is Malaysia’s second-largest river and one of Southeast Asia’s richest wildlife habitats. Known as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, it offers exceptional opportunities to spot iconic animals such as Borneo’s endemic orangutan, pygmy elephant, proboscis monkey, crocodiles, and an impressive variety of birdlife, including hornbills and kingfishers.

Life along the Kinabatangan revolves around its waterways. With few roads, boat travel is the primary mode of transport and the best way to explore the rainforest’s hidden corners. A river cruise takes you deep into this wild and atmospheric ecosystem, where dense jungle lines the riverbanks and wildlife is often visible at close range.

However, the region also reveals the environmental challenges faced by Borneo. The abrupt borders between pristine rainforest and palm oil plantations serve as a stark reminder of habitat loss and the global demand for resources. Despite these threats, the Kinabatangan remains a stronghold for wildlife, particularly as you travel upstream to the more untouched areas near the tribal village of Abai or further towards Sukau.

To fully appreciate the river’s diversity and to increase your chances of seeing orangutans and other rare animals in the wild, we recommend spending at least two nights exploring different stretches of the Kinabatangan by boat. The experience of seeing these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat is nothing short of unforgettable.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Borneo

Tabin Wildlife Night Walk

The Tabin Wildlife Reserve was created in 1984 to the growing threat to its wildlife and plant species in northeastern Borneo. It covers over 1,225 km² and protects inhabitants from the rapidly expanding agricultural industries nearby.

Whilst the daytime offers good nature trekking conditions, many animals are nocturnal and go out in search of food under cover of darkness. A night trek allows you to see vaious species that would be difficult to spot at other times. This includes the clouded leopard, the largest cat in Borneo with a distinctive cloud-like fur pattern – as the name suggests. Did you know it can climb down trees head-first which is rather unusual for cats of this size? Learn more interesting information on your night trek.

Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Climb Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in Malaysia, set within the spectacular Kinabalu Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. Rising to 4,095 metres, this iconic mountain is a must-visit for adventurers, though reaching the summit is not the only way to experience its beauty.

There are a variety of trekking routes around the mountain, each offering a different perspective of the park’s lush landscapes, from tropical rainforest trails to alpine meadows. These routes are ideal for those who prefer a moderate hike, allowing you to soak in the views without committing to the full summit climb.

For those determined to stand on the roof of Borneo, expert mountain guides ensure a safe and rewarding ascent, typically completed over two days. Along the way, you’ll witness dramatic changes in terrain and climate, as well as panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile. Whether you choose a gentle trek or the challenging summit route, Mount Kinabalu promises a memorable adventure in the heart of Borneo.

Bako National Park, Borneo

Bako National Park Birdwatching

Sarawak’s Bako National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a rich variety of species and landscapes. While the park is renowned for its 53 species that are endemic to the island of Borneo, over 150 species of birds have been recorded here, making it one of the most diverse birdwatching destinations in Borneo.

The park’s unique mix of habitats – from dense mangrove forests and sweeping beaches to rocky cliffs and heathland – provides an ideal environment for spotting birds in their natural settings. Birdwatching highlights often include sightings of the colourful Stork-billed Kingfisher, the majestic White-bellied Sea Eagle, and the rare Black-and-red Broadbill. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to observe these birds as they feed, nest, or glide gracefully overhead.

For keen birders, local guides can help identify elusive species and explain the intricate ecosystems that sustain them. Alongside the park’s famous proboscis monkeys and rich wildlife, birdwatching at Bako National Park offers a rewarding and immersive nature experience.

Kalimantan

Orangutan Feeding at Camp Leakey Research Centre

Indonesian Borneo, or Kalimantan, to take its proper name, has the highest number and greatest density of orangutans in the world. Camp Leakey, found in the rainforests to the west of Pangkalan Bun in Central Kalimantan, is one of the best places to see for yourself the attempts to preserve this population and protect the forest against the ever-more aggressive loggers.

Established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas and her then-husband Rod Brindamour, Camp Leakey is a world-renowned research facility predominantly focused on orangutans. However, it also has far-reaching projects on other endangered primates, such as the proboscis monkey, and studies on the rainforest ecosystem as a whole.

Home to a population of ‘ex-captive’ orangutans and their offspring, Camp Leakey offers guests the opportunity to get close to these wonderful animals and experience their behavioural techniques firsthand. The park’s eco credentials are fantastic, and its history of reintroducing orangutans into the wild is impressive.

After an early breakfast at your lodge, a 2.5-hour cruise up the Leakey River will take you towards Camp Leakey – an orangutan research and breeding centre. You will be led by a local Ranger and your guide on a trek through the jungle to the feeding platform, where you will be able to see and help with the feeding of the orangutans. You will also have time to explore the centre’s little museum, where you will start to get a feel for and understanding of the tragic destruction that is going on all around this beautiful wilderness.