This 4-day wildlife adventure captures the best of Sandakan’s forests and rivers in one enriching journey. From up-close encounters with orangutans at Sepilok to exploring the treetops of the Rainforest Discovery Centre and cruising the Kinabatangan River in search of wild proboscis monkeys and elephants, this tour is ideal for those who want to experience Borneo’s natural wonders at a relaxed pace.
This tour is well-paced for travelers who want to combine wildlife encounters with nature exploration, without rushing through Borneo’s incredible ecosystems.
Kota Kinabalu
8.30 am
Two chances to observe orangutans during feeding sessions at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Immersive forest experience at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, including canopy walks and birdwatching
Three river cruises on the Kinabatangan River, offering opportunities to see proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, hornbills, and (if lucky) pygmy elephants
Comfortable eco-lodge accommodations surrounded by natural beauty
Expert-guided experiences with smooth logistics and transfers for a stress-free adventure
(8:30 am — ideally)
Meet at your hotel in Sandakan and begin your wildlife experience with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Witness the morning feeding session and explore the visitor gallery to learn about orangutan conservation. After lunch, return to the centre for the afternoon feeding, giving you two opportunities to observe these iconic primates in their semi-wild habitat.
After breakfast, head to the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)—a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Walk along the canopy walkway for a different perspective of the forest, and spot hornbills, giant squirrels, and tropical flora. After lunch, depart for the Kinabatangan River, a 2-hour drive into one of Borneo’s richest ecosystems. Check in to your riverside lodge, then enjoy your first sunset river cruise, where sightings may include proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and hornbills
Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and begin your day with an early morning river cruise, a prime time for birdlife and wildlife activity. After breakfast and some leisure time, join your guide for an afternoon safari along the riverbanks. With luck, you may encounter wild orangutans, pygmy elephants, and other endemic species.
After breakfast, check out and travel back to Sandakan. Transfer to the airport or your next hotel, ending your Bornean safari adventure.
