Kinabatangan — Abai River Lodges
Nestled in Abai along the lower Kinabatangan River, this riverside lodge offers a more comfortable and relaxing stay while still being deeply immersed in Borneo’s pristine rainforest. Surrounded by rich wildlife habitats, the lodge combines cozy, well-appointed rooms with warm local hospitality.
From here, guests enjoy seamless access to river cruises through one of Sabah’s most wildlife-dense regions, with opportunities to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and a diverse range of riverine species—all just moments from your doorstep.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge Stay
Tucked deep within the pristine wilderness of Danum Valley Conservation Area, Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers one of Borneo’s most exclusive and immersive rainforest experiences. Surrounded by ancient jungle and untouched biodiversity, this award-winning eco-lodge blends refined comfort with the raw beauty of the wild.
Elegant chalets, thoughtfully designed with natural materials, provide a serene retreat while keeping you connected to the surrounding rainforest. From your doorstep, step straight into a world of extraordinary wildlife encounters—guided jungle treks, canopy walks, and river explorations led by expert naturalists.
With its seamless balance of luxury and nature, Borneo Rainforest Lodge delivers an unparalleled stay for travellers seeking both comfort and an authentic deep rainforest adventure.
Discover the best of Borneo on this 5-day tour combining Sandakan’s top wildlife attractions with the untouched rainforest of Danum Valley. Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and cruise the Kinabatangan River to spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and crocodiles. Then, journey deep into Danum Valley Conservation Area for rainforest treks, canopy walks, and night wildlife spotting. Includes accommodation at a river lodge and Danum Valley Field Centre, guided activities, meals, transfers, and park permits.
Sandakan/Lahad Datu or Lahad Datu/Sandakan
8.30 am
Discover the best of Borneo through a seamless journey from the tranquil lower Kinabatangan River in Abai to the pristine depths of the Danum Valley.
Exceptional Wildlife Encounters
Cruise along the Kinabatangan River in Abai, one of Borneo’s richest wildlife corridors, in search of orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills, and a remarkable diversity of riverine species.
World-Class Conservation & Rainforest
Explore renowned conservation sites including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, before venturing into the untouched rainforest of Danum Valley Conservation Area.
Signature Jungle Stays
Unwind in a charming riverside lodge in Abai, surrounded by the calm rhythms of the river, followed by an elevated rainforest experience at Borneo Rainforest Lodge—where comfort meets the wild.
Day & Night Rainforest Experiences
From serene morning cruises to guided jungle treks and night walks under the rainforest canopy, each experience reveals a different side of Borneo’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Private & Personalised Journeys
Designed for flexibility and comfort, with small-group or private options led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the rainforest to life.
From peaceful river landscapes to one of the world’s oldest rainforests, this journey is crafted for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers seeking an authentic yet refined Borneo adventure.
(8:30 am — ideally)
Arrive in Sandakan and begin your adventure with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you’ll witness the morning feeding session and observe these remarkable primates in a natural setting. Continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about and encounter the world’s smallest bear.
After the visits, transfer to Sandakan jetty and journey by boat along the Kinabatangan River towards Abai, passing through scenic mangrove and riverine landscapes. Enjoy lunch upon arrival at your lodge.
Later in the afternoon, set out on your first river cruise, gliding quietly along the riverbanks in search of wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and other species unique to this rich ecosystem.
Begin the day with an early morning river cruise, when wildlife is at its most active along the riverbanks. Return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a short rest before heading out on a guided jungle walk through the surrounding riverine forest.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the lodge, keeping an eye out for wildlife that may pass by. In the late afternoon, set out once again on a river cruise, exploring a different stretch of the Kinabatangan River as the forest comes alive towards dusk.
After breakfast, check out and journey overland to Lahad Datu before continuing with a scenic transfer deep into the heart of Danum Valley Conservation Area.
Upon arrival at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, settle in and enjoy lunch amidst the surrounding rainforest. In the afternoon, head out on a guided nature walk, exploring one of Borneo’s most pristine ecosystems.
As evening falls, embark on a guided night drive (weather and availability permitting), venturing into the jungle in search of nocturnal wildlife that emerges after dark.
After breakfast, set out on a guided jungle walk through the pristine rainforest of Danum Valley Conservation Area, where towering dipterocarp trees and rich biodiversity surround you at every turn. Continue with a visit to the canopy walkway, offering a unique perspective above the forest floor and the chance to spot birdlife and wildlife from the treetops.
Return to Borneo Rainforest Lodge for a well-deserved rest and lunch. In the afternoon, head out again with your guide to explore different trails, gaining deeper insight into the rainforest’s intricate ecosystem.
As night falls, embark on a guided night walk, discovering the hidden world of nocturnal creatures that emerge under the cover of darkness (weather permitting).
Enjoy breakfast at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, followed by a relaxed morning in the heart of the rainforest. You may opt for a short guided walk along nearby trails or simply unwind, soaking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding jungle.
After lunch, check out and transfer back to Lahad Datu for your onward journey. If you are flying back to Kota Kinabalu, a late afternoon flight is recommended to allow for a comfortable transfer.
