Experience the best of Borneo’s wildlife in one unforgettable journey. This 5-day tour takes you from the shores of Turtle Island, where sea turtles nest under moonlight, to the lush rainforests of Sepilok and the Kinabatangan River, home to orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. With expert guides, river safaris, and immersive nature experiences, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, education, and comfort—ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful exploration of Sabah’s natural wonders.
Perfect for experienced hikers, this expedition combines the comfort and popularity of Kinabalu with the raw, untamed nature of Trusmadi—all in one unforgettable journey.
Kota Kinabalu
8.30 am
Turtle Island Experience – Witness sea turtles coming ashore to lay eggs at night and observe conservation efforts, including hatchling releases into the ocean.
Sepilok Wildlife Encounters – Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about efforts to protect endangered species.
Kinabatangan River Safaris – Cruise the Kinabatangan River at sunrise and sunset to spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Gomantong Cave Exploration – Stop at the famed limestone cave known for its bat colonies and traditional bird nest harvesting.
Eco-Lodge Stays – Stay in carefully selected lodges that offer comfort while remaining close to nature, enhancing your overall wilderness experience.
Guided & Hassle-Free Travel – All transfers, park fees, and guiding services are arranged, giving you a seamless and enriching travel experience.
(8:30 am — ideally)
Meet at your Sandakan hotel at 8:30 AM for a transfer to the Sandakan jetty. Hop aboard a speedboat for a scenic 1-hour ride to Selingan Island, part of Turtle Islands Park. After check-in, enjoy free time to swim or snorkel in the clear waters.
In the evening, a ranger will guide you to observe mother turtles coming ashore to lay eggs. Witness the unique conservation efforts, including the transplanting of eggs into hatcheries and releasing hatchlings into the sea. Overnight stay at Selingan Island Chalet.
After breakfast, return by boat to Sandakan. Upon arrival, visit the world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to witness orangutans in their natural environment. Just a short walk away is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bear.
Enjoy lunch in town before departing on a 2-hour overland journey to the Kinabatangan River, Sabah’s longest river and a haven for wildlife. Check in to your riverside lodge, then head out at 4:00 PM for your first river cruise, where you may spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, and more.
Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and set out on a sunrise river cruise to observe early-morning wildlife activity. Return to the lodge for breakfast and enjoy some leisure time or a guided jungle walk (weather permitting).
In the late afternoon, embark on another river safari, with the chance to see different species coming to the riverbanks to feed or roost.
Another full day of wildlife exploration begins with a morning cruise, followed by relaxation at the lodge. In the afternoon, your final sunset river safari offers another chance to spot wild orangutans, pygmy elephants, or rare birds like the Storm’s stork.
After breakfast, check out and begin the return journey to Sandakan. En route, (optional) stop for a short exploration of Gomantong Cave, famous for its swiftlet nests and bat colonies. Continue to the Sandakan Airport for your onward flight.
