The Kinabatangan River is one of the most popular destinations for wildlife and nature enthusiasts in Sabah. With incredible biodiversity and activities to participate in, learn all about the river and what to do in the area in this article.
Kinabatangan River in short
With 560 kilometers, the Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia from its source in southwest Sabah to its outlet at the Sulu Sea in the east. The river is known for having one of the richest ecosystems in the world and the highest density of wildlife in lowland Borneo and Asia. Additionally, the Kinabatangan region is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 200 species of birds recorded.
Experiencing the rainforest and wildlife at the Kinabatangan River goes mostly via river cruises, with the best chances of spotting wildlife during dawn or dusk. During the day, common sightings are proboscis monkeys, orangutans, Bornean pygmy elephants, macaques, and various birds such as hornbills and kingfishers. During night walks or cruises, spot crocodiles, birds, and nocturnal animals.
Gomantong and Agop Batu Tulug Caves
Also worth visiting near the Kinabatangan River are the Gomantong Caves and the Agop Batu Tulug Caves.
First of all, the Gomantong Caves in the Gomantong Forest Reserve are famous for their bird nest harvesting. Twice a year, from February to April and from July to September, locals climb to the roof of the caves to collect the nests using only rattan ladders, ropes, and bamboo poles.
Another cave system worth visiting is the Agop Batu Tulug Caves, on the main road from Sandakan to Sukau. These three caves in the steep rock face are an archeological site where 125 wooden coffins have been found dating back 500 to 900 years ago.
More info on the Kinabatangan River can be found on Wikipedia
The wildlife
There is an abundance of wildlife to be seen at Kinabatangan River, including some remarkable and endemic species. The best way to see them is during river cruises and nature walks.
The wildlife on the ground and in the water
- The Kinabatangan River is one of the few places worldwide to see the Bornean pygmy elephants. These cute-looking gentle giants are the smallest elephants in Asia and can be seen near the river or feeding in forest areas.
- The river is also home to several species of crocodiles. Spot these ancient reptiles sunbathing on the riverbank or lurking in the water.
- Lower to the ground, the river is inhabited by several reptiles and amphibians, including snakes, lizards, frogs, and turtles. The best way to see these elusive creatures is during night safaris or jungle walks.
The wildlife in the trees
- Endemic to Borneo, the proboscis monkeys are one of the most iconic species of the Kinabatangan River. With their distinctive appearance, they can be easily spotted along the riverbanks and swinging through the trees near the water.
- The river is also home to wild orangutans. These intelligent primates can frequently be spotted swinging through the treetops or feeding on fruits.
- The agile long-tailed macaques and silvered langurs are other well-common monkeys to spot along the river. They are often seen leaping through the trees, foraging for food near the river, and socializing in groups.
- The Kinabatangan River is a birdwatcher’s paradise with frequent sightings of hornbills, kingfishers, eagles, and many other colorful and endemic bird species. The large, charismatic hornbills with impressive beaks and known for their distinct calls can often be seen flying through the forest canopy.
- On the smaller side, spot flying lemurs, gliding between trees during a river cruise and keep an eye out for the elusive pygmy squirrels, which are among the smallest squirrels in the world.
What to do at Kinabatangan River
See the below list for the most popular activities to participate in at the Kinabatangan River area.
River cruise
The best way to experience the biodiversity of the Kinabatangan River is by joining a river cruise. Spot wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, and a variety of endemic bird species. Experienced guides also provide insights into the flora and fauna as you navigate the river’s mangrove forests and oxbow lakes.
Jungle Trekking
Trekking into the surrounding rainforest offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife up close. Additionally, discover the fascinating insects and birdlife that inhabit the area.
Night safaris
Encounter nocturnal animals that come to life after dark during the unique thrill of a night safari. Some of the animals along the riverbanks and forest trails are civets, owls, flying squirrels, and night monkeys.
Birdwatching
With over 200 bird species, many of which are rare and endemic, the Kinabatangan River is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keep an eye out for hornbills, kingfishers, herons, and many other colorful birds.
Gomantong and Agop Batu Tulug Caves
On the road to Sukau, the Gomantong caves are well-worth visiting for their limestone structure, its bats’ colony, and birds nest harvesting. These caves can be accessed via the (easier and smaller) Simud Hitam (black) cave or the larger, less accessible Simud Putih (white) cave.
Alternatively, the Agop Batu Tulug Caves is an archeological site where wooden coffins have been found dating back 500 to 900 years ago.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers in Sepilok
Explore the area of Sepilok, well-known for the conservation and rehabilitation of endangered species like orangutans and Bornean sun bears. Tour packages often include a (short) visit to the area.
Read more about Sepilok and what to do here.
How to get there
From Sandakan and Sepilok the river is accessible via road and boat, depending on the village you stay at. Once at the Kinabatangan River, the majority of accommodations provide transportation to the appropriate lodges or camps.
The villages of Sukau, Bilit, and Abai
As part of the Kinabatangan River there are three towns located along the river, namely Bilit, Abai, and Sukau. Of these villages, Sukau is the biggest and most well-known location with the most places to stay. On the road towards Sukau, Bilit is the first village. On the other hand, the village of Abai is located most downstream of the river and only accessible by boat.
By road to Sukau and Bilit
The villages of Sukau and Bilit are accessible via the inter-state AH150 highway. At the Sukau junction take the road going to Sukau. In the distance, an overhead sign shows the way to Sukau. Bilit is the village before Sukau.
Private Transfer
Many tour operators and resorts offer private transfers from the area of Sandakan and Sepilok to the Kinabatangan River. These transfers typically include transportation by car or van to the accommodation along the river. Since transfers to or from Lahad Datu and further south from Kinabatangan do not follow the standard route, they require special bookings. Hence expect relatively high prices.
Public bus
For a more budget-friendly option, there are also public buses from Sandakan to Sukau. Buses depart from Sandakan’s central bus terminal and take approximately 2-3 hours. From Sukau, arrange further transportation to your accommodation along the river.
By boat to Abai
As the most remote village of Abai, this area of the river is only accessible by boat. A tour package at any of the lodges in Abai will include this boat transfer with departure from Sandakan jetty. It is a very scenic and adventurous option as you can enjoy spotting wildlife along the way. The boat ride takes approximately 2 hours.
By flight via Sandakan
The closest airport to the Kinabatangan River is Sandakan Airport (SDK), with daily flights from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Lahad Datu. From Sandakan Airport, transportation to the Kinabatangan River requires a transfer by road or boat, taking around 2-2.5 hours.
Where to stay
Booking a package via tour operators
Many major tour operators in Sabah offer accommodations ranging from backpacker lodges to luxury river lodges. They offer packages including accommodation, meals, round-trip transfers from Sepilok and Sandakan, and guided tours on the river. Also, these tours often include a (short) visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Reserve and the Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center. However, from personal experience staying in Sepilok, I would not recommend a guided tour unless short on time. Instead, explore Sepilok on your own terms to fully enjoy the area and its wildlife (including other highlights).
Regarding tour operators, there are many major or smaller-sized operators to choose from. Most of them cater for high-end and regular tourists. For traveling on a tighter budget, consider Uncle Tan Wildlife Adventures and River Junkies.
During the peak tourist season (May – September), It’s important to plan and book accommodation on the river well in advance.
Booking your own accommodation
Instead of booking a travel package, consider booking accommodations yourself and join one of the many river cruises available. This might well be a less expensive way to enjoy the river and provides more flexibility to your travel plans.
Alternatively of staying at Bilit, Sukau, or Abai, Mescot Kopel is a community-based ecotourism initiative that also offers packages for the Kinabatangan River. Ideally located in Batuh Puteh on the road to Lahad Datu, the accommodation offers easy access to the river and a different experience from the touristy areas around Bilit and Sukau.
Sukau
Located on the lower reaches of the Kinabatangan River, Sukau is often referred to as the gateway to Kinabatangan due to its strategic location. It’s the main village of the area and a little further downstream than Bilit. Places to stay;
- various homestays
- Sukau Village viewstay
- Sukau Backpackers Bed & Breakfast
- Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge Sukau (luxury)
- Borneo Nature Lodge (luxury)
- Sukau Rainforest Lodge (luxury)
Bilit
As the closest village to the main road, Bilit is a rustic village located on the eastern bank of the Kinabatangan River. Places to stay;
- Myne Travel & Resort (luxury)
- Bilit Adventure Lodge (luxury)
- Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort (luxury)
- The Last Frontier Boutique Resort (luxury)
- Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge (basic)
Abai
As the most downstream village on the Kinabatangan River, Abai is only accessible by boat. Surrounded by lush rainforest, Abai is known for its serene ambiance, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and exploring the mangrove forests. Places to stay;
- Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort (luxury)
- Abai Jungle Restaurant & Lodge (luxury)
