Sandakan 2D1N Sepilok Orangutan, Sunbear & Kinabatangan Cruise

Sandakan , Malaysia

Sandakan 2D1N Sepilok Orangutan, Sunbear & Kinabatangan Cruise

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About this experience

Awaken your primal spirit on a whirlwind journey into Sabah’s most biodiverse landscapes, where ancient rainforests teem with endemic wildlife and river currents carry whispers of adventure blends intimate wildlife encounters with immersive jungle rhythms with journey of Borneo's primordial jungles encapsulated in a whirlwind 1-night adventure that combines Sepilok's rehabilitated orangutans with the untamed spectacle of the Kinabatangan River. From locking eyes with an orphaned orangutan at Sepilok to tracing a pygmy elephant's footprint on Kinabatangan's banks, you'll feel the jungle's pulse long after you leave. As one traveler described, "That dusk river cruise — where proboscis monkeys leapt silhouetted against a tangerine sky — wasn't just a moment; it was a communion with wild Borneo.

Available options

Sandakan 2D1N Sepilok Orangutan, Sunbear & Kinabatangan Cruise

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fees to Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary

River cruise activities with wildlife exploration

Pickup on a coach basis from sandakan

Life jacket

Dock and local taxes

English and Malay instructor Instructor

Entrance fees to Bornean Sun Bear Conservation

Lunch and dinner

Sukau & Kinabatangan national park fees

1 night accommodation at Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort in twin sharing or double bed (2 person)

Detailed itinerary

Our adventure ignites with a pickup from Sandakan Airport or your town hotel. Breathe the humid, earthy air as your instructor sets the stage for the wonders ahead.

Stop 2

In the morning, depart from your Sandakan hotel or Airport. Visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre to see the iconic Orang Utan feeding and capture photos in their natural environment. The centre was established in 1964 to rehabilitate Orang Utans who had been orphaned or displaced by logging and clearing secondary forests for plantation. Walk along elevated wooden boardways deep into the rainforest reserve, emerging at a viewing platform facing a supplementary feeding station. Witness the hushed anticipation break as rustling in the canopy heralds the arrival of semi-wild orangutans.

Continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, encounter the world’s smallest bear species, rescued from captivity or habitat loss. These adorable sun bears are losing their habitat due to deforestation. Learn about their vital ecological role as forest engineers and the centre’s pioneering conservation work from informative exhibits and viewing platforms overlooking spacious forest enclosures.

Continue lunch and check-in at the Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Restaurant, a tranquil oasis nestled within secondary rainforest.

After lunch, the afternoon transition consists of a scenic 2-hour one way drive from Sepilok's forests to the mighty Kinabatangan River. Pass through rustic villages and vast, undulating oil palm plantations, revealing the critical conservation challenges confronting Borneo's wildlife corridors. Arrive at riverside lodge the equatorial sun begins to descend, casting golden light on the chocolate-brown waters. Don your life jacket and board a sturdy, open-sided motorised boat for the inaugural river cruise—arguably the journey's pinnacle moment when the rainforest awakens, explore a chance to see orang utans, macaques, pygmy elephants, birds, and more. An early dinner will be served at the lodge.

After dinner, transfer back and overnight Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort with dinner and self activities until next morning.

What's not included

Personal expense and itinerary

Professional camera fee, if any

Available languages

Guide guide

MS EN

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please be aware that weather, river, and government regulations may cause delays in the tour's start and end times.

The tour end at sepilok areas, you will need to arrange own transport if need to go somewhere else.

About Sandakan

Sandakan is a coastal city in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. It serves as the gateway to some of the world's most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

Top Attractions

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

A world-renowned center dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of orangutans. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in a natural setting.

Nature Half day to full day MYR 30 (adults), MYR 15 (children)

Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

A prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering boat tours along the Kinabatangan River to spot proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Nature Full day to overnight MYR 200-400 (depending on the tour)

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

A sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the proboscis monkey, a unique species found only in Borneo. Visitors can observe these monkeys in a natural habitat.

Nature Half day MYR 50 (adults), MYR 30 (children)

Gomanton White Coffee

A historic coffee shop famous for its white coffee, a local specialty. The shop has been serving customers since 1929 and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Cultural 1-2 hours MYR 5-10 per cup

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hinava

A raw fish salad marinated in lime juice, shallots, and chili. It's a refreshing and tangy dish that's perfect for the tropical climate.

Appetizer Contains raw fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Tuyum

A spicy and tangy dip made from fermented shrimp paste, lime juice, and chili. It's often served with vegetables and crackers.

Dip Contains shrimp paste, not suitable for vegetarians

Laksa

A spicy noodle soup with a rich and flavorful broth, typically made with seafood or chicken. It's a popular dish throughout Malaysia and comes in various regional styles.

Soup Can be made vegetarian or with seafood/chicken

Durian

Known as the 'king of fruits,' durian is a large, spiky fruit with a creamy and custard-like flesh. It has a strong and distinctive smell that some love and others find overpowering.

Dessert Vegetarian, but high in calories and fat

Popular Activities

Jungle trekking Wildlife spotting Snorkeling Beach relaxation Coffee shop hopping Spa treatments Visiting historic coffee shops Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

March to September

This period offers the best weather for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, with less rainfall and more sunshine.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malay
Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sandakan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of touts and always agree on prices before using services
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Use reputable tour operators and transport services

Getting there

By air

Sandakan Airport • 3 km from city center

By bus

Sandakan Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Sandakan. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Sandakan Sepilok Labuk Bay

Day trips

Turtle Islands Park

40 km from Sandakan • Full day

A group of five islands known for their nesting green turtles. Visitors can take boat tours to see the turtles and enjoy the pristine beaches and coral reefs.

Selinung Island

50 km from Sandakan • Full day

A small island known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. It's a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.

Festivals

Sabah Fest • July

Pro tips

Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing
Book tours in advance, especially during peak season
Bring insect repellent and protective clothing for jungle treks
Try the local white coffee, a Sandakan specialty
Be respectful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance