Kinabatangan River

Kinabatangan River is Sabah’s longest river, stretching for 560 kilometers, flowing from the Crocker Range in the west all the way to the Sulu Sea in the east. The river is an essential waterway supporting an extensive floodplain that fosters incredible biodiversity, making it one of the best wildlife destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s home to Borneo’s "Big Five": pygmy elephants, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and rhinoceros hornbills, as well as numerous bird and reptile species.

This region faces serious environmental challenges, particularly from oil palm plantations that encroach on wildlife habitats. However, several protected areas, such as The Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary offer refuge to species that call this place home.

The Kinabatangan offers a unique opportunity for travelers to explore river-based wildlife safaris and immerse themselves in one of Borneo's most significant ecosystems.

We think so! Kinabatangan River is one of our favourite spots in Southeast Asia for wildlife spotting. It’s basic (don’t expect luxury!), but it's a nice retreat to nature and suitable for all ages. On a river cruise, you'll get the chance to spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and hornbills!

March to September (dry season) = Best time! Wildlife gathers around the river, making sightings easier.

November to February (rainy season) = The rainforest is lush, but animals spread out. You can still see wildlife, but it may take longer.

While a day trip from Sandakan is possible, it only leaves time for one river cruise, so your chances of spotting wildlife are slim!

For a better experience, we highly recommend staying overnight at a lodge on the river. A 2-day, 1-night (2D1N) stay allows for two river safaris, while the ideal 3-day, 2-night (3D2N) option includes 4-5 river safaris and jungle treks. As wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the longer you stay, the higher your chance of spotting elephants and orangutans!

Yes! Boat safaris run all year round, but rain can sometimes delay trips.