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4D3N Kinabatangan River, Turtle Island & Sepilok Orangutan Reserve
A 4-day wildlife journey from sea turtles to river safaris.
4.8
|639 Reviews
Group size
Up to 15 guests
DURATION
4 days 3 nights
Booking type
Join-in trip
MEET UP
Free pick-up
Group size
Up to 15 guests
- Experience highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Accommodation
- More Info
- Host
- Reviews
From Turtle Island to Kinabatangan River. See Borneo’s top wildlife in 4 days.
This 4D3N safari combines the best of Borneo’s wildlife experiences – with a front-row seat to sea turtles nesting on a protected island, intimate orangutan encounters at Sepilok, and river cruises through the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan rainforest. It’s a rare chance to see Borneo’s most iconic creatures all in one trip – while supporting local communities and conservation efforts along the way. Unlike most Sabah wildlife trips that only focus on the Kinabatangan River, this one includes the hard-to-access Selingan Turtle Island – a conservation haven where you can witness turtles nesting and hatchlings being released into the wild, guided by rangers. You’ll also meet orangutans and playful sun bears at top rehabilitation centres, making this perfect for animal lovers who want a deeper, more meaningful experience. This experience is especially great for conscious travellers who care about nature, local culture and avoiding the typical tourist trail. It’s run by Mr Jamal, one of the few remaining native Orang Sungai hosts in the area – and by staying here, you’re directly supporting his efforts to preserve the land and his community’s connection to it.What to ExpectWitness green turtles nesting and baby turtles releasing at Selingan Turtle IslandGet up close with orangutans and sun bears in a caring, rehab-focused environment at SepilokExplore the Kinabatangan River on four different river cruises – including a night safari!Spot wildlife like proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles and moreGo on a jungle walk to soak up the sounds and sights of the rainforestEnjoy local hospitality and simple, comfortable stays by the river and beachGood to KnowThe optional morning river cruise on Day 4 costs RM65 per personBinocular rental is available at RM50/day – worth it if you want to spot more animalsBring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, walking shoes, and a raincoat – it’s an outdoor adventure!This is a join-in trip with simple, basic accommodation that prioritises sustainabilityAn authentic eco-experience — best for travellers who want immersion over luxuryMinimum of 2 guests required for bookingAmenities/facilitiesBasic air-conditioned chalet on Selingan Island (twin-sharing, private bathrooms)Deluxe air-conditioned room at Kinabatangan with ensuite bathroomsLocal meals included – 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinnersGuided tours, transfers and entrance fees all taken care of
Experience highlights
What You’ll be Doing
Day 1:
Selingan Turtle Island: Boat transfer, relax, turtle nesting and hatchling release.Day 2:
Morning at Sepilok Orangutan Center, afternoon/night cruises in Kinabatangan River.Day 3:
Wildlife river cruise jungle walk and nocturnal wildlife observationDay 4:
Morning cruise (optional, add cost), breakfast and departure.Show Details
What’s Included
Round-trip boat transfers to/from Selingan Turtle Island
1-night stay at Selingan Island
2-night stay at a B&B on Kinabatangan River
Entrance fees to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
4 river cruises along the Kinabatangan River (morning, afternoon, and night)
Guided jungle walk
Transfers between Sandakan, Sepilok, and Kinabatangan
Nature guides at all locations
Meals included (3 Breakfast, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners)
Show Details
Who you’re supporting
Community Champion
Wildlife Protector
Show Details
Where You’ll Sleep
Selingan Chalets
Night 1
Kinabatangan Room
Night 2
Kinabatangan Room
Night 3
1 / 6
Next Available Dates
Prices shown in USD
Select Time for 28 Jun 2026
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Free pick-up from Sandakan Town(Sandakan, Malaysia)
- 09:00am
- Notes: Pick-up from Sandakan Town (Sandakan Airport/Sandakan Hotel) is scheduled for around 9:00 AM. As this is a group pick-up, departure will occur once all guests have arrived. Please include your specific location in the "notes" section during booking to inform our host.
End Point
- End at Start Point(s)
Transport Add-ons
Add-on 1
- Private Transport to/from Sandakan/Sepilok(Price: RM450.63 for up to 4 guests)
Add-on 2
- Pick-up from or Drop-off to Semporna(Price: RM1,005.28 for up to 6 guests)
Start & Ends
09:00AM on Day 1 - 11:00AM on Day 4
Suitability / Accessibility
- Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)
Cancellation & other policies
Cancellation
To secure your spot, your host will turn away other guests. Because of this, cancellations aren't allowed.Minimum Participants
If there are fewer than 3 participants, the host may reschedule or refund your booking.
What to Pack
- Camera with a zoom lens for capturing distant wildlife
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Lightweight clothing
- Rain gear
Join Waitlist
4.8(639 reviews)
Meet your host
Meet your host, Mr Jamal, one of the last few native Orang Sungai business owners in the Kinabatangan area. He prides himself in helping to preserve the land for his people and the native wildlife. By staying at this lodge you are supporting a great cause! This lodge is all about sharing their love for this place, its quirky wildlife, and the warmth of their people. Expect simple digs, big smiles, and an experience that feels like hanging out with newfound friends.
Experience: 18 years
Speaks: Fluent English, Bahasa
Acceptance rate: 94%
Top Rated Host
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