Your bag
Bag whispers: "Fill me!"
Order Total
$0 USD
Checkout

All reviews

Review Author: Lauren Cooney
Review Date: 02 Oct 2025
Review Body: Wow! My friend and I have just completed the Borneo Big 5 4D/3N trip with Sukau Greenview Lodge. It really exceeded all expectations. Firstly the important parts THE WILDLIFE! Yes we saw the 'Big 5' (Pygmy elephants. Oranguatang, Proboscis monkey, Rhinoceros horn bill and crocodile) and saw them close enough to really appreciate and get great photos. We saw so much more though, including an incredible number of bird species large and small, some quite rare including the Storm Stork and the White Crowned hornbill. Our GUIDE, Zac (aka Captain Jack Sparrow) - we have now titled 'Eagle Eye Zac' and best guide in Sabah. Local to the area, extremely knowledgeable about fauna and flora of all types, happy to share his knowledge, passionate and committed to wildlufe andnature conservation. Self taught and always learning, Zac also has an amazing ability to spot things in random / hidden spots whether ambling or speeding down the river!! We would not have seen and learnt half of what we did without Zac's guiding, knowledge experience. Our accommodation was new (twin room), comfortable, clean and well appointed for a few days stay in the jungle. Food was local, enjoyable and plentiful, and all staff friendly and willing to help resolve anything. Locally owned and employing local people, a definite plus for us. So highly recommended all around. Keep in mind, this trip is about nature and wildlife, and you are on a river, in a tropical rainforest! You may end up soaking wet during a downpour, there are bugs, mosquitoes etc which might get in your room, sometimes things might not go to plan! So no, not a luxury safari, rather a comfortable, well organised 'adventure ' in an incredible part of the world with nature and wildlife all around and great local people, like Zac, to help you find it! Big thanks to all the team at Sukau Greenview Lodge!!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Unforgettable Kinabatangan experience with an amazing guide
Review Date: 25 Sep 2026
Review Body: We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Sukau Greenview Lodge and would happily choose them again. We stayed for 3 nights and 4 days and had a private guide, with only four of us in the boat. The organisation of the entire stay was excellent — everything ran smoothly from beginning to end, while still feeling relaxed and personal. Our room was very comfortable, the staff were lovely, and we really enjoyed staying right by the Kinabatangan River. Our guide Bruno was absolutely fantastic. He knows the river incredibly well and somehow manages to spot animals even in complete darkness — we still have no idea how he does it! He also has an impressive knowledge of the rainforest and its wildlife and always had something interesting to tell us. His explanations and stories added so much to the experience. The wildlife viewing was fantastic. We saw pygmy elephants twice, orangutans, crocodiles, proboscis monkeys, hornbills and so much more. We also did two night cruises, which gave the river a completely different atmosphere and were absolutely worth it. Having Bruno as our private guide and only four people in the boat made a huge difference. We never felt rushed and could spend time watching and photographing the animals. Kinabatangan was one of the highlights of our trip to Borneo, and Sukau Greenview Lodge was a big part of that. Excellent organisation, a wonderful guide and an unforgettable wildlife experience. Highly recommended!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Kyle
Review Date: 04 Sep 2026
Review Body: We did the Big 5 tour and I have to say it was amazing. We got to see the Big 5 and 4 of the Big 5 3+ times. Some people say so much time in Sakau is boring but if you enjoy watching wildlife then I highly recommend the big 5 trip. There is minimal down time and I enjoyed every cruise we went on. I’m sure the time of year matters (traveled first week of September) but honestly I would do the trip a second time if I get the chance. Zack/Jack was an amazing guide and was so good at spotting wildlife. I honestly have no idea how he can see these animals from so far away, he made me feel blind. Just take this trip, it’s worth it.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Adam
Review Date: 07 Oct 2025
Review Body: Highly recommend this tour! Our guide Isham (Sam) was so knowledgeable and accommodating, making sure we saw all the wildlife we were chasing. We did the big5 tour and got to see everything, plus more. All the staff at the front desk and meal time are super helpful and lovely. The accommodation was comfortable and the food was great, with plenty of options. They also catered to one vegetarian with special additions. There is plenty of spare time in the day, so worth bringing a book to read as it’s a small and remote village.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Heather
Review Date: 18 Mar 2026
Review Body: Everyone we met at Sukau Greenview lodge was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We did the big 5 tour which gave us more time to see the animals and birds - including the big 5. Our group was small which was an advantage as the guide could adapt the activities to suit us. The accommodation is fairly plain but it was clean and the showers were hot. The food was really plentiful & freshly cooked. Thank you to everyone there for a great time.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Rodrigo Gonzalez
Review Date: 01 May 2026
Review Body: Was amazing experience , we got the big 5 , the accommodation was very nice , the room very clean and comfortable, the staff very nice, polite and helpful. The tour was very good, our tour guide ikke was very nice also the captain of the boat, the explanations from our tour guide were very nice full of knowledge about the forest , flora and fauna. I highly recommend sukau green view lodge for your trip !!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Taylor
Review Date: 01 Mar 2026
Review Body: Excellent tour. Our guide Ikiey went above and beyond. Not only was the wildlife incredibly diverse but when combined with the cultural experience and jungle tour, it truly exceeded expectations. Highly recommend the 4d3n Big 5 as we successfully saw all and allowed for additional time to explore other areas.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Gemma
Review Date: 12 Aug 2025
Review Body: Absolutely fantastic. We loved every second of it. Our guide Braun was amazing and very knowledgeable. We saw the big 5 and much more. Would highly recommend.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Susan
Review Date: 25 May 2026
Review Body: Amazing trip seeing the Big 5 and had the best guide (Brono). Highly recommend this lodge!!!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Tina
Review Date: 19 Mar 2026
Review Body: If I could give a 100/10 I would! This was, hands down, the best travel experience I had so far. First of all, they adjusted the order of activities for me to be able to make it the same day I was landing in Sandakan as I was short on time. My guide Ijam brought me first to Sepilok Orangutan and Sunbear sanctuaries - beautiful first experience with wildlife. I got a short guided tour and Ijam answered all my questions. After that lunch at the Sepilok resort which was delicious. In the afternoon we went to Greenview lodge, and the acommodation was absolutely amazing. I stayed in the newly built chalet which was fully equiped with comfortable beds, great bathroom, Aircon, all surrounded by beautiful nature - and - we were so lucky that the elephants were travelling accross these days that they showed up at the lounge in front of our rooms!! After that, first of the 4 river cruises started and we saw so much wildlife, I mean saltwater crocodile, Hornbills, Proboscis monkey all in the first cruise! The dinner later was super delicious, as were all the following meals with variety of meat, fish, rice, fresh fruit and desserts (they also check with you any dietary restrictions and adapt when needed). The more we went on jungle cruises and walks the more wildlife we saw and I can only describe it as magical - in addition to the above we saw King fishers, sweet water crocokodile, snakes, an eagle, several types of monkeys (one group saw Orangutan when my group went on the other side to see a very rare sight of otters). And were again so lucky that more elephants walked next to our acommodation. This varies very much of the season and you have to be lucky to see them all but my group indeed was lucky to see the Borneo big 5 during our trip :) The staff is very kind, acommodating, knowleadgeble, I especially enjoyed our guides Ijam and Icki! Last day they arranged a private tranfer to get on the speedboat to Selingan Turtle Island. That was a truly unique experience - seeing a newcoming Turtle to lay eggs and releasing baby tutrles was truly mind blowing! The staff there is really dedicated to conservatorahip and well-being of the turtles and we were instructed to follow minimum interventions during the process meaning no flash, no touching, no walking around the island at night. The acommodation here is simple, less luxurious than in Greenview lodge, but had everything you can need for a one night stay. Snorkling on the island is beautiful! All in all I can only recommend Sukau Greeview Lodge with its staff! :) I saw they were building more chalets and expending and I do hope that in the future with the rise of tourism and their scope they continue with dedication of sustainability and respect towards nature as they demonstrated this time. Must stay in Borneo!🐒🐘🌅
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Ian & Leonora
Review Date: 10 Oct 2025
Review Body: Our tour was with Greenview Lodge, booked through SeekSophie. Both companies we very easy to communicate with. We spent 2 nights in Deramakot Forest Reserve doing 4x4 jungle safaris, and then 1 night in Sukau doing cruises on the Kinabatangan River. Day 1 was a long drive to Deramakot. 2hrs on the highway with a lunch stop (included), 1hr through a Palm Tree plantation and then 1hr through the Deramakot forest. I suggest being alert for the last hour for wildlife. Later that evening we did a 2hr night safari. An early 3hr sunrise safari (including tea break) was followed by a long break, and then a 4hr sunset safari (again with tea break in the jungle from a camp stove). An early start on day 3 for the return drive and then on to Sukau, 4hrs travel with a lunch stop. That afternoon we had a 2hr river cruise, and another one that night. Final day was a sunrise cruise, then a 2hr drive back to Sandakan. Enough boilerplate chat... Whilst it is of course possible not to see anything, we saw lots of wildlife! On the river there are lots of boats and the guides are in contact with each other so can pass on information about animal sightings. They also know the usual hang outs for a few species, so it's pretty likely to see plenty. It felt safe and sustainable. The accommodation at Greenview lodge is clean and modern and there is phone signal. In Deramakot it's harder to spot wildlife, but incredibly rewarding if achieved. It's out and back on a dirt road, again feeling very safe and sustainable. The accomodation is basic and the camp feels very secluded, and there is no phone signal but you can pay something like 25RM for a 3GB satellite link. I would suggest getting up before sunrise to wander the camp looking for wildlife in the trees and skies. A shout out to the staff - we had an excellent bus driver called Along, a really friendly 4x4 driver called Sam, and a sharp-eyed genius guide called Reswan. All were very professional, happy to help out and went the extra mile for us. You definitely need waterproofs, and I'd also suggest a small umbrella. You also need sunglasses, sunhat, suncream, insect repellent and a torch. My top tip would be the binoculars. I wish I had some stronger ones, but just having a pair at all had a big impact on our experience. As seeing wildlife is not guaranteed, attached photos just show the environment of the tour... But we saw the Borneo Big 5 and a host of other amazing creatures!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Diletta Gentile
Review Date: 17 Aug 2026
Review Body: Azizay, our guide, was always very kind, friendly and helpful, and always ready to answer all our questions about nature and wildlife. The lodge is really lovely and the food was good. The organization was impeccable, as were the transfers to and from the airport. It was our first experience being immersed in such wild and untouched nature, and I highly recommend the 3D2N package. I believe it is an excellent way to discover and experience the fascinating island of Borneo. A wonderful experience that we will cherish! precisa l’organizzazione così come i transfer da e per l’aeroporto. Era la nostra prima esperienza a contatto con la natura così selvaggia e consiglio l’esperienza del pacchetto 3D2N perché lo ritengo un’ottimo modo per scoprire l’affascinante Borneo. ChatGPT ha detto: Ecco una versione più fluida e naturale della tua recensione: Azizay, la nostra guida, è stata sempre molto gentile, simpatica e disponibile, pronta a rispondere a tutte le nostre domande sulla natura e sugli animali. Il lodge è davvero carino e il cibo molto buono. L’organizzazione è stata impeccabile, così come i transfer da e per l’aeroporto. Era la nostra prima esperienza a contatto con una natura così selvaggia e consiglio vivamente il pacchetto 3D2N: lo ritengo un ottimo modo per scoprire e vivere l’affascinante Borneo. Una bellissima esperienza che porteremo con noi! Accedi per ricevere aiuto più personalizzato per scrivere, riscrivere e tradurre. Accedi Registrati gratis Hai detto: Traduci in inglese ChatGPT ha detto: Azizay, our guide, was always very kind, friendly and helpful, and always ready to answer all our questions about nature and wildlife. The lodge is really lovely and the food was very good. The organization was impeccable, as were the transfers to and from the airport. It was our first experience being immersed in such wild and untouched nature, and I highly recommend the 3D2N package. I believe it is an excellent way to discover and experience the fascinating island of Borneo. A wonderful experience that we will cherish! As a suggestion, I would recommend providing more towels for each guest in the room, as having only one bath towel per person is not quite enough.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Rabie
Review Date: 12 Feb 2026
Review Body: If you want to go to the Kinabatangan River but don't know who to travel with, LOOK NO FURTHER. I had a WONDERFUL experience with Sukai Greenview Lodge. 5 STARS. From pick up to drop off, and everything in between. Our guide was very knowledgeable, easy to communicate with and super enthusiastic about his job. We saw the Borneo big 5 and much more, thanks to our guide, who had a keen eye for spotting wildlife. We really enjoyed the boat cruises, and so we booked an extra one on our last morning before we departed. It cost an extra RM65 and we found it very much worth it as we spotted the rare Helmeted Hornbill. You will spot lots of wildlife if you keep an eye out for them. We spotted some animals ourselves, which we would not have seen had we relied completely on our guide. Not to take anything away from him, but the guide is only one pair eyes. Also, be sure to let them know what you want to target if you're looking for something particular. The food was great, with a mix of Malaysian and Western cuisine. We enjoyed the buffet 3 times a day with other guests. Everyone was super friendly, and we felt that we were all having a great time. We never experienced any issues or difficult people. The room was super clean and tidy, with complimentary bottled water. Hot showers were great. I will say, we were there when the other lodges around us were under construction, so there was a lot of construction noise (welding, hammering, talking ect). It actually never bothered us, though, because they would start late in the morning and finish early in the evening, and we were always busy with activities or eating by the river. On that note, yes, there are a lot of activities, and you will not be bored. We did the 3D2N tour, but it was really more like 2 days and 2 nights, arriving at 3:30 pm and leaving at 8:30 am. Nonetheless, we were all just upset that we were leaving so soon, as we were really enjoying the trip, and you will too.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Angie Mok
Review Date: 09 Jul 2026
Review Body: We visited Sungai Kinabatangan in June and it was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The warm hospitality began the moment we landed. Our facilitator met us right at the airport, so we never felt lost or unsure of where to go, and the van was punctual. That kind of smooth arrival set the tone for the whole trip. We were lucky enough to spot 4 of the Borneo Big 5, but the experience went far beyond ticking off a wildlife checklist. Our guide was friendly and incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to teach us about the insects, plants, and trees along the way. It gave us a much deeper appreciation of the ecosystem as a whole. A small but lovely detail: the boatman always waited for everyone to put down their cameras and phones before setting off again, so no one ever felt rushed or missed a moment. It was also the perfect trip for a group of friends who only get to meet once a year. We genuinely put our phones down, soaked in the scenery, and spent real quality time together, something that's harder and harder to do these days. The food deserves a special mention. What stood out was the attention to detail: they asked about our allergies in advance and prepared separate dishes for my friend who has lactose intolerance wherever possible. Every meal was thoughtfully balanced, with two kinds of meat, two vegetable dishes, carbs, fresh fruit, and dessert, and very little processed food. You could really taste the care that went into it. If I could offer one suggestion, it would be to include a short debrief after each tour, or at least once a day. Some of us were seated further from the guide on the boat and couldn't always hear the explanations clearly, so a quick recap would help everyone take in what we saw. Highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting an authentic Kinabatangan experience with genuine hospitality.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Olivia Hopkinson
Review Date: 24 Aug 2026
Review Body: Our entire experience at Sukau Greenview was magical. If you are looking for a tour operator for the Kinabatangan River, do not hesitate to book with these guys. The guides were very professional, experienced and entertaining. They are incredibly skilled, spotting tiny creatures from across the river even in the dark! We were very lucky to see all of the Borneo big 5 in just one boat trip which was truly life changing, and we can only thank our amazing guides for their knowledge and commitment to helping us see these animals. Special thanks to our guide Azizie (Ikky) who was with us from 6am to 9pm and helped us to see incredibly rare creatures such as orangutans, slow lotus, tiny owls, hummingbirds, elephants, proboscis monkeys and more, and kept us safe and in good spirits all the time. Our accommodation was stunning, you would have no idea you were in the middle of the jungle when in the rooms apart from the amazing real nature sounds to help you sleep. The food was excellent and plentiful, the dining area had a beautiful view over the river. Obviously it is very hot and humid and there are little bugs around because you are in the jungle, but there is good AC in the rooms. We did the 3D2N tour which I highly recommend, we actually saw 4/5 of the big 5 within two hours of being there! This included 2 sunset cruises, 1 night cruise, 1 sunrise cruise, 1 day jungle trek, 1 night jungle trek, a cultural talk, all your meals and transport to and from the airport or your Sepilok/Sandakan hotel. Incredible value for money! Do remember to bring cash if you want to buy mosquito repellent, ice cream, soft drinks or rent binoculars. Also bring ponchos and leech socks or long socks! We will never forget our time at Sukau Greenview and hope to visit again in the future. We will be spreading the word to our friends and family to visit!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: jing
Review Date: 16 May 2026
Review Body: Binoculars are a must, binoculars rental is not guaranteed since the lodge has limited amount of binoculars. Some animals are far away so binoculars are needed to get a good ID. Guides were very fluent in english and extremely knowledgeable about wildlife. Our guide Hasan was very quick in ID-ing animals during our cruises. He could ID animals even if they were in flight or partially hidden. For every spot, he would ID the animal and show us pictures if the animal was moving quickly or partially hidden. At the end of the cruise he would also recap the species we've spotted for all our cruises so far. Made it a lot easier to update my life list :) He also took note of the animals we were interested in and would make sure to spot and point out animals people in our group were interested in. Wildlife spotting was a great group activity, everyone would point out animals and the boat driver and tour guide would help reposition the boat to get a better look. Really loved how all the guides we encountered took great care to emphasize that the animals were wild so sightings are not guaranteed and we should not touch or feed the monkeys. For the night cruise, our tour guide also made sure that we did not disturb daytime animals too much and tried to look for nocturnal animals instead. At turtle island the guides took great care to make sure our group was not disturbing any turtles. During the hatchling release, a hatchling got lost and they made sure it got back into the ocean. For all activities, there was a good tour guide to participant ratio 1 guide to about 8 participants. So the group was small enough that we were able to hear the guide's explanations and everyone's preferences could be accounted for during the cruises. One of the best tours i've been on. such an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Christian
Review Date: 17 Jul 2026
Review Body: We did the 3D2N package with Sukau Greenview (booked through SeekSophie), and it was the best experience ever! From pick-up to drop-off and everything in between, it was delivered with the most warm, competent and professional service you could imagine! The facilities around the place were cosy and clean, and the friendly staff that you’ll meet around was always ready to accommodate any enquires etc. Everyone was very professional, and the boats were of great quality, and you were seated over the water edge, which made the crocodiles spotting feel very safe, in addition to our guide and boat-captain definitely knew what they were doing. We read some stories about crocodile attacks at the River beforehand, but after the first boat-trip we certainly were relaxed because of the professionalism displayed from everyone involved! The days were action-packed with lots of activities, and when there were no activities the nice, modern air-conditioned rooms invited you to relax. We were lucky to get Bruno as our guide! We were amazed of how skilled he was, he has a super-human talent for spotting the animals, and in addition to this, he has an extremely extensive knowledge of every animal and their species and sub-subspecies. He also knew everything about Borneo and its jungle - given he grew up in it, which made the jungle-trekkings immersive and exiting. There no doubt Bruno lives and breathes for the nature and wildlife, and his excitement over spotting the animals made the experience for us more exciting as well! All-in all this was a once in a lifetime experience, and we were lucky to spot all of Borneos Big Five. We would recommend the River Safari at Sukau Greenview to everyone!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Richard Marsh
Review Date: 24 Sep 2026
Review Body: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An unforgettable stay at Sukau Greenview Lodge We had an absolutely fantastic experience at Sukau Greenview Lodge and would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to experience the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of Borneo. From start to finish, everything was so well organised. The pick-up and drop-off arrangements were amazing — everything ran smoothly and made the whole experience completely stress-free. The food was excellent, with plenty of tasty meals throughout our stay, and the accommodation was great. We were pleasantly surprised by how comfortable everything was, including the dorm accommodation, which was clean and perfectly suited to the experience. The boat trips were a real highlight. They felt incredibly natural and gave us the opportunity to see wildlife in its own environment rather than feeling like we were on a staged tourist experience. Seeing wild animals along the river was genuinely unforgettable, and every trip brought something different. But what really made our stay special was Beyoncé, our guide. He was absolutely fantastic — incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, passionate and always determined to make sure we had the best possible experience. He clearly has a genuine love for the wildlife and the area, and that came across in everything he did. Beyoncé is not only a brilliant guide, but what a great human being. He went above and beyond and was a huge part of why we enjoyed our stay so much. A massive thank you to everyone at Sukau Greenview Lodge for such a memorable experience. If you’re visiting Borneo and want an authentic wildlife experience, this place is definitely worth visiting. 🌿🐒🦧🐊🚤 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Chloe
Review Date: 18 Jul 2025
Review Body: Had an amazing experience at Greenview and some fabulous wildlife encounters! Originally wanted a private room for myself and partner but was unfortunately sold out. However this company was head and shoulders above the other options in terms of reviews and price so we decided to go with the dorm. The dorm was actually very pleasant! As for the food, it was varied and tasty, constantly being restocked. There was free drinking water too! For the jungle walk we got use of the rubber boots for free and if you want to rent binos you can but the guide is usually happy to share theirs around. The guides were amazing, we had captain Jack! He was funny, explained well about the animals and the rainforest on our walk and had great English. He was the right balance of talking but also just letting us watch the animals too. With Jack we were the first boat to come across a wild orangutan after he took a chance down a narrow passage. It was so special to be in that moment just us! And the boats only have 8 people on or so which is good and not too crowded like others. Overall this trip was incredible value for money (I spent less per day here on my expenses than in KL/penang/perhentian because everything was included), it was great! Just remember to tip your guide and/or put something in the tip box at the end. They never once mentioned tipping at all so it’s not expected, but at the end of the day a relatively small amount of money to us can make a massive difference to them so it’s nice to do so and show appreciation!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Alice
Review Date: 07 Sep 2026
Review Body: Outstanding trip. From start to finish it was so special and the staff were incredible. We saw all 5 of the borneo 5 within the first day. The night cruise was particularly great; it just amazed us the skills and knowledge our the guide Bill to be able to find the smallest bird, owl, hornbill, snake in such a vast area only using a torch. In our second day our guide Ivy was so funny and made the experience fun- we were in a crocodile convoy for about 15 minutes which was amazing! The night walk was very cool, saw a huntsman spider, dragonfly, smallest species of kingfisher, bats, owls, frogs, stick insects etc- learned a lot about the animals here! The room was so comfortable, the food was delicious- the unsung heroes being the catering staff and chefs! Honestly the best thing we did on our travels- highly recommend! Make sure you bring long sleeves and trousers for the jungle walks and night activities! Perfect pace too, over the 1.5 days of activities we fit in 2 afternoon cruises, a jungle walk, a night jungle walk, a sunrise cruise and a night cruise- so many activities but never ever felt rushed or tired with plenty of time to relax in between. They are very respectful to the animals too and focus on our safety and not to disturb the animals too much. There’s also a really nice cafe called River Bean next to the lodge for people who want a proper coffee in the morning and is open until late. 10/10 trip for us!
Review rating: 5

Itinerary

Itinerary Day 1
Itinerary Summary: Pick up from Sandakan. Kinabatangan River cruise and wildlife spotting
Itinerary Description: 12:30PM - pick up from Sandakan and drive 2.5 hours to Kinabatangan River. Welcome to Sukau Greenview Bed & Breakfast! Get a briefing of the activities during your stay with us and checked in to your room. 1630PM - Cruise the afternoon in Sabah’s longest river and one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, The Kinabatangan River. Watch wildlife abounded along the banks and visit one of its famous tributaries to have a chance to look for the Big 5! (2 hours) 1900PM- Dinner
Itinerary Day 2
Itinerary Summary: Wildlife cruises & jungle treks for monkeys, orangutans, elephants & crocodiles
Itinerary Description: 0530 - “Wake up call” 0600 - Cruise among the fogs and feel the cool morning breeze. Hear the songs of the birds while on watch for Proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and other wildlife. (3 hours, packed breakfast in boat) 0930 - Continue to explore the jungle and hoping to see the Orangutan aside from seeing the different plants and unique trees around. 1230 - Relax on the restaurant and enjoy your lunch. 1500 - Set out and continue searching, whatever is left on the list of our Big 5. The afternoon is a good time for the Elephants and Orangutans as well. (3 hours) 1900 - Enjoy dinner in our restaurant. 2000 - Light up for the night cruise and we’ll hope to see the Crocodile and maybe some cats as a bonus. (1.5-2 hours)
Itinerary Day 3
Itinerary Summary: Morning & afternoon cruises for wildlife spotting: hornbills, orangutans & crocodiles
Itinerary Description: 0530 - “Wake up call” 0600 - The morning cruise is promising for Hornbill, Orangutan and Crocodile. (3 hours, packed breakfast in boat) 1230 - Lunch is served. 1400/1500 - This cruise is special and hopeful, we’ll continue to complete the list. (3-4 hours) 1900 - Dinner is served.
Itinerary Day 4
Itinerary Summary: Early morning wildlife cruise, breakfast and certificate ceremony, then check-out and departure
Itinerary Description: 0600 - If the Big 5 has been completed, this is a bonus cruise! If still on search, let’s make this last chance and may luck be on our side. 0800 - Breakfast is served and presentation of your certificate. 0900 - Check out and drop off for your next destination. Estimate arrival time back to Sandakan: 1. Sepilok area (11:00 hrs) 2. Sandakan airport (11:30 hrs) 3. Sandakan town (12:00 hrs)
Orangutans resting together in the Kinabatangan rainforest, captured during a Sukau Greenview Lodge wildlife safari
Bright lodge bedroom at Sukau Greenview Lodge in Sandakan, ready for rest between wildlife trips on the Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge room interior with two beds, air-conditioning unit, curtained window, and simple laid-back design
Green stilt cottage at Sukau Greenview Lodge in Sandakan with balcony and stairs, ideal for stays on the Kinabatangan River
Travellers waving from a safari boat with life jackets on a river cruise with Sukau Greenview Lodge on the Kinabatangan River
Teal wooden cabin terrace at Sukau Greenview Lodge near Sandakan for wildlife lovers on the Kinabatangan River
Simple lodge room at Sukau Greenview Lodge with two blue beds, curtains, and grey storage lockers for safari guests on the Kinabatangan River
Orangutans resting together in the Kinabatangan rainforest, captured during a Sukau Greenview Lodge wildlife safari
Bright lodge bedroom at Sukau Greenview Lodge in Sandakan, ready for rest between wildlife trips on the Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge room interior with two beds, air-conditioning unit, curtained window, and simple laid-back design
Green stilt cottage at Sukau Greenview Lodge in Sandakan with balcony and stairs, ideal for stays on the Kinabatangan River
Travellers waving from a safari boat with life jackets on a river cruise with Sukau Greenview Lodge on the Kinabatangan River
Teal wooden cabin terrace at Sukau Greenview Lodge near Sandakan for wildlife lovers on the Kinabatangan River
Simple lodge room at Sukau Greenview Lodge with two blue beds, curtains, and grey storage lockers for safari guests on the Kinabatangan River
Guest bed at Sukau Greenview Lodge with teal bedding and a numbered drawer front, set up for Kinabatangan River safari mornings
A wild orangutan perched among rainforest branches during a calm Kinabatangan River safari for orangutans
Towels neatly folded on a made bed inside Sukau Greenview Lodge room, a cosy stay for Kinabatangan River wildlife lovers
Lodge room with neatly made bed, desk console and curtains at Sukau Greenview Lodge near Sandakan for stays on the Kinabatangan River
Simple lodge bedroom with two low beds, dark wood floor, and windows with curtains at Sukau Greenview Lodge
Sunlit double bed with grey curtains in Sukau Greenview Lodge, simple comfort between river-spotting days on Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge wooden deck and green-railed cabin with trees and river safari views, Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge room with neatly made beds and patterned throws, part of the Kinabatangan River 4D3N safari
En-suite bathroom at Sukau Greenview Lodge with a sink, toilet, and tiled walls, practical for the Kinabatangan River wildlife safari
Wildlife spotting on the Kinabatangan River as a guest films through a smartphone from a safari boat near Sukau Greenview Lodge
Travellers on a wildlife safari boat near Sandakan, watching the forestbanks as a guide addresses the group on Kinabatangan River
Motorboat safari ride from Sukau Greenview Lodge with wildlife lovers cruising through mangrove banks on the Kinabatangan River
Passengers walk along a raised wooden riverside platform in light rain at Sukau Greenview Lodge on the Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge riverside cabins on stilts with red roofs and a covered walkway by the Kinabatangan River
Twin beds in a simple room at Sukau Greenview Lodge with lockers, curtains, and wooden headboard, for Kinabatangan River travellers
Sukau Greenview Lodge cabin row in a lush grove near Sandakan, with verandas and trees framing the Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge green buildings and timber decks in lush surroundings used as accommodation for Kinabatangan River safari guests
Sukau Greenview Lodge cabins among jungle trees, a simple base for wildlife lovers on a Kinabatangan River safari
Private Jetty sign reading 'No Trespassing' beside the riverbank at Sukau Greenview Lodge, where day trips begin on Kinabatangan River
Suitcase-carrying guests pass a Welcome To Sukau Greenview Lodge sign on the riverside walkway at the Kinabatangan River
Open-air dining terrace at Sukau Greenview Lodge with set tables and chairs under a vine-covered roof by the Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge wildlife safari boat glides past lush jungle riverbanks with passengers, part of the Kinabatangan River
Green-railed wooden cabin at Sukau Greenview Lodge with corrugated roof, veranda deck, and rainforest greenery around
People on covered river boats watching the mangrove-lined shore during a safari trip near Sandakan on Kinabatangan River
Sukau Greenview Lodge wooden deck and covered dining area in the rainforest, set along the Kinabatangan River
Back view of passengers seated on a wildlife safari boat with binoculars, facing a mangrove-lined bend on Kinabatangan River
Open river boat with travellers in jackets on a wildlife safari for sightings from Sukau Greenview Lodge on the Kinabatangan River
Passengers on a motorboat beside a riverside dock, gliding on a safari trip near Sandakan along the Kinabatangan River
Orangutan gripping a tree branch above the river forest canopy during a wildlife safari in Borneo, orangutans
Bornean orangutan crouching and moving through dense jungle bushes near the river during a wildlife safari, orangutans
Travellers preparing to board a river boat at Sukau Greenview Lodge jetty in Sandakan on the Kinabatangan River

Borneo Big 5: 4D3N Kinabatangan River Safari for Wildlife Lovers

Explore Borneo's raw, untamed heart.
4.8
|796 Reviews
Group size
Up to 26 guests
DURATION
4 days 3 nights
Booking type
Join-in trip
MEET UP
Free pick-up
Group size
Up to 26 guests
Your best shot at Borneo’s Big 5. River safaris + stay in a community-run lodge
Most Kinabatangan trips are just 2 or 3 days. This one is 4 days with 7 river safaris, which gives you a real shot at spotting the Borneo Big 5: pygmy elephants, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, rhinoceros hornbills and crocodiles. Wildlife here doesn’t run on a schedule, so the extra time on the river - at sunrise, sunset and even after dark - makes all the difference.Beyond the river cruises, you’ll head out on a guided jungle walk to understand the rainforest up close. The lodge is run by an Orang Sungai (river) family, and the guides grew up along these waters. They’re incredibly sharp-eyed, deeply knowledgeable, and genuinely care about protecting this place - which means you’ll likely see and learn far more than on a rushed trip.Accommodation is simple but comfortable: clean air-conditioned rooms, en-suite bathrooms, hearty local meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s not luxury safari style — but it’s immersive, well run, and one of the best ways to truly experience Kinabatangan.What to ExpectFour river safaris, each offering chances to spot wildlife like orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and moreA morning jungle walk with an expert guide to learn about local flora and faunaSmall group size for a more personal and relaxed experienceStay in simple yet comfortable rooms, either dorms or private options, in a welcoming local lodgeGuides who are locals from the community, passionate about wildlife and conservationGood to KnowThis tour includes all essential activities but is subject to weather conditions, which can change schedules and locationsAccommodation is basic but clean, with options for shared or private roomsIncludes all scheduled safaris, jungle walks, meals, and transfers from Sandakan and backPlease bring insect repellent, rain jacket, and be prepared for some muddy or rocky terrain on jungle walksWildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but the guides are fantastic at spotting animalsSupport local communities by staying at eco-friendly lodges run by local peopleAmenities/facilitiesSimple twin or double rooms with air conditioning, private en-suite bathrooms, and all necessary toiletriesCommon areas to relax after a day of wildlife spottingGenerous, locally prepared meals includedRubber boots and rain gear provided for jungle walks and river cruises

Experience highlights

What You’ll be Doing

Day 1:

Pick up from Sandakan. Kinabatangan River cruise and wildlife spotting

Day 2:

Wildlife cruises & jungle treks for monkeys, orangutans, elephants & crocodiles

Day 3:

Morning & afternoon cruises for wildlife spotting: hornbills, orangutans & crocodiles

Day 4:

Early morning wildlife cruise, breakfast and certificate ceremony, then check-out and departure
Show Details

What’s Included

Scheduled land transfer Sandakan to Sukau (return)
3 nights accommodation at Sukau Greenview B&B
7 river cruises
1 morning walk
Meals as stated
Rubber boots/wellies
Nature guide

Not included

Tourism tax
Flights
Beverages
Binocular
Rain jacket/poncho

Available Add-ons:

Sepilok Orangutan & Sunbear Visit at 8:20 AM (RM507.15)
One-way Private Transport to/from Sandakan/Sepilok (RM452.81)
Show Details

Who you’re supporting

community_based

Community Champion

wildlife_safe

Wildlife Protector

Show Details

Where You’ll Sleep

Next Available Dates

Prices shown in USD
Select Time for 29 Sep 2026
Additional Information

Where we'll meet

Start Point

Free pick-up from Sepilok(Sepilok, Malaysia)
  • 01:30pm
  • Notes: Pick ups from the Sepilok area at around 1:30pm. Please let us know your hotel name and address in the comments section of the check out page. Please be waiting in the lobby at the above mentioned time and the driver will come to collect you.
+ 2 other options

End Point

  • End at Start Point(s)

Start & Ends

  • If Pick-up from Sepilok
    01:30PM Free pick-up from 10:30AM on Day 4
  • If Pick-up from Sandakan Town
    12:30PM Free pick-up from 11:30AM on Day 4
  • If Pick-up from Sandakan Airport
    12:50PM Free pick-up from 11:15AM on Day 4

Suitability / Accessibility

  • Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)

Cancellation & other policies

  • Cancellation

    Cancel 7 days before activity for a full refund
  • Minimum Participants

    If there are fewer than 2 participants, the host may reschedule or refund your booking.

What to Pack

  • Binoculars
  • Bug repellent
  • Camera
  • Hat
  • Leech socks or long thick socks
  • Raincoat
  • Sunscreen
  • Torch light
From
RM3,145.37
/person
4.8(796)
Show Prices
Guests
Start Date
Accommodation
Select Add-on(s)
You won't be charged yet
Save
Share

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: 93%
Top Rated Host
Keep your payments secure by using the Seek Sophie website for all transactions and communications.
superhost
4.8 (796)
|
3D2N
|Up to 34 guests
“Our guide made the whole experience a million times better! Food also very good”
sale
4.5 (258)
|
3D2N
|Up to 48 guests
“The place is super clean and the food was some of the best we had ”
sale
4.5 (258)
|
2D1N
|Up to 38 guests
“I had a great stay and definitely would return again”
superhost
4.8 (796)
|
2D1N
|Up to 34 guests
“Being out in the Jungle and seeing the wildlife was fascinating”
4.5 (63)
|
3D2N
|Up to 24 guests
“Henry our guide was brilliant”
4.8 (796)
|
4D3N
|Up to 15 guests
“The wellbeing of the animals always comes first”
5.0 (7)
|
3D2N
|Up to 2 guests
“River tours are well organized and we saw different animals”
4.8 (796)
|
4D3N
|Up to 8 guests
“Amazing wildlife expert guides unforgettable adventure”
see more
We've done the homework
So.. who's Sophie?
We get asked that a lot! There’s no one on the team actually named Sophie. Sophie means wisdom in Greek. We wanted Seek Sophie to be about travel that helps you discover more about yourself and the world—travel that fills your heart and leaves you feeling more connected.
Let’s be friends!
Get the scoop on secret spots and hidden gems delivered straight to your inbox.
English
USD
English
USD
© Seek Sophie 2026PrivacyTerms
Travel Agent Licence TA03435