Review Author: TO NGUYEN BAO TRINH

Review Date: 10 sep 2020

Review Body: This was the cheapest deal we could find among tour agents during rMCO for 2 people. And this is the only tour agent that provides Sandakan airport pickup (or maybe there are some but we couldn't find). And everything was VERY worth the money. The wooden room is very big in the middle of jungle, food is cooked which can be suitable flavor for everyone and delicious. The 1st day there was only 3 people on the river cruise so I felt like it was a private tour for us and we could talk more to the tour guide, which is very knowledgeable. We couldn't see elephants although we were informed that there was a group of them heading to downstream. So we could see monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, white boars, eagles...Don't expect to see lions or some dangerous animals as you are not real explorer :))) It is more toward about your experience and escape from hectic life. The activities are repeated everyday so it may get less interesting sometimes. But if you have times I think 3D2N is good option because 2D1N if the weather is not good then you are not lucky. Our 2nd day was raining and we couldn't see many animals on the river cruise. At the end we gave our tour guide some tips as our thanks for him. Resort staffs are also very nice and warmly welcome us. In general, I highly recommend you to book this tour and enjoy the experience, you will not regret spending the money.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Annika D, Sydney, Australia

Review Date: 24 nov 2018

Review Body: We ended up doing a 4D3N tour, booked via River-Junkie. It was the perfect amount of time to spend there and my partner and I loved it. The wildlife was spectacular, we saw orang-utans, elephants, proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys, hornbills, kingfisher, crocodiles and lots of other wildlife. As Kinabatangan has small sanctuaries along the river, surrounded by palm plantations, the wildlife has few placed to go to which is why it's fairly easy to spot wildlife, very sad for the animals but great spotting. The staff is superb! Specially DD and Mr captain Israh, thanks so much for everything! You made our stay very special. They can't get enough credit for their work. Food is good, always several options/plenty of it and free flow or tea/coffee. The dorms are very clean and has air-con, very comfy beds. You'll sleep well. The only down side was the night walks, or the lack of them, 2 out of 3 were cancelled due to elephants too close to the lodge, which is fair enough but they seemed to struggle to find a replacement activity. A few of us ended up doing a night cruise instead but had to pay a whooping 80RM per person to do so. Loved our stay there though and can highly recommend and would love to go there again!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Qasim

Review Date: 09 mrt 2026

Review Body: Stayed for 3 d/2n in shared room. Had a great time! Pros: good amount of river rides with committed guides; saw orangutans, crocodiles, Proboscus monkeys, and many others; each multiple times. Rooms are nice, good food options, friendly staff, and pick up/drop off is a big plus for a pretty long (2 hr) ride. Some past reviews said boat rides can be repetitive which worried me, but it was an advantage to have multiple attempts to see animals, and even if you see the same ones, you see them in a different context. To be desired: jungle walks aren’t great, but the place is more set up for the river. The jungle walk ads-on is essentially just a short walk around the lodging rather than a real trek. Hopefully they can develop that a little bit over time if the space allows for it. Note: don’t expect to see animals super close (sometimes you will though! We saw a croc pretty up close), but that’s to be expected (otherwise you’d just go to a zoo). Seeing animals in their natural habitat, even if far away, was much more enjoyable than seeing them up close in the sanctuaries Lastly, staff was great. Eg I had some dietary needs that they both remembered and handled very easily without making it feel like an annoyance.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tamara

Review Date: 30 sep 2026

Review Body: An unforgettable experience! loved it! The dorm was really nice, clean and comfy - had a proper study bed which was great so didn't shake when people climb up the upper bunk. Big shoutout to our guides Alloy and Tan Chong who were absolutely restless in finding animals for us. You can tell they really want you to see everything. Food was plentiful and really good too. We were so lucky and saw all of the Big 5! The river cruises might feel a bit repetitive for some people, (not for me) but that's how you get more chances to spot wildlife, and it was great for me. For example some people in my dorm preferred to stay sleeping instead of doing the last morning cruise, big mistake as that was when a saw the orangutans. Thus completing the big 5. I was well looked after the whole time. Also make sure to bring bug repellent,long sleeves, long pants(not leggings) to protect from mozzies. And if possible bring binoculars or try to ask to rent them first thing when you arrive(although they might not have any available) Just a heads up - reception is spotty and there's no WiFi most of the time, so let your family know you might be offline for a few days. Part of the charm! Would 100% recommend.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Mebby12, Liverpool, United Kingdom

Review Date: 12 jul 2019

Review Body: I visited in July with 2 other friends (23years old) and it was fantastic start to finish. Pick up in sepilok was prompt and well organised. The lodge itself was brilliant, clean room and comfy beds (6 bed dorm 6 girls we knew). Good communal space - beware of monkeys/bats but gives good jungle experience. The staff we so lovely and couldnt do enough for you day and night. They served the buffet and planned the jungle walks and river cruises. Spoke good english and were full of knowledge and information on the local wildlife. They really went above and beyond to help us see crocodiles, orangutans, slow loris etc and we couldnt be happier! One member of staff ‘Ryan’ took us to his village and helped us plant trees in the forrest - this was great to see the village life on the river. The food was buffet and there was plenty of it. Overall great experience, loads to do and great value for money. Also time to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet and drink tea in the calming environment. We were lucky with what we saw but this was just a bonus to the already fantastic trip (3day 2 night). Thank you to all the staff and hope to come back again so Alex can remain Limbo champion (of the guests)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Globetrotter0488 Singapore, Singapore

Review Date: 25 jan 2019

Review Body: We went with no expectations given the remote location and the accomodation standards in the region and we were blown away. Rooms are minimal and has all you need, funny to read people complain no tv or wifi..the reason to go to such places is disconnect and reconnect with nature and your surroindings. Wake up to the sounds of birds and wild animals to enjoy the cool fresh air in the jungle. The guides were amazing, knowleadgeable and entertaining. Staff went above and beyond to cater to everyone and make it fun. Games,laughter and exploration of the wild was the perfect getaway from the city. Don't expect gourmet meals but do expect a trip of a lifetime. We were lucky to spot several animals including orangutans building nests in the wild. I have to add a BIG thank you to all the staff as my husband managed to forget 1x bag in the restaurant and we were too far out in our journey to return. They managed to find someone to send it to KK the same day! They could have easily not bothered. You are all stars and we hope to see you again!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Shreyan Saha

Review Date: 01 jan 2026

Review Body: Really good experience as a first timer. Granted that it's recommended to take the 3d2n package I personally didn't feel rushed at all in the 2d1n package. The boat trips were pretty long and usually they are willing to extend the trip durations slightly so that you get a better chance for sightings of the big 5 - which btw if you go at a good time of the year is not outside the realm of possibility. If I do have to give some suggestions: Definitely increase the number of local items at the buffets and reduce continental items like baked beans, just a personal opinion. Other than that they take a 10 myr deposit for the room key. Make sure to get it back ! Other than that, the experience was pretty flawless, although for night, I'd recommend the night walk instead of the night cruise... slightly better chances for more nocturnal creatures imo and better chances to get closer to them. P.S. I definitely will be coming back here again in the future!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: juniieejune Hamburg, Germany

Review Date: 13 mei 2019

Review Body: It's about 2.5hrs from Sandakan Airport but if you take the tour package, transportation is arranged. Upon arrival we were greeted by friendly staff. We were brief on resort orientation and brought to our room. Loved the mosquito netting provided for each bed. Lovely sound of nature and insects. What a peaceful feeling when your bed has the forest view, priceless. Kinabatangan river cruise activities were well arranged and punctual. Enjoyed our late afternoon and early morning cruise. Saw: proboscis monkeys, macaque monkeys, crocodiles, blue head kingfisher bird, hornbill and water monitor lizard. The night walk was fun too, we saw gigantic butterfly. Food provided for each meal (breakfast, tea time, dinner) were delicious. After dinner, there's short cultural activities between the guests and staff, before the night jungle walk. Loved our experience and feel the warm hospitality from the staff. Highly recommended!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Norman & Amelia

Review Date: 11 jul 2025

Review Body: Everything was very well organised and run with military precision where all the river cruises and meal times/tea times were concerned. The staff couldn’t have been more helpful and accomodating. The river guides are all excellent,very knowledgeable and will work hard to seek out wildlife for you to see,though of course nothing is guaranteed. We were very lucky to have been paired with Rian/Ryan and were even more lucky with his keen eye to see nearly all of the Borneo Big 5 on our first trip. He also had a wildlife photographer on his boat who would whatsapp you all his pics for free 😊👍🏻 Not sure if that’s a regular thing though 🤷🏼‍♂️ Our only other tip,but it’s something we always do when travelling,is to take your own preferred drinks and snacks. The staff here will help with storage and refrigeration of anything take. The accommodation is clean and a towel and some individual toiletries are provided per guest.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Cheryl & Family

Review Date: 24 aug 2025

Review Body: Really lovely resort. Very much in the Jungle but everything was of a much much better quality than we were expecting. Great staff, lovely food and really excellent river cruises. Our Guide spotted lots of animals and gave us plenty of time to watch them. We saw baby Proboscis Monkey’s swinging in the trees (my highlight) and my Son got his wish of seeing a Crocodile…. we saw 4! Along with Long and Pig Tailed Macaques, Silver Leaf Langurs, Hornbills an Eagle and lots of other Birds. We booked a 2D1N stay in a dorm room as that’s all that was left available to book. My children had never stayed in a shared dorm room before and I was nervous about it but I needn’t have been. They absolutely loved it! The communication from the Seek Sophie Team was also excellent. Very reassuring for someone new to this kind of adventure. All in all a magical experience. I fully recommend!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: DHJ_1, Chester

Review Date: 21 apr 2019

Review Body: My husband and I booked the 3D2N package through River Junkies, and we were pleasantly surprised. We had a warm welcome from staff with tea and snacks when we arrived, and were shown to our dorm which was one of the nicest dorms we’ve ever stayed in! The big wooden beds were comfy, and the AC and fan were great when it got too hot. The showers and toilets were clean and we never had to wait to use them. The river cruises and nature walks were good but more commentary about the river and the animals that lived there would have been nice. We were so lucky to see an orangutan with her baby, plus lots of macaques, Proboscis monkeys, birds and four crocodiles. We got lucky again on the night walk and saw a pit viper and a slow loris which was amazing. Food was plentiful and tasty, and on the whole we really enjoyed our time here.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Lisa

Review Date: 31 mrt 2026

Review Body: We booked the 3-day/2-night tour and would highly recommend it to anyone! It’s definitely the best value package deal for a river safari. We stayed in a dorm; the beds are super comfortable and everything is top-notch. The bathrooms and communal areas at the resort are great! The food was good and the tours were brilliant. Our guide Kai, in particular, was fantastic! Thanks to him, we were able to see all the Big Five, as he relied on his experience and stayed longer at some spots than other boats – his patience paid off every time! He shared a lot of knowledge with us and explained everything brilliantly. You could tell that nature and the animals are truly close to his heart and that he does it all out of passion! We would recommend staying for at least two nights to increase your chances of seeing all of the Big Five.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Snehil

Review Date: 06 jul 2026

Review Body: I had great experience with the 3d2n tour at Kinabatangan river. I also feel this is good enough time to explore the area and see the relevant species. You can take 4d one as well as that increases chances for wild Orangutans as we couldn't see any in our tour. The guides, the staff back at resort and the resort itself is very clean, hygienic and served tasty food all through out the tour. I stayed in dorm and it was very good and comfortable and clean. They reserved lower bunk on my request as well. The night walk and night safari was good but i found little pricey basis the animals we saw compared to the night safari at RDC. But its an experience so do try. The borneon chocolate ice-cream was amazing . also staff is very accommodating of the veg food and you can ask and they will provide the same

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tan Puay Gaik

Review Date: 25 aug 2020

Review Body: Everything was fantastic where Fred told me not to worry that a designated person will be picking me up at Sepilok. On the dot, a van with Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort stenciled on the side, drove up the entrance area and I was greeted by Abang Ramlee and it was the start of my wonderful weekend of seeing elephants, monkeys, birds, oolala! There weren't many people at the resort itself, myself party of one, a group of 4 friendly youths and a big group of a family. The place is clean and spacious, rooms are clean, bed is comfortable, a/c and hot shower and clean towels are provided. My boatman was Aloy who made sure we were in safe hands. He was shared his knowledge about the forest and the river around us. I had a great stay and definitely would return again! And yes, they speak good English!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sam

Review Date: 15 aug 2025

Review Body: Absolutely loved this trip! Well organised, staff were all helpful and location was beautiful. I just wished we'd booked longer! Food was great and we saw lots of wildlife along the river, the room was clean and too my surprise, had a great shower. Communication prior was also spot on, we arranged to be picked up at the sepilok orangutan centre as we wanted to visit it that morning before the trip and nothing was too much trouble. The only slight negative for us was the optional night walk which we booked while we were on the trip. It was a little unorganised and too many people in the group which meant the people at the back saw very little by the time the other (not so quiet) guests in the group had scared everything off. But aside from that we would 100% book again.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Oskar J

Review Date: 05 jul 2019

Review Body: If you're looking for some nature and retreat, this is really the resort to join. We booked a 3D2N (I highly recommend staying at least 3D2N, as you get much much more value for the money) through our hostel, and were picked up and brought to the lovely jungle resort, which had very nice facilities and friendly staff. Our guide, Rian, really went the extra mile for us. He took us around the local village, invited us to see his home and eat some fresh mango. Such a nice guy, that told good stories about life in Borneo and the maginificent flora and fauna. Rian also gave us the option to plant a tree, bought from the locals and of course we did. Really enjoyed the experience and I'm so glad we got to see WILD orangutans among other amazing creatures!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Natalia

Review Date: 24 sep 2026

Review Body: Everything was very organized and workers were very nice and gentle. The rooms where absolutely clean and we couldn’t find a bug in it which completely suprised us considering it is in the middle of the jungle! The activities are grupal and the only thing we were expecting a little more adventure on the walks, this was a bit short in our opinion, but understand we were a big group and coulnd’t risk going very far in the jungle. Overall great experience. Couldn’t find the Big5 but this is very hard and depends on your luck. The only thing I didn’t like is that this agency tried to charge me double of the price for a ride to Semporna. If you need this transfer, try to find it your way but have present that the price should be around 500-600MYR.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sara Praça

Review Date: 13 mei 2026

Review Body: What an amazing 3D2N we had in the Kinabatangan River. Not only because we were blessed to see all the Big 5, with elephants being spotted not only on the first day but also on day 2 with a majestic river crossing, but also due to what Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resoet had to offer. From the accomodation that was simply amazing, to the great food (way better from other places were we stayed before in Sabah), and not forgetting the organization of everything. Also a special feedback to our guide, Tanjong (hope I am writing his name propeely) that was tireless to find all the big 5, extending always the river cruises time to increase the chances. This is one of those spots I would return easily in the future.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Niklas

Review Date: 25 apr 2025

Review Body: We really enjoyed the trip. You basically get exactly what has been communicated on the website. It is not a luxury trip but the rooms are clean, have even warm showers and cozy beds. The river cruises were also great. We saw monkeys, crocodiles and even elephants. The guide was very keen to make it a nice experience and was also quite good in English. The dinner and breakfast was great as well. It was not only a lot of food but also a wide range of different options. There was different kind of meat, rice and noodles, vegetables, fruits, etc. for dinner and toast, fruits, pancakes, scrambled, fried and even boiled eggs for breakfast. Altogether: We can really recommend it for low to mid-budget travelers.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: jonathan c, Waipahu, Hawaii

Review Date: 20 mrt 2019

Review Body: We really enjoyed touring with our guide bon bon! He is originally from the Philippines so my wife and I had an immediate connection with him and many other workers at the lodge who's families migrated over. Riding with bon bon on the boat we were able to see crocodiles, long tailed macaques, silver leaf monkeys, proboscis monkeys, many birds such as the rhino horn bill, and the highlight being a rare site of an orangutan mother and baby. The food was very good and dancing at night was a great workout in the heat. The lodge is very basic with AC and mosquito net over beds. The night trek was also very fun! Make sure to apply mosquito repellent as your torch (headlamp) will attract so many mosquitoes.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Sepilok Orang Utan and Sun Bear Conservation, river safari, wildlife viewing

Itinerary Description: Morning pick-up from your Sandakan hotel or meet at Sandakan Airport. Begin your journey at the world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, established in 1964 to rehabilitate orphaned and displaced orangutans. Watch them emerge from the surrounding dipterocarp forest for feeding time — a rare chance to observe and photograph them in a protected, semi-wild setting as they gradually learn to return to the wild. Next, visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, where you’ll see the world’s smallest bears in large forest enclosures. Learn about the conservation work being done to rescue and rehabilitate sun bears affected by habitat loss and deforestation, and observe them from elevated walkways as they forage and climb. After lunch and check-in at Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort, travel to Bilit along the Kinabatangan River for an afternoon river cruise (around 4:00pm). Keep watch for proboscis monkeys, orangutans, macaques, hornbills, crocodiles and — if you’re lucky — pygmy elephants along the riverbanks. After the cruise and dinner, return to Sepilok for your overnight stay at the rainforest resort.

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Breakfast then checkout and onward travel

Itinerary Description: Enjoy breakfast before checking out. This marks the end of your experience. Please arrange your own onward transport from the resort.