2025 Kinabatangan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

I love my job. My job brought me to places that i never visit before. This place is located in Sukau Kinabatangan Sabah. The place is called Sukau Greanview. People who visit and stay here will take river crusing as their main activity where if your lucky you can see an Orang Utan, Elephant and my more. No need to worry about food as their aslo has nice restaurant serve with good food and also facing to Kinabatangan river. I will repeat to visit this place next time. #sukau#sukaugreenview#kinabatangan#kinabatanganriver#rivercruise#elephant#orangutans

Living in the hustle and bustle of the city for a long time can make you feel trapped, and you may need an adventure to unlock your freedom. Sandakan in Malaysia offers a journey that will make your soul rejoice. Today, let's take you on this unforgettable journey to the Kinabatangan River. Upon arriving in Sandakan, head to the pier and take a boat to the dreamy Bilit Adventure Lodge. Don't underestimate this waterway, as it is a secret passage to a wonderful world. The boat glides slowly, the river gently lapping against the hull, and the rainforest on both sides unfolds like a green scroll. The lush branches and leaves intertwine, with occasional rays of sunlight filtering through the gaps, casting delicate shadows on the water. Arriving at Bilit Adventure Lodge feels like entering a utopia hidden in the rainforest. The hotel is built in harmony with the surrounding natural environment, with a wooden exterior that seamlessly blends in. Every detail exudes a natural charm. Entering the room, you are greeted by a view of greenery outside the window, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of plants, instantly dispelling any fatigue. After a short rest at Bilit Adventure Lodge, head to Sepilok Jungle Resort. Here, you can enjoy a pool to cool off in the heat and encounter adorable animals. From the hotel, you can quickly reach the area where you can see orangutans and sun bears. Witnessing orangutans swinging freely between branches with their long arms and sun bears walking with their endearing gait will deeply touch you with their liveliness and cuteness, and fill you with awe for the rainforest that nurtures life. Every day in Sandakan is a deep conversation with nature. In the morning, you are awakened by the symphony of birds in the rainforest. Opening the window, you are instantly surrounded by fresh air carrying the fragrance of plants. During the day, join a rainforest hike organized by the hotel and follow an experienced guide deep into the rainforest. Along the way, you will be amazed by various rare plants and the mysterious calls of animals, making every step feel like exploring unknown treasures. In the evening, return to the hotel, soak in the pool, and watch the sunset paint the sky orange-red, as the day's fatigue gradually dissipates with the ripples. As night falls, lie on a soft bed, listen to the lullaby of insects and frogs in the rainforest, and feel the purest gentleness of nature. The Kinabatangan River journey in Sandakan is not just a simple sightseeing trip, but a spiritual journey. Here, you can break free from the constraints of the city, embrace nature, and rediscover inner peace and beauty. If you also long for such a journey, don't hesitate any longer. Pack your bags and come to Sandakan to start your own rainforest adventure!

Completely unusual place. An enormously large and beautiful cave full of birds bats and cockroaches 🪳 =)). The cave is surrounded by jungles. Next to the cave there is a high possibility to see orangutans. Situated on the way to Kinabatangan river it is very convenient to combine with the transfer from Sepilok to Kinabatangan river lodges and resorts. Takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to observe.

Very good live nature experience. With three days and two nights packages you have different types of options how to explore the Kinabatangan river jungles. Full of different types of monkeys and birds. It is possible to see orangutan and pigmy elegant. And saltwater crocodile 🐊. A two hour river cruise for both river directions each day makes chances to see everything twice higher.

1. Wildlife Wonderland The Kinabatangan River is home to some of Borneo's most iconic wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of birds. A river cruise offers a front-row seat to nature's breathtaking show. 2. Stunning Natural Beauty The river winds through lush rainforests, limestone caves, and mangroves, creating a serene and picturesque landscape. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts to capture unforgettable moments. 3. Unique Cultural Experience Exploring the Kinabatangan River also brings you closer to the local communities who live along its banks. Discover their traditions, stories, and sustainable ways of life that are closely connected to the river. Don't miss the chance to experience Borneo's most enchanting adventure! #KinabatanganRiver #WildlifeAdventure #ExploreBorneo

By Sandakan, the Sulu Sea whispers softly. 🌊 On Turtle Island, the cycle of life continues. 🐢 In the depths of the rainforest, the path is filled with greenery. 🌳 In the forest, the proboscis monkeys hide their cuteness. 🦍 On the streets, the aroma of food fills the air. 🍜 📍Address Sandakan is located on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, between the Sulu Sea and the Celebes Sea. 🚅Transportation ✈️Flight: You can take a flight from Kuala Lumpur and other cities to Sandakan Airport. 🛳Ferry: If you are coming from nearby islands, there are ferries available, but you need to check the schedule in advance. 🍽Food Recommendations 🍲Seafood: Sandakan is rich in fresh seafood. Creamy tiger prawns are plump and juicy, with a rich and thick cream sauce; steamed grouper is fresh and tender. 🍲Snacks: Try fried bananas, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sweet and delicious; and satay skewers, marinated with unique spices and grilled over charcoal, served with special satay sauce, rich in flavor. 📸Must-visit Attractions 🎬Turtle Islands National Park: An important nesting site for green turtles and hawksbill turtles. In the evening, you can see turtles coming ashore to lay eggs, and at dawn, you can witness the spectacular scene of baby turtles hatching and crawling towards the sea. 🎬Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Centre: A dense tropical rainforest. Walking along the boardwalk in the rainforest, you can see a variety of rare tropical plants, birds, and other wildlife. If you're lucky, you can see proboscis monkeys jumping between the trees. 🏠Nearby Attractions 📍Kinabatangan River: Take a boat tour and enjoy the pristine tropical rainforest scenery on both sides of the river, where you can see many wild animals, such as crocodiles, elephants, and various birds. 📍Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: A sanctuary dedicated to protecting the habitat of proboscis monkeys. Here, you can observe the unique appearance and habits of proboscis monkeys up close. Their long noses and fluffy tails are very cute as they move and forage in the forest. ✨Travel Experience ✅In Sandakan, you can feel the magic and tranquility of nature. Witnessing the cycle of life on Turtle Island, when baby turtles hatch and rush to the sea, is an unforgettable experience. ✅Walking through the rainforest feels like being in a green ocean, with fresh air and pleasant bird songs that make you feel relaxed and happy. ✅Meeting wild animals on the Kinabatangan River and Labuk Bay is full of surprises, allowing you to experience the unique ecological charm of Malaysia, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and immerse yourself in this vibrant land.

Day 1 ✈️ Kuala Lumpur ➡️ Sandakan - Upon arrival: Start your food tour! First stop, head to the local market and try the famous UFO Tart, which will leave you wanting more. - Dinner recommendation: Try fresh seafood, especially seafood bak kut teh, which is not to be missed. - Accommodation: Hotel in Sandakan city. --- Day 2 🐒 Orangutan Conservation Center and Rainforest Exploration - Morning: Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and watch the orangutans being fed, which will warm your heart. - Then: Head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to get up close and personal with the world's smallest bear, the adorable sun bear. - Afternoon: Walk along the rainforest suspension bridge at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) and experience the unique charm of the Borneo rainforest. - Accommodation: Hotel in Sandakan city. --- Day 3-4 🦧 Rainforest Adventure (2 or 3 Days) - Activity: Head to the famous Kinabatangan River in Borneo for a river cruise to spot proboscis monkeys, Borneo pygmy elephants, and other wildlife. - Itinerary options: 2D1N or 3D2N, recommended itinerary from RM411+/person (price depends on room type), can be booked on site at Sandakan Backpackers Hotel. - Accommodation: Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort. --- Day 5 🏙️ Free Time & Shopping in Sandakan City - Morning: Return to Sandakan city and visit Sandakan Central Market to experience the local market culture and try fresh seafood and other local snacks. - Depending on flight time: Arrange free time or shopping.

🌴 Sandakan, the second largest city on the east coast of Sabah, is a niche and charming tourist destination known for its pristine natural ecology and rich cultural heritage. 🍀**A Paradise of Natural Ecology** Here, you can get up close and personal with rare wildlife, experience the miracle of turtle nesting, explore the pristine bird's nest caves, and interact closely with monkeys and orangutans. The Kinabatangan River nourishes the vast jungle, allowing you to explore the tropical rainforest and feel the pulse of life. 🍀**A Paradise of Seafood Cuisine** Sandakan is known for its abundant seafood and is hailed as a "seafood paradise." Here, you can enjoy fresh and reasonably priced seafood feasts and savor the unique flavors of Nanyang cuisine. 🍀**A Treasure Trove of Cultural Heritage** Sandakan was once known as "Little Hong Kong," and the British colonial-era buildings, such as St. Michael's and All Angels Church, allow you to feel the vicissitudes of history. At the same time, it is also a place where diverse cultures converge, with temples, churches, and mosques coexisting harmoniously, showcasing Sandakan's deep cultural heritage. 🍀**A Frontier of Animal Conservation** The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is the world's first sun bear conservation center, giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with this precious wildlife. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is Malaysia's first officially established center for orangutan conservation, allowing you to observe orangutans in their natural habitat. 🍀**A Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation** In Sandakan, you can enjoy a tranquil island getaway at Lankayan Island Dive Resort or embark on an exciting river cruise adventure on the Kinabatangan River, experiencing the wild beauty of wildlife. 🍀 Sandakan, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle, get close to nature, and experience diverse cultures. Here, every step is an exploration, and every day is a new discovery. 🌹🌹

History and Culture Sandakan's history dates back to the British colonial period, when it was known as "Little Hong Kong" and was home to many Chinese migrant workers. American writer Agnes Keith's novel "Land Below the Wind" made Sandakan famous around the world, attracting many Western tourists every year. The city has preserved many buildings from the British colonial period, such as St. Michael's and All Angels Church, an old church founded in 1888, which showcases Sandakan's rich religious and cultural heritage. Natural Ecology Sandakan is the best place in Sabah to see wildlife. The Kinabatangan River nourishes a vast jungle area, and the entire basin remains in its original tropical rainforest state. Here, you can observe sea turtles laying eggs, primitive swallow caves, various monkeys and orangutans, and experience the fun of exploring the jungle. Tourist Attractions • Turtle Island and Libaran Island: These islands are visited by sea turtles almost every day, especially during the peak nesting season from July to October, making them a popular choice for family trips. • Sim Sim Water Village: A row of stilt houses in the shallow sea area forms a large village, where the seafood restaurants are affordable, and you can enjoy the sunset and sea view while dining in the evening. • Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: Get up close and personal with proboscis monkeys, a representative species with surprisingly large noses that sway when excited. • Kinabatangan River: Take a boat ride along the river and you may see a variety of beautiful hornbills, completely wild proboscis monkeys, and orangutans. Food Experience Sandakan's seafood is famous for its freshness and value for money. In Sim Sim Water Village, you can taste a variety of Southeast Asian delicacies, especially seafood, which is delicious and affordable, leaving you wanting more.

1. Overview Sandakan is located in Sabah, Malaysia. It is a city blessed by nature, with charming coastal scenery and rich historical culture. It was once the capital of Sabah and has a unique charm. 2. Attractions 1. Turtle Island: It is the habitat of green turtles and hawksbill turtles, where you can watch the wonderful scene of turtles laying eggs. 2. Kinabatangan River: You can see many wild animals, such as proboscis monkeys and crocodiles, while taking a boat tour. 3. Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Center: You can walk along the boardwalk, shuttle through the tropical rainforest, and feel the charm of nature up close. 3. Travel Information Recommended travel time: 3–4 days. You can arrange a day to visit Turtle Island, a day to visit the Kinabatangan River, and spend the rest of the time in the city and the Rainforest Discovery Center. 4. Ticket Information Tickets are required for Turtle Island and the Rainforest Discovery Center, and the price is about MYR 30–50. The Kinabatangan River cruise is usually included in the travel package. 5. Transportation You can fly to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and then transfer to Sandakan Airport. You can choose a taxi or charter a car for transportation in the city. 6. Accommodation There are various hotels and homestays in the city. Hotels near the sea offer beautiful sea views. It is recommended to choose accommodation close to major attractions or transportation hubs. 7. Food 1. Seafood: Fresh fish, shrimp, crab, etc., with a variety of cooking methods, such as creamy tiger prawns. 2. Bak Kut Teh: A perfect blend of rich herbal flavor and meat aroma. 8. Notes 1. Keep quiet when watching turtles lay eggs on Turtle Island, and do not use flash photography. 2. When visiting the Kinabatangan River, follow the guide's instructions and do not leave the boat or disturb the animals without permission. 3. The weather in Sandakan is changeable, so bring rain gear when traveling. 4. Respect local religious and cultural customs.

Sandakan is the second largest city in Sabah, Malaysia, known for its rich natural ecology and historical sites. Here are some of the main attractions in Sandakan: 1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: A center dedicated to the protection of orangutans, where visitors can watch orangutans feed and learn more about these endangered animals. 2. Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC): The world's first sun bear conservation center, where visitors can observe this rare bear species up close. 3. Rainforest Discovery Centre: Offers an exploration experience of the pristine rainforest, including a high bird-watching tower and a 32-meter-high tree bridge, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 4. Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: Located in Sumawang Village, Labuk Bay, Sandakan, where visitors can see proboscis monkeys up close. 5. Selingan Island: As the most important sea turtle nesting and hatching site in Southeast Asia, visitors can experience snorkeling and diving, and watch the natural wonders of sea turtles coming ashore to lay eggs and baby turtles hatching at night. 6. Kinabatangan River: Known as the "Little Amazon River," it is the largest wildlife habitat in Malaysia, where visitors have the opportunity to see endangered wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, and hornbills. 7. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple: The largest temple in Sandakan, located on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of Sandakan Bay. 8. Sandakan Heritage Museum: Showcases the history of Sandakan before and after the war, as well as the photographic heritage of British North Borneo. 9. Sandakan Central Market: Experience the lively atmosphere of the local market and taste authentic Malaysian cuisine. These attractions showcase the natural beauty and cultural characteristics of Sandakan, making it an excellent place for visitors to explore and experience the eastern charm of Malaysia.

✅Transportation From Kota Kinabalu, you can choose to fly directly to Sandakan, which takes only 40 minutes⏰. If you choose to take a bus🚌, you can book in advance through Easybook, and the fare is MYR 43. If you are departing from Semporna, you need to buy a bus ticket at the station one day in advance. There is a bus at 8 am, and the fare is MYR 50. ✅Accommodation recommendation👍 For independent travelers, we recommend staying at a youth hostel near the seaside port: Sandakan Backpackers Hostel. There are many shopping malls🛍️ and restaurants🍽️ nearby, making it a convenient place to stay. ✅Travel tips🌟 🌟Kinabatangan River Rainforest Adventure: This is the first choice for a trip to Sandakan. You can look for various wild animals in the rainforest, such as hornbills, proboscis monkeys🐒, and crocodiles🐊. The activity is suitable for visitors of all ages and is very safe. There are different itineraries to choose from, ranging from 1 to 3 days⏰. Please note that the entire tour is conducted in English, so visitors who are not fluent in English may have a less enjoyable experience. 🌟Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: This center takes in orphaned orangutans🦍, and you can see orangutans🦧, long-tailed monkeys, leaf monkeys, and other rare monkeys. Feeding activities are held twice a day, at 10 am and 3 pm, so we recommend visiting at these times. The ticket price is MYR 30, and only cash💴 is accepted. The center is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm⏰. 🌟Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Located opposite the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, tickets🎫 are MYR 50, and only cash💴 is accepted. The center is open daily from 9 am to 3:30 pm⏰. ✅Food recommendation👍 👍Jia Chuan Authentic Fried Meat and Rice Noodles: The fried meat is delicious and is a must-try dish recommended by locals. The average cost is about MYR 7 per person. Please note that the restaurant is open from 6 am to 11 am and is closed on Fridays. 👍H84 Snack Bar: The signature dishes include laksa century egg dumplings🥟 and fried meat🥩 slingshot noodles, which are popular with tourists. A serving costs about MYR 10. The century egg dumplings are rich and delicious, and the slingshot noodles are chewy. The restaurant has been in business for 23 years and is a famous local snack bar. Please note that the restaurant is open from 7 am to 2 pm and is closed on Sundays. We hope this travel guide will help you plan a pleasant trip! Have a great trip😁

In the Malaysian state of Sabah, there is a city like a pearl—Sandakan. My journey began here, as if I had stepped into a magical natural world. Upon arriving in Sandakan, the first stop was the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Stepping into this jungle reserve, the surroundings were so quiet that only the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves could be heard. When the orangutans appeared at feeding time, their agile postures and intelligent appearances were amazing. They jumped and played among the branches, so similar to humans yet with a unique wild charm, as if every little movement was a demonstration of the wonders of nature. Along the journey, I came to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. The proboscis monkeys are the stars here, with their exaggerated big noses being their most distinctive feature. Watching them shuttle through the woods, their big noses swaying with their movements, was adorable. Especially when a group of proboscis monkeys gathered to eat, the scene was lively, like a special forest feast. Turtle Island, on the other hand, is a place full of warmth and hope. When night falls, watching the mother turtles laboriously climb onto the beach to lay eggs, and the staff carefully collecting and protecting these precious turtle eggs, is like guarding the spark of life. The moment the baby turtles hatch and rush to the sea, it is like a relay of life, inspiring awe. The Kinabatangan River is like a winding jade belt, weaving through this land. Cruising along the river, the scenery on both banks unfolds like a painting. On the riverbank, proboscis monkeys look around on the branches, orangutans shuttle through the forest, hornbills soar in the sky, and various wild animals thrive here, creating a vibrant world. The canopy walkway at the Rainforest Discovery Centre is a unique experience. Walking on the elevated iron bridge, it feels like being in close contact with towering trees, shuttling between the canopies, overlooking the lush rainforest below, as if becoming a part of this mysterious rainforest. The Sandakan trip is a date with nature, a journey of spiritual baptism in the primitive ecology, making me linger and forget to return.

🌴🌴Are you still worried about where to go for your holiday? Let me recommend a super niche but absolutely stunning destination - Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia! It is not only known as "Little Hong Kong" but also a paradise for nature lovers!🌴🌴 📍📍Location: Sandakan is located on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, and is the second largest city in Sabah. It takes only about 1 hour to fly from Kota Kinabalu, which is super convenient!🛫 🐻🐻Must-visit attractions: 1. Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre🐻💖 • Recommended rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ • This is the world's first sun bear conservation center! Seeing these cute bears that don't hibernate in person is simply heart-melting~ 2. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre🐒🌳 • About 40 minutes' drive from the city center, it is home to 60-80 orangutans! Remember to bring your camera, but you need to pay an extra 10 MYR~ Check out these mischievous orangutans! 3. Rainforest Discovery Centre🌴🔭 • Birdwatching towers and tree bridges in the primeval rainforest, a favorite of photography enthusiasts! Every day, photography masters set up three cameras here, entering this green world! 4. Turtle Islands Park🐢🌊 • The most important turtle nesting and hatching site in Southeast Asia! At night, you can see turtles coming ashore to lay eggs and the magical sight of baby turtles hatching! Witness the hatching journey of baby turtles! 5. Kinabatangan River🏞️🐊 • The largest river in Sabah, where you can see monkeys and small crocodiles on both sides, full of adventure! 🍜🍜Food recommendations: • Seafood: The seafood in Sandakan is fresh and cheap, with fish noodles, fish sticks, and seafood bak kut teh!🐟 • Dry noodles: Traditional breakfast, salty but unique in flavor!🍜 • Cow dung egg tart: Shaped like a flying saucer, with a light texture and a rich and smooth custard filling!🍰 🏨🏨Accommodation recommendations: • Livingston Hotel Sandakan: High cost performance, Chinese-style hotel, and indoor swimming pool! • Sepilok Forest Edge Resort: Beautiful and quiet environment, a favorite of European and American backpackers! 🌈🌈Tips: • Sandakan has a tropical rainforest climate, suitable for travel all year round, but the rainfall is heavy from November to January, so remember to check the weather in advance!🌈 • Sunscreen is a must, the UV rays in Malaysia are no joke!🌞 • Bring some common medicines, such as stomach medicine and cold medicine, just in case!💊 📸📸Finally, don't forget to capture your Sandakan trip with your camera and share it with more friends!

The Kinabatangan River is the longest river in Sabah, approximately 560 km long. The river and its surrounding tropical rainforest are one of the richest ecosystems on Earth.

It takes about 2 hours to drive from Sandakan to Kinabatangan. Now is the best season, with abundant fruit trees and mild air. Most importantly, this is the habitat of many birds and primates. Cruising in the river is the best way to explore the diverse ecosystem and wildlife here. We took a boat trip in the early morning and at dusk, and each time we saw different species. Crocodiles, rhinoceros hornbills, blue-eared kingfishers, leaf monkeys, otters, and many elephant footprints were found.

at resort best and nice service i hope i can be here any other days in here and with all my familys, the peopel around here, the loca people is very kind and talkative to have conversation with them and i mostly like it with them and i hope i can go all with mu friends and family on a new trip with them and also go with them, i really really like to go this place i love it so much#kinabatangan

Amazing experience at the Kinabatangan river 3d2n package .great guides and saw orangutans, monkeys, gibbons and many more things.

#fallishere The Kinabatangan River, known as Sungai Kinabatangan in Malay, is the longest river in Sabah, and the second-longest in Malaysia with a total length of 560 km. The Kinabatangan River is known for its incredible biodiversity and for being a sanctuary for endangered species including Proboscis Monkeys and Orangutans. Getting to the Kinabatangan River and Sukau involves taking a bus or private transport from the main tourist hubs in Sabah

Every 6 months, I volunteer in a different country. This year, I chose Borneo and ended up planting trees in the jungle near the Kinibatangan River. While we spent most of our time sweating in the dense jungle, we also got to take part in river surveys where we collected data on the animals around. The highlight of my trip is seeing the different monkeys playing in the trees. This was such an amazing opportunity. #thegreatproject #monkeys #borneo #volunteer

Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary tour is a great chance to watch wild animals in their natural habitats. The wildlife sanctuary is located along the Kinabatangan River, which is the second-largest river in Malaysia. Kinabatangan River has one of the world’s richest ecosystems and it’s being one of the top wildlife-watching destinations in Asia. There in the trees visitors have a chance to find primate species like the aforementioned orangutans and Proboscis Monkeys. If you get lucky you can even see pygmy elephants drinking by the river bank. There’s many guided boat tours to the Kinabatangan River available in every tourist town. #bucketlistreboot #malaysia