Kinabatangan River Cruise: Wildlife Sanctuary in Sabah, Borneo
Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Borneo: An Overview
Kinabatangan River, Borneo, is a river located in Sabah, Malaysia. It flows through the heart of Borneo’s rainforest, offering a window into one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. This winding waterway is a key part of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for bornean wildlife and a stark contrast to the palm oil plantations surrounding it.
Kinabatangan River & Borneo History
The Kinabatangan River has been a vital part of Borneo’s history for centuries. Early Chinese traders settled along the river in the 7th century, engaging in trade of swiftlets’ nests, beeswax, rattan, and ivory. The name “Kinabatangan” reflects the indigenous Dusun’s term for the river, with “Kina” referring to the Chinese traders.
Later on, during British North Borneo’s era, the Kinabatangan River served as a crucial route for timber and goods exports. Although the river’s upper reaches have been impacted by logging and plantations, the lower sections still feature diverse ecosystems. This includes mangroves and swamps that provide a haven for wildlife.
Flora & Fauna in Kinabatangan River, Borneo
Kinabatangan River, Borneo’s Fauna History
Borneo is the third largest island in the world and was once connected to mainland Asia. Over time, it became separated, leading to the creation of new animal species and the extinction of others.
The island’s ancient rainforests, which have existed for millions of years, are home to some of the world’s rarest species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
The island has many species, including 639 types of ants, 274 kinds of freshwater fish, and 288 different mammals. Sadly, deforestation is putting many of these animals in danger of extinction.
The Borneo Big 5
Bornean Orangutan
The Bornean orangutan is one of two orangutan species, the other being the Sumatran orangutan. Known for their long, reddish-brown hair, they’re highly intelligent and solitary, and I find them to be some of the most expressive animals in the wild. Adult males can weigh up to 220 pounds, with an impressive 7-foot arm span.
These great apes spend most of their lives in trees, swinging gracefully through the canopy with strong arms and grasping feet. Their diet is mainly fruit-based, but they’ll munch on leaves, bark, and insects too. As key seed dispersers, they play a crucial role in maintaining rainforest health.
Orangutans have a slow reproductive rate, with females giving birth only every 7 to 9 years, making population recovery a huge challenge, especially with threats like habitat destruction and illegal hunting. Despite ongoing conservation efforts, fewer than 105,000 Bornean orangutans remain in the wild today, leaving them critically endangered. It is really sad to think that such incredible creatures could vanish in our lifetime.
Proboscis Monkey
The proboscis monkey is my favorite animal in Borneo because they are so adorable and live such a relaxed life! With their incredibly endearing big noses and bellies, they spend their days in mangrove forests, leaping from tree to tree.
The dominant male gets to mate with all the females, but the females can choose to move to another group if they wish. Male proboscis monkeys have significantly larger noses compared to the females, and in their world, size truly matters. Females are more attracted to males with bigger noses and prefer to mate with them.
These monkeys have webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers, which is handy for escaping predators like crocodiles. Despite their size, proboscis monkeys are quick to flee from danger, often retreating at the first sign of trouble. They mainly eat leaves, seeds, and fruits, sticking to a specialized diet.
Rhinoceros Hornbills
Borneo’s skies are often graced by colorful hornbills, known for their large, striking beaks and vibrant plumage. These birds play a key role in the ecosystem by spreading seeds throughout the forest. They are also the most romantic birds ever, sticking with one partner for life, even if their partner dies.
I once saw a local feed a hornbill, and the bird immediately fed the food to its mate—a beautiful expression of love. Their caring behavior make hornbills not only a symbol of Borneo’s avian diversity but also a heartwarming example of love and loyalty in nature.
Estuarine Crocodile
The estuarine crocodile is one of the largest and most formidable reptiles in Borneo. Growing up to 23 feet long and weighing over 2,200 pounds, these crocodiles are top predators in their habitat.
They live in coastal areas, rivers, and mangrove swamps, using their patience and stealth to ambush prey. Their role in controlling animal populations is crucial for maintaining balance in their coastal and river environments.
Pygmy Elephant
Unfortunately, despite moving back and forth along the river, we missed seeing the elusive pygmy elephant from the Bornean Big 5. It’s a shame because these are the smallest elephant subspecies in the world. Despite being the largest mammals on the island, they’re easy to identify by their smaller faces, which make their ears seem larger, and their tails that are so long they sometimes touch the ground.
They also have straighter tusks, which add to their unique charm. Sadly, these gentle giants face significant threats from habitat destruction and poaching, making sightings rarer. Conservation efforts are underway, but it’s a race against time to protect the few remaining elephants and ensure their survival.
Kinabatangan River Cruise Experience
Boat Cruises & Wildlife Encounters
There are two cruises daily—morning and afternoon. Beyond the amazing wildlife, you’ll love how the blue sky embraces the lush greenery, making you feel like you’re in a movie scene. Some hotels even have a sighting board where you can check what animals were spotted on each cruise, adding a fun and exciting element to your adventure.
Each boat had around 10-15 people, and several boats were out at the same time. What’s great is that all the guides collaborate, regardless of which lodge they’re with. They use walkie-talkies to share news about exciting sightings.
Thanks to this teamwork, everyone staying on the river has a fair shot at spotting the best wildlife. That’s why Kinabatangan is such an amazing place to see orangutans in Borneo!
My first sighting was two otters running along the riverside. These little guys were a delight to watch—playful, sleek, and full of energy.
The next sighting made the whole boat shout—finally, a crocodile! Our Japanese friend, who had never seen one before, was absolutely ecstatic. And I have to admit, there’s something pretty wild about a croc casually swimming right next to our boat!
Our guide’s keen eye really impressed us next. He spotted a monitor lizard lounging on a tree branch, camouflaged, something we would have easily missed.
We also spotted lots of monkeys, like macaques, and silver leaf monkeys. Most of the monkeys are long-tailed macaques. They can be really aggressive, so it’s best to keep your distance and avoid provoking them.
We also spotted proboscis monkeys, famous for their big noses and bellies. They jumped around energetically in a group. You can watch the video at the top of this page. The whole thing lasted about an hour and a half.
The next morning, we took another cruise, hoping to spot some of the missing Borneo 5: orangutans, elephants, and the hornbill.
This time, I remembered to rent binoculars to ensure I could see the animals clearly from a distance. They were quite pricey at 30 RM per cruise, but totally worth it.
As I learned along the way, you can even take pictures through the binoculars. As you can see, the hornbill greeted us, kicking off our day with a cheerful “hi!”
The highlight of the cruise was definitely spotting a young orangutan hanging on a tree! I’m sorry the picture isn’t the clearest—it was taken through the binoculars. We also saw the “leaf bed” these orangutans make to sleep high up in the trees. What a lucky day indeed!
Jungle Nightwalk: Spot the Vibrant Wildlife in the Dark!
The jungle night walk happens after dinner, following the afternoon river cruise. It’s just as fascinating as the cruise.
I recommend renting shoes because the terrain can be very muddy and slippery. Wear long pants and a jacket to cover your body, and spray some repellent if you’d like—there are an abundance of mosquitoes and other insects!
During the night walk, it’s important not to get too close to the animals, or you might wake them up. Also, avoid making too much noise, or the animals might flee.
The first thing our guide spotted was a baby snake—either a cobra or python, I’m not sure—sleeping on a leaf.
On top of the leaves, we also saw some daddy long legs, which are fascinating to watch. This insect is actually not that uncommon.
You’ll also come across some birds sleeping with their eyes open! Some are covering their face so mosquitoes won’t bite them. Their colors are incredibly vibrant and beautiful. The blue one was blue flycatcher, but I forgot what the red one was called. Let’s just call it Spearow like the one in Pokemon.
And this one was a stork-billed kingfisher with their beautiful plummage. We did see a lot of these during our cruise as well!
A couple of minutes later, our guide spotted a Bornean civet, with cool stripes on its back, searching for insects to snack on!
Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky enough to spot the elusive slow loris during our night walk. There’s always next time, though!
Rainforest Guided Walk: The Tropical Vibes
Between lunch and the afternoon river cruise, you can opt for a tropical rainforest guided walk. This is a great opportunity to see the rich and lush vegetation of the forest and discover many interesting things. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent!
You can spot some fresh, super sour fruits that naturally grow in the forest. If I’m not mistaken, they’re called lobi-lobi and supposedly is a great source of antioxidants.
My guide mentioned that some of these vines contain water, but don’t just cut them and drink it, because some different variants contain poison.
If you’re lucky (or unlucky), you might spot a mangrove viper. Be sure to stay away, as they’re highly venomous. I found one in Sepilok, but they’re also known to inhabit the Kinabatangan River area.
I met these pair of energetic prevost squirrels at the Rainforest Discovery Center in Sepilok, but you should also be able to see them in the Kinabatangan area.
How to Get to Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Borneo?
For a smooth Kinabatangan River experience, book a 2-day tour from Sandakan or Sepilok. It’s perfect if you’re already planning to visit the Orangutan conservation areas nearby. The package usually includes guided river cruises, a stay at a lodge in Kinabatangan, and hassle-free transport to and from the river area — which can be tricky to arrange on your own.
Here are some options, covering 4D3N / 3D2N journey through Sandakan, Sepilok & Kinabatangan:
4D/3N: https://www.klook.com/id/activity/46132-4d3n-sepilok-wildlife-tour-kinabatangan-river-cruise-experience
3D/2N: https://www.klook.com/id/activity/46058-3d2n-discover-kinabatangan-river-stay-bilit-adventure-lodge-sandakan/
Where to Stay in Kinabatangan River, Borneo
Bilit Adventure Lodge
For a budget-friendly option, Kampung Bilit is a beautiful spot to check out. This tiny village, with fewer than 200 people, offers a charming escape where you can stroll around and see monkeys jumping in the trees near your room. Just remember to keep your windows closed—those monkeys might sneak in and make a mess (seriously).
You can also enjoy lunch and dinner by the Kinabatangan River. The food was pretty good!
Sukau Resort
Sukau Rainforest Lodge (SRL) offers a top-tier ecotourism experience right on the Kinabatangan River. Founded by Albert Teo of Borneo Eco Tours, SRL blends exceptional wildlife viewing with sustainable practices and local community involvement. Since 1995, this lodge has been a leader in ecotourism, with 80% of its staff from the local area, making it a perfect choice for a high-end, eco-friendly stay.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Kinabatangan River, Borneo?
The best time to visit Kinabatangan River in Borneo is from March through October, when the weather is warm, dry, and comfortable. May is particularly ideal due to generally dry conditions and lower rates.
This period is perfect for wildlife viewing, hiking, and enjoying outdoor activities. The dry season offers the best conditions for exploring, while the wet season (September-February) features sporadic rain but fewer crowds and lower prices.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
The primary conservation challenge in Borneo is the unfortunate deforestation driven by palm oil plantations and logging. This habitat destruction severely impacts wildlife and their habitats, including those around Kinabatangan River. While local conservation efforts are significant, they are often undermined by larger environmental issues and lack of government enforcement. Hopefully, there will be stronger regulations, better enforcement, and a shift towards more sustainable practices to ensure long-term protection of Borneo’s beautiful ecosystem.
How to Help Protect the Borneo Rainforest
As visitors, we can really make a difference by picking eco-friendly tours and lodges that focus on sustainability and conservation. You can also donate to groups that protect Borneo’s rainforests, which helps fund vital projects like reforestation and community patrols.
Additionally, it’s crucial to respect local guidelines—stick to designated paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow all regulations. By making these conscious and respectful choices, we contribute to preserving Borneo’s incredible ecosystems and ensure they remain vibrant and protected for future generations.
The Finale: Healing at the Kinabatangan River in Borneo, Malaysia.
I loved my whole adventure at the Kinabatangan River in Borneo, from the wonderful guides and cruises to the night and day-walks. Encountering the animals were definitely eye-opening. Even as a Southeast Asian, meeting them really opened my eyes to the incredible diversity of wildlife on earth.
The resorts themselves are tranquil and relaxed. You can walk, reflect, and truly appreciate nature (and the nearby monkeys!). Kinabatangan River was a truly healing journey, and a beautiful gift from Mother Earth.
FAQs on Kinabatangan River, Borneo, Malaysia
Kinabatangan River, Malaysia: FAQ
Are there crocodiles in Kinabatangan River?
Yes, there are crocodiles, including saltwater crocodiles, in Kinabatangan River. You might spot them during the cruise, especially in the early morning.
Where is Kinabatangan River, Borneo, Malaysia?
Kinabatangan River is located in Sabah, Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. It winds through lush tropical rainforest and wetlands.
How do I get to Kinabatangan River Wildlife Sanctuary?
You can fly into Sandakan from major cities like Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. From Sandakan, you’ll be transferred to Kinabatangan River by car.
How long should I stay in Kinabatangan?
You can choose between a 2D1N (2 days, 1 night) or 3D2N (3 days, 2 nights) Kinabatangan River tour. The longer you stay, the more wildlife you’re likely to see.
Where can I find a map of Kinabatangan River, Borneo, Malaysia?
Maps of Kinabatangan River can be found online through Google Maps or travel websites focused on Sabah and Borneo.
What is the cost of a Kinabatangan River cruise?
The cost varies depending on the tour duration and inclusions. For up-to-date pricing, check with tour operators or travel agencies.
What’s included in the 2D1N and 3D2N Kinabatangan River cruise packages?
These packages generally include river cruises, jungle walks, meals, and accommodation. The 3D2N package provides more time for exploration.
Can I go fishing in Kinabatangan River?, Borneo, Malaysia
Fishing isn’t typically included in the river cruise, but some tours may offer special fishing experiences.
Is Kinabatangan River safe?
Kinabatangan River is generally safe to visit. Just follow your guide’s instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Is Kinabatangan River worth visiting?
Absolutely! Kinabatangan River, Borneo offers incredible wildlife encounters and stunning rainforest scenery, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.