[2025 Kinabatangan Attraction] Travel Guide for Kinabatangan River (Updated May)

Sabah's Kinabatangan Sanctuary is a vital location for the conservation of orangutans. Joining guided tours allows visitors to observe the lifestyle and habits of these endangered species up close. The sanctuary boasts a pristine natural environment and is home to other rare animals such as proboscis monkeys. During the visit, you can learn about local ecological conservation efforts and enhance your environmental awareness. This is an eco-tourism destination that combines educational value with sightseeing appeal.

#kotakinabalutrip The Moment I Knew This Was Magic The air smelled like damp earth and adventure as our boat sliced through the misty river at sunrise. Suddenly, our guide *whispered*—*"Orangutan, 2 o'clock!"*—and there it was: a fluffy orange giant lounging in a tree, staring at us like *we* were the weirdos. 😂 **Unexpected MVP of the Trip** A sneaky proboscis monkey photobombed my epic jungle selfie. His nose was so big, I swear it had its own zip code. 📸🐒 **Hidden Gem Alert!** Skip the crowded spots and ask your guide for **"Menanggul River"**—a quieter tributary where we saw *pygmy elephants* splashing at dusk! (Cue *everyone* ugly-crying from joy.) **Foodie Must-Try** Breakfast on the boat = **"Sabah kaya toast"** (coconut jam + butter on warm bread) + *stupidly* strong local coffee. Pro tip: Hold your cup tight—monkeys *will* try to steal it. ☕🍌 **Quick Itinerary Snapshot** ⏰ **5:30 AM:** Sunrise cruise (prime wildlife hours!). ⏰ **10 AM:** Jungle trek (wear leech socks—trust me). ⏰ **4 PM:** Village visit (bought handmade bead bracelets!). ⏰ **7 PM:** Night cruise with spotlight croc-hunting! 🐊 **Final Thoughts** If you love wildlife, chaos, and the kind of humidity that melts your makeup off in seconds—*this is your place.* Just pack bug spray, a sense of humor, and *zero* expectations of staying clean. **Rating:** 10/10, would get stared down by orangutans again. 🙌 --- **TL;DR:** Kinabatangan = Jungle Disneyland. Go. Now. #MonkeysForDays

#malaysiatrip Sandakan, located on the northeastern coast of Sabah, Malaysia, is a vibrant city rich in history and surrounded by some of the most incredible natural attractions in Southeast Asia. Once an important trading hub, Sandakan is now recognized as the gateway to Borneo's diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, and breathtaking landscapes. 1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: One of the main attractions, this center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of orphaned or injured orangutans. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 2. Kinabatangan River: The Kinabatangan River is home to a wealth of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and various bird species. River cruises offer a chance to explore the region's rich biodiversity. 3. Turtle Islands Park: A short boat ride from Sandakan, this park is a sanctuary for sea turtles. Visitors can watch turtles nesting on the beach and see hatchlings released into the sea. 4. Gomantong Caves: Known for their impressive limestone formations and the edible bird nests that are harvested for the traditional delicacy of bird’s nest soup, these caves are an exciting and unique experience. 5. Sandakan Memorial Park: This park is dedicated to the memory of the Australian and British prisoners of war who suffered and died during World War II on the infamous Sandakan Death March. It’s an important historical site that offers insight into the region’s wartime history. Sandakan’s blend of rich cultural history and unparalleled natural beauty makes it a fascinating destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking an adventure off the beaten path.

Sandakan, Malaysia, is a tourist destination brimming with historical charm and natural beauty. Once known as "Little Hong Kong," Sandakan boasts a rich cultural heritage. Its old port area, with colonial-era shophouses, offers a glimpse into the 1960s and 70s, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of Lingnan Chinese culture. Sandakan's history dates back to the 19th century when it flourished due to its abundant forest and marine resources. Below is a detailed guide I've compiled. If you find it helpful, don't forget to follow me! - Attractions - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: The world's first rehabilitation center dedicated to orphaned orangutans. Approximately 80 rescued orangutans live freely in this forest sanctuary. - Kinabatangan River: The longest river in Sabah. The lower basin is Malaysia's largest wetland and one of Southeast Asia's largest wildlife habitats. Take a river cruise to observe diverse wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and hornbills. - Sandakan Memorial Park: Built on the site of a former WWII prisoner-of-war camp, this park commemorates those who perished in the Pacific War. It features several small museums exhibiting historical artifacts and information. Free admission. - St. Michael's and All Angels Church: A granite church with stunning stained-glass windows. Free admission. - Food Recommendations - Seafood: As a port city, Sandakan offers abundant seafood. Visit the local seafood market or restaurants to savor fresh catches like crabs, prawns, fish, and shellfish. Prices vary depending on the type and season. - Laksa: A traditional Malaysian dish featuring noodles, prawns, fishcakes, bean sprouts, and a rich curry broth. - Nasi Lemak: Malaysia's national dish, consisting of rice cooked in coconut milk, served with chicken, peanuts, cucumber, and often wrapped in a banana leaf. - Three Layer Tea: A unique beverage blending black tea, milk, and sugar for a rich, sweet flavor. - Important Notes - Safety: Sandakan is generally safe, but exercise caution in secluded areas or at night. Avoid carrying excessive cash or valuables. - Religion: Malaysia is predominantly Muslim. Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs. - Climate: Sandakan experiences a hot and humid climate year-round. Take precautions against sun and rain to avoid heatstroke and getting drenched. - Environmental Protection: When visiting natural attractions, respect the environment. Refrain from damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife habitats.

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

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.

#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