Kinabatangan River Tour - Wildlife Cruise in Sabah Borneo

Embark on an unforgettable Kinabatangan River tour and discover the incredible wildlife of Sabah’s rainforest. Located in the heart of Borneo, the Kinabatangan River is one of the best places in Malaysia to spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, orangutans, hornbills, crocodiles, and more—in their natural habitat.

Our guided river cruises offer a front-row seat to Borneo’s thriving ecosystem. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventure seeker, the Kinabatangan River promises a truly immersive experience.

Why Choose Our Kinabatangan River Tour?

• Professional local guides with expert wildlife knowledge

• Comfortable riverboats for sunrise and sunset cruises

• High chances of spotting rare and iconic Borneo species

• Optional jungle walks  & village experiences

• Suitable for couples, families & solo travellers

What You’ll Experience?

Enjoy peaceful boat rides along the river as you explore mangrove forests, oxbow lakes, and rainforest corridors. Watch wildlife at dawn and dusk—prime moments for animal activity—and capture the natural beauty of Sabah like never before.

What type of wildlife can you see in the Kinabatangan River?

The Kinabatangan River is one of the richest wildlife areas in Borneo. Visitors commonly see:

Primates

Proboscis monkeys

Orangutans (wild sightings possible)

Long-tailed macaques

Silvered langurs

Big Mammals

Borneo pygmy elephants

Sambar deer

Wild boar

Reptiles

Estuarine crocodiles

Monitor lizards

Snakes (rarely seen)

Birds

Hornbills (all 8 species possible)

Kingfishers

Eagles & kites

Oriental darters

Various rainforest birds

Others

Fireflies (in certain spots)

Small mammals like civets or otters (occasional)

The Kinabatangan River is one of the few places in the world where you can see 10 primate species, including the Big Five of Borneo: Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, Pygmy Elephant, Crocodile, and Hornbill.

1. What is the Kinabatangan River famous for?

The Kinabatangan River is famous for its incredible wildlife. It is one of the best places in Borneo to see proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, orangutans, hornbills, crocodiles, and many other rainforest species living freely in their natural habitat.

2. When is the best time to visit the Kinabatangan River?

The Kinabatangan River can be visited all year round. The dry season (April–October) offers the best wildlife sightings, while the wet season (November–March) brings lush scenery and slightly fewer tourists. Wildlife can be seen in any season.

3. How long should I stay at the Kinabatangan River?

Most visitors choose a 2D1N or 3D2N package because it includes multiple river cruises for better wildlife viewing. A day trip is possible, but overnight stays offer a higher chance of spotting rare animals.

4. What animals can I see during the river cruise?

You may see proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, orangutans, pygmy elephants, hornbills, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and a variety of exotic birds. Wildlife sightings depend on weather and natural conditions.

5. Is the Kinabatangan River tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes. The river cruises are calm and safe, making them suitable for children, seniors, and families. The boats move slowly and guides ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.

6. What should I bring on the Kinabatangan River tour?

We recommend bringing light clothing, insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a waterproof bag, and a camera or phone for wildlife photography.

7. Do I need a guide for the Kinabatangan River?

Yes. Experienced guides know the river, wildlife behavior, and safety procedures. They greatly increase your chance of spotting rare animals and provide educational explanations throughout the cruise.

8. How do I book a Kinabatangan River tour?

You can book directly through our website or contact us via WhatsApp for real-time availability. Early booking is recommended, especially during school holidays.

Note: If you are travelling from Sandakan Town the pick up from the hotel lobby is at 1200 hrs. Pick up from Sandakan Airport is at 1230 hrs. Pick up from Sepilok is at 1300 hrs

If you are travelling from Kota Kinabalu or Kinabalu Park take either to Lahad Datu, Semporna, Kunak or Tawau bus and get off at Kota Kinabatangan town to meet our representative at Medan Selera restaurant at 1400 hrs.

Day 01/01 Sandakan Airport – Kinabatangan River

12.30 hrs  Pick up from Sandakan airport and transfer 2 hours 30 minutes to Kinabatangan river. Upon arrival, check in to the lodge (twin or double room) with attached bathroom and hot shower.

1600 hrs  Start the afternoon cruise in search for the wildlife for 2 hours. Dinner. Target species: Orangutans, Proboscis Monkey, Langurs, Pygmy Elephants, Hornbills, and more.

2000 hrs  Night cruise for 1 hour and Back to the lodge and rest/free at leisure. Search for nocturnal animals such as Civets, Owls, Crocodile and more.

Day 02 – Kinabatangan River 

0600 hrs   Set off on a two-hour morning river cruise. Watch the mist lift off the water as the forest awakens with the calls of hornbills, gibbons, and the possibility of spotting proboscis monkeys or even wild orangutans along the riverbanks.

0800 hrs  Return for breakfast at the lodge, followed by free time at leisure—relax, enjoy the jungle surroundings, or simply unwind by the riverside. 

1200 hrs  Lunch at the lodge. 

1600 hrs  Depart on a two-hour afternoon cruise. This is the best time to see herds of pygmy elephants, crocodiles basking on the banks, and primates gathering by the river to settle for the night. 

1830 hrs  Dinner at the lodge. 

1930 hrs  Head out for a one-hour night cruise. Experience the magic of the river after dark as your guide uses spotlights to search for nocturnal creatures such as Civets, Owls, Snakes, and possibly even a Fishing cat or Leopard cat. 

2030 hrs  Return to your accommodation. The rest of the night is free at leisure.

Day 02/03 Kinabatangan River – Sandakan Airport/Town/Sepilok

0600 hrs  Morning Cruise 2 hours in search of more wildlife. Breakfast.

0830 hrs  After breakfast, check out and depart back to either Kota Kinabatangan, Sepilok or Sandakan airport for the drop off (recommended 1400 hrs flight)