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Imagine Asia  >  Destinations  >  Borneo  >  Kinabatangan River
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Kinabatangan River

Measuring a staggering 560 kilometres, the Kinabatangan is Malaysia’s second longest river. Known for a high frequency of exotic wildlife sightings, the river’s oxbow lakes and mangrove swamps provide the perfect sanctuary for saltwater crocodiles, while the lush jungle and leafy riverbanks offer prime viewing opportunities for the indigenous proboscis monkeys, orangutans and pygmy elephants.

When to go

J F M A M J J A S O N D

The river begins its journey in the immense mountains of southwest Sabah, winding its way around the glorious Borneo landscape before finally merging with the glimmering Sulu Sea. Boat rides up and down the river allow visitors to admire at leisure some of the intriguing wildlife on view, including saltwater crocodiles, Asian pygmy elephants, ten species of primate (including Borneo’s indigenous proboscis monkey and orangutan), and a fantastic array of over 250 species of birds.

Large parts of the land surrounding the upper river has unfortunately suffered deforestation, but Lower Kinabatangan still remains one of the best places in Sabah – if not in the whole of Southeast Asia – to catch a glimpse of one of these magnificent animals. As well as the fascinating wildlife, the Kinabatangan area boasts beautiful limestone caves at Gomantong Hill, captivating mangrove swamps, stunning oxbow lakes and miles and miles of virtually untouched riverine and dry land forests.

With a range of simple yet comfortable lodges dotted along the riverbank, a few days spent on the Kinabatangan River in the company of an expert naturalist will reward you with some of the most captivating wildlife encounters in Asia.

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Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Superbly located at the heart of a river delta in Sabah, Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge is a secluded eco-lodge of simple charm that gives you unrivalled access on foot and by water to one of Asia’s most spectacular wildlife concentrations.

Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Accessible only by boat, Abai Jungle Lodge is a rustic stilted lodge on the banks of the Kinabatangan River. Although simple, it offers a fantastic location from which to spot an abundance of wildlife coupled with a wonderfully tranquil setting.

Abai Jungle Lodge

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Designated as one of the world's most unique lodges by National Geographic, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is an award winning eco-lodge offering rustic accommodation on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in the heart of Sabah's tropical rainforest.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge

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Kuching, Mulu National Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kinabatangan River, Danum Valley, Kota Kinabalu

A great introduction to Malaysian Borneo for all the family, this two-week itinerary offers the perfect combination of culture, wildlife and beaches to the keep even the youngest jungle adventurer entertained.

10 nights from $5843 per person Family, Wildlife, Beach

Borneo Family Adventure

Sandakan, Kinabatangan River, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Gaya Island

From orangutans and wildlife-rich rainforests to vivid coral reefs and white-sand beaches, this itinerary offers a varied introduction to the highlights of Borneo, a great option for those short on time.

10 nights from $4686 per person Culture & history, Wildlife, Beach

Simply Borneo

Kuching, Mulu National Park, Kota Kinabalu, Kinabatangan River, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Danum Valley, Kinabalu Park, Gaya Island

Taking in indigenous cultures, wildlife-filled jungles and the wild landscapes of Borneo's Sabah and Sarawak states, this three week itinerary is great for adventure-seekers looking for an in depth experience of Malaysian Borneo.

19 nights from $6919 per person Culture & history, Spectacular scenery, Wildlife

Borneo In Depth

Kuching, Batang Ai, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kinabatangan River, Danum Valley, Gaya Island

Discover the highlights of Malaysian Borneo on this 13-night itinerary, taking in indigenous villages and orangutans in Sarawak, wildlife-rich jungles in Sabah and the tropical beaches of Gaya Island.

12 nights from $5258 per person Family, Highlights, Wildlife

Classic Borneo

Sandakan, Kinabatangan River, Danum Valley, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Tioman Island

From the wildlife-filled jungles of Malaysian Borneo to the historic cities and culinary capital of Penang, this two-week itinerary offers a varied introduction to the highlights of Malaysia.

12 nights from $6038 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Wildlife

Classic Malaysia and Borneo

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Sandakan, Borneo

Enjoy a morning excursion to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn all about these wonderful animals.

Sepilok Nursery & Sun Bear Discovery

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Inspiration

Birder’s Guide to Borneo

Borneo's Big Five

The life-cycle of a sea turtle

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