The Kinabatangan River in Sabah is Borneo's prime destination to spot wildlife, offering a big chance to see the famous Borneo Big 5:
🦧 Orangutan
🐘 Pygmee elephant
🐊 Estuarine crocodile
🐒 Proboscis monkey
🪶 Rhinoceros hornbill
Sadly, much of this incredible wildlife is now concentrated along the riverbanks due to deforestation for palm oil plantations, turning these stretches into critical refuges for many animals.
The trip with River Junkie begins at the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where orphaned animals are cared for and prepared for an independent life in the wild. The nursery is filled with young, playful orangutans and the 10 AM feeding gives an unforgettable close-up experience. Just across the street is the Sun Bear Sanctuary allowing you to watch the world’s smallest bears from raised walkways.
After a 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Hornbill Lodge, perfectly nestled along the river with an amazing view. The chalets with river-facing balconies are the ideal setting for 3 days in Kinabatangan. After settling in and enjoying a riverside lunch, it's time for the first river cruise! With your guide’s sharp eye, you’ll be scanning the riverbanks for the Borneo Big 5 and countless other tropical birds and primates. After dinner, join the guide on a night walk along the lodge’s trails to spot nocturnal animals.
The following days are all about immersing yourself in the wild. Sunrise and afternoon river cruises bring opportunities to see more of the area’s unique wildlife, while jungle walks reveal signs of elephants hidden in the dense forest. Evening activities continue with night walks or optional night cruises along the riverbanks, letting you experience the jungle from a whole new perspective.