8D7N Borneo Eco-Adventure: Sepilok Orangutan, Kinabatangan River, Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley, and Gaya Island Resort


TOUR INFORMATION

TOUR CODE: ABK-DS34
DESCRIPTION: 8D7N BORNEO ECO-ADVENTURE: SEPILOK ORANGUTAN, KINABATANGAN RIVER, SUKAU RAINFOREST LODGE, DANUM VALLEY, AND GAYA ISLAND RESORT
REGION: Sabah
DURATION: 8 Days 7 Nights
MINIMUM: 2 Pax
AVAILABILITY: Everyday
PICK UP POINT: Sandakan Airport/Sandakan City Hotel
PICK UP TIME: Depends on Your Flight Arrival Time
DROP OFF POINT: Kota Kinabalu Airport / Kota Kinabalu City Hotel
DROP OFF TIME: Depends on Your Flight Departure Time
* All timings are estimated and for reference purposes only. Actual timing will be provided prior to your departure.

Tour highlights

  • Sukau Rainforest Lodge: Stay at an award-winning lodge and enjoy Kinabatangan River cruises to spot diverse wildlife and birds
  • Danum Valley Field Centre: Explore ancient rainforest trails with expert nature guides, spotting resident orangutans, red leaf monkeys, and hornbills
  • Gaya Island Resort: End your tour in comfort and luxury with activities like guided snorkelling, nature trail exploration, and Spa Village relaxation
  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Observe orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about their rehabilitation
  • Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Discover the world’s smallest bear and the efforts being made to conserve this species
  • Night Safaris and Jungle Walks: Experience thrilling night safaris and guided jungle walks to observe nocturnal wildlife

OVERVIEW OF TOUR

Experience the ultimate Borneo wildlife and nature adventure with our 8-day Borneo Eco-Adventure through the diverse landscapes of Sabah. Begin your journey in Sandakan, visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to observe orangutans in their natural habitat and the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about the world's smallest bear. Continue to the award-winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge for exciting Kinabatangan River cruises, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and birds. 

Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Danum Valley Conservation Area, exploring ancient rainforest trails with expert nature guides. Spot resident orangutans, red leaf monkeys, and hornbills, and enjoy thrilling night safaris to observe nocturnal wildlife. The adventure culminates in luxurious relaxation at Gaya Island Resort, where you can indulge in recreational activities such as guided snorkelling, exploring nature trails, and unwinding at the Spa Village. This tour combines thrilling wildlife encounters, stunning natural landscapes, and luxurious amenities, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. 

Book now to discover the best of Borneo’s wildlife, rainforests, and tropical paradise! 

Sample itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Sandakan

Upon arriving at Sandakan Airport, you will be picked up and taken to your accommodation in Sandakan for check-in. 

The remainder of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, in preparation of the coming week’s eco-adventures. 

Meals : Dinner Accommodation : Sepilok Nature Lodge, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, Sabah Hotel Or Similar

Day 2 - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre / Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre / Sukau Rainforest Lodge

After breakfast, check out and proceed to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Watch a video on orangutan rehabilitation, followed by a walk through the rainforest to observe the orangutan feeding and the enclosed nursery for young orangutan. 

Visit the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about the conservation of the world's smallest – and most adorable – bear. 

Travel overland for about 2 hours to the award-winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge, perched along the banks of the majestic Kinabatangan River, the second longest river in Malaysia and a hotspot for incredible wildlife encounters. 

Enjoy an afternoon river cruise to spot wildlife and birds, your introduction to the diverse ecosystem of Kinabatangan River. 

After a candlelight dinner by the river, enjoy a slide presentation by a naturalist guide before retreating to your lodge for the night. 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Accommodation : Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Day 3 - Kinabatangan River / Hornbill Boardwalk / Orang Utan Talk / River Cruise

Start the day with a morning river cruise on the Kinabatangan River to Kelenanap Oxbow Lake to view birds and wildlife. 

After breakfast, take an educational tour along the lodge's Hornbill Boardwalk with a naturalist to learn more about the living landscapes of the region. 

After lunch, join the Orangutan Talk activity to learn about one of Borneo’s most iconic wild species. 

Venture out on another river excursion in the afternoon for opportunities to spot more wildlife including pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and more. 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Accommodation : Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Day 4 - Danum Valley Field Centre / Night Safari Drive

After breakfast, check out and transfer 2 hours overland to Lahad Datu, then another 2 hours to Danum Valley Conservation Area (4 hours total journey). This conservation area is home to a 130-million-year-old primary rainforest, with over 500 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians co-existing in this pristine tropical ecosystem. 

Check-in at Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) and have lunch. 

At the same time, you may wish to consult with your guide on your activities while at Danum Valley. Your itinerary at DVFC is customisable and can be tailored according to your interests. 

Enjoy an introductory walk around the centre, spotting wildlife such as resident orangutan, red leaf monkeys, and hornbills. 

After dinner, embark on a 4x4 night safari drive to observe nocturnal wildlife (weather permitting). 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Accommodation : Danum Valley Field Center (DVFC)

Day 5 - Nature & Wildlife Observation / Night Jungle Walk

Begin the day with early morning nature and wildlife observation with your guide. Keep your ears open for the songs of gibbons coming and going as they swing through trees above you. 

After breakfast, you are free to rest or explore the trails around the centre. The nearby canopy bridge is a great spot for taking photos and observing wildlife along the riverbanks. 

After lunch, go on another trek to discover more of the rainforest's flora and fauna. The field centre has several trails that surround it. Rely on your guide to recommend the trails that are most suited to your fitness levels. 

After dinner, join a night walk with your guide to spot nocturnal creatures (weather permitting). Some wildlife you may have the chance to see after dark include slow lorises, tarsiers, clouded leopards, and more. 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Accommodation : Danum Valley Field Center (DVFC)

Day 6 - Hike to Bukit Atur / Danum Valley / Lahad Datu Airport / Kota Kinabalu / Gaya Island Resort

Rise as early as 0430hrs for an early morning 4x4 drive to Bukit Atur – to watch the sun rise over the forest canopy – or a morning walk with your guide. 

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Lahad Datu Airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. 

From Kota Kinabalu, take a boat transfer to Gaya Island Resort. 

Check-in and enjoy the resort amenities and dinner at one of the resort's restaurants. 

Meals : Breakfast / Dinner Accommodation : Gaya Island Resort

Day 7 - Gaya Island Resort / Free & Easy

Enjoy a luxurious breakfast and the rest of your day at your leisure. 

Choose from a range of recreational activities, including visiting the Marine Centre, guided snorkelling, and exploring nature trails (at additional cost). 

Relax at Spa Village (at additional cost) and dine at the resort. 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Accommodation : Gaya Island Resort

Day 8 - Departure

After lunch, check out and return to the mainland. 

Transfer to Kota Kinabalu International Airport for your flight – your tour ends here. 

Meals : Breakfast / Lunch

Meals 07 Breakfasts, 06 Lunches & 07 Dinners
Accommodation
  • 1-Night Stay at Sepilok Nature Lodge, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, Sabah Hotel, or similar 
  • 2-Night Stay at Sukau Rainforest Lodge (Deluxe Room / Borneo Villa) 
  • 2-Night Stay at Danum Valley Field Centre (Standard / Deluxe / Superior) 
  • 2-Night Stay at Gaya Island Resort (Bayu / Canopy Villa) 
Include 07 Nights Accommodation, Meals As Stated, Entrances Fees As Per Itinerary, Airport/Tour Return Transfers (Seat-In Basis), Hotel Return Transfers (Seat-In Basis), Scheduled Boat Transfers (Seat-In Basis), Overland Transfers, Conservation & Permit Fees, Kinabatangan River Cruises, Guided Jungle Treks, 1-Way Economy Seat Flight Ticket with 20KG Luggage Allowance (LDU > BKI), English-Speaking Guide and Support Team 
Exclude Airfares Not Mentioned, Camera and Video Fees, Personal Expenses, Alcoholic Drinks, Juices, Personal Travel Insurance, Peak Season Surcharge (If Any), Tourism Tax (TTx), 8% SST (If Applicable), Guide Tips (Optional), Any Items/Activities Not Mentioned 
  • Outdoor Attire (breathable, quick-dry material in earthy tones) 
  • Comfortable Attire (enough for 8 days) 
  • Raincoat 
  • Cap/Hat 
  • Insect Repellent  
  • Good Trekking Shoes 
  • Sneakers / Slippers / Sandals 
  • Leech Socks  
  • Head Lamp / FlashlightSelection of Dry Bags (to keep trek bag content dry) 
  • Swimwear 
  • Binoculars 
  • Personal First Aid Kit, Toiletries, and Medications 
  • Scheduled overland transfer from Sandakan to Sukau departs at 1330hrs. Additional surcharge applies for unscheduled transfers. 
  • Notes on Camera Use at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: 
    • Cameras with zoom lenses from 100 to 400mm, video cameras, or other video recording equipment for personal use are subject to a fee of RM10/unit. 
    • Cameras with fixed lenses 400mm and above or any filmmaking equipment incur a charge of RM1,000/unit. 
    • Payment in cash only. 
  • Notes on Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC): 
    • Please note that the itinerary provided in the DVFC packages serves as a sample, and you are encouraged to customise the activities after consulting with your nature guide upon arrival.  
    • Cell phone coverage is available but limited depending on weather conditions and satellite function. Be prepared to have no coverage for some of your stay. 
    • DVFC electricity is powered by generators. The generators will shut down from 23:00 - 07:00 hrs. Battery-powered lamps are provided in each room but you may wish to bring your own torchlight. 
    • A permit is required for any photos and videos taken for commercial use. This must be arranged prior to your trip. 
    • Danum Valley Field Centre is a no-fly zone.  If you wish to fly a drone, you must apply for a permit at least 2 months prior to your trip. 
    • The power outlets at the centre are all UK 3-pin sockets. For electronics and appliances that do not have UK 3-pin plugs, you may wish to bring your own power adapters. 
  • Please ensure you are holding air ticket to Sandakan. 
  • Standard check-in and check-out times for most hotels & resorts are 1400 hrs & 1200 hrs. However, check-in & check-out times may vary depending on each accommodation. So kindly check with us to get accurate check-in & check-out times of your accommodation.  
  • Effective as of 1st September 2017, the Tourism and Culture Ministry of Malaysia implemented a Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTx). Foreign tourists will be required to pay a flat rate of MYR 10 per room per night regardless of accommodation star level. The TTx is to be paid upon check-in. Malaysians or permanent residents residing in Malaysia are exempted from TTx and is required to present a valid identification upon check-in for the exemption. 
  • Some parts of your tour may involve moderate physical activity. Comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. 
  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife. Avoid littering and follow the “leave no trace” principle by not disturbing the surrounding flora and fauna. 
  • If you have specific dietary requirements or allergies, kindly inform the tour operator in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. 
  • This package is based on join-in basis of shared guide and transport vehicle. Private Guide or Tour is available upon request at a reasonable fee.  Please inform us when making the bookings.  
  • Tipping is like giving a hug. Although it’s never expected, it’s always very much appreciated. 
  • Amazing Borneo Tours reserves the right to alter routes, timetables, itineraries and accommodation reserved should conditions beyond our control render it necessary. 
  • Departure time is approximate and varies from different hotels due to traffic conditions, please reconfirm with our staffs. Should the transport be delayed, please call the relevant telephone number as stated on the voucher before making alternative arrangements. 
  • Amazing Borneo Tours does not guarantee wildlife sightings. 
  • Activities are subject to weather conditions and may be re-organised to best meet operational situations.