Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Organizing a river safari requires timing your transfers from Sandakan and preparing for the jungle climate.
Getting there
Getting to the river lodges.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Pre-arranged minivan transfers included in lodge packages, picking up from Sandakan airport, hotels, or Sepilok. | 2 - 2.5 hours | Included in package | The most common and hassle-free way to reach the river lodges in Sukau or Bilit. |
| Car: Self-drive or Grab taxi from Sandakan to the villages of Sukau or Bilit. | 2 hours | ~270 MYR for Grab | Independent travel is possible but logistics can be complicated as lodges cater mainly to package tourists. |
| Bus: Public bus from Sandakan toward Lahad Datu, alighting at Sukau Junction, followed by a pre-arranged pickup. | 2.5 hours | 20-30 MYR for bus, plus local transfer fee | A budget option, but requires strict coordination with your homestay for the 42 km ride from the highway junction to Sukau. |
| Boat: Speedboat transfer from Sandakan Yacht Club directly to select luxury lodges (e.g., Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Abai). | 2.5 hours | Included in premium packages | A scenic route across the Sulu Sea and up the river, bypassing the road journey entirely. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The river is open year-round. The dry season runs from March to October. This is the best time for wildlife viewing and photography. The monsoon season lasts from November to February. Higher water levels during the monsoon allow boats to access deeper flooded channels.
What to bring
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Bring a dry bag for electronics.
Sudden downpours happen year-round in the rainforest.
How the day runs
Typical river safari schedule.
The typical flow for an overnight lodge package starting from Sandakan.
- Transfer from Sandakan
Minivans pick up guests from Sandakan or Sepilok for the 2-hour drive.
- Lodge Check-in
Arrive at your lodge in Sukau or Bilit. Settle in and have afternoon tea.
- Afternoon Cruise
Take your first 2-hour boat safari to spot proboscis monkeys and macaques.
- Dinner & Night Walk
Eat dinner at the lodge. Join an optional night walk to spot sleeping birds and civets.
- Morning Cruise
Wake up early for a dawn boat cruise to oxbow lakes for bird watching.
- Breakfast & Departure
Return for breakfast before the minivan transfers you back to Sandakan.
Packing for the Jungle
Preparation is key for comfort. Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing. Long sleeves and pants are essential for mosquito protection. Bring strong insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin to ward off sandflies.
You will need a rain poncho or a lightweight waterproof jacket, as downpours are common. Sturdy walking shoes or rubber boots are necessary for muddy trails. If you do jungle walks, you may need leech socks. These are often available to rent at the lodges.
Easiest way to do it
Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan
72 h 4.7 (105)
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Breakfast
From$270per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long is the drive from Sandakan?
It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to drive from Sandakan to the main river villages of Sukau and Bilit.
Is there malaria at the river?
Consult a travel doctor before your trip. You must wear strong repellent (DEET or Picaridin) and long sleeves to protect against mosquitoes.
Can I self-drive to the river?
Yes. You can rent a car or take a Grab taxi from Sandakan for about 270 MYR. However, independent travel is complicated since lodges cater mostly to package tourists.