Hotels near Kinabatangan River

Kinabatangan River is the second longest river with a length of 560 kilometres. It is situated across the state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. Kinabatangan River is one of the most famous attractions mainly due to flora and fauna can be found here. There are many animals such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, elephants, snakes and insects as well as many bird species like king fisher and the hornbill.

Besides that, this river also acts as Sukau-Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary to nurture and provide a habitat for nearly extinct species. . From April to October, visitors can watch many types of bird to the river as this is during flowering and fruiting season. Small villages around this river such as Bilit forms a starting point for tourists to reach small town of Sukau. The Kinabatangan River can be visited all year round.

However, visiting during rainy season (between November to March) is a challenge and adventure at the same time. During rainy season, visitors can venture go into the river channels where you can see many rare wildlife. The river area especially during the peak of the monsoon season during December and January are often flooded and cannot be access.

How to Get There

By Plane

One can fly from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan on Malaysia Airlines, whilst those from Kuala Lumpur can take direct daily flights to Sandakan on AirAsia. From the airport, you can rent a car via travel agency to Kinabatangan River by using Ranau-Sandakan road.

Tourist Attractions

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is situated at Sabah specifically at south of the lower reaches of the Segama River and north of the Silabukan Protection Forest Reserve. It can be reached via sealed and gravel roads from Lahad Datu in about 40 minutes. This reserve is mainly popular among birdwatching enthusiasts and wildlife photographer. It acts as a sanctuary for wildlife such as the Borneo Pygmy elephants, Tembadau and exotic birdlife. This reserve is a eury species lowland rainforest and many medicinal and therapeutic plants can be found here. The highly endangered animals which are three largest mammals of Sabah; the Borneo elephant, Bornean rhinoceros and tembadau are all found within the reserve. Besides that, there are also other wildlife species include sambar deer and mouse deer, orangutan and proboscis monkey. The biggest predator in the reserve is the Sunda clouded leopard.

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Another human conservation area can be visited at Sabah is Danum Valley Conservation Area. It is one of the world’s most complex ecosystem and consists of many animals and plants. This area is managed by Yayasan Sabah for conservation, research, education, and habitat restoration training purposes. This forest is a home for endangered wildlife species such as banteng, Asian elephant, clouded leopard and orang utan. There are also various mammals and birds living at the lowland tropical rainforest. Other notable species that inhabit the area are the sun bear and Bornean rhinoceros. In addition, many types of insects and the land snail fauna can be found here. Besides that, this conservation area is also rich with flora. The valley is home to over 15,000 plant species, and 94% of the plants belong to the dipterocarp genus as well as pitcher plants. Other than that, visitors also can visit an ancient Kadazan Dusun burial site decorated with belian coffins and ceramic spirit jars.

Hotels

Kinabatangan Sunshine Lodge

Kinabatangan Sunshine Lodge offers accommodation in Kota Kinabatangan. The lodge has 6 rooms and all are equipped with basic amenities including ceiling fan and beautiful scenery. There are also facilities such as laundry service, laundry facilities and a tour desk. Guests can also dine at the restaurant on site and rest overlooking the green view surrounding the lodge.

Myne Resort

Myne Resort provides 22 beautifully appointed guest rooms and facilities and services for comfort and convenience of guests. The guest rooms are furnished with standard features such as television, desk and complimentary toiletries. There are variety of impeccable facilities such as Wi-Fi in public areas, car park, airport transfer, babysitting, restaurant and free parking. As for recreational facilities, the hotel offers fishing, table tennis, garden, water sports (motorized), water sports (non-motorized) activities for guests to fill up their leisure time.