Sandakan’s standout wildlife tour delivers a concentrated dose of Borneo’s natural wonders in just two days. The highlight: three river safaris along the Kinabatangan River, where you’ll spot orangutans swinging through the canopy and peculiar proboscis monkeys lounging in riverside trees. I love how this tour cuts through the tourist noise and gets you straight to authentic wildlife encounters.
The remote Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp serves as your base – it’s basic but perfectly positioned for wildlife watching. At $290 per person, you’re paying for location and experience, not luxury. This tour consistently ranks highly (4.3 stars) for good reason: it delivers what nature enthusiasts come to Borneo for.
Back-to-basics accommodations and some hiking required – but that’s exactly what makes this experience genuine. Pack light, bring good walking shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with Borneo’s wildlife.
Let’s look at the best Sandakan tours worth booking:
Key Points
- The Borneo Wildlife Tour in Sandakan offers a 2-day itinerary focused on Kinabatangan River cruises and wildlife spotting, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles.
- The tour includes personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, three wildlife-spotting cruises, and a stay at the basic but immersive Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp.
- With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a more intimate experience and promotes cultural interaction with the local jungle-dwelling people.
- While the tour requires a moderate fitness level, it is highly recommended by previous travelers, with a 95% recommendation rate.
- The tour includes meals designed to enhance the overall experience, with pickups available from hotels in Sandakan and Sepilok.
2D1N Sandakan Private Tour With Kinabatangan River Cruise
This private tour provides a comprehensive one-day experience in Sandakan, including a cruise along the famous Kinabatangan River.
With a 4.3 overall rating from 22 reviews and a Badge of Excellence in Sandakan, this private tour is a great option. Priced from $290 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, a boat ride, and meals such as a 2-course lunch, 1-course dinner, and 1-course breakfast.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a strong physical fitness level. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and specific dietary requirements can be noted during booking.
Traveler feedback highlights positive experiences with wildlife sightings, attentive drivers, and well-planned itineraries, though some issues with accommodation and missed stops have been reported.
Read our full review: 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour With Kinabatangan River Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan
A captivating Borneo Wildlife Tour offers travelers a two-day, one-night immersive experience at the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp in the Kinabatangan region. Rated 4.8 out of 20 reviews, this tour is recommended by 95% of travelers and is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an intimate encounter.
The tour includes three wildlife-spotting cruises, offering the best chances of seeing orangutans, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Accessible only by boat and jungle trek, the camp is run by local jungle-dwelling people and features basic facilities with limited electricity and no internet.
Guides provide personalized attention and share their extensive knowledge of the local wildlife. The tour includes breakfast, dinner, and river cruises, with pickups from hotels in Sandakan and Sepilok.
Travelers should expect a moderate level of physical fitness, as the maximum group size is 10. While the lack of amenities may be a consideration, the overall experience is highly recommended for its unique and immersive nature.
Read our full review: Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Travel to Sandakan?
Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to Sandakan. The city is a popular tourist destination in Malaysian Borneo, with well-developed tourism infrastructure and minimal safety concerns for most visitors. However, as with any travel, it’s always wise to exercise caution and stay informed of local conditions.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?
The minimum age requirement for tours in Sandakan varies, but most operators welcome children of all ages, though some may have restrictions for certain activities. It’s best to check with each tour provider for their specific policies.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or provide meals as part of the package.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tours are generally accessible for people with disabilities. Most operators offer accommodations and assistance, though it’s best to discuss specific needs when booking. It’s important to note that accessibility may vary across different tour activities and locations.
Can I Book the Tours in Advance Online?
Yes, it’s possible to book the tours in advance online. Many tour operators offer online booking platforms that allow travelers to reserve their spots before their trip. This can help ensure availability and a smoother planning process.
Recap
Sandakan offers a range of 2-day tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural wonders. From cruising along the Kinabatangan River to staying at a jungle camp, these tours provide an immersive experience in Borneo’s diverse wildlife and habitats. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure, Sandakan’s 2-day tour options cater to various interests and preferences.