Kinabatangan River 

Flowing through the heart of Sabah’s lush lowland rainforest, the Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia and one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Southeast Asia. Stretching over 560 kilometers, it winds through a rich mosaic of habitats including mangroves, freshwater swamps, and oxbow lakes.

The Kinabatangan is famed for its incredible wildlife, offering a rare opportunity to spot Borneo’s Big Five: the endangered orangutan, Bornean pygmy elephant, proboscis monkey, crocodiles, and hornbills — all from the comfort of a river cruise. It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 200 species of birds recorded.

Sustainable lodges along the riverbanks, such as in Sukau and Bilit, offer immersive experiences including sunrise and sunset boat safaris, night walks, and visits to local villages, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists.