Our 3D2N tour of the Kinabatangan River

My number one goal in Borneo was to see wild orangutans. After researching different tours and prices, we decided to go with Greenview Lodge B&B, hoping to spot Borneo’s Big 5: the Bornean Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, Pygmy Elephant, Rhinoceros Hornbill, and Estuarine Crocodile.

Booking & Preparation

The company was really easy to communicate with via email. We gave them a few date options, and they sent back a document outlining the entire trip, including room details and a packing list. I highly recommend the 2-night, 3-day tour to get the most out of the Kinabatangan River, though they also offer a 1-night, 2-day option.

Arrival & Accommodation

After confirming our pickup location via email, we were met by our driver at 12:10 p.m. outside our hostel. The journey to the lodge took around two hours and was quite bumpy, but there was a short stop at a fuel station for a toilet break and to refuel.

When we arrived at the lodge, we had a brief welcome meeting, signed some paperwork, and were shown to our rooms. We chose the cabin room — the most affordable option that still includes a private bathroom and a double bed. The room was basic but clean. The air conditioning worked well, and the shower had good pressure. The bed was comfy, though we did have a little lizard visitor on the wall — but hey, we’re in the jungle, so what do you expect?

Day 1

After checking in, we went on our first 2-hour river cruise. Each boat fits up to 10 people, and you stay with the same group throughout the tour. We were introduced to our guide, Sam, who was with us for most of the activities (although, he missed two due to illness).

On the water, the first animal we spotted was a group of  long-tailed macaque, we watched  then swinging through the trees for a while. Then came our first of the Big 5 — a crocodile! Further downriver, we saw the Proboscis Monkey (2/5), and then Sam somehow spotted a monitor lizard lying on a branch. On our way back to the lodge, we saw pig-tailed macaques and a Rhinoceros Hornbill (3/5). Sam was amazing the whole time and taught us so much about the animals and Sukau.

We then headed for some food. Meals were buffet-style, usually including rice, a meat dish, and two vegetarian options. They also made a separate vegetarian plate for me — tofu! There was fruit and cake available too. Tea, coffee, and fruit juice are free, but canned drinks cost extra, and you'll need to bring your own alcohol if you want any.

After dinner, we went on a night cruise. Back in the same boat, we headed upriver and spotted several kingfishers, Black-and-Red Broadbills, and a few other colourful birds.

Day 2

The next morning began with a 6:00 a.m. cruise, which lasted about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Unfortunately, our boat broke down, so we didn’t see much. However, the tour company kindly gave us a bonus morning cruise the next day to make up for it.

After the cruise, we had breakfast (eggs, toast, sausage) and some time to relax before our jungle walk. To begin the walk, we took a boat to a path and did a small loop through the jungle. We saw lots of bugs and learned about the local trees and plants. It was really muddy, but they provided wellies, including large sizes for men.

Back at the lodge, we had time to shower and relax before lunch (similar options to dinner). Afterwards, we explored a small cultural gallery on the river people  above the office. We learned about traditional fishing techniques, the use of edible bird nests, local music, and local customs. It was really interesting.

Sunset Cruise & Orangutan Sighting

Later that afternoon, we went on another sunset cruise — and this time, we spotted a wild orangutan! We watched it for ages. It was honestly the coolest experience of the whole trip. We also saw more monkeys and birds on the way back.

That evening, after dinner, we had another night cruise. This time, we saw an owl and a snake — not much else, but still a great experience.

Day 3

Our final cruise was at 6:00 a.m. again. It was a misty morning, so visibility was low, but we still spotted a huge crocodile and more monkeys. After breakfast, we checked out and began the two-hour drive back to Sandakan, ending our tour.

Final Thoughts

I would 100% recommend this tour to anyone visiting Borneo. We were lucky enough to see 4 out of the Big 5, which was incredible. While we didn’t spot the pygmy elephants, our guide had told us from the beginning that they were currently around two hours upriver — sightings were possible but not likely.

This experience gave us a deep appreciation for Borneo’s rainforest and wildlife. It was well-organized, educational, and truly unforgettable.