Day 4: Kiau to Sandakan
Wake up and head to the local school to learn how to play “Gong” – the traditional instrument in Sabah – before heading on a hike up the hillside. Enjoy a stretch of walking up in the forest canopy 40m above ground amid the lush rainforest. Soak the body in the relaxing warm natural hot springs or in the cool mountain spring water nearby the canopy walk. After lunch, make the 4-hour drive to Sandakan.
Day 5: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation and Sun Bear Conservation Centre
See the orangutans at Sepilok and learn about the conservation efforts done at the centre. Enjoy a 10-minute walk in the rainforest and witness orangutans feeding before observing them over at the outdoor nursery. Then, head to the Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about the smallest bears in the world – another native species to Borneo. For the evening, enjoy a river cruise in search of Borneo’s wildlife and birds. Finish the day with a candle-lit dinner on the pier, back at the accommodation.
Day 6: Sukau
Rise and shine for the morning river cruise up the Kinabatangan River to Kelenanap oxbow lake to view more birds and wildlife. After breakfast, join in the nature walk along the lodge’s Hornbill Boardwalk with the in-house naturalist. After lunch, embark upon another river cruise for wildlife spotting. There is also time to enjoy the fantastic spa treatments available at Sukai Rainforest Lodge.
Day 7: Departure
Head to Sandakan airport for departure. There are one or two options for additional tours in the morning for those with a late flight.