OVERVIEW:

The Sukau/lower kinabatangan area is a zoo safari and night safari all rolled into one. Tabin Wildlife Reserve (TWR or Tabin) comprises a rectangular area of approximately 122,539 ha. in the centre of the Dent Peninsula, north-east of Lahad Datu town, south of the lower reaches of the Segama River and north of the Silabukan Forest Reserve. Tabin has been declared a Wildlife Reserve primarily on account of the large number of animals inhabiting its forests, some of which are highly endangered.

DAY 1

Arrive in Sandakan via MH 2042 at 0810 hrs. Meet your local guide and transfer to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Meet the wild man of Borneo in this tropical lowland forest, which is about 30 minutes drive from the airport.  Proceed to the feeding platform and observe at close range orphaned Orang Utan being rehabilitated under a successful conservation program. Be amazed by the gentleness and intelligence of this man-like primate. Visit the Nature Education Centre to learn more about the Orang Utan and its environment. Proceed to Sandakan jetty for an estimated two hours boat journey to Sukau Rainforest Lodge built along Sabah’s longest river, Kinabatangan. Here you will have the opportunity to view birds and wildlife in virgin mangrove, wetland and rainforest habitats. Late afternoon take a two hours river cruise using electric motor in search of some of the ten primate species including Proboscis Monkeys as they settle down on treetops along the Kinabatangan River. Return to the lodge for solar heated hot shower, candlelight dinner and slide show conducted by naturalist guide. Overnight at Sukau Rainforest Lodge. (L,D)

DAY 2

Wake up to the calls of gibbons and hornbills. 6:00am Morning Rivers cruise up the Kinabatangan River to view more birds and wildlife. Proceed to the Kelenanap ox-bow lake for a short jungle walk (weather-permitting). Experience the wilderness of Borneo. Depart for a 27km overland journey to Gomantong Caves. Trek 20 minutes through the rainforest to the cave entrance. Your guide will brief you on the cave fauna including bats, swift lets and crabs among others and their contribution to maintain a balanced ecology and significance to the local economy. When in season, witness the collecting of birds’ nests by the local people using bamboo ladders and poles. Return to Sukau. In the afternoon, we proceed for another river cruise for more wildlife. After dinner an optional night safari cruise spotting nocturnal animals, crocodiles and birds. Overnight at Sukau Rainforest Lodge. (B,L,D)

DAY 3

Overland transfer to Lahad Datu at 0630 hours after breakfast.  At 1100hrs transfer from Lahad Datu to Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the largest wildlife reserve in Malaysia, on gravel road about 1 hour. Upon arrival, register, unpack and rest. In the afternoon, visit the Lipad mud volcano located nearest to Tabin base.  After trekking through the jungle for twenty minutes, arrive at the elevated bare area of the mud volcano that is known to be frequented by deer, wild boars, elephants and birds. Look out for and identify footprints of animals. Those adventurous can experiment the effect of the volcanic mud said to be responsible for fine complexion. After dinner, there will be night activities to look out for nocturnal wildlife and birds. (B,L,D)

DAY 4

Trek through the lush green jungle known for its rich diversity of plants and animal species to visit Lipad’s Waterfall.  Take a dip in the natural pool and enjoy the refreshing splash coming down from the waterfall. Alternatively explore the surrounding vegetation or just relax. Return to base in the afternoon. Rest. At evening, go for bird watching within the reserve. After dinner, there will be night activities to look out for nocturnal wildlife and birds on a different route.
(B,L,D)

DAY 5

After breakfast, stroll to the nearby rock pool or riverside. Choose to take a dip in the water or simply immerse yourself in nature. After lunch, depart Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Transfer to Lahad Datu Airport for flight MH3023 ETD1725 to Kota Kinabalu. (B,L)

Swimwear, Change of clothes, Binoculars, Insect repellent, leech socks, long sleeve shirts and long pants, short pants, raincoat, sun hat, comfortable trekking shoes (two pairs needed). Torch light, water bottle, personal toiletries, Camera (Optional)