Exploring Malaysia’s biodiversity with a Kinabatangan River cruise
The Kinabatangan River originates in the Crocker range in Malaysia and stretches for 560 miles before merging into the Sulu Sea east of Sandakan in Sabah, Borneo. It is the second longest river in Malaysia after the Rajang River. Sandakan is the second largest city in Sabah and is the base for many wildlife adventures like the Turtle Islands Park, Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Gomantong Caves and of course the Kinabatangan River cruises that offer unparalleled opportunities for observing wildlife.
Beautiful Sandakan, Borneo, Malaysia. Pic: Steven888, Creative Commons.
Along the banks of Kinabatangan river thrives amazing wildlife that attracts tourists from all corners of the globe. The region is home to both orangutans and proboscis monkeys, as well as other primates. The conservation status of both the species is endangered. A large section of the lower Kinabatangan floodplain is now a wildlife sanctuary in order to preserve the natural habitat of these primates. In all, 10 varieties of primates are found in the region.
Apart from the orangutans and proboscis monkeys there are salt water crocodiles, Borneo pygmy elephants, macaques and many more reptiles and insects. The area is also rich in birds with chances of sighting eagles, kingfishers, hornbills, egrets, storks and more. Given the biodiversity and scenic beauty of the mangrove forests, a Kinabatangan river cruise makes for an unforgettable adventure.
The closest town for the river safari is Sukau ,which is 135 kilometers away from Sandakan by road. Road transfer typically takes 3 hours. The public transport to and from Sandakan to Sukau is limited to one trip per day. There is an airport at Sandakan which connects to Kota Kinabalu. There are a few lodges at Sukau which offer basic amenities for a comfortable stay. Homestay options are also available in the town. Sukau has just one road, with the town growing alongside it.
An Orangutan in the Wild. Pic: Eleifert, Creative Commons.
Early mornings, late afternoons and evenings are the best times to go on a river cruise as the chances of spotting wildlife are at their best at these times. Animals and birds come out at these times for food and water. It is also easier to spot wildlife with guides as they know the animals’ habitats and behaviors. Animals and birds are also masters of camouflage so having the expert eyes of the guides always increases the chance of spotting them. The excitement in the boat becomes palpable whenever the people get lucky in spotting something like an orangutan, proboscis monkey or a pygmy elephant. Some even get lucky enough to sight rhinos.
There are night cruises available as well that give an opportunity to observe the nocturnal behavior of the animals. It is quite a thrill to see salt water crocodiles at night, and many eyes shining from the trees. But day or night, in the end spotting wildlife is also a matter of luck and a true nature lover enjoys the experience rather than expecting a show of animals similar to a zoo. The adventure is in spotting whatever comes.
A Borneo Pygmy Elephant. Pic: ArtMechanic, Creative Commons.
A camera with a good zoom is highly recommended to photograph these creatures effectively, as they are elusive. Be careful though, I have seen quite a few watery graves for cameras when tourists get overexcited. Also make sure you can protect not only yourself but your camera gear if it rains.
November to March is the rainy season. The boat rides get cancelled frequently due to heavy rains. Photography also becomes difficult in this season. April to October is drier and flowers are also in bloom. Also, taking precautions against mosquitoes and other insects is a good idea.
People usually spend two to three nights in the Kinabatangan area as that means more safaris and better chances of sightings. Getting back to Sandakan takes three hours or so. The public transport leaves early in the morning from Sukau. Most of the transport and packages can be arranged by the lodge.
The Kinabatangan river area is so rich in wildlife that almost everyone comes away with special memories and a few good photographs. The memories of the trip will last for a lifetime.