Sukau Rainforest Lodge
The most luxurious resort in Kinabatangan River, Sukau area
Experience the charm of the iconic Sukau Rainforest Lodge, nestled along the peaceful Kinabatangan River. This hidden gem in the heart of Borneo combines luxury with sustainability, making it the ideal retreat for travelers who value both comfort and caring for the planet.
As the day fades into evening, the lodge becomes a haven of elegance and peace. Under a canopy of stars, the sounds of the nocturnal rainforest create a symphony, inviting quiet contemplation or heartfelt conversation with fellow travelers who share your passion for the natural world.
How to reach Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Guests can choose between two travel options to reach Sukau Rainforest Lodge:
By Speedboat: Departing at 1:30 PM from Sandakan Yacht Club, which is just 15 minutes from Sandakan Airport, the speedboat journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. As you cruise along the scenic Kinabatangan River, you’ll have the chance to spot rare and endangered species such as the Bornean pygmy elephants, orangutans, and proboscis monkeys.
By Overland Transfer: The overland route covers 129 kilometers from Sandakan to Sukau, passing through palm oil plantations. The journey takes around 2 hours, and includes a short 5-minute boat ride from the Sukau jetty to the lodge. All vehicles are air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi. Private road transfers can also be arranged upon request.
3D 2N Luxury Borneo River Cruise in Sukau Rainforest Lodge
If you are looking for the ultimate Borneo adventure, look no further than Sukau Rainforest Lodge, the perfect place to stay while exploring the wonders of the Kinabatangan River. Nestled in the heart of the rainforest, the lodge offers a unique blend of luxury and nature, providing an unforgettable experience. The Sukau Rainforest Lodge is renowned for its prime location, offering exclusive access to the river’s breathtaking wildlife and lush landscapes.
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from Sandakan City or Sandakan Airport between 08:00 – 08:30 am, or from Sepilok hotels between 08:45 – 09:00 am. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your friendly guide and captain before heading to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, you’ll gain insight into the challenges faced by the orangutans and witness the ongoing conservation efforts firsthand. After watching a video about the centre’s work, take a 10-minute walk through the rainforest on wooden boardwalks to observe the orangutans’ feeding at 10:00 am. You’ll then visit the newly built nursery area for young orangutans. If the orangutans are particularly friendly, you may even have the chance to get up close, so be sure to keep your belongings secure. Guests interested in visiting the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about the conservation of the world’s smallest bear can do so after the orangutan sanctuary, with an additional RM50 entrance fee.
Following lunch, Borneo Villa guests will travel by boat to the award-winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge. Upon arrival, enjoy a refreshing drink and cold towel as you check in, then relax with afternoon tea before embarking on your first river safari. The boats are equipped with eco-friendly outboard engines for use along the main river and electric motors for wildlife viewing in the smaller tributaries, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife and birds. After a sunset return, enjoy a hot shower with solar-heated water before a candlelit buffet dinner overlooking the river. The evening concludes with a slide show and interpretation by the lodge’s naturalist guide. Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Note: Night River Cruises are highly recommended and available at the lodge for an additional charge.
An early wake-up call at 5:30 am invites you to experience the rainforest coming to life. After a light breakfast, embark on a morning river cruise to spot active wildlife and birds, heading towards the Kelenanap Ox-Bow lake. Upon returning, enjoy a full breakfast, followed by an educational walking tour along the lodge’s Hornbill Boardwalk with the in-house naturalist. After the tour, take some time to relax. Post-lunch, you can explore the boardwalk behind the lodge in hopes of spotting an orangutan, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the lodge’s pool. After afternoon tea, venture out for another river safari in search of more wildlife, returning at sunset from your final cruise of the day. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Sandakan by boat or overland. Following lunch, we will proceed to the airport for the 14:30 flight to Kota Kinabalu. For those on the evening flight, there will be an opportunity to visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the canopy walk and hanging bridge, and explore the botanical garden, home to a variety of plant species. Afterward, proceed to the airport for your flight.
- Scheduled Overland Transfer from Sukau to Sandakan: 09:00
- Scheduled Boat Transfer from Sukau to Sandakan SYC Jetty: 09:00
Package includes:
- Return scheduled road/speedboat transfers as per itinerary and room type.
- All Meals, coffee, tea & water refills
- Accommodation (2 nights Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Deluxe category)
- Shared Nature guide and guided activities as per itinerary
- Entrance & conservation fees in Kinabatangan river and Sepilok orang Utan Centre
Package excludes:
- Personal spending money for drinks of any kind.
- Any food item not mentioned.
- Laundry, phone calls or any personal charges.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Tourism tax (RM10/room per night)
- Camera fees at Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre: For camera with zoom lens 100-400mm, video camera or other video recording equipment for personal use are chargeable at RM10.00 per unit. For any camera (fixed-lens – 400mm and above ) or any film-making equipment are chargeable at RM1,000.00 per unit.
- Optional visit to Borneo Sunbear Conservation Centre RM50 for entry fee.
Borneo River Safari
2N3D Sukau Rainforest Lodge- Stay in Deluxe Room
- Sepilok Tour
- Experienced guided safaris
Rooms in Sukau Rainforest Lodge
- Borneo Villas: The Borneo Villa at Sukau Rainforest Lodge offers a spacious 346 sqft (32sqm) layout, which is 20% larger than the Deluxe Room, providing enhanced comfort and privacy with separate sections from other villas. Guests can choose between twin beds or a queen-sized bed and enjoy a study desk for added convenience. The villa features unique Borneo-themed decorations and is equipped with inverter air-conditioning, a ceiling fan, and mosquito-netted sliding screens for added comfort. It also includes international universal electrical sockets, so no adaptor is required, complimentary coffee and tea, a modern bathroom with hot showers and amenities, a hair dryer, complimentary drinks in the minibar, free WiFi, a safety box, and a private balcony. Additionally, two of the Borneo Villas are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
- Deluxe rooms: The Deluxe Rooms at Sukau Rainforest Lodge offer a comfortable 288 sqft (26sqm) space, featuring either twin beds or a queen-sized bed, along with a study desk. Designed with a distinctive Bornean motif, these rooms are arranged in a traditional longhouse style, situated adjacent to other rooms for a communal yet private experience. Each room includes a private indoor sunroom with rainforest views and a lounge bench for relaxation. The rooms are equipped with inverter air-conditioning, a ceiling fan, and mosquito-netted windows for comfort. Additional amenities include coffee and tea-making facilities, a modern bathroom with hot water shower and personal toiletries, a hair dryer, and international universal electrical sockets, requiring no adaptor.
Food and Dining in Sukau Rainforest Lodge
At Sukau Rainforest Lodge, dining is an experience unto itself. Impeccably prepared dishes celebrate local flavors, using ingredients sourced from nearby communities. Each meal is a connection to the region, enjoyed in the lodge’s serene setting where the river murmurs softly nearby.
Wildlife seen around Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Your days at Sukau are filled with unforgettable adventures. Picture yourself gliding along the meandering river on intimate safaris, guided by our expert naturalists. With their deep knowledge of the area, they bring the lush rainforest to life, pointing out the soulful gaze of an orangutan, the playful antics of proboscis monkeys, and perhaps even the majestic sight of a pygmy elephant. These moments, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s richest ecosystems, are nothing short of enchanting.
Activities in Sukau Rainforest Lodge
- River cruises along the Kinabatangan River to observe wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants.
- Jungle walks to explore the rainforest ecosystem.
- Birdwatching opportunities with over 200 species of birds.
- Night safaris to witness nocturnal animals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sukau Rainforest Lodge
How do I get to Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
The nearest major city is Sandakan, which can be reached by flight from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. From Sandakan, guests can travel by car to the lodge (around 2.5 hours) or by shared scheduled speedboat transfer service. The lodge provides transfers, and some tours offer shuttle services as part of their packages.
What is the food like at Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
The lodge offers a variety of local Bornean and Malaysian cuisine, prepared fresh for guests. Meals typically include seafood, rice, and vegetables, with options for different dietary preferences. There is a buffet-style breakfast, and guests can enjoy lunch and dinner at the lodge’s restaurant.
What is the accommodation like at Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
The lodge offers two categories of comfortable rooms.
- Borneo Villa: 20 units of 346 sq ft rooms with study desk, private balcony, and modern amenities.
- Deluxe room: 288 sq ft rooms with study desk, less private as designed in a traditional long-house style.
Can I spot wildlife at Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
Yes, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is located in a prime wildlife habitat, and guests often spot a variety of animals, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, pygmy elephants, and a variety of birds. River cruises and jungle walks increase the chances of sightings.
Is Sukau Rainforest Lodge suitable for my family?
Yes, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is family-friendly and offers a great educational experience for children. Families can enjoy wildlife viewing, jungle walks, and learn about Borneo’s biodiversity together.
Do I need a guide for activities at Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
Yes, the lodge provides experienced guides for river cruises, jungle walks, and safaris. These guides are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and ecosystem, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.
What activities can I do at Sukau Rainforest Lodge?
Sukau Rainforest Lodge provides a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts, including river cruises along the Kinabatangan River, where guests can observe iconic wildlife like proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants in their natural habitat. The lodge also offers guided jungle walks, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant rainforest ecosystem up close. Birdwatching is another highlight, with over 200 species of birds to spot in the area, making it a paradise for bird lovers. Additionally, night safaris offer a chance to see nocturnal creatures in action, providing a unique experience of the rainforest after dark.
Is Sukau Rainforest Lodge environmentally friendly?
Yes, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is committed to sustainability. It uses eco-friendly practices to minimize its impact on the environment, including solar power, water conservation, and waste management. The lodge also supports local conservation efforts.