Sukau Rainforest Lodge occupies a prime spot on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Borneo. A National Geographic Unique Lodge, with excellent eco credentials, this is a fantastic base for wildlife spotting and exploring the surrounding area.
A National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World
Sukau Rainforest Lodge is committed to sustainable tourism, and supporting the local community
The Kinabatangan River has one of the highest wildlife concentrations in Borneo, and it is sometimes possible to see pygmy elephants around the lodge
All of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, overhead fans and air-conditioning
Sukau Rainforest Lodge has 20 rooms and 20 villas, all of which have en-suite bathrooms, overhead fans and 24-hour air-conditioning; a welcome luxury in Borneo, and something that sets the lodge apart from many others. Like most of the lodges, the design and decor are fairly simple, but of a good standard.
The lodge's facilities will also ensure a comfortable stay for a few days, with a plunge pool, sun-deck, lounge-bar and enclosed garden. The riverside restaurant, Melapi, serves western-style breakfast and Malaysian cuisine for lunch and dinner. With an aim to make the most of the wildlife-rich surroundings, there are three open decks for wildlife viewing, and a Hornbill Boardwalk with two elephant passes.
The lodge is built on stilts with wooden walkways between each area, which helps to protect the local flora and fauna. The lodge is also entirely self-sufficient in terms of processing their own water, as well as using solar power to heat the water. The boats used on the river have electric motors, which reduce noise pollution and disruption to the wildlife. Sukau Rainforest Lodge's status as a National Geographic Unique Lodge re-enforces their commitment to sustainability and supporting the local community.
The Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia, and a hugely important part of Borneo's eco-system. The areas around the river have some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Borneo, including proboscis monkeys, Bornean gibbons, orangutans, pygmy elephants and bearded-pigs. There are also over 200 bird species, including all eight species of hornbill.
When to visit
My photos of the hugely comical but absolutely adorable proboscis monkeys make me laugh every time I look at them!
Speak to an Expert on Malaysia
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Enquire NowSukau Rainforest Lodge is on the banks of the Kinabatangan River, in Sabah, Borneo.
17-hour international flight (one change) to Sandakan Airport. The lodge is a two-hour drive from Sandakan.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - Hornbill Boardwalk
Accompanied by the lodge's in-house naturalist, take a stroll along the Hornbill Boardwalk, keeping a eye out for the wildlife that can often been seen around the property.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - Kelenanap Oxbow Lake
Start early this morning and take a boat cruise up the Kinabatangan River to the Kelenanap Oxbow Lake. The early morning is a great time to spot wildlife, and experience the rainforest coming alive as the sun rises.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - River Cruise
Take a cruise along the Kinabatangan River, keeping an eye out for the local wildlife, which can include crocodiles, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills and sometimes even the elusive orangutan.
