Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour

The Bongawan Wetland in Borneo offers a truly unique wildlife experience. Visitors can spot the endangered proboscis monkey along the river and witness the magical display of fireflies in the mangrove forests. This shared tour provides an opportunity to take in the region’s diverse ecosystem. With convenient transportation and a sunset dinner, it’s a captivating way to discover the natural wonders of this remarkable destination. What awaits those who embark on this unforgettable adventure?

Key Points

• The tour offers a scenic 1.5-hour ride to the Bongawan Wetland Jetty, where visitors can enjoy a 45-minute river cruise to spot the endangered Proboscis Monkey.
• The tour includes an evening firefly tour in the mangroves, providing a magical experience with bioluminescent insects.
• The tour features a dinner break and sunset viewing at the beach, allowing guests to enjoy Borneo’s diverse ecosystem.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 118 reviews, with positive feedback on knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences.
• The tour preparation includes recommendations to bring motion sickness medication, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent to enhance the enjoyment of the wildlife and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour is priced from $57.52 per person and lasts for 1 day.

The tour includes pickup from your Kota Kinabalu hotel, a scenic 1.5-hour ride to the Bongawan Wetland Jetty, and a 45-minute river cruise to spot the endangered Proboscis Monkey.

After a dinner break and sunset viewing, you’ll experience a magical firefly tour in the mangroves.

The tour is available in English, Chinese, and Malay. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available.

Itinerary Highlights

After being picked up from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu at 2:00 PM, you’ll embark on a scenic 1.5-hour ride to the Bongawan Wetland Jetty.

Upon arrival, you’ll board a river cruise for 45 minutes of wildlife viewing, including a chance to spot the endangered Proboscis Monkey.

Set out on a 45-minute river cruise in search of the elusive Proboscis Monkey, an endangered species unique to Borneo.

Following the cruise, you’ll enjoy a dinner break and witness a beautiful sunset at the beach.

As evening falls, you’ll venture into the mangroves for an enchanting firefly tour, witnessing a magical display of illuminated nature.

Finally, you’ll return to Kota Kinabalu after the cruise.

Wildlife and Nature Experience

One of the main draws of the Bongawan Wetland tour is the opportunity to spot unique wildlife found exclusively in Borneo.

Travelers can expect to see the endangered Proboscis Monkey, a distinctive primate with a large, bulbous nose.

The evening firefly tour offers a magical experience, with thousands of these bioluminescent insects illuminating the mangrove trees.

Complementing the wildlife sightings are the breathtaking sunset views over the wetland, creating a truly captivating natural display.

This immersive experience allows visitors to appreciate the beauty and diversity of Borneo’s remarkable ecosystem.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

What do customers say about the Bongawan Wetland tour? Based on 118 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5.

Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, engaging experiences, and breathtaking scenery. The guide rating of 4.5/5 and transportation rating of 4.4/5 indicate high satisfaction.

Positive feedback highlights the opportunity to spot unique Proboscis Monkeys and witness the enchanting firefly display.

Travelers advise being prepared for a long and bumpy ride, recommending motion sickness medication.

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Preparation and Recommendations

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, travelers are advised to come prepared for the Bongawan Wetland tour.

Bring along a valid passport or ID, and any necessary personal medication. Motion sickness prevention medication is highly recommended, as the journey includes a long and potentially bumpy ride.

Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect against the tropical climate. Dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear for the cruise and nature walks.

With the right preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the captivating wildlife and stunning scenery of the Bongawan Wetland.

Discovering the Endangered Proboscis Monkey

Why is the Proboscis Monkey one of the main highlights of the Bongawan Wetland tour? These unique, long-nosed primates are endemic to the island of Borneo, and sightings are considered rare. The river cruise through the wetlands offers visitors the chance to spot this endangered species in their natural habitat.

Here are 3 key reasons why seeing the Proboscis Monkey is so special:

1. Physique: The Proboscis Monkey’s distinct large nose and reddish-brown coat make it easily recognizable.

2. Behavior: Travelers can observe the monkeys’ social interactions and acrobatic movements as they forage through the mangroves.

3. Conservation: As a protected species, seeing the Proboscis Monkey highlights the importance of preserving Borneo’s fragile wetland ecosystems.

Witnessing the Magical Firefly Display

The evening portion of the Bongawan Wetland tour offers an enchanting experience – witnessing the magical firefly display in the mangrove forests.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the mangrove trees come alive with the twinkling lights of thousands of fireflies. Guests board a boat and silently drift through the serene waterways, surrounded by the mesmerizing glow.

The fireflies synchronize their bioluminescent signals, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. This unique experience allows visitors to observe the intricate interactions of these remarkable insects and appreciate the ecological wonders of the Bongawan Wetland.

Exploring the Bongawan Wetland Ecosystem

As visitors explore the Bongawan Wetland, they’ll discover a thriving ecosystem that’s home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

The region boasts:

1. Mangrove forests, which provide crucial habitats for numerous species, including the iconic proboscis monkey.

2. Diverse birdlife, with over 200 species observed, including the elusive Storm’s stork and the Brahminy kite.

3. A rich aquatic life, teeming with fish, crustaceans, and mollusks that support the intricate food web of the wetland.

This dynamic and fragile environment showcases the incredible biodiversity of Borneo and the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. It’s a shared tour, so solo travelers or small groups can join other participants to experience the Proboscis Monkey and fireflies at Bongawan Wetland.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. Private tours are available, though the standard shared tour pricing applies. Customers can request a private tour when booking to ensure they have an exclusive experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meal?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included meal. However, it’s best to inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs in advance so they can accommodate them accordingly.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility for travelers with disabilities isn’t explicitly stated. However, the itinerary involves some physical activities like a river cruise and hiking in mangroves. It’s best to inquire about specific accommodations when booking the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Area After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in the Bongawan area after the tour. The tour operator doesn’t directly handle post-tour accommodations, but they can provide recommendations for nearby hotels, resorts, or other activities to extend the experience.

The Sum Up

The Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour offers an unforgettable experience in Borneo’s diverse ecosystem. Visitors can witness the endangered Proboscis Monkey, enjoy a sunset dinner, and marvel at the magical firefly display. With its comprehensive itinerary and stunning natural beauty, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts exploring the wonders of Borneo.

You can check availability for your dates here: