Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Travelers craving an authentic jungle experience often look for tours that combine wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and local culture. The Borneo Wildlife Tour at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp offers just that—a chance to see some of the island’s most iconic animals while staying in a remote location away from crowds.

This small-group adventure provides a solid mix of guided excursions, boat cruises, and leisure time — all centered on the lush Kinabatangan River. The tour’s standout features include knowledgeable guides who are passionate about local conservation, delicious local cuisine, and the chance to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat.

One thing to keep in mind is the basic nature of the camp’s facilities; it’s rustic and weather-dependent, which may not suit travelers looking for luxury. However, if you’re open to a more genuine jungle immersion, this trip offers exceptional value.

It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Borneo’s rainforest without the fuss of over-commercialized resorts.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Expect boat rides, jungle walks, and river cruises with great chances to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and more.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Jay are praised for their knowledge, spotting skills, and enthusiasm, making wildlife viewing much easier.
• Simple, Local Accommodation: Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp offers a true jungle experience with basic amenities, perfect for nature lovers.
• Environmentally Conscious: The tour supports conservation efforts, including a tree planting project that offsets your carbon footprint.
• Limited Facilities: No Wi-Fi or air conditioning; electricity is only available from 6-10 pm. Pack accordingly for comfort.
• Highly Rated and Booked in Advance: With an average booking window of 53 days, this tour is popular for its authentic experience.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Evening Wildlife Watching

Your journey begins with a pickup around noon from Sandakan or Sepilok, followed by a two-hour drive to Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local restaurant for lunch, giving you a taste of the region’s cuisine — just note the meal is on your tab.

Arriving around 2:30 pm, you’ll get a briefing on safety and do’s and don’ts, which sets the tone for your jungle adventure. The first wildlife cruise kicks off at 4:30 pm, targeting the animals that stir as the day winds down. Expect sightings of proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and possibly crocodiles basking along the riverbanks.

Dinner follows at 7 pm, featuring local dishes that many reviewers found tasty and satisfying. Afterward, at 8 pm, the night wildlife walk begins, promising encounters with nocturnal species such as civets and owls. The camp’s generator is only on from 6 to 10 pm, so prepare for a digital detox.

Day 2: Early Mornings and More Wildlife

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, you’ll wake around 6:15 am for a light breakfast. The morning cruise begins at 6:30 am, offering a prime chance to spot orangutans, which several guests — including those with wildlife sightings — have described as unforgettable.

Post-cruise, the mornings are leisurely, giving you time to read or relax in the camp. Lunch at noon is a welcome break before heading back out for an afternoon cruise at 4:30 pm. The guides’ expertise really shines here; past guests have lauded guides like Jai for their animal spotting abilities and insights into local ecology.

Dinner comes at 7 pm again, with the possibility of a second night walk or cruise depending on conditions. The stars in the dark sky can be stunning, adding a magical touch to your rainforest experience.

Day 3: Goodbyes and Departures

After breakfast at 8 am, you’ll check out by 9 am. If you’ve requested a late check-out, it’s possible but involves extra costs and depends on availability. The return transfer to Sandakan departs around 11 am or 12 pm, making it a smooth, well-coordinated end to your adventure.

What Does a Typical Day Feel Like?

Guests consistently report that each day is a blend of discovery and relaxation. Early mornings are dedicated to wildlife cruises, which many find the most exciting part—your guides often spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and bird species from afar. Afternoon sessions tend to be more relaxed, giving you time to soak in the scenery, read, or just enjoy the sounds of the jungle.

The evening activities—night cruises and walks—offer a different perspective, revealing nocturnal species rarely seen during daylight. Many reviewers mention that the guides are excellent at spotting animals and sharing fascinating facts about their behaviors.

The Camp: Rustic but Authentic

The camp itself is basic but charming. Built in protected secondary forest, it’s surrounded by nature, with the river just steps away. Many reviews praise the camp for its peaceful atmosphere and the close-up wildlife sightings, such as orangutans visiting the camp on nearly every trip.

Facilities are minimal: no Wi-Fi or air conditioning, and only electricity from 6 to 10 pm. For some, this is part of the charm — a chance to disconnect and truly immerse in nature. Others may find the humidity and lack of modern comforts challenging, especially if they’re not used to outdoor living.

Accommodations and Meals

While accommodations are described as basic, guests often remark that the experience, food, and staff make up for it. Meals are mainly local cuisine, and several reviewers mention that the food is surprisingly good, with some calling it the best they’ve had in Malaysia. The camp’s small size—max 12 travelers—means personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

Wildlife Watching: What Are the Chances?

Based on reviews and the official itinerary, wildlife sightings are a primary highlight. Past guests report spotting orangutans several times, sometimes right next to the camp, along with proboscis monkeys, gibbons, crocodiles, and civets. The guides’ ability to spot animals in dense foliage is frequently praised, with some guests calling guides like Jai “a true fountain of knowledge.”

Many visitors also love the variety of bird species seen during cruises and walks, from hornbills to kingfishers, adding a vibrant soundtrack to the jungle. Night activities increase your chances of encountering nocturnal creatures like civets and owls, and some guests have even seen flying lemurs and monitor lizards.

How Does the Tour Value for Money?

At $260 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the inclusion of all meals, guided excursions, and transportation. The chance to see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat with expert guides is priceless for wildlife lovers.

The fact that proceeds support conservation and tree planting adds a feel-good factor, making your trip more meaningful. Plus, the small-group setting ensures you get more personalized attention, often leading to more wildlife sightings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and mosquito repellent — the jungle is teeming with insects.
• Bring binoculars and a flashlight for night walks, as these can greatly enhance your wildlife viewing.
• Prepare for basic facilities: no Wi-Fi, no air conditioning, and limited electricity.
• Bring books or games for downtime during free periods.
• Respect the environment: the guides emphasize conservation and responsible wildlife viewing.
• Book well in advance, as the tour is popular and often scheduled 53 days ahead.

This trip is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, or those craving a true jungle immersion. It’s ideal if you’re okay with rustic accommodations and limited modern comforts but want a genuine chance to see Borneo’s amazing animals.

It’s also perfect for eco-conscious travelers who appreciate that part of their spendings go toward conservation efforts. If you’re traveling with kids or family, note that physical fitness is required, and the basic nature of the camp may not suit everyone.

The Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp tour offers a chance to step outside the usual tourist trail and experience Borneo’s rainforest in its full, wild glory. The combination of guided boat cruises, jungle walks, and starry nights delivers a well-rounded wildlife adventure.

Past travelers constantly praise the knowledgeable guides, tasty local food, and extraordinary wildlife sightings, making this a highlight for many visiting Sandakan. While the facilities are modest, the authenticity and intimacy of this tour make it a worthwhile splurge for nature lovers.

If you’re after a memorable, wildlife-focused escape and don’t mind roughing it a bit, this trip promises unforgettable encounters with orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and an array of rainforest species.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Sandakan or Sepilok is included, and the return transfer to Sandakan is arranged based on your checkout time.

Are meals included?
All meals (two breakfasts, two dinners, and one lunch) are included, offering local cuisine that many guests found delicious.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are not eligible for refunds.

What should I bring?
Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, mosquito repellent, binoculars, a flashlight, and any personal toiletries. Note that there’s no Wi-Fi or air conditioning.

How many people are in each group?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level; some walking and boat rides are involved. Check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect orangutans, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, civets, hornbills, and possibly flying lemurs and monitor lizards, depending on the sightings.

What’s the best season to go?
While specific weather details aren’t provided, being prepared for humid conditions and potential rain is wise; booking 1-2 months in advance is recommended due to popularity.

To sum it up, this tour offers a true taste of Borneo’s rainforest with expert guides, authentic experiences, and wildlife encounters that are hard to beat. It’s perfect for those eager to connect with nature and willing to embrace the camp’s rustic charm.