Sukau is a small village located in the Malaysian state of Sabah, on the island of Borneo. Like Bilit, it serves as a gateway to the Kinabatangan River, renowned for its wildlife observation cruises featuring endangered species such as the proboscis monkey, orangutan and Bornean pygmy elephant in their natural environment. Beloved by nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Sukau offers an authentic immersion into the region's tropical rainforest.

A peaceful village at the jungle's edge

Sukau is located in the eastern part of Sabah, approximately 100 km from Sandakan. The small village sits on the banks of the Kinabatangan River, Malaysia's second longest river. At 560 km long, it winds through much of Sabah and boasts remarkable biodiversity. Indeed, more than 50 species of mammals, approximately 200 bird species, some twenty reptile species and over 1,000 plant species have been recorded in its basin.

It is this natural wealth that draws travellers to Sukau. Excursions organised from the village focus primarily on the river and surrounding tropical forest.

Sukau remains modest in size. It has only a few shops and lodges, plus a restaurant.

What to do in Sukau?

Kinabatangan River cruise

As you might have guessed, this is the centrepiece activity of a stay in Sukau. Aboard a small boat accommodating up to six passengers, you'll navigate the muddy waters of the Kinabatangan in search of local wildlife.

Excursions depart early morning, late afternoon or at night—when animals are most active. Cruises last more than two hours. Along the way, you may encounter wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, Bornean pygmy elephants, hornbills and various other animal species.

Experienced boatmen have a keen eye for spotting wildlife in dense vegetation. However, keep in mind that animals move freely, and sightings remain unpredictable. The longer your stay, the higher your chances of seeing them.

Bornean pygmy elephant observation

Some lodges organise excursions specifically dedicated to observing Bornean pygmy elephants. Local guides track herd movements and report their positions. A cruise is then arranged toward the identified zones, significantly increasing your chances of spotting these mammals. However, due to its particular organisation, a surcharge may apply for this type of outing.

Rainforest trekking

Lodges also organise guided walks through the jungle. These nature walks are an opportunity to discover tropical vegetation, insects, small reptiles and traces left by larger mammals.

Guide quality plays a decisive role in enriching your experience. Be sure to inquire with your accommodation about their guides' backgrounds before making a reservation.

Night safari

Once the sun sets, the jungle comes alive in a different way. Guides lead you to encounter nocturnal species. You may catch sight of slow lorises, civets, elusive reptiles and insects with surprising shapes. Some lodges also organise a night cruise to a village about an hour and a half from Sukau to observe thousands of fireflies illuminating trees along the river's edge.

Gomantong Caves visit

Gomantong Caves, less than an hour from Sukau, are an impressive limestone structure managed by Sabah's wildlife department. The site comprises two complexes: Simud Hitam, accessible to the public via a marked trail, and Simud Putih, reserved for professionals.

The caves are renowned for their swiftlet nests, considered a delicacy in Southeast Asia. Bats and swifts reside here in great numbers. At dusk, the emergence of millions of bats creates a breathtaking natural spectacle. Orangutans and various bird species can also be observed around the site. Wear closed-toe shoes for the visit.

When to visit Sukau?

Sukau enjoys an equatorial climate with temperatures ranging between 27°C and 34°C year-round. Rainfall is abundant, explaining the richness of Sabah's humid tropical forests.

The region is crossed by two monsoons:

• Northeast monsoon (November to March): heavy rains, swollen river. Certain channels and normally inaccessible wildlife areas become open to exploration, but boat excursions are often cancelled and photography becomes difficult.
• Southwest monsoon (May to September): rainfall decreases and conditions improve.

The most favourable period to visit the region extends from April to October, when weather is more pleasant and flowers around the village are in full bloom.

How to reach Sukau

Sukau is approximately three hours from Sandakan. Several transport options allow you to reach the village.

Bus

A minibus departs Sandakan daily at around 1 p.m. The journey takes approximately three hours. This is the most economical option for reaching Sukau.

Boat

The journey takes approximately two and a half hours travelling upriver on the Kinabatangan. During navigation, it is already possible to spot certain animal species of the region.

Taxi

The journey takes approximately two hours. Grab rides can also take you to the village.