Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Experience the Wild: 2 Days at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp in Borneo

Imagine waking up to the sounds of proboscis monkeys chattering, then spending your days cruising along the Kinabatangan River in search of orangutans, crocodiles, and exotic birds. This Borneo Wildlife Tour offers just that—an intimate, authentic look into the jungle’s vibrant ecosystem, all for about $230 per person. The tour includes two nights, three wildlife cruises, and comfortable (if rustic) accommodation amid the rainforest.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances guided wildlife adventures with the raw beauty of staying at a small, eco-conscious jungle camp run by local people. The personalized attention in a small group (max 10 travelers) enhances the experience. Also, the delicious local cuisine served during meals adds a flavorful touch to the adventure.

A key consideration is that the camp is quite basic, with limited electricity and amenities. If you’re someone used to luxury, this might feel a bit rough around the edges—but that’s part of the charm, offering a genuine rainforest experience. This trip suits nature lovers eager for hands-on wildlife encounters and those comfortable with simple accommodations.

Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic rainforest adventure and a chance to see Borneo’s famous proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. If you love nature, small-group tours, and are enthusiastic about wildlife photography, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Borneo trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Small, eco-friendly jungle camp run by local people ensures a more genuine stay.
• Wildlife Encounters: Three river cruises offer multiple chances to spot animals like proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and kingfishers.
• Inclusive Meals: Breakfast, dinner, and overnight lodging are included, making it a convenient package.
• Limited Group Size: Tours are capped at 10 travelers for a more personal and immersive experience.
• Rustic but Comfortable: Basic camp facilities with electricity only from 6-10 pm, no modern luxuries, but plenty of character.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make wildlife spotting informative and engaging, enhancing your chances of sightings.

An In-Depth Look at the Jungle Adventure

The Location and Setting

Sandakan, Malaysia, known as the gateway to Borneo’s rainforests, is the starting point for this adventure. The journey to Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp takes roughly two hours by vehicle, and the ride itself is part of the experience. En route, drivers typically stop at a local restaurant for lunch—at your own expense—which offers a chance to sample some Malaysian cuisine and relax before hitting the jungle.

The camp is reached via a combination of boat rides and jungle walks, emphasizing its secluded nature. This isolation creates a perfect habitat for wildlife and ensures minimal disturbance, which is a big plus for animal sightings. Several reviews praise the remote setting, with one reviewer remarking that “the camp was only reachable by 2 boat rides and a jungle trek through mud—no cars, no electricity except from 6-10 pm, no TV or air conditioning.”

Accommodations and Facilities

While the camp provides basic but comfortable lodgings, don’t expect luxury. The accommodations are designed to give you a true feel of the jungle—simple tents or huts without air conditioning, but with bedding and essential comforts. Electricity is only available for a few hours in the evening, and generator noise can be part of the background.

Many guests value this simplicity, as it enhances the sense of being in the rainforest. One reviewer happily noted, “No TV, no aircon, but the camp was infused with rainforest sounds, and that’s exactly what I wanted.” The camp’s rustic charm is complemented by delicious local food, often praised as “top-notch” during reviews, which adds a cultural flavor to the wilderness experience.

Wildlife Cruises and Sightings

The core of this tour is the three wildlife-spotting cruises—one in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one at night. Each cruise offers unique opportunities to spot different animals and observe their natural behaviors. You’ll be on a small boat, gliding quietly along the river, which makes visibility good and noise levels low.

Guests frequently mention seeing proboscis monkeys, long-tailed lorises, flying foxes, kingfishers, and even crocodiles. Night walks are especially popular, with reviewers noting sightings of rain forest frogs and nocturnal animals. One enthusiastic traveller said, “We saw a lot of wild animals, especially during the night walk in the jungle! Super recommended experience.”

Guides and Personal Attention

Guides are consistently praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. They tend to be locals with a deep understanding of the flora and fauna. Their explanations turn a sightseeing trip into an educational experience, making wildlife identification accessible even for beginners. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guides were so enthusiastic, teaching us about the animals at every moment and always ready to help.”

Meals and Additional Experiences

Meals are included in the tour package—breakfast and dinner at the camp, with a stop for lunch on the way. Reviewers consistently highlight the delicious local cuisine, which provides a nice balance to the outdoor adventure. Breakfast is usually a simple but hearty affair, while dinner often features fresh local ingredients—perfect after a day of wildlife spotting.

Practical Considerations

• Transport: The tour includes pickup from Sandakan or Sepilok, with timings around noon, giving you a relaxed start.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, so expect a cozy, personal experience.
• Physical Demands: Moderate fitness is recommended, especially for jungle walks and boat rides.
• Weather & Packing: Bring rain gear, a towel, binoculars, and toiletries—reviews mention that the weather can be humid and rainy, and binoculars will greatly enhance wildlife viewing.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers raved about the guides’ expertise, with comments like “The guides were very accommodating and knowledgeable on the animals.” Sightings of orangutans and proboscis monkeys were common, with some guests saying they saw almost all the animals on their wishlist.

Others appreciated the secluded nature of the camp, describing it as “a true jungle experience,” where you disconnect from modern life and just listen to the jungle sounds. The simplicity is not for everyone, but those who value authenticity found it refreshing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, adventurous travelers comfortable with rustic conditions, and those craving a genuine rainforest experience. If you’re interested in seeing Borneo’s famous proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and crocodiles in their natural environment, this tour offers excellent opportunities.

It’s also a good choice for those who want a small-group, personalized experience, rather than a large tour bus. If you’re eager to learn from local guides and enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, this is a solid pick.

Final Thoughts

The Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days, 1 Night at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp offers an authentic glimpse into Borneo’s lush rainforest. You’ll get the chance to observe a variety of wildlife—during three cruises—guided by knowledgeable locals who are passionate about their ecosystem.

While the accommodations are simple, many travelers see this as part of the charm, giving them an unfiltered jungle experience they’ll remember. The inclusion of delicious local meals and small-group intimacy make this a thoughtfully curated adventure, not just a sightseeing trip.

If you’re comfortable with basic amenities and looking for a hands-on wildlife encounter, this tour provides excellent value. It’s ideal for anyone eager to step away from tourist crowds and enjoy Borneo’s vibrant rainforest.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Sandakan to Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp?
It takes approximately two hours by vehicle, with a scenic ride that often includes a stop for lunch (at your own expense).

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You might see proboscis monkeys, long-tailed lorises, flying foxes, kingfishers, rain forest frogs, crocodiles, and possibly orangutans.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, with lunch possible during the transfer or en route. Many guests praise the local cuisine served at the camp.

What’s the group size?
Tours are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.

Is the camp comfortable?
The camp is rustic but comfortable enough for an authentic jungle experience, with basic facilities, limited electricity, and no air conditioning.

What should I bring?
Rain gear, a towel, binoculars, toiletries, and lightweight clothing suitable for humid weather. Packing light is best.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before will not be refunded.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable locals passionate about wildlife and eager to share their expertise.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour is available year-round, but the weather can be humid and rainy, which is part of the rainforest charm.

Is this tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for jungle walks and boat rides. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor conditions.

In short, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, wildlife observation, and cultural authenticity. If you’re seeking a genuine jungle experience and wildlife sightings in a small-group setting, it’s worth considering for your Borneo itinerary.