Borneo is a land of breathtaking rainforests, exotic wildlife, and unforgettable experiences, but it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. When we first planned our trip to Sabah, Borneo, we were determined to experience its incredible biodiversity without overspending. What we discovered is that, with the right approach, you can enjoy the adventure of a lifetime on a budget.

A Day on the Kinabatangan River

Early morning Kinabatangan River misty fog on top of trees, Sabah, Malaysia.jpg

Picture this: It’s early morning, and the mist clings to the surface of the Kinabatangan River. Your small boat glides quietly through the water as you scan the treetops. Suddenly, a flash of movement, a family of proboscis monkeys swings from branch to branch. Later, your guide points out a distant couple of hornbills flying together. These magical moments are what make Kinabatangan special, and they don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to Kinabatangan, Sepilok, and Sandakan without breaking the bank.

Travel Tips for a Cost-Effective Adventure

Affordable Stays: Look for budget-friendly jungle lodges or riverside hostels. Many offer basic but comfortable rooms that let you stay close to nature.
Group Wildlife Tours: Join shared boat tours to save money while trying to spot estuarine crocodiles, hornbills, and pygmy elephants. These tours are often led by knowledgeable guides who can enhance your wildlife experience.
Self-Guided Adventures: In Sepilok, skip the guided packages and save money by exploring the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Rainforest Discovery Centre at your own pace. Both are easy to navigate and incredibly rewarding.
Local Eats: Sandakan is known for its fresh seafood and local cuisine. Eat like a local at lively markets and family-run eateries to enjoy authentic flavours at affordable prices.
Smart Transport: Use public buses, ride-hailing apps or shared vans to travel between destinations. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to experience local culture along the way.

These tips helped us create a trip full of rich experiences and close encounters with Sabah’s wildlife, and we hope they help you too!

Close up of baby estuarine crocodile during boat tour of Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysia.jpg

Carol and Max wearing rain ponchos posing inside the small boat in the middle of the Kinabatangan river tour in Sabah, Malaysia.jpeg

Beautiful Orangutan waking up from a nap hidden in the treetop during Kinabatangan boat tour in Sabah, Malaysia.jpg

Max in his boat safari tour gear ready to explore the wildlife in Kinabatangan river in Sabah, Malaysia.jpeg

Beautiful sunrise on Kinabatangan River with boat gliding in Sabah, Malaysia.jpg

Carol looking through the binoculars while sitting on the boat tour of Kinabatangan river in Sabah, Malaysia.jpeg

Big proboscis mokey sitting on a tree giving his back to camera.jpg

Close up of Common dwarf king fisher in Kinabatangan night safari boat tour in Sabah, Malaysia.jpg

How to Plan the Perfect Trip on a Backpacker’s Budget

For more detailed advice, hidden gems, and insider recommendations, check out our Backpacker’s Guide to Kinabatangan, Sepilok & Sandakan. It’s packed with tips that helped us save $300!