Our day commences early (4.30am) as we convene in the hotel lobby, brimming with anticipation for the day’s adventures. We’ll whisk you away to Kuching Airport, where we catch the first flight of the day to Kota Kinabalu. Upon your arrival in Kota Kinabalu, a delightful breakfast at a local restaurant will provide a rejuvenating start to your day.

Next, our journey takes us on a picturesque two-hour drive to Kinabalu Park. The route winds through mountainous roads, offering glimpses of charming villages and lush paddy fields along the way. We’ll pause briefly during our drive at Chanteek Borneo and Nabalu Market. The Chanteek Borneo Gallery is a cultural treasure trove, housing over 300 dolls adorned in 48 distinct tribal costumes. This evolving collection eloquently narrates the history and heritage of Sabah’s indigenous tribes through their traditional attire.

Nabalu Market, on the other hand, is a bustling gathering place for local natives, where they proudly showcase their abundant local produce, fresh fruits, homegrown vegetables, and intricate handicraft souvenirs.

As we arrive at Kinabalu Park, you’ll immediately sense the shift in air temperature, feeling the refreshing and cooling mountain breeze. Prepare to be enchanted as you embark on a leisurely walk along the nature trails within the Botanical Garden. If the skies are clear, you might be graced with a spectacular view of Mount Kinabalu, standing tall as the highest peak between New Guinea and the Himalayas.

Kinabalu Park, a sanctuary of nature’s wonders, is home to a staggering 4,500 species of plants, including a remarkable 1,500 orchid varieties. Of these, 77 are exclusive to the Kinabalu region. The park’s pristine environment also provides a habitat for 289 bird species and an astonishing 290 types of butterflies.

After your immersive exploration, we’ll check you into your cozy lodge, where the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Following a scrumptious breakfast, it’s time to bid adieu to your current location as we set our sights on the next leg of our adventure. Our destination: the rejuvenating Poring Hot Springs, approximately 47 kilometers away, which is just an hour’s drive from Kinabalu Park. The name “Poring” derives from the prevalent tall bamboo plants in the area.

At Poring Hot Springs, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the natural hot springs, an invigorating experience believed to hold curative powers. Japanese baths await, providing the perfect opportunity to soak in the mineral-rich sulfurous water, stimulating your body and rejuvenating your spirits.

For the more adventurous, the Canopy Walkway beckons, suspended high above the tropical jungle. As you walk along the suspension bridges, you’ll find yourself 41 meters above the forest floor, with a length of 157 meters to traverse. A brisk 20-minute hike is required to reach this breathtaking treetop pathway.

A word of note: Poring Hot Springs is a popular public destination, especially on weekends and public holidays, so do expect the company of many visitors and locals. For the Canopy Walkway, travelers should possess a moderate level of physical fitness.

The journey continues as we make our way to Sandakan, a scenic 4-hour drive covering approximately 205 kilometers to the east. Upon arrival at My Nature Resort in the late afternoon, you’ll be warmly welcomed and checked into your accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is yours to savor at your leisure.

As the clock strikes 6:00 PM, prepare to be amazed at the “Flying Squirrel” platform, where you’ll witness these remarkable creatures in action, adding an enchanting touch to your day.

Following a delightful dinner, an optional guided night walk awaits, taking you through our nature boardwalk nestled alongside the Sepilok Protected Forest Reserve. My Nature Resort boasts a unique 1,500-foot-long structure with ups and downs for your exploration before the night descends. The guided night walk will be led by our in-house guide, and its timing can be customized based on weather conditions. If you’re inclined, don’t forget to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in our specially designed pool that offers captivating views of the surrounding rainforest.

The day kicks off with a mesmerizing morning river cruise, commencing at 6:00 AM, as we journey upstream along the Kinabatangan River. Our destination is the enchanting Kelenanap oxbow lake, a sanctuary teeming with a rich variety of birds and wildlife. This immersive experience offers you the chance to observe nature’s vibrant colors coming to life with the rising sun.

After this captivating cruise, we return for a nourishing breakfast. The morning continues with an educational tour, led by our in-house naturalist, along the Hornbill Boardwalk at the lodge. This guided experience unveils the hidden treasures of the rainforest, bringing to light the unique flora and fauna that call this jungle home.

Following lunch, you have the option to engage in the in-house Orangutan Talk activity, deepening your understanding of these incredible primates and the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving their habitat. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with another river cruise, a chance to encounter more of Borneo’s exotic wildlife, or you can opt for leisurely activities, allowing you to embrace the tranquility of this magnificent natural setting.

The night is spent at the Sukau Rainforest Lodge, immersed in the heart of this remarkable ecosystem.