River Junkie – fuel the addiction
River Junkie – fuel the addiction

River Junkie Tours Sdn. Bhd. — licensed Kota Kinabalu tour operator (KPL/LN5696), MATTA member, running wildlife safaris, Mount Kinabalu climbs and cave trips across Sabah and Sarawak since 2008.

Our Contact

Sunrise from Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Home › Tours ›

Kinabatangan River

7D6N Sabah Adventure (Mount Kinabalu, Sepilok & Kinabatangan river)

7 days
6 nights
Departs Kota Kinabalu
Varied
Price fromRM 5,750
twin share private room, per person, min 2 pax (Laban Rata night is dormitory basis)
Duration7 days
6 nights on the road
DepartsKota Kinabalu
Departs daily, subject to min 2 pax
Groupmin 2 pax
Enquire about this trip

About this trip

The ultimate adventure & nature lovers trip! Start by stretching your legs in Kinabalu Park before making your ascent to the summit of Mount Kinabalu (weather permitting!). After your climb, relax in the warm waters of Poring Hot Springs before continuing East to Sepilok where you will visit the orangutan & sunbear sanctuaries. Finish your adventure with 2 nights at the wildlife rich Kinabatangan River in search of proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, orangutans and more. If you would like to fly in 1 or 2 days earlier to spend some extra time around Kota Kinabalu or extend your stay to include nights in Danum Valley or a trip to Turtle Island then just let us know and we can help arrange airport transfers, accommodation and itinerary add-ons for you.

Highlights

  • 2am summit push by headtorch to Low's Peak
  • Relax in the Poring hot springs after the climb
  • Guided visit to Sepilok orangutan & sun bear sanctuaries
  • Dusk river cruise for proboscis monkeys & macaques
  • Optional add-on: Gomantong caves & canopy walk

    • Trip facts

    Kinabatangan River, Mount Kinabalu, Poring, Sepilok
    Hot Springs, Jungle walks, Multi-day hikes, Night Walk, River Cruise, Summit Climb, Wildlife
    7 days of travel
    Physical difficulty 4 / 5
    Departs from Kota Kinabalu
    Minimum 2 pax per departure
    Rates: The above pricing is valid for tours finishing before 31st Dec 2026
    WhatsApp us
    Send an enquiry

    Day by day

    Day 1

    Kota Kinabalu - Kinabalu Park

    The adventure will normally begin with a pick-up between 12 - 1pm in Kota Kinabalu (depending on accommodation and other guests) and proceed to Kinabalu Park traversing the Crocker Range. We recommend you have lunch before pick up as it can take 2 - 2.5 hours to reach Kinabalu Park. Upon arrival at Kinabalu Park (1,520m), we will register you for the climb the following day; you are then free to spend the late afternoon exploring Kinabalu park at your own leisure (unguided) before having dinner at Balsam Cafe and getting an early night before your climb. (D)

    Day 2

    Kinabalu Park HQ - Laban Rata Resthouse

    Wake-up for a buffet breakfast at Liwagu restaurant, meet your mountain guide and our driver around 8:30am, collect your packed lunch for the day and wait for your transfer to Timpohon Gate (1,829m). From here you will begin your climb to Laban Rata (3,270m), your accommodation for the evening. Along the route to your accommodation you will pass through four different elevation zones with notable vegetation and mammals. Keep your eye out for the famous pitcher-plants or the cheeky Kinabalu Mountain shrews, endemic to Mount Kinabalu. The average time to get to Laban Rata (Panar Laban) will take about 5 hours, this may vary depending on stops and your fitness level. Upon arrival you will check into your accommodation for the evening and rest before your buffet dinner where you can enjoy the sunset from above the clouds. Once finished, head to bed for an early night’s sleep after a long day of climbing. (B, L, D)

    Day 3

    Laban Rata - Mount Kinabalu summit - Poring Hot Springs

    Depending on the time your guide has told you, wake-up around 2:00 am to have a quick supper at Laban Rata before continuing the climb to the summit of Mount Kinabalu (4095m). Your head torch will guide you through the dark as you make your way before sunrise. Reach Low’s Peak around the time the sun begins to make an appearance (weather dependent). Congratulations! You’ve successfully reached the highest point between the Himalayas and New Guinea, also the most prominent peak in S.E. Asia. With your guide, begin your descent back to Laban Rata as you enjoy the views of the Crocker Range plateaus, valleys and nearby villages. Upon arrival to Laban rata, enjoy a well-deserved breakfast before checking out and meeting with your guide to begin the descent back to Timpohon gate to meet your River Junkie driver. Bid farewell to your mountain guide and have lunch at Liwagu restaurant while waiting for the transfer from Park Headquarters to Poring Hotsprings, transfers are available at 2.30pm & 6pm. Upon arrival, you can check into your accommodation and relax then enjoy dinner at Rainforest Restaurant before heading for a well-deserved rest. (Early Supper, B, L, D) Last entry to the outdoor hot tubs is at 2pm and last entry to the indoor hot tubs and canopy walks is at 3pm but don't worry, you will have time to explore Poring tomorrow morning before continuing your journey to Sepilok.

    Day 4

    Poring Hot Springs - Sepilok

    This morning you can wake up in your own time, enjoy breakfast in the Rainforest restaurant and then explore Poring hot springs at your own leisure (unguided) until 12.30pm. Your entry fee into Poring is included in your package but you will need to pay small entry fees for some of the activities inside (RM5 - RM10). Our West to East shuttle will meet you at reception at 12.30pm for onward transfer to Sepilok, stopping off at Sabah Tea Plantation along the way for lunch (own expense). On arrival settle into your accommodation and have dinner at the in-house restaurant or take a stroll down the road to explore other options (dinner at own expense) (B)

    Day 5

    Sepilok - Kinabatangan river

    Pick up from your hotel in Sepilok at 8.45am. Your guide will first take you to the orangutan sanctuary to watch the younger, playful orangutans in the nursery before catching the 10am feeding. Around 11am, head over to the sunbear sanctuary to watch the sunbears (the world’s smallest species of bear!) from raised walkways. Continue on to the Kinabatangan river for lunch and check-in to Hornbill Lodge. After lunch and an orientation to the lodge, you’ll join your first boat cruise in search of wildlife and birdlife along the banks of the Kinabatangan River into your river. Return to the lodge for dinner and then choose to either relax at the lodge or join the night walk in search of nocturnal animals. (B, L, D)

    Day 6

    Kinabatangan river

    As day dawns, join your second river cruise and watch as the river comes to life. Keep an eye out for bird life including Borneo’s endemic hornbills and have another chance to spot multiple species of primates. Return to the lodge for breakfast then join your guide for a jungle walk looking for signs of orangutans such as nests in the trees or even orangutans themselves if you are lucky! Enjoy lunch overlooking the river and a chance to rest before joining your afternoon river cruise in search of more of this area's unique wildlife. After dinner, join your guide for a night walk or add-on a night cruise in search of nocturnal wildlife along the river bank. Meals - B, L, D Optional add-on: night cruise: RM80 per person

    Day 7

    Kinabatangan river - Sandakan

    Wake up early and join your guide for a final dawn river cruise and more wildlife spotting opportunities. Return to the lodge for breakfast then get dropped off in Sandakan or Sepilok between 10.30 - 11.30am or you may take a flight from Sandakan airport departing at 1pm or later.

    Have extra time on your last day?

    Have extra time on your last day?

    Stop off for a guided tour of Gomantong caves on your way back to Sandakan, enjoy lunch in Sepilok then visit Sabah's longest canopy walk at the Sepilok Rainforest Discovery Centre with us after check-out! This add-on costs RM300 per adult and is suitable for guests staying overnight in Sepilok or Sandakan or taking a flight leaving Sandakan airport from 5.30pm onwards. Just ask for more details at the time of booking! If you would like a transfer to Lahad Datu, Semporna or to add on 2 nights in Danum Valley after this tour please just let us know.

    Where you'll stay

    Mount Kinabalu seen from Kinabalu Park, Sabah

    Kinabalu Park Accommodation

    Kinabalu Park, Sabah
    Kinabalu Park headquarters sits at around 1,520m above sea level and is reached via a 2 hour drive from Kota Kinabalu This UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is managed by Sabah Parks. Accommodation in the park ranges from simple twin rooms with shared bathroom facilities (Rock Twin) to luxurious 3-bedroom lodges.
  • Rock Twin Share2 single beds per room with communal bathrooms and a comfortable shared living area
  • Hill LodgeChalets with 1 double or 2 single beds and an ensuite bathroom.
  • Liwagu Suite1 king-size bed on a mezzanine level with a sitting area underneath. Attached to Liwagu restaurant.
  • Premium upgradesNepenthes Suite, Nepenthes Villa, Peak Lodge and other premium 2 to 3 bedroom lodges are available on request and subject to additional charges.
    • FacilitiesAll bathrooms have hot showers and standard amenities such as hand soap, shampoo, body wash and towels. On site Liwagu Restaurant serving Western and Asian cuisine open 6.30am to 10pm. Water refill stations available.
    Good to knowRooms booked as part of our 3D2N climbing package are allocated on a run-of-house basis and include Rock Twin, Hill Lodge and Liwagu Suite. Upgrades are available on request. Please let us know at time of booking if you need a double bed or 2 single beds.
    A closer look
    Laban Rata Resthouse

    Laban Rata Resthouse

    Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
    Laban Rata Resthouse sits at 3272m on the way to the summit and is reached after a 4 to 6 hour climb from Timpohon gate. Climbers can enjoy hot buffet meals, comfortable dormitories with shared bathrooms and limited private ensuite rooms. Beds are tied to the daily climb permit quota and sell out months ahead - book early to avoid disappointment!
  • Dormitory bedUnheated dormitories sleep 4 to 14 people and beds are allocated on arrival at Laban Rata. Communal bathroom facilities.
  • Private twin room2 single beds and an ensuite bathroom. Unheated, bedding & towels are provided.
  • Private 6-person room3 sets of bunk beds and an ensuite bathroom. Unheated, bedding & towels are provided.
    • FacilitiesRestaurant with buffet and a la carte service. Snacks, drinks & limited souvenir items available for sale. Solar heated showers (not always hot).
    Good to knowGenerator hours are 5pm to 8pm and 1am to 3am. There is no wifi and limited mobile signal. Temperatures can fall to around 5 degrees. Bring layered warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a warm hat, a headlamp with spare batteries and grippy trekking shoes.
    A closer look
    Exterior of a Kelicap twin-share cabin at Poring Hot Springs, Sabah

    Poring Hot Springs

    Poring, Sabah
    The lowland corner of Kinabalu Park, about 40 km east of the park headquarters and only around 400 m above sea level, so it is warm and humid where the HQ is cool. Accommodation options include a 20-bed hostel with 2-4 beds per room, twin ensuite rooms and larger private lodges.
  • Serendit Hostel2 or 4 person rooms with communal bathrooms & a communal living room
  • Kelicap Twin2 single beds per room with an attached bathroom.
  • Premium Lodges1 to 3 bedroom lodges - please enquire for upgrade costs
    • FacilitiesRainforest Restaurant serving Western, Asian and local dishes, open 6.30am to 10pm. Hot sulphur springs piped to open-air and indoor tubs. Canopy walkway, butterfly farm, and trails to Kipungit and Langanan waterfalls.
    Good to knowTransportation between Mount Kinabalu and Poring is provided as part of your 2 or 3 night Mount Kinabalu climbing package. The same entry ticket is valid for Kinabalu Park and entry into Poring, however small charges apply for most of the activities in the park, ranging from around RM2 to RM20 per person.
    A closer look
    Tanini Sepilok guesthouse exterior lit at dusk, Sepilok, Sabah

    Tanini Sepilok

    Sepilok, Sandakan, Sabah
    Tanini Sepilok is a small guesthouse set in gardens walking distance from Sepilok Rainforest Discovery Centre and a short drive from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Chosen for its simple ensuite air-conditioned rooms and ease of access to the Rainforest Discovery Centre for those arriving earlier in the day.
  • Superior roomDouble or twin beds, air-conditioned, en-suite bathroom.
  • Deluxe roomDouble or twin beds, air-conditioned, en-suite bathroom with open-air concept
    • FacilitiesAir-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms, plus an air-conditioned dormitory with shared bathrooms. On-site restaurant serving breakfast (included in your stay) and a la carte meals throughout the day.
    Good to knowSepilok is roughly 30 minutes from Sandakan airport and about 25 minutes from Sandakan town. Room type is allocated at the time of booking, so let us know at the time of enquiry whether you would prefer a double, a twin or dormitory beds.
    A closer look
    Hornbill Lodge

    Hornbill Lodge

    Kinabatangan River, Sabah
    A small riverside lodge on the lower Kinabatangan at Bilit, wholly owned and run by River Junkie Tours. Guests stay in river-facing chalets with private balconies, air-conditioning, ceiling fans and ensuite hot-water rain showers. The lodge manages 30 acres of private riverfront for wildlife, replanting forest, maintaining salt licks and restoring elephant grassland. In addition to daily river cruises, guests also have the opportunity to explore the rainforest on foot on a network of jungle trails only accessible from Hornbill lodge.
  • DormitoryShared dormitory beds, available until 5 November 2026. After that date dormitories are replaced by Family River Chalets and only private rooms are offered.
  • River ChaletPrivate chalet on the riverfront with 1 King size bed & 1 single bed in each room. Sleeps up to 4 people with an extra bed.
  • Family River ChaletPrivate chalet on the riverfront with 1 King size bed & 1 set of bunk beds in each room. Sleeps up to 5 people with an extra bed.
    • FacilitiesLicensed bar and restaurant with river views. Private jetty for river cruises. Jungle trails with complimentary rubber boots. Information corner on local flora and fauna. Free onsite parking.
    Good to knowStarlink wifi in communal areas only, and there is no mobile phone signal. The lodge is built into a hillside, so there is no step-free access to the rooms: the nearest are 10 to 20 steps up and the furthest around 85. Tell us at booking if you need a room close to the restaurant. No plastic bottled water is sold, so bring a refillable bottle. No seafood is served, as there is no sustainable local supply.
    A closer look

    What's included

  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Transfers Kota Kinabalu – Kinabalu Park - Sepilok – Kinabatangan – Sandakan (other destinations easily accessible, just ask for advice)
  • Accommodation: 1 night Kinabalu Park, 1 night Laban Rata, 1 night Poring hot springs, 1 night Sepilok, 2 nights Kinabatangan river lodge.
  • Entry fees: Kinabalu Park, Poring hot springs, Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sunbear sanctuary
  • Mountain guide for ascent / descent, nature guide for Sepilok & Kinabatangan river
  • Climbing permit & Sabah Parks insurance

    • Not included

  • Tourism tax: RM10 per private room per night (payable in cash at check-in)
  • Climbing certificate: RM10 (optional)
  • Flights / transfers other than stated
  • Drinks
  • Meals other than stated
  • Poring hot springs activity fees: Canopy walk / butterfly garden / Hot tub RM10 each, Slide Pool RM5
  • Camera fees - Note on Camera Use at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: For any camera with zoom lens from 100 to 400mm, video camera or other video recording equipment for personal use are chargeable at RM10.00 per unit. For any camera (fixed-lens – 400mm and above) or any film-making equipment are chargeable at RM1,000.00 per unit.

    • Prices

    Min 2 paxRM 5750From RM5750 per person
    Pricing notesLaban Rata private room upgrade, per person (twin share only, subject to availability) — RM 375 Optional Climbing certificate - RM 10 Optional add-on: night cruise (day 6), per person — RM 80 Optional add-on: Gomantong caves + lunch in Sepilok + Sepilok RDC canopy walk after check-out, per adult — RM 300
    ChildrenFamilies with children: children below 16 are welcome to join the climb if they are mentally and physically ready, an additional Mount Kinabalu guide may be required depending on your group size and children's ages and additional guide fees may apply.
    Rate validityThe above pricing is valid for tours finishing before 31st Dec 2026

    Frequently asked questions

    How fit do I need to be for this trip?
    Climbing Mount Kinabalu requires a good level of fitness, as you will be climbing to an altitude of 4,095m. The Kinabatangan river portion involves some moderate exercise (walking on flat ground) but is suitable for all levels of fitness.
    Where does the tour start and finish?
    The adventure normally begins with a pick-up between 12 and 1pm from Kota Kinabalu city or the airport. On day 7 you are dropped off in Sandakan or Sepilok between 10.30 and 11.30am, or you may take a flight from Sandakan airport departing at 1pm or later.
    What accommodation is included?
    You have one night at Kinabalu Park, one night at Laban Rata, one night at Poring hot springs, one night in Sepilok and two nights at the Kinabatangan river lodge. The Laban Rata night is on a dormitory basis and the rest is in a private room. Accommodation may vary according to availability, and the photos provided are examples of the types used.
    What is included in the price?
    Meals as per the itinerary, all transfers from Kota Kinabalu through Kinabalu Park, Sepilok and Kinabatangan to Sandakan, your six nights of accommodation, and entry fees for Kinabalu Park, Poring hot springs, the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Sunbear sanctuary. You also have a mountain guide for the ascent and descent, a nature guide for Sepilok and the Kinabatangan river, and your climbing permit and Sabah Parks insurance.
    What extra costs should I budget for?
    Tourism tax of RM10 per private room per night is payable in cash at check-in, and the optional climbing certificate is RM10. Poring hot springs activity fees are RM10 each for the canopy walk, butterfly garden and hot tub, and RM5 for the slide pool. Flights and transfers other than those stated, drinks, meals other than stated and camera fees are also excluded.
    Can children join the climb?
    Children below 16 are welcome to join the climb if they are mentally and physically ready. An additional Mount Kinabalu guide may be required depending on your group size and the children's ages, and additional guide fees may apply.
    What should I bring?
    For Mount Kinabalu, please refer to our packing list. For the Kinabatangan river, bring binoculars, insect repellent, sunscreen, long sleeve shirts and long trousers, a raincoat, sun hat, swimwear, comfortable trekking shoes, a torch, a water bottle, personal toiletries and leech socks. Please also consult your physician for up to date advice on vaccinations, anti-malarials and any pre-existing medical conditions.

    Photos from this trip

    More trips like this one

    Kinabatangan River boat
    Kinabatangan River

    2D1N Kinabatangan River Experience (Hornbill Lodge)

    2 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 900
    View tour
    Kinabatangan Hornbill Lodge aerial
    Kinabatangan River

    3D2N Kinabatangan River Safari (Hornbill Lodge)

    3 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 1,300
    View tour
    Orangutan
    Kinabatangan River / Sepilok

    3D2N Sepilok & Kinabatangan River Safari (Hornbill Lodge)

    3 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 1,590
    View tour
    Bat exodus at Gomantong Caves, Sabah
    Kinabatangan River

    4D3N Kinabatangan River Safari with Gomantong caves bat exodus (Hornbill Lodge)

    4 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 2,190
    View tour
    Selingan Turtle Island
    Kinabatangan River / Sepilok / Turtle Island

    4D3N Turtle Island, Sepilok & Kinabatangan River Safari

    4 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 3,090
    View tour
    Aerial view of Selingan Turtle Island, Sabah
    Sepilok / Turtle Island

    2D1N Turtle Island (Selingan) & Sepilok sanctuaries

    2 days
    Departs Sandakan
    From RM 1,790
    View tour

    Ready to book, or still deciding?

    Tell us your dates and we will come back with availability, the total cost and honest advice — including when a different trip would suit you better.

    Getting between destinations: we also run private van and 4X4 transfers across Sabah and a daily Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan shuttle — ask us to add either to your trip.

    WhatsApp / phone: +60 11 1265 8581
    Email: info@river-junkie.com
    Hours: 8am–5pm, Monday to Sunday
    Office: Wisma Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

    ★ 4.7 / 5 from 288 traveller reviews on TripAdvisor