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SANDAKAN

SANDAKAN

Gateway to extraordinary wildlife and eco-tourism .
Once Sabah ’ s capital , Sandakan was heavily bombed during World War II and while much was destroyed , a scattering of religious relics and stunning colonial mansions can be seen . It is however , the nearby attractions which provide most interest , including the worldfamous Sepilok Orang-Utan Sanctuary , where visitors can watch these adorable animals close up in their natural habitat . A boardwalk leads to a viewing gallery and feeding platform where rangers feed the apes twice a day . Also close by is the Rainforest Discovery Centre within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve , where you can stroll through the rainforest or along the canopy walkway . It ’ s a great vantage point for spotting some of the 250 species of tropical birds that call the forest home . Wildlife can also be spotted when you travel along the Kinabatangan River during our Sandakan Wildlife tour .
Standard room
1 night escorted tour from £ 399pp
BILIT RAINFOREST LODGE
UNIQUE Bilit , Sandakan
This 24 room lodge , which nestles along the banks of the Kinabatangan River , offers comfort without compromising the local environment . Built largely from local hardwood material , the lodge is designed to allow visitors to experience the best of the unique wildlife . Facilities at the lodge include a restaurant and lounge , with WiFi available in the restaurant .
SANDAKAN WILDLIFE
Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve
1 NIGHT ESCORTED TOUR DAY 1 Kota Kinabalu / Sandakan
Early morning flight to Sandakan and travel onwards by road to the Rainforest Discovery Centre , which is situated within the famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve . During the visit you ’ ll learn about nature in the area and have a chance to walk on a suspension bridge and enjoy the Canopy Walk . Later , proceed by road to Bilit Village within the Kinabatangan area ( about 2 hours drive ) followed by a short boat trip to the lodge . In the late afternoon enjoy a river cruise in search of wildlife . If lucky , you may spot the bizarre looking proboscis monkeys .
DAY 2 Sandakan / Kota Kinabalu
After breakfast transfer to the Sepilok Orang-Utan Sanctuary , where orphaned and captive orang-utans are rehabilitated in preparation for a return to the wild . Join a guide for a stroll along a boardwalk through the lush jungle to the feeding platform where you will hopefully catch a glimpse of these lovable creatures as they are fed milk and bananas . Continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which looks after rescued bears within an enclosed forest . Later , transfer back to Sandakan Airport for your onward journey .
Getting there : The flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan takes around 45 minutes .
Premier recommend : Immersing yourself in Borneo ’ s wildlife before or after a beach stay .
Best time to go : March to October are considered the best months for travel as November to February can bring more rain . However , rainforest areas can be unpredictable so rain can occur at any time , even if just a short sharp downpour .
Canopy Walk & Suspension Bridge visit your travel agent or call 08444 937 444 • www . premierholidays . co . uk
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Departures : Daily from Kota Kinabalu for a minimum of two passengers .
Accommodation : In standard rooms at Bilit Rainforest Lodge . Accommodation is simple with en suite hot shower / toilet .
Meals : Full board .
Tour price : The price shown includes return flights from Kota Kinabalu , transfers to and from Sukau , entrance fees , accommodation and services of an English speaking guide .
This tour is not recommended for the less mobile . Direct flights between KL and Sandakan are also available .
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