Tabin Wildlife Reserve - Jungle Pure

Tour code: FD051

Tabin is Malaysia's larges wildlife reserve and famous for its large numbers of animals and birds inhabiting its jungle, many of which are endemic to Borneo, and endangered species. The four largest land mammals in Sabah can be found here (and with some luck spotted): The Borneo Pygmy Elephant, the Sumatran Rhino, the Tembadau (wild ox) and the Borneo Clouded Leopard It is no wonder that Tabin is heralded as one of the finest wildlife viewing area in Malaysia.

Itinerary (ex Lahad Datu)

Day 1 Meet at the Lahad Datu Office around noon time for transfer to the Tabin Wildlife Resort. Upon arrival, register and check into a charming Borneon timber bungalow which comes complete with private balcony, air-condition and hot water shower, a real luxury within the jungle. Enjoy the splendour of mother-nature and explore the vicinity of the resort. Built alongside the Lipad River and nestled within the rainforest you can already spot a variety of birds, insects and even small mammals.

In the afternoon meet your local nature interpreter and visit the Lipad mud volcano which serves as a mineral salt lick for wildlife. After trekking through the jungle for twenty minutes you arrive at an elevated bare area: the mud volcano. This spot is frequented by deer, bearded pigs, elephants and birds. Try to identify the multitude of animal footprints here. Those adventurous can experiment the effect of the volcanic mud, which is said to be responsible for a fine complexion... Walk up the observation tower and admire the contrasting landscape of the bare mud volcano area and its surrounding thick forest where birds are commonly sighted.

After dinner enjoy a slide presentation on Tabin’s uniqueness, followed by a trip to look out for nocturnal wildlife and birds. Remember to look up at the clear, dark sky of Tabin, identify the constellations above you, and make a wish or two.

Overnight in Chalets at the Tabin Wildlife Resort; meals: lunch, dinner

Day 2 After breakfast trek with your nature guide through the lush green jungle known for its rich diversity of plants and animal species and visit Lipad’s Waterfall. Take a dip in the natural pool and enjoy the refreshing splash coming down from the waterfall. Alternatively explore the surrounding vegetation or just relax. After lunch, free at leisure. You want opt to join the bird drive. (at own cost, to be organised at the resort at RM50 per person). After dinner yet another night activity to look out for more nocturnal wildlife and birds.

Overnight Tabin Wildlife Resort; meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 Wake up to the sounds of hornbills and Borneo gibbons. After breakfast you can opt to join the morning bird walk: Tabin has a rich collection of about 300 bird species. In the afternoon stroll to the nearby rock pool or river side where groups of macaques and other small mammals can sometimes be seen. Choose to take a dip in the river. After dinner another night activity to look for more nocturnal wildlife and birds.

Overnight Tabin Wildlife Resort; meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4 0700 After breakfast simply listen to the sound of nature before saying good bye to Tabin - tour ends with transfer out of Tabin to Lahad Datu airport. suggested flight MH3015: 1210h-1305h

Overnight: none; meals: breakfast and packed lunch

Inclusive of:

• All transfers in air conditioned vehicles
• All excursions as stated
• All meals as stated
• All entrance fees
• All accommodation
• English speaking tour guide throughout

Not included:

• Flight to and from Lahad Datu (this tour is ex Lahad Datu; return flight ca RM400 per person), other meals than stated, camera and video fees where applicable (Selingaan, Sepilok, Gomantong), tips and other personal expenses

Recommended Personal Gear

Travel as light as possible: casual, tropical attire is acceptable throughout; walking shoes, sandals, sun screen lotion, raingear, sun hat, torch light, binoculars, personal toiletries, insect repellent. 
 

Related features on this site:

Tabin
Danum Valley
Sandakan

Lush rainforest at Tabin

Face to face with the Borneo Pygmy Elephants

This fierce looking creature is actually a rather harmless caterpillar!

Bearded wild boar