Tabin had been declared a wildlife reserve due to the large numbers of animal species inhabiting its forest, including several which are highly endangered. With a protected forest area of 120,500 hectres, Tabin plays an important role as a dedicated ground for the breeding of endangered wildlife and protected mammals in Sabah.
It is no wonder that Tabin has been heralded as one of the finest wildlife viewing areas in Borneo. The three largest mammals of Sabah, namely Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Tembadau are all found within Tabin. Tabin also is home to all 8 species of hornbills in Sabah and over 220 species birdlife.
What do I get to do?
Listen to sweet sounds of nature with a good dose of wildlife spotting including pygmy elephants. Jungle treks to the mud volcano and waterfall.
Adventure rating and remarks
2 - break a sweat with some of the treks.
Cost (1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009) Rates are nett & per pax
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Duration
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Tour Name
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Lodges
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Eco-tented Platform
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Full Day
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Tabin Wildlife Mud Volcano
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**210
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-
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-
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-
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| |
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Twin Share
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Extra Pax
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Twin Share
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Extra Pax
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2D1N
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Tabin Wildlife Encounter
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711
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383
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475
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280
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3D2N
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Tabin Wildlife Observation and Nature
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1010
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605
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673
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405
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Extension Nite A- with meals and night activity
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330
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245
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220
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180
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Extension Nite B - with breakfast only
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210
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125
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100
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60
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** Accommodation type not applicable for day visit
Itinerary - 3D/2N Tabin Wildlife Observation and Nature
Day 01
Transfer from Lahad Datu to Tabin Wildlife Reserve on gravel road. Journey to this largest wildlife reserve in Malaysia takes about 1 hour. Upon arrival, register and check into the charming Borneon timber bungalow of Tabin Wildlife Resort 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, a variety of birds, insects and even small mammals can be sighted quite easily within the resort.
In the afternoon, visit the Lipad mud volcano which serves as a mineral salt lick for wildlife. After trekking through the jungle for twenty minutes, arrive at the elevated bare area of the mud volcano known to be frequented by deers, bearded pigs, elephants and birds. Try to identify the multitude of animal footprints here. Those adventurous can experiment the effect of the volcanic mud said to be responsible for 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. (L,D)
Day 02
You may opt to join the early morning bird walk (not included in package) as Tabin has a rich collection of about 300 bird species. After breakfast, trek through the lush green jungle known for its rich diversity of plants and animal species to 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. (B,L, D)
Day 03
After breakfast, 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 or simply listen to the sound of nature before saying good bye to Tabin. 2pm transfer back to Lahad Datu (B)
What to bring: Insect repellent, leech socks, long sleeve shirts and long pants, short pants, raincoat, sun hat, swim wear, comfortable trekking shoes (two pairs needed),slippers, torch light, water bottle & personal toiletries.
Accommodation
Total 20 units of jungle lodges (10 units River Lodges, 10 units Hill Lodges)
Total 6 units of Eco-tented platforms (ETP)
Lodges (River and Hill)
10 units of authentic Borneo timber bungalows with standard floor area (17.5 ft X 17.5 ft)
- Each housing a twin-bedded or double-bedded room with en-suite bathroom, hot water shower, private balcony overlooking Lipad river or hills and ceiling fan
- Accommodates up to 3 pax per lodge
- Located along Lipad river or along the hills
- Linked by an inter-connecting timber board walk to the Sunbird Café
Eco-tented platform
- Standard Size : 16’ x 16’ – max 4 pax (3 units)
- Large Size : 20’ x 20’ – max 6 pax (3 units)
- Common shower room & toilets
- Mosquito netting and mattresses provided
Sunbird cafe
- Accommodate up to 80 guests
- Local and western cuisine
- Does not serve pork
- Set meals and a la carte
- Free flow of tea and coffee
What does it include?
Scheduled return transfer Lahad Datu/Tabin/Lahad Datu, meals as stated, guided tours and activities, accommodation, entry permit.
What does it exclude?
Flight tickets
Best time to visit
Tabin can be visited all year round.
Getting here
The gateway to Tabin is the Lahad Datu airport in Sabah. Lahad Datu airport is accessible via an internal flight (55 mins) from the Kota Kinabalu (KK) International Airport in Sabah. Many countries fly direct to KK. You can check www.airasia.com or www.mas.com.my for more details on flight schedules.
Lahad Datu Airport is 10minutes drive to Tabin WIldlife office in town.
Recommended Flights:
BKI-Lahad Datu (F50) MH3010 0700/0755
Lahad Datu-BKI (F50) MH3023 1725/1820
Responsible Tourism practices
- In planning Tabin as an eco- tourist destination, care has been taken to achieve a balance between human comfort and the natural environment so that they co-exist harmoniously. Development has been mindful of the protection and conservation of nature as a priority.
- All programs and activities will have minimal impact on nature resources, and the facilities are sustainable.
- Promotes awareness on the cultural diversity of Sabah through locally hired staff, building design and décor, products sold and food served.
- Supports local businesses and attractions by providing information to guests about other attractions in Sabah.
- Regular dialogs and meetings with adjacent plantation owners, NGO’s operating in the area and local District Office to keep abreast with local development and activities.
- Low-density development. The construction has largely been from locally sourced timber. Trees and other natural features (such as rivers, etc) have been maintained.
- Tourism activities in the local area keeps an ongoing check on any illegal poaching activity.
- Tourists are briefed by guides about forest etiquette (to minimise impact on wildlife).
- Nesting boxes and insect traps are placed around the café to enhance the lodge habitat for wildlife.
- There are an estimated 25-50 highly endangered Sumatran Rhinoceros left in Sabah. They are only distributed in Tabin and Danum valley. Tabin is also host to rhinoceros research progammes.