Accessible only by boat, the Abai Jungle Lodge is located on the banks of the Kinabatangan River. An excellent location for wildlife spotting, the simple stilted lodge is just an hour from Sandakan. A stay here offers chances to spot proboscis monkeys, long tailed macaques, orangutans, hornbills, crocodiles or the shy pygmy elephant. The watchtowers around the lodge are ideal for twitchers on the lookout for the colourful birds of Borneo.

With a family friendly feel, the lodge offers a selection of chalets and twin rooms which blend into the jungle surroundings. Bright and airy, six of the rooms offer air-con whilst the others have ceiling fans. All rooms have private en-suite bathrooms with hot water. Biodegradable toiletries reduce the environmental impact and rainwater is collected for use within the lodge. The lodge also donates money from every stay to the Abai Homestay Development Fund to help living conditions in the local community.

Set on the waterfront, the restaurant serves up a range of western dishes and Malaysian specialities cooked fresh using local produce. The outdoor deck is great for lounging and the shared veranda outside the rooms is also ideal for wildlife watching morning, noon or night.

The Abai Jungle Lodge is incredibly peaceful as there are very few lodges in this area. A wonderful option for those not wanting to overindulge and looking for a special setting on the Kinabatangan River.