ALTERNATIVES TO BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE

 

Not everyone can or wants to spend a fortune at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL). Luckily, there are several other amazing rainforest experiences around Lahad Datu that offer authentic encounters with Borneo’s wildlife — from affordable research stays to reforestation zones and emerging eco-lodges.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve – Mud Volcano & Wildlife Encounters

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is unique for its mud volcano area, which turns into a wildlife playground in the late afternoon and evening. On the way to the reserve, you’ll pass some stretches of palm oil plantation, so the scenery may not appear as majestic or mystical as Danum Valley. That said, the experience inside the park can be magical. Guests often report seeing an abundance of animals and birds — though, as in all of Borneo, wildlife sightings depend on timing and luck.

We haven’t personally stayed at Tabin yet, but our guests have enjoyed it. Some called it a highlight of their trip; others mentioned that sightings vary from visit to visit. It’s an excellent choice if you’re keen on a mix of comfort, accessibility, and a touch of the wild.

Danum Valley – The Classic Rainforest Experience

There’s something special about Danum Valley — a sense of stillness and primeval beauty that stays with you long after you leave. Within the Danum Valley Conservation Area, there are two very different accommodation options:

Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL)

The Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers high-end comfort in the middle of the jungle. With its luxurious chalets, fine dining, and exclusive guided experiences, it’s often considered one of the world’s most memorable rainforest stays. The rates are high, but guests consistently tell us it’s worth every ringgit for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Over the years, almost all of our guests have returned happy — except for one elderly couple who weren’t thrilled about the staff mowing the grass during the day. They were, however, very pleased with the guided jungle treks!

Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC)

For a more affordable and research-oriented stay, Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) is ideal. Originally designed as a research station, it now welcomes visitors who appreciate nature, simplicity, and science. The facilities are basic but clean — think research dorms and simple chalets rather than resort comfort. What you get in exchange is priceless: access to pristine rainforest, great trails, and the chance to meet researchers and rangers.

At DVFC, visitors can explore the forest on guided treks, climb the 30m observation tower, or cool off in the Segama River. Rangers aren’t always available, but some trails can be explored independently. Wildlife sightings depend on patience, silence, and luck — the rainforest here is dense and alive, yet its creatures are masters of camouflage. It’s a true wilderness experience for naturalists, photographers, and adventurous travellers.

Bukit Piton – Reforestation & Wild Orangutans

Just north of Danum Valley lies Bukit Piton Forest Reserve — once heavily logged, now a reforestation success story. It’s one of Sabah’s most important habitats for wild orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus morio). Since 2007, more than 300,000 trees have been planted by WWF Malaysia, the Sabah Forestry Department, and NGOs like SynBorneo (formerly Brothers Cycling). Today, you can witness orangutans nesting in the regenerated canopy and hear hornbills echo through the valley — living proof that the forest can heal when given a chance.

Visits here can be arranged through HAK’s Travel & Tours as part of our conservation and reforestation experiences.

Taliwas & Kawag – Emerging Eco Options

Taliwas Forest Reserve and the now-closed Kawag Danum Rainforest Lodge lie within the buffer zone of the Ulu Segama–Malua Forest Reserve. Taliwas offers picnic areas, jungle trails, and a natural hot spring — perfect for day trips or overnight camping for those who prefer a back-to-nature experience. Kawag, once an eco-lodge option near Danum, is currently closed until further notice.

Conclusion

Choosing between Tabin and Danum Valley depends on your travel style and expectations. Tabin is great for accessible wildlife experiences and birdwatching, while Danum Valley offers deeper immersion into ancient primary rainforest. For budget travellers, Danum Valley Field Centre and Taliwas provide excellent alternatives. And if you’re drawn to conservation work, Bukit Piton gives you the rare chance to contribute to orangutan habitat restoration.