Top 7 Birdwatcher’s Paradise in Borneo

Written by Aleena Che Ramli

Interested in getting up close and personal with some of the brilliant birds of Borneo? Pick a date and plan your trip to Sabah, one of Malaysian state in northern Borneo. It is one of the nation’s popular wildlife hotspots, encompassing mountain ranges, lowland rainforest, swamps and coastlines that is home to as many as 667 of amazing bird species. Bird enthusiast all over the globe are draws to Sabah, with the promise of catching a glimpse some of the rare species that will dazzle you with their brightly coloured plumage and even startle you with their distinctive cries. And most of the species that breed in the north of Asia, migrate south in September-November to Borneo and will return in March-May. While, species that breed in Australia will migrate north in April-May and return in August-September. Therefore, it is quite a handful of bird species available for birders all year round. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your binoculars and camera, check out these 7 amazing birds hotspots that will take your breath away.

1. Kinabalu National Park

One of the premier birding destinations in Borneo is the Kinabalu National Park, home to many of Borneo’s endemic species. The Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage covers a huge 75,370 hectare of protected area, encompasses a range of habitats from lowland rainforest to sub-alpine, creating an ideal environment for dazzling array of birds. The riches bird community can be found particularly in the lowland rainforest, especially at the Poring Hot Spring region. Watch flocks of birds like the Ashy Drongo, the Short-tailed Magpies, Chestnut-crested Yuhina, several flycatchers and babblers among the treetop. The highlights include the endemic Golden Naped Barbet, Whitehead’s Trogon and the White-fronted Falconet – the world’s smallest raptor.

2. Kinabatangan River

Popular among nature lovers and photographers, the Kinabatangan River is known as one of the best places to observe bird species and wildlife. Cruise along Sabah’s longest river and spot hornbills, egrets, eagles and storks, including the impressive Rhinoceros Hornbill. The lower Kinabatangan region is among the richest wildlife areas in Southeast Asia, with tributaries, oxbow lakes, and limestone outcrops like Gomantong Caves, where millions of bats and swiftlets create a spectacular natural show at sunset.

3. Danum Valley

Danum Valley protects one of the last large areas of primary rainforest in Sabah, covering roughly 438 km². It’s a haven for birdwatchers, with pittas, barbets, kingfishers and all eight species of Borneo’s hornbills. Look out for the rare Helmeted Hornbill and the melodious White-crowned Shama. Visit the canopy walkway for a bird’s-eye view and breathtaking encounters 27 metres above the ground.

4. Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)

Located in Sandakan, the Rainforest Discovery Centre is one of the most accessible birdwatching spots in Borneo. With over 300 bird species, it’s famous for its steel canopy walkway stretching 350 metres long and 25 metres high. Spot the Blue-headed Pitta, Kingfishers, Red-bearded Bee-eater, Rhinoceros Hornbill and the iconic Bornean Bristlehead. The RDC also hosts the annual Borneo Bird Festival, celebrating birdlife enthusiasts from around the world.

5. Tabin Wildlife Reserve

In Lahad Datu, Tabin Wildlife Reserve spans vast lowland dipterocarp forest and salt licks attracting over 300 bird species. It’s one of the best places to spot all eight species of hornbills and nine endemic birds like the Blue-banded Pitta, Bornean Frogmouth, and White-crowned Shama. Its open forest canopy provides ideal visibility for photography and observation.

6. Mount Silam

Standing 884 metres above sea level, Mount Silam overlooks Darvel Bay and Lahad Datu. This offbeat birding site within the Sapagaya Forest Reserve hosts numerous Bornean species like the Moustache Babbler, Little Spiderhunter, Green Imperial Pigeon and White-crowned Shama. Enjoy panoramic views from the Tower of Heaven while eagles soar above the lush canopy.

7. Bukit Piton

Just outside Lahad Datu, Bukit Piton offers both orangutan encounters and birdwatching. Thanks to reforestation efforts by WWF Malaysia and Sabah Forestry, 177 bird species have been recorded here, including 11 IUCN-listed species such as the Helmeted Hornbill, Storm’s Stork and Wallace Hawk Eagle. Take a guided 4WD ride to explore the thriving ecosystem and enjoy a truly off-the-beaten-path birding experience.

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