abai jungle lodge details
Style
A basic but comfortable, well maintained lodge.
Setting
Accessible only by boat, it takes about an hour from Sandakan along the Kinabatangan River to get there. The Lodge is also a restaurant, popular with the local village close by.
Accommodation & Facilities
The 24 rooms are of a nice size, with a ceiling fan (no air-conditioning), mosquito netting on the windows and a private bathroom with a hot shower. The walls and floors are polished wood and the ceilings painted white for a light overall effect.
A fabulous feature is the stilted wooden platforms that extend into the jungle for great wildlife viewing any time of the day, and inquisitive primates are known for coming right up to the rooms. The open air restaurant is a population lunch spot with locals and a great chance to meet them. There is also a bar. The lodge is generator run and although the electricity is 24 hours, it does sometimes cut out – adding to the authenticity and excitement of the trip we think.
Dining
The restaurant is out in the open and only hires local staff. Local produce is served including freshwater fish and prawns bought in from the local villages (one of the highlights of their eco program).
Activities
The area is renowned for its wildlife viewing possibilities and is a great way to get face to face with nature. Being on the Kinabatangan River, you can enjoy a boat trip here or even a night cruise in the light of fireflies.
Child Policy
Children welcome and this is a great place for kids to be introduced to the wildlife of Borneo.