2D1N Gomantong Cave & Kinabatangan River

Description

Gomantong Cave described by WWF as ’the best-managed edible birds’ nest cave in the world’, Gomantong Caves in the heartland of the Gomantong Rainforest Reserve have been the focus for birds’ nests for centuries.

Since the 13th century, Chinese traders have come to Sandakan in search of birds’ nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese and found nearly 100 metres up on the ceilings of the Gomantong Caves. Harvesters put their lives on the line literally, climbing networks of rattan ladders and ropes to get to the nests. The risky nature of nest collecting has only helped made the commodity a pricey one.

There are two cave complexes - Simud Hitam (Black Cave) soaring up to 90 metres high and the more accessible of the two, and Simud Putih (White Cave), where the more valuable nests are found. Simud Hitam is a 5 minute walk from the registration centre. A well-maintained boardwalk gives you easy access to do some exploring or watch the skilled harvesters at work.

The resident creatures of the caves include swiftlets (from which the nests are collected) and bats among others. Outside, other birds such as serpent eagles, bat hawks and kingfishers can be seen. You might even spot an orangutan or two. You will need to make prior arrangements for exploring the more challenging Simud Putih which calls for more serious caving.

Kinabatangan river is Sabah longest river that flows 560km.

Kinabatangan River, the longest  river of Borneo. The main reason for tourist to Bilit is to go cruising Kinabatangan river to watch wildlife. From Sandakan city, it is 2.5 hours drive to reach the Bilit.

You can for instance go for a walk in the area or maybe sit back and relax with a book on the porch. Late afternoon you'll sail off in search of wild animals. If you look up high and the trees, you'll see the monkeys looking down on you as they scurry about. Once the sun begins to set you'll sail back to the lodge for dinner.

Awakened by screeching gibbon monkeys and the typical sounds made by hornbills. Early in the morning, you'll continue your holiday as you sail towards nearby lakes where the animals on the shores will slowly come to life. You'll see otters, large lizards, crocodiles and of course very many monkeys. Later on in the morning you'll sail back to your lodge for breakfast.