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Set within tropical rainforest, the Sukau Rainforest Lodge is one of the best options on the river, boasting an idyllic and tranquil setting. One of the first area lodges designed on ecotourism principles in 1995, it continues to embraces conservation, community development and sustainable tourism as part of its green policies. With a focus on empowering the local community, Sukau has worked to increase the number of local households that have access to clean water, have planted over 5,000 trees along the lower Kinabatangan River, and has helped thousands of area villagers receive medical and dental treatment.

All 40 rooms have air conditioning, mosquito netting and en suite bathrooms with hot water. Other facilities on offer include an open dining area, library, and cozy lounge area with cane and bamboo sofas. There is also a hanging garden facing all the rooms and an open sun-deck which doubles as a candlelit eating area at night.

The lodge has been awarded status as a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World — one of only a handful in Southeast Asia. It is the only lodge that uses electric motors on all river boats, and has a great range of facilities for such a remote area, including a plunge pool and relaxing, well designed communal areas. Aside from the excellent wildlife spotting, the resort offers foot massages, nightly wildlife talks by the in-house expert, and some lovely trails to explore nearby.

OUR RATING: Simple