Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise | Magical Sunset, Wildlife & Firefly Adventure
Experience the magic of Sabah’s waterways with the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise, a journey that combines adventure, wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Begin your afternoon with a scenic drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kawa Kawa in Kota Belud, immersing yourself in the lush countryside as anticipation builds for an unforgettable river adventure.
Upon arrival at the jetty, relax over a delightful Hi-Tea before stepping aboard the eco-friendly boat that will carry you through the tranquil Tempasuk and Rampayan Rivers, often called the “Little Kinabatangan” of Sabah.
Glide along calm waters as your guide introduces you to the diverse wildlife inhabiting the riverbanks. Keep your eyes open for exotic birds, playful monkeys, and other fascinating creatures thriving in their natural habitats.
Wander along mangrove trails on a guided forest walk, discover the delicate balance of the ecosystem, and participate in tree planting activities that contribute to the preservation of this unique environment.
As daylight fades, savor a traditional local dinner at the jetty restaurant before the highlight of the evening unfolds — the enchanting firefly cruise. Witness thousands of tiny lights flickering among the mangrove trees, creating a magical spectacle that feels like stepping into another world.
Whether it’s your first visit or a return to Sabah’s natural wonders, the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise promises an immersive experience, connecting you deeply with the rivers, forests, and wildlife of this extraordinary region.
Highlights
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Scenic River Journey: Glide along the tranquil Tempasuk and Rampayan Rivers, often called Sabah’s “Little Kinabatangan.”
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Wildlife Encounters: Spot exotic birds, playful monkeys, and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitats.
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Mangrove Exploration: Enjoy a guided forest walk and participate in tree planting activities to support conservation.
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Hi-Tea Experience: Relax upon arrival at the jetty with a refreshing Hi-Tea before beginning your river adventure.
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Local Dinner: Savor traditional Sabah cuisine at the jetty restaurant amidst a tropical setting.
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Firefly Evening Cruise: Witness thousands of fireflies illuminating the mangroves, creating a magical, unforgettable spectacle.
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Perfect for Nature Lovers: Capture the beauty of Sabah’s rivers, wildlife, and tropical scenery on this immersive tour.
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Unforgettable Sunset Views: Experience the warm glow of the sunset as it reflects on the calm river waters.
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Eco-Friendly Adventure: Travel responsibly while connecting with nature on the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to join the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise is between March and October, when the weather is generally dry, the rivers are calm, and wildlife activity is at its peak.
While the rainy season from November to February may bring occasional showers and slightly choppier waters, the firefly displays remain enchanting.
That said, planning your visit during the dry season ensures the smoothest and most memorable experience along Sabah’s waterways, as heavy rain or choppy rivers during the wet season may require rescheduling.
What to Wear
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Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, boat rides, and forest exploration.
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Swimwear or quick-dry clothing for river activities (optional).
- Light jacket or shawl for the evening cruise.
What to Bring
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Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect from the tropical sun.
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Insect repellent for forest and mangrove areas.
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Camera or GoPro to capture wildlife, river scenes, and fireflies.
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Water and light snacks for the afternoon journey.
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Waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry during river rides.
Important Notes
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Tour may be slightly adjusted during the rainy season due to weather conditions.
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Life jackets are provided on the river cruise; always follow your guide’s instructions.
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Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers; children should be supervised during river and forest activities.
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Moderate activity level – includes walking on mangrove trails, short boat rides, and forest exploration.
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Bookings in advance are recommended, especially during peak season which coincides with the dry season.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise tour?
The tour typically runs from 12:30 PM to 10:00 PM, including hotel transfer, river cruise, forest walk, dinner, and firefly cruise. -
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome. Children should be supervised during river activities and the forest walk. -
What wildlife can I see?
Expect to see exotic birds, monkeys, and other native wildlife, as well as thousands of fireflies in the evening. -
Are meals included during the Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise tour?
Yes, a Hi-Tea session and traditional local dinner are included. -
Can I join during the rainy season?
Yes, but some activities may be adjusted due to weather. Firefly sightings are still possible.
If you have more questions to ask, feel free to contact us — our team is happy to help you plan your perfect Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise experience!
