The 3D2N Tabin Wildlife Safari (MTT-TWR02) is the flagship multi-day Borneo rainforest expedition in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Lahad Datu, operated by licensed inbound operator Milas Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd (MOTAC License: KPK/LN 10094). Departing daily from Lahad Datu, this tour includes timber chalet lodging, 2 guided 4WD night safaris, Lipad Mud Volcano treks, Lipad Waterfall dipping, and dawn birding walks.
Tour Highlights
- Flagship Rainforest Safari: Comprehensive 3-day exploration of Sabah's premier 122,539-hectare wildlife reserve.
- Dual 4WD Night Safaris: Two evening open-top safari drives with powerful searchlights spotting nocturnal rainforest fauna.
- Lipad Mud Volcano & Salt Lick: Guided trek to the ancient volcanic mud plateau with observation tower and mineral mud treatment.
- Lipad Waterfall & Natural Dip Pool: Trek through lush dipterocarp canopy to refreshing natural freshwater pools for a cooling jungle swim.
- Riverside or Hillside Timber Chalet: Choice of scenic River Chalet with balcony over Lipad River or Hill Chalet nestled in forest canopy.
- Gibbons & Hornbills Dawn Walk: Early morning guided bird walk observing 8 species of hornbills and hearing wild Bornean gibbons calling.
- Full-Board Jungle Cuisine: Authentic, freshly prepared meals served daily at the open-air Sunbird Cafe pavilion.
Key Tour Specifications
| Specification Parameter | Official Tour Details |
|---|---|
| Product Code | MTT-TWR02 (Flagship Wildlife Safari) |
| Operating Schedule | Daily Departures (08:00 AM MH3010 / 12:00 PM MH3014 Pickup to 03:00 PM Day 3 Drop-off) |
| Total Tour Duration | 3 Days / 2 Nights |
| Embarkation / Pickup Location | Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) or Lahad Datu Town Hotel, Sabah |
| Target Destinations | Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Lipad Mud Volcano, Lipad Waterfall & Natural Dip Pool |
| Age Eligibility | All ages (Child 5–11 eligible for 50% room-share discount; under 5 free) |
| Licensed Inbound Operator | Milas Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd (MOTAC KPK/LN 10094, SSM 1337378-W) |
| Conservation Fee & Permits | Included in package (Sanctuary entry permit & conservation fees covered) |
| Cancellation Policy | 31–45 days: 50% fee. Within 30 days or no-show: Non-refundable. |
Tabin Wildlife Reserve Overview
As our most popular and comprehensive rainforest safari, the 3D2N Tabin Wildlife Safari offers the perfect balance of deep jungle immersion and eco-resort comfort. Covering both Lipad Mud Volcano and the picturesque Lipad Waterfall, guests enjoy two thrilling 4WD night safari drives and dedicated morning wildlife walks. The extended stay dramatically increases opportunities to encounter wild Bornean pygmy elephants, maroon langurs, red giant flying squirrels, and rare bird species.
Best Time to Join
The 3D2N Tabin Wildlife Safari operates year-round with exceptional wildlife viewing in all seasons. The dry season from March to October offers clear night skies for stargazing and optimal 4WD safari trail conditions. The fruiting season between May and September brings heavy concentrations of primates, hornbills, and pygmy elephants along the river corridors.
What to Wear
- Lightweight, quick-drying trekking pants and breathable long-sleeve shirts in neutral tones
- Knee-high leech socks for all forest and waterfall excursions
- Sturdy trekking boots or trail running shoes with aggressive lug soles
- Swimwear or quick-dry shorts for swimming at Lipad Waterfall
- Wide-brimmed safari hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Comfortable sandals or slip-on shoes for evening relaxation at the resort
What to Bring
- High-quality binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) for canopy wildlife viewing
- Headlamp or bright LED flashlight (minimum 300 lumens) for 4WD night safaris
- Reef-safe biodegradable insect repellent and anti-itch bite cream
- Waterproof dry bag (10L–20L) for cameras and gear during the waterfall trek
- Compact quick-dry microfiber towel for the waterfall swim
- Lightweight rain poncho or water-resistant shell jacket
- Spare camera batteries, memory cards, and power bank (charging in chalets available during power hours)
Important Notes & Safety Guidelines
- Chalet Accommodation Options: Standard bookings include River Chalets with private balconies overlooking Lipad River or Hill Chalets nestled into the forest hillside.
- Waterfall Trek Fitness: The trek to Lipad Waterfall involves approximately 2 hours of walking along undulating forest terrain with root crossings. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
- Child Policy: Children aged 5 to 11 receive a 50% discount on adult rates when sharing a room with two adults. Children aged 4 and below stay free of charge.
- Scheduled Shuttle Timings: Scheduled pickups depart Lahad Datu Airport at 08:00 AM (MH3010) and 12:00 PM (MH3014). Return airport drop-off arrives at Lahad Datu by 03:00 PM.
- Conservation Guidelines: Feeding or touching wild animals, off-trail wandering, and collecting flora/fauna specimens are strictly prohibited.
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
Standard Contract Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made 31 to 45 days prior to arrival incur a 50% cancellation fee. Cancellations within 30 days of arrival or guest no-shows are 100% non-refundable. Official force majeure disruptions (flight cancellations, marine closures) are eligible for free date rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between River Chalets and Hill Chalets?
River Chalets are built on timber stilts directly over the Lipad River corridor, offering water views and birdwatching from private balconies. Hill Chalets are set higher on the forest slope, offering elevated canopy perspectives and hillside tranquility.
2. Can I swim at Lipad Waterfall?
Yes! Lipad Waterfall drops into a clear, natural freshwater pool surrounded by rainforest canopy. Guests are welcome to swim and relax in the pool; swimwear and water sandals are recommended.
3. What nocturnal wildlife can I see during night safaris?
Common sightings on Tabin night safaris include Malay civets, common palm civets, red giant flying squirrels, leopard cats, buffy fish owls, frogmouths, and occasionally Bornean pygmy elephants.
4. What flights should I book from Kota Kinabalu?
Book MASwings flight MH3010 (06:15 AM departure) or MH3014 (10:40 AM departure) from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu on Day 1. For Day 3 departure, book flights leaving Lahad Datu after 04:00 PM (such as MH3017 or MH3023).
5. Are meals included during the 3D2N tour?
Yes, the tour is full-board. It includes 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners served at the open-air Sunbird Cafe. Coffee, tea, and drinking water are available throughout the day.
If you have more questions or need personalized assistance, please contact us. Our Sabah inbound travel specialists are ready to assist you!
Related Wildlife Adventures in Sabah
Looking for more wildlife expeditions in Borneo? Discover our premier ecotourism and safari circuits:
- 4D3N Tabin Wildlife Safari (MTT-TWR06): Explore immersive wildlife safaris, river cruises, and pristine Bornean dipterocarp habitats.
- 3D2N Tabin Tree Replanting ESG Safari (MTT-TWR09): Explore immersive wildlife safaris, river cruises, and pristine Bornean dipterocarp habitats.
- Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping Tour: Twin-island snorkeling, white-sand beaches, and marine life at Sapi & Manukan Islands.
