Kota Kinabalu: Bongawan River Safari Cruise & Private or Shared Ticket

Day 1: The Bongawan Expedition with Monkeys, Mirrors and Fireflies

Your journey commences with a pickup from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu or opt for a budget-friendly entry ticket option without hotel transfer and meet up at the cruise site directly, those opting for the private tour will enjoy a complimentary visit to the Filipino market either prior to or after following the cruise. Guests will receive assistance in navigating the market's diverse sections for guided exploration or personalised brief stops while on the way, then proceeding through areas where the urban skyline gradually transitions to verdant expanses of rice paddies and rustic villages. Upon arrival at the serene Bongawan jetty, guests are greeted with tea and light snacks before head toward the first river cruise navigates through lush mangrove forests when the animals are most active during the cooler parts of the day, sight potential long tail macaques and other wildlife. although wildlife sightings can be a bit unpredictable because of their natural behaviour, the guides' knowledge really boosts the likelihood of having some unforgettable moments.

Following the wildlife cruise, continue back river cruise for most photogenic moments, the Sky Mirror Beach experience earns its name from the remarkable phenomenon that occurs during low tide when the receding waters leave behind a vast, glassy surface that perfectly reflects the sky above. As the sun sets below the horizon, it paints the sky in beautiful shades of orange, pink, and purple, with these colours reflecting beneath your feet, creates a magical atmosphere that many visitors say is the highlight of their experience. afterward return for another delicious Malay-style dinner served.

As early dinner end, the tour transitions into its final segment: an enchanting firefly cruise that highlights one of nature's most mesmerising phenomena. The guides typically give fascinating insights about these insects' life cycle and behaviour, while asking tourists to reduce artificial light and noise to properly enjoy the natural phenomena. For numerous travellers, this encounter presents a singular opportunity to witness a natural marvel that is increasingly rare, underscoring the significance of conserving unspoiled ecosystems such as Bongawan. Upon concluding this voyage, return to your accommodation via included transfers or your own transportation (for those opting out of transfers), accompanied by unforgettable recollections to treasure for a lifetime.