6 safari lodges
    Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Malaysia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Turtle Islands Park

    This park in Sabah is a vital nesting ground for green and hawksbill sea turtles. Visitors can witness the incredible sight of turtles coming ashore to lay eggs and see hatchlings being released into the sea, offering a unique and impactful wildlife experience focused on marine conservation.

    Best timeMarch to October for Peninsular Malaysia parks. Year-round for Borneo.
    Species
    78
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    6
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1977

    Turtle Islands Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The Southeast Asian Big 5

    1 of 5 found in Turtle Islands Park

    Tiger
    Elephant
    Orangutan
    Sun Bear
    Clouded Leopard

    Recent sightings at Turtle Islands Park

    Sign in to report

    78 species recorded in Turtle Islands Park11 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Turtle Islands Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Turtle Islands Park

    When planning your Malaysian Borneo safari, we find the dry season from May to August offers the most comfortable conditions and highest chances of wildlife sightings. However, we love the lushness...

    January

    Now
    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Expect heavy rainfall, especially on the east coast. Inland areas can be humid with frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with migratory species present. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to rain, but resident animals are always active.

    We love the dramatic, rain-soaked rainforest ambiance this month, perfect for dedicated birdwatchers.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    February

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity remains high.

    The forests are lush and vibrant. Look for proboscis monkeys along riverbanks and diverse birdlife.

    We recommend heading to the Kinabatangan River for excellent primate sightings as the water levels are often good for boat trips.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Bako National Park

    March

    low

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall lessens considerably, with more sunshine. It's still warm and humid.

    This is a great time for spotting orangutans and macaques. The jungle floor is alive with insects and smaller creatures.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    April

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Generally dry with high temperatures and humidity. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms are possible.

    The forests are teeming with life. We often see pygmy elephants near water sources and a wide array of reptiles.

    We find April ideal for exploring the trails in Danum Valley, with good chances of spotting diverse mammals.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    May

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    The weather becomes drier overall, with less humidity and more sunshine. Occasional rain showers.

    This is a prime time for wildlife viewing, especially for larger mammals. Birding remains excellent.

    We love the drier conditions in May, making jungle trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more productive.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Mulu National Park

    June

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    Dry season continues with warm temperatures and lower humidity. Sunny days are frequent.

    Excellent month for seeing orangutans and proboscis monkeys. The rivers are lower, offering better access to certain areas.

    We recommend boat safaris along the Kinabatangan River in June for unparalleled primate and bird sightings.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    July

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Still part of the dry season, expect warm, sunny days with minimal rain. Humidity is moderate.

    This is peak season for spotting orangutans and other primates. Many species are more active and visible.

    We find July offers some of the best chances to see orangutans in their natural habitat, especially in Sabah.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    August

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Continues to be dry and warm, though occasional brief showers can occur. Humidity is pleasant.

    Wildlife is abundant. We often see sun bears and various deer species. Birding is superb.

    We love the consistent dry weather in August, making it perfect for exploring the ancient rainforests of Borneo.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Bako National Park

    September

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall starts to increase slightly, but it's generally still a pleasant time to visit. Warm and humid.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as resident species are very active. Orangutan sightings remain good.

    We recommend September for its excellent birding opportunities combined with reliable primate sightings.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

    October

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Expect more frequent rain showers, often in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm and humidity is high.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. Look for unique insects and amphibians. Riverine wildlife is still active.

    We enjoy the vibrant, post-rain jungle scenery in October, and the chances of seeing unique flora and fauna.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Mulu National Park

    November

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall increases significantly, especially on the east coast. Expect heavy downpours and high humidity.

    Migratory birds begin to arrive. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to weather, but the rainforest is at its most verdant.

    We find November best for those who appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of a rainforest in full bloom, despite the rain.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Bako National Park

    December

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Heavy rainfall continues, particularly on the east coast. Inland areas also experience frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with many resident and migratory species. River levels are high, facilitating boat access in some areas.

    We recommend December for its dramatic rainforest atmosphere and excellent opportunities for spotting diverse birdlife.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    January

    Now
    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Expect heavy rainfall, especially on the east coast. Inland areas can be humid with frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with migratory species present. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to rain, but resident animals are always active.

    We love the dramatic, rain-soaked rainforest ambiance this month, perfect for dedicated birdwatchers.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    February

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity remains high.

    The forests are lush and vibrant. Look for proboscis monkeys along riverbanks and diverse birdlife.

    We recommend heading to the Kinabatangan River for excellent primate sightings as the water levels are often good for boat trips.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Bako National Park

    March

    low

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall lessens considerably, with more sunshine. It's still warm and humid.

    This is a great time for spotting orangutans and macaques. The jungle floor is alive with insects and smaller creatures.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    April

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Generally dry with high temperatures and humidity. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms are possible.

    The forests are teeming with life. We often see pygmy elephants near water sources and a wide array of reptiles.

    We find April ideal for exploring the trails in Danum Valley, with good chances of spotting diverse mammals.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    May

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    The weather becomes drier overall, with less humidity and more sunshine. Occasional rain showers.

    This is a prime time for wildlife viewing, especially for larger mammals. Birding remains excellent.

    We love the drier conditions in May, making jungle trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more productive.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Mulu National Park

    June

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    Dry season continues with warm temperatures and lower humidity. Sunny days are frequent.

    Excellent month for seeing orangutans and proboscis monkeys. The rivers are lower, offering better access to certain areas.

    We recommend boat safaris along the Kinabatangan River in June for unparalleled primate and bird sightings.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    July

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Still part of the dry season, expect warm, sunny days with minimal rain. Humidity is moderate.

    This is peak season for spotting orangutans and other primates. Many species are more active and visible.

    We find July offers some of the best chances to see orangutans in their natural habitat, especially in Sabah.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    August

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Continues to be dry and warm, though occasional brief showers can occur. Humidity is pleasant.

    Wildlife is abundant. We often see sun bears and various deer species. Birding is superb.

    We love the consistent dry weather in August, making it perfect for exploring the ancient rainforests of Borneo.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Bako National Park

    September

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall starts to increase slightly, but it's generally still a pleasant time to visit. Warm and humid.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as resident species are very active. Orangutan sightings remain good.

    We recommend September for its excellent birding opportunities combined with reliable primate sightings.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

    October

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Expect more frequent rain showers, often in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm and humidity is high.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. Look for unique insects and amphibians. Riverine wildlife is still active.

    We enjoy the vibrant, post-rain jungle scenery in October, and the chances of seeing unique flora and fauna.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Mulu National Park

    November

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall increases significantly, especially on the east coast. Expect heavy downpours and high humidity.

    Migratory birds begin to arrive. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to weather, but the rainforest is at its most verdant.

    We find November best for those who appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of a rainforest in full bloom, despite the rain.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Bako National Park

    December

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Heavy rainfall continues, particularly on the east coast. Inland areas also experience frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with many resident and migratory species. River levels are high, facilitating boat access in some areas.

    We recommend December for its dramatic rainforest atmosphere and excellent opportunities for spotting diverse birdlife.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    January

    Now
    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Expect heavy rainfall, especially on the east coast. Inland areas can be humid with frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with migratory species present. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to rain, but resident animals are always active.

    We love the dramatic, rain-soaked rainforest ambiance this month, perfect for dedicated birdwatchers.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    February

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity remains high.

    The forests are lush and vibrant. Look for proboscis monkeys along riverbanks and diverse birdlife.

    We recommend heading to the Kinabatangan River for excellent primate sightings as the water levels are often good for boat trips.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Bako National Park

    March

    low

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall lessens considerably, with more sunshine. It's still warm and humid.

    This is a great time for spotting orangutans and macaques. The jungle floor is alive with insects and smaller creatures.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    April

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Generally dry with high temperatures and humidity. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms are possible.

    The forests are teeming with life. We often see pygmy elephants near water sources and a wide array of reptiles.

    We find April ideal for exploring the trails in Danum Valley, with good chances of spotting diverse mammals.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Taman Negara National Park

    May

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    The weather becomes drier overall, with less humidity and more sunshine. Occasional rain showers.

    This is a prime time for wildlife viewing, especially for larger mammals. Birding remains excellent.

    We love the drier conditions in May, making jungle trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more productive.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Mulu National Park

    June

    moderate

    Southwest Monsoon

    Dry season continues with warm temperatures and lower humidity. Sunny days are frequent.

    Excellent month for seeing orangutans and proboscis monkeys. The rivers are lower, offering better access to certain areas.

    We recommend boat safaris along the Kinabatangan River in June for unparalleled primate and bird sightings.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    July

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Still part of the dry season, expect warm, sunny days with minimal rain. Humidity is moderate.

    This is peak season for spotting orangutans and other primates. Many species are more active and visible.

    We find July offers some of the best chances to see orangutans in their natural habitat, especially in Sabah.

    Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
    Danum Valley Conservation Area

    August

    high

    Southwest Monsoon

    Continues to be dry and warm, though occasional brief showers can occur. Humidity is pleasant.

    Wildlife is abundant. We often see sun bears and various deer species. Birding is superb.

    We love the consistent dry weather in August, making it perfect for exploring the ancient rainforests of Borneo.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Bako National Park

    September

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Rainfall starts to increase slightly, but it's generally still a pleasant time to visit. Warm and humid.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as resident species are very active. Orangutan sightings remain good.

    We recommend September for its excellent birding opportunities combined with reliable primate sightings.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

    October

    moderate

    Inter-monsoon

    Expect more frequent rain showers, often in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm and humidity is high.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. Look for unique insects and amphibians. Riverine wildlife is still active.

    We enjoy the vibrant, post-rain jungle scenery in October, and the chances of seeing unique flora and fauna.

    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Mulu National Park

    November

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Rainfall increases significantly, especially on the east coast. Expect heavy downpours and high humidity.

    Migratory birds begin to arrive. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to weather, but the rainforest is at its most verdant.

    We find November best for those who appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of a rainforest in full bloom, despite the rain.

    Taman Negara National Park
    Bako National Park

    December

    low

    Northeast Monsoon

    Heavy rainfall continues, particularly on the east coast. Inland areas also experience frequent showers.

    Birding is excellent with many resident and migratory species. River levels are high, facilitating boat access in some areas.

    We recommend December for its dramatic rainforest atmosphere and excellent opportunities for spotting diverse birdlife.

    Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
    Danum Valley Conservation Area
    Planning & reference

    Witnessing the ancient ritual of sea turtles nesting and their hatchlings making their perilous journey to the sea is an incredibly moving and rare privilege. With very limited visitor numbers, we find this experience profoundly intimate and deeply impactful, offering a unique connection to nature's most vulnerable creatures.

    Gate Times

    Access to Turtle Islands Park, particularly Selingan Island, is strictly controlled and requires pre-booked permits and accommodation. Boat transfers typically operate once daily from Sandakan, usually in the morning, with return trips in the afternoon the following day. We strongly recommend booking several months in advance, especially during peak nesting seasons, as visitor numbers are very limited to protect the turtles.

    Tipping

    While not mandatory in Malaysia, we believe a modest tip is a thoughtful gesture for the dedicated rangers and boat crew who make your experience possible. We suggest around MYR 20-50 per person for your guide and MYR 10-20 for the boat crew, given discreetly at the end of your visit.

    Dress Code

    We recommend light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Think quick-drying shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear for daytime. For the evening turtle viewing, darker, muted colours are best to avoid disturbing the turtles. A light long-sleeved top and trousers can also help with mosquito protection and provide warmth if there's a breeze. Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are essential for walking on sandy beaches.

    Photography

    Flash photography is strictly prohibited during all turtle encounters, both for nesting adults and hatchlings. We urge you to respect this rule; it's vital for their well-being. A camera with good low-light capabilities and a fast lens is ideal. Drones are not permitted within the park to prevent disturbance to wildlife and other visitors. We recommend capturing the moment with your eyes first, then discreetly with your lens, without using any artificial light.

    Etiquette

    The park's primary purpose is conservation, and visitor etiquette is paramount. We insist on absolute silence and minimal movement during turtle sightings. Always follow your ranger's instructions precisely; they are experts in ensuring the turtles' safety. Never touch the turtles, their eggs, or the hatchlings. Maintain a respectful distance and avoid shining any lights directly at them. Keep noise levels low throughout your stay on the island to preserve the tranquil environment.

    What to Bring

    Swimwear
    Reef-safe sunscreen
    Insect repellent (especially with moderate malaria risk)
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Sunglasses
    Light rain jacket
    Comfortable walking sandals or flip-flops
    Reusable water bottle
    Camera with good low-light performance
    Small waterproof daypack
    Personal medications
    Power bank

    Packing list not yet available for Turtle Islands Park - weather data needed

    Monthly weather conditions not yet available for Turtle Islands Park

    Turtle Islands Park Reviews