Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour

If you’re looking to uncover some of Sabah’s most captivating natural wonders, the Bongawan Wetland tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience combining wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and local culture—all at a reasonable price. While it’s a guided day-trip, it feels intimate enough to get close to Borneo’s endangered primates and enchanting fireflies, making it perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances wildlife spotting with scenic moments—like catching the sunset at Bongawan Wetland. Plus, the guides, particularly Eddie and Timmy, are full of knowledge and enthusiasm that elevate the entire experience. The delicious local food, especially the tapas-style buffet dinner, adds a welcome touch. A minor consideration is the bumpy, sometimes lengthy ride, so those prone to motion sickness should come prepared. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers keen on authentic nature excursions, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a magical evening in Sabah’s lush landscape.

Good To Know

• Wildlife encounters: Spot the rare Proboscis Monkey and other native wildlife during scenic river cruises.
• Stunning sunsets: Enjoy a peaceful, picture-perfect view at Bongawan Wetland’s beach.
• Firefly magic: Witness the mesmerizing display of fireflies creating a ‘Christmas tree’ effect in the mangroves.
• Expert guides: Guides like Eddie and Timmy are knowledgeable, friendly, and add extra value to the experience.
• Good value: At $54, the tour includes hotel pickup, meals, entry tickets, and guided cruises.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now with pay later options and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bongawan Wetland Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day in Sabah’s natural environment, combining scenic travel, wildlife encounters, and mystical firefly viewing. Starting from Kota Kinabalu, you’ll enjoy a comfortable intercity transfer that takes you approximately 1.5 hours to Bongawan Wetland Jetty. Along the way, there’s an optional stop to visit the iconic Sabah Floating Mosque, which costs RM 5 per person—an excellent photo opportunity if you’re interested in local landmarks.

The Journey and First Cruise: Wildlife and Scenic Views

Once at the jetty and after registration, you’ll begin your first river cruise, which typically starts around 3:30 PM. The boat rides are designed to maximize wildlife sightings; guides are quick to point out proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and other fauna like birds, crocodiles, and lizards. The reviews highlight how guides like Eddie go the extra mile—answering questions and sharing interesting facts about Sabah’s nature.

While you might only catch glimpses of the proboscis monkeys from a distance—something many reviewers mentioned—the experience remains special. As Linnea shared, “We saw the proboscis monkeys! Longtail monkeys! A baby crocodile and a big lizard along with many birds.” These cruises are a highlight, offering a peaceful way to appreciate the mangrove ecosystem and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sunset at Bongawan Wetland

After the first cruise, you’ll return to the jetty for dinner—usually a buffet of local dishes and snacks that guests find delicious, filling, and a good value for the price. The timing aligns with the sunset, so you’ll head to the beach to witness the spectacular views as the sky shifts colors—some lucky visitors report seeing the “Mirror of the Sky,” a stunning reflection of the sunset in the wetland.

The sunset stop isn’t just about the view; it’s a relaxing moment to soak in nature’s beauty and capture memorable photos. Reviewers like Lily describe how the sunset was “beautiful,” with some noting that the ride to the beach can be bumpy—so packing motion sickness tablets and insect repellent is advisable.

The Nighttime Firefly Experience

As darkness falls, the highlight of the tour begins: a second cruise into the mangroves to see fireflies glowing in the trees. This spectacle is often described as magical, with lights flickering like Christmas trees in the dark. Many guests, including Veronika and Tamara Judith, mention how the fireflies exceeded expectations, creating a “fairy-tale” scene.

The guides, such as Timmy or James and Nick, are praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills, enhancing the experience. One reviewer noted that their guides even arranged for a fire show, which adds an extra layer of entertainment. Be aware that this part of the tour usually takes place after dinner, so bringing insect repellent and long sleeves can help avoid mosquito bites.

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Returning Home

Once the firefly display concludes, the bus returns to Kota Kinabalu. The entire tour typically wraps up in the evening, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with wildlife, beautiful scenery, and memorable moments. Guests appreciate the smooth organization, though some mention the ride back can be bumpy, particularly after a long day of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $54, this experience covers transportation, a local guide, entry tickets, and meals—delivering a comprehensive adventure that’s both affordable and enriching. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off saves the trouble and adds convenience. Considering the quality of wildlife sightings, the scenic sunset, and the enchanting fireflies, many think it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting to see Sabah’s natural side without breaking the bank.

Wildlife and Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love, especially those eager to see the rare proboscis monkeys—an endemic species that’s a highlight for many reviewers. The guides’ local knowledge helps deepen the experience, making it more meaningful and engaging. Plus, the combination of daytime and nighttime activities ensures you get a full picture of the wetland ecosystem.

Food and Hospitality

The buffet dinner, featuring local flavors, is often praised for its taste and value. Many guests mention how the guides’ friendliness and willingness to answer questions make the trip feel personalized and special. Guides like Eddie and Timmy are frequently highlighted for their professionalism and knowledge, which significantly enhances the overall experience.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour starts around 12 noon with pickup from hotels in Kota Kinabalu, making it a convenient half-day outing. Since the ride can be bumpy, packing motion sickness pills, insect repellent, sunscreen, and sunglasses is recommended. If you plan to visit the floating mosque, remember the RM 5 ticket; it’s a quick stop and can add a cultural touch to your day.

The tour lasts roughly until late evening, so be prepared for a full day. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or a dislike of bumpy rides might want to consider this before booking.

The Sum Up

The Bongawan Wetland Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour offers a genuine slice of Sabah’s natural beauty, wrapped into an accessible, well-organized package. It’s especially well-suited for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting an authentic, memorable experience in Borneo’s lush landscapes. With friendly guides, scenic moments, and enchanting fireflies, it’s a great value adventure for those who want to connect with nature without fuss.

While the ride can be bumpy and wildlife sightings are sometimes distant, the overall experience is rewarding and thoughtfully curated. The inclusion of local food, sunset views, and a chance to see Sabah’s endemic proboscis monkeys make this tour a stand-out option for anyone seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 12 noon and concludes after the firefly cruise in the evening, typically returning to Kota Kinabalu by night.

Is hotel pickup available in all areas?
Pickup is available from hotels within Kota Kinabalu City. Outskirt hotels may not be included, so check your booking details.

How much does the floating mosque visit cost?
Visiting the Sabah Floating Mosque is optional and costs RM 5 per person. It’s a short stop during the trip.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, personal medication, insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, and motion sickness prevention if needed.

Is there a vegetarian or special meal option?
The tour includes a buffet dinner; it’s best to inquire about dietary restrictions in advance, as many local dishes are available.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You may see proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, crocodiles, lizards, and various bird species.

Are the fireflies visible every night?
Fireflies are generally visible if the weather is clear and the night is dark; guides will choose the optimal night for viewing.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruises are designed to last for the best wildlife sightings and sunset viewing, usually around 1-2 hours each.

Can I bring my camera or phone?
Absolutely—many guests capture stunning photos of the fireflies and sunset. Use a gentle flash or night mode for best results.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy nature and are comfortable with boat rides and bumpy roads will find this tour enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby