Stay In Sustainable Lodges in Borneo
When I started planning my trip to Borneo, I knew I wanted to stay in places that aligned with my values, lodges that cared about the environment, supported local communities, and gave me a chance to truly connect with nature.
After weeks of research and my own experiences, I’ve put together a list of my favourite eco-friendly lodges in Borneo. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge a little, there’s something here for everyone. Plus, I’ve included tips on how to get to each place, because knowing how to get to and from some of the more remote places is worth knowing!
1. Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Sabah
Price Range: Mid-range
Why I Loved It: Nestled along the Kinabatangan River, this lodge is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. I woke up to the sounds of hornbills and spotted proboscis monkeys right from my balcony. The lodge runs on solar power and has a strong focus on conservation.
I stayed here on my second visit to Kinabatangan River and wasn’t disappointed.
How to Get There: Fly to Sandakan, then take a taxi or transfer for an hour and 40 min drive followed by a short boat ride to the lodge. The lodge will help you organise transfers from Sandakan.
2. Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley
Price Range: High-end
Why I Loved It: This place is a dream for nature lovers. The lodge is deep in the Danum Valley Conservation Area, surrounded by pristine rainforest. I joined guided night walks and saw everything from orangutans to pygmy elephants. They also have a zero-waste policy and support local research projects.
How to Get There: Fly to Lahad Datu from Kota Kinabalu, then take a 2.5-hour drive to the lodge. If you contact the Lodge before you book, they can organise a transfer from Lahad Datu for you.
3. Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Sarawak
Price Range: Mid to high-end
Why I Loved It: While it’s a bit more luxurious, the Mulu Marriott is committed to sustainability. They have a rainwater harvesting system and work closely with the local community. It’s also the perfect base for exploring Mulu National Park’s caves and trails.
Brad booked this for me when he knew I was going to Mulu National Park. It was so nice too after travelling in hostels and budget accommodation. The hotel is very nice, the pool is amazing after a long day in the jungle and the food is actually reasonably priced.
How to Get There: Fly directly to Mulu Airport from Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. The lodge is just a 10-minute drive from the airport and they will organise that transfer for you.
4. Bilit Adventure Lodge, Kinabatangan
Price Range: Budget to mid-range
Why I Loved It: This rustic lodge is great for travelers on a budget. I stayed in a simple wooden chalet and spent my days cruising the Kinabatangan River, spotting crocodiles and rare birds. The lodge supports local guides and conservation efforts.
This is a budget lodge but the staff are excellent and the early morning and evening river trips are really worth it.
This was the lodge I was staying at when we saw the huge male Orangutan making his nest for the night. It was due to the river guides knowing where to look and being super quiet about it.
How to Get There: Fly to Sandakan, then you will need to transfer to the river meeting point, followed by a short boat ride to the lodge. Again, the lodge can help you to organise transfers from Sandakan.
5. Tabin Wildlife Resort, Sabah
Price Range: Mid-range
Why I Loved It: Located in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, this lodge is a hidden gem. I loved their mud volcano tours and night safaris. They also have a strong focus on wildlife conservation and community engagement.
They offer packages in either river chalets or rainforest chalets starting at overnight options.
How to Get There: Fly to Lahad Datu, then you need to do an hours car transfer to the lodge. They can help you to ogranise the transfer.
6. Nanga Sumpa Lodge, Batang Ai
Price Range: Budget
Why I Loved It: This simple lodge is run by the local Iban community and offers a truly authentic experience. I stayed in a traditional longhouse and learned about Iban culture. It’s also a great starting point for exploring Batang Ai National Park.
The accommodation is longhouse style so you will be sharing with others. I really enjoyed both the accommodation and the community experience. They do have single rooms that are forest rooms that have their own small ensuite so you can stay independently if you wish. Get in touch for bookings.
How to Get There: Fly to Kuching, then take a 4-hour drive followed by a boat ride to the lodge.
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7. Sepilok Nature Resort, Sabah
Price Range: Budget to mid-range
Why I Loved It: Just a stone’s throw from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, this resort is perfect for wildlife lovers. I stayed in a charming chalet surrounded by lush gardens. They also have a strong commitment to sustainability by using rainwater for toilets, protecting birdlife in the area and working in conjunction with the Orangutan Rescue in the area.
How to Get There: Fly to Sandakan, then take a 30-minute drive to the resort.
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8. Bungaraya Island Resort, Gaya Island
Price Range: High-end
Why I Loved It: This luxurious resort is a hidden gem on Gaya Island, just off the coast of Sabah. Surrounded by lush rainforest and pristine beaches, Bungaraya is the perfect blend of eco-luxury and natural beauty.
I stayed in a stunning villa with a private pool, but what really impressed me was their commitment to sustainability. This was my big splurge for Borneo. I wanted to go to the island but all the budget places were full, so I bit the bullet and spent the money. I wasn’t sorry.
The resort uses solar energy, recycles rainwater, and supports local conservation projects. I spent my days snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, hiking through the jungle, and indulging in spa treatments made with natural, locally sourced ingredients.
How to Get There: Fly to Kota Kinabalu, then take a 15-minute boat ride from Jesselton Point to Gaya Island. The resort is a short walk from the jetty.
9. Gayana Marine Resort, Sabah
Price Range: High-end
Why I Loved It: Located on Gaya Island, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Gayana Marine Resort is a paradise for eco-conscious travelers. The resort is built over the water, offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding rainforest. What really impressed me was their Marine Ecology Research Centre, where they work to protect and rehabilitate coral reefs.
You have the option of staying in a beautiful overwater villa and spend your days snorkeling right off my balcony, spotting colorful fish and even sea turtles. The resort also offers guided nature walks and kayaking tours, making it easy to connect with the natural beauty of the island.
How to Get There: Fly to Kota Kinabalu, then take a 15-minute boat ride from Jesselton Point to Gaya Island. The resort is a short walk from the jetty.
10. The Peak Lodge Kinabalu, Sabah
Price Range: Mid-range
Why I Loved It: Located near Mount Kinabalu, this lodge is perfect for those who want to combine rainforest exploration with mountain views. The lodge is eco-friendly, with solar-powered facilities and a focus on reducing waste. I stayed in a cozy cabin and spent my days hiking through the surrounding trails and national park. The cool mountain air was a refreshing change from the lowland heat.
The lodge is a little old but the staff are attentive and its a case of getting what you pay for. Its affordable and the view of the mountain is amazing.
How to Get There: Fly to Kota Kinabalu, then take a 2-hour drive to the lodge. The lodge is about 15 minutes from the Kinabalu National Park entrance.
BONUS: Adiwana Jelita Sejuba Natuna, Riau Islands
This is technically in Indonesia but its closer to Borneo that mainland Indo. Unfortunately its not easy to get to from Borneo, but if you are passing through Jakarta or Singapore going to or from Borneo you could easily add this into your itinerary.
Price Range: Mid to high-end
Why I Loved It: This eco-friendly resort is a true hidden gem in the Riau Islands, offering a serene escape surrounded by untouched nature. The resort is designed with sustainability in mind, using locally sourced materials and renewable energy.
I stayed in a beautiful villa with a private terrace overlooking the lush greenery and turquoise waters. The resort is more hotel than lodge in style but they are very committed to ensuring the sustainability of their surroundings. I loved that I could open my sliding doors and just use the breeze to keep me cool which they actually encouraged.
What stood out to me was their commitment to preserving the local environment—they organize beach clean-ups and coral reef conservation programs. I spent my days kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby islands, and the evenings were perfect for stargazing by the beach.
How to Get There: Fly to Ranai Airport on Natuna Island, then take a 30-minute drive to the resort. Flights to Natuna are available from Jakarta, Singapore and other major Indonesian cities.
Tips for Choosing the Right Lodge
- Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend. There are great options for every price range.
- Location: Think about what you want to see. If wildlife is your priority, stay near Kinabatangan or Danum Valley. For caves and culture, look at Sarawak.
- Sustainability: Check if the lodge has eco-certifications or supports local communities.
Final Thoughts: Borneo’s Best Eco Lodges
Staying in eco-friendly lodges made my trip to Borneo even more special. Not only did I get to experience the beauty of the rainforest, but I also knew my stay was supporting conservation and local communities. Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or looking for a little luxury, there’s an eco-friendly lodge in Borneo that’s perfect for you. So pack your bags, choose your lodge, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.