Abai Jungle Lodge is a simple, atmospheric riverside lodge set on the banks of the Lower Kinabatangan, reached only by boat and prized for its wildlife rather than its polish. Its position near Kampung Abai, around an hour by boat from Sandakan, is one of the closest on the river, meaning more time on the water and less in transit.

Accommodation is in chalet-style rooms raised on stilts above the forest floor, connected by boardwalks. Rooms are deliberately basic but comfortable: a bed, a safe, simple furnishings, a private bathroom with hot shower, and netted windows. Most are cooled by ceiling fan, with a limited number of air-conditioned rooms available, worth requesting if the heat concerns you. Expect rustic charm and the sounds of the jungle at night rather than hotel comforts.

Breakfast, and all meals, are served buffet-style in an open-sided dining area overlooking the river, part of the full-board arrangement here. The food is simple, plentiful and well regarded, a mix of local rice, chicken, prawn and vegetable dishes rather than anything elaborate.

The location sits deep in the mangrove and riverine forest of the Kinabatangan, accessible only by boat. This is prime wildlife country: proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, hornbills and wild orang-utans are regularly seen from the boats and boardwalks, and lucky guests have spotted herds of pygmy elephants along the banks.

Facilities are modest and centred on the wildlife: a riverside restaurant, a sun deck facing the water, and a network of nature boardwalks with raised viewing platforms. River cruises and guided night walks are included in the lodge packages. Wi-Fi is limited to the reception area.

Reviews consistently praise the location, the quiet setting away from the busier upriver lodges, the friendly staff and the excellent guiding and wildlife. Rooms and food are frequently described as basic, which most reviewers accept as entirely in keeping with a genuine jungle lodge.

The bottom line: Abai Jungle Lodge suits travellers who want an authentic, wildlife-first Kinabatangan experience and are happy to trade comfort for a genuine place on the river.