Every chalet at Sukau Bilit was built by local craftsmen from Borneo ironwood, the rare native hardwood known locally as belian. Raised on four-foot stilts in the manner of a village house, the chalets stand among old rainforest trees, linked by boardwalks, each with its own balcony looking into the green.
Inside, the comforts are simple and well chosen: air-conditioning and a ceiling fan, a mosquito net over the bed, an en-suite bathroom with a hot shower, and in some chalets a bathtub or jacuzzi. After dark, the balcony is the place to listen to the river’s nocturnal chorus.
Kinabatangan River packages include a pick-up transfer at scheduled times from three meeting points. A few practical notes before you set off.
Days at Bilit are shaped by the river: out by boat, on foot along forest trails and through the traditional village, with the chance of meeting Borneo’s wildlife in its own habitat.