A paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Southeast Asia is home to some of the most intriguing species in the world, many of which are endangered. From dense jungles with playful primates and exotic birds to stunning coastlines brimming with colorful marine life, our Inside Travel experts have hand-picked some favorite encounters with captivating creatures that can also be seen on many of our Southeast Asia holidays.
Observe orangutans in their natural habitat
Locations: Borneo, Malaysia & Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia
Borneo and Sumatra are the only areas in the world where wild orangutans may still be seen. Both places provide excellent opportunities to see orangutans in their native habitat; however, sightings in the wild are not guaranteed since these shy creatures are prone to run at the sight or sound of humans.
For a closer look, visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the first official orangutan rehabilitation project, where orphaned and injured orangutans can roam freely in the forest and be fed by rangers. Another choice is embarking on a trek through the vast jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park with a local expert, who shows you how to track the orangutans. While spotting is rare and requires immense luck, this national park showcases the incredible biodiversity of endemic species found nowhere else.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Uncover the Grand North of Sumatra - 9 Days
- Wildlife trail of Sabah - 10 Days
See real-life dragons on isolated islands
Location: Komodo National Park, Indonesia
The Komodo dragon is the world's largest lizard, and the only place on Earth where you can see these endangered creatures roaming freely is Komodo National Park, located between the Indonesian islands of Sumbawa and Flores. These amazing reptiles have a maximum length of three meters and a weight of seventy kilograms. It is a thrilling experience to see them in the wild. Board a boat cruising the turquoise waters, stop at the islands of Komodo, Padar, and Rinca, hike across the arid landscapes, and you will get views of these giant reptiles lazing in the sun, digging for prey, or simply being sluggish.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Ultimate Bali And Flores Overland Tour - 13 Days
- Bali and Komodo Discovery - 12 Days
Spot dolphins on the Mekong River
Location: Kratie, Cambodia
The Irrawaddy is one of three dolphin species that can survive in both freshwater and saltwater. They are small and shy with dark gray skin, a small round dorsal fin, and a bulging forehead. There are several places to watch these endangered mammals in their natural habitat, yet the most popular spot is the Kampi village, located 15 kilometers north of Kratie in Cambodia. You’ll float out on a small local boat skippered by a fisherman or a kayak guided by an expert to a river site and wait to spot the elusive dolphins. It’s a natural experience, and the sighting is even rarer since there are just 92 dolphins estimated to still exist due to illegal fishing practices and their habitat destroyed.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Best of Cambodia - 10 Days
- Cambodia Authentic Tour - 12 Days
Cruise along the Kinabatangan River for wildlife encounters
Location: Borneo, Malaysia
The Kinabatangan is the second longest river in Malaysia that snakes through Borneo's lowland rainforests and provides an unrivaled chance to see some of the island's most exotic species. On a river safari, keep a look out for the proboscis monkey, with its characteristic potbellied appearance and bulbous nose, as it hangs on the trees overhead. Be on the watch for the adorable pygmy elephant, a small subspecies that has adapted to living in deep jungles.
As you cruise along the Kinabatangan, you'll see a spectacular diversity of birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, bee-eaters, and even estuarine crocodiles on the riverbanks. To get a full sense of the place, spend a night or two at a riverside lodge and enjoy daily river adventures.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Malaysia Signature, from the East to the West - 14 Days
- Off the beaten path in Malaysian Borneo - 14 Days
Meet the elephants in Southeast Asia
Locations: Chiang Mai & Phuket, Thailand; Mondulkiri & Siem Reap, Cambodia; Luang Prabang, Laos
Interacting with elephants in a responsible and ethical setting is one of the most exciting wildlife encounters you can enjoy in Southeast Asia. In the conservation-focused sanctuaries of Chiang Mai, Siem Reap, or Luang Prabang, you will get to know their habits, care, and the significance of protecting these gentle animals. A half- or full-day tour will frequently cover activities of feeding, bathing, and walking with elephants through jungles. If you are concerned more about ethical tourism, pay a visit to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, where you will see these giants with respect from their modern canopy walkway.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Amazing Thailand Vacation - 15 Days
- Family Vacation in Cambodia - 11 Days
- Laos For Families - 6 Days
Venture into one of the oldest rainforests in the world
Locations: Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia
Taman Negara National Park is a lush haven for animal lovers in the center of the Malaysian peninsula that has not changed in millions of years. A wide range of flora and fauna may be found in this untouched primary rainforest. While it might be tricky to see the Malayan tiger, the Asian elephant, rhinoceros, or clouded leopard, you will have a better chance to encounter lizards, snakes, deer, and primates. The sounds of gibbons calling from the canopy and the rustle of leaves as hordes of pig-tailed macaques and langurs navigate the underbrush will welcome you as you trek along winding trails.
Suggested Tour Ideas:
- Amazing Vacation in Malaysia - 14 Days
- Discover the West Coast of the Peninsular Malaysia - 10 Days
A wildlife journey in Southeast Asia, from the sun-kissed islands of Indonesia to the tropical rainforests of Borneo, is sure to leave a lasting impression on your memory. If you desire to include these natural delights in your next adventure, let's contact our Southeast Asia Tour Experts for suggested tour plans and detailed information.
