Proboscis Monkey Riverine Congregation (Kinabatangan River, Borneo) — Gunung Palung National Park

About this spectacle

Along the dark, mirror-still waterways of West Kalimantan's Gunung Palung National Park, proboscis monkeys — the iconic, bulbous-nosed primates found only on Borneo — gather in the riparian trees at dusk and dawn. Visitors drifting quietly by boat watch troops of these extraordinary animals crashing through overhanging branches, their pale orange coats catching the low light as they leap between trees before settling to roost. The males, with their pendulous noses and pot-bellied silhouettes, are unmistakable. Backing the river, the lowland rainforest hums with birdsong, and the occasional plop of a monkey entering the water — they are surprisingly strong swimmers — adds drama to the scene. The experience is intimate and unhurried: small boats move slowly, the air is humid and fragrant, and the calls of the troop carry across the water. It is one of the most distinctive primate encounters Southeast Asia offers.

When to go

Jan — Dec, peak Mar — Aug

Getting there

Nearest airport: PNK. Nearest city: Pontianak.

Booking options

Goyova doesn't process bookings directly. When you tap "Plan this trip" in the app, you'll see options from our partner providers — accommodation, tours, transport — with affiliate links where applicable. See our affiliate disclosure for details.