Sabah - Borneo - page 224

TAXIS
Taxis depart from the stand outside the old train station, at the south end of Jln Masjid.
Charter rates include: KK (RM70), Kuala Penyu (RM55), Sipitang (RM35), Menumbok
(RM50) and Lawas (RM100).
KUALA PENYU
Tiny Kuala Penyu, at the northern tip of the peninsula, is the jumping-off point for Pulau
Tiga if you are not accessing 'Survivor Island' via the new boat service from KK. From
KK, minivans leave from behind Wawasan Plaza (RM10 to RM15, two hours). From
Beaufort minivans to Kuala Penyu (RM10) leave throughout the morning, but return ser-
vices tail off very early in the afternoon, so you may have to negotiate a taxi or local lift
back. A minivan to/from Menumbok costs RM65 per vehicle.
TEMPURUNG
Tempurung Seaside Lodge ( 088-773066; http://www.borneotempurung.com /; 3
Putatan Point; 2-day, 1-night package from RM310) , set along the quiet coastal waters of
the South China Sea, is a good spot for hermits who seek a pinch of style. The main lodge
was originally built as a vacation home, but friends convinced the owners that it would be
a crime not to share the lovely property with the world. Rooms are scattered between sev-
eral chalet-style bungalows accented with patches of jungle thatch. The packages include
fantastic meals. Nightly rates are also available.
Borneo Express ( in KK 012-830 7722, in Limbang 085-211 384, in Miri 012-823
7722) runs buses from KK (departing from Wawasan) at 6.45am, 10am and 12.30pm
daily. Ask the driver to let you off at the junction with the large Kuala Penyu sign. The
bus will turn left (south) to head towards Menumbok; you want to go right (north) in the
direction of Kuala Penyu. If you arranged accommodation in advance, the lodge van can
pick you up here (it's too far to walk). Buses pass the junction at 9.30am and 3.30pm
heading back to KK. If you're driving, take a right at the junction and keep an eye out for
the turn-off on the left side of the road just before Kuala Penyu. We suggest calling the
lodge for directions. A charter taxi from Beaufort will cost about RM50.
KLIAS
The tea-brown Sungai Klias looks somewhat similar to the mighty Kinabatangan, offering
short-stay visitors a chance to spend an evening in the jungle cavorting with saucy prim-
ates. There are several companies offering two-hour river cruises. We recommend Borneo
Authentic ( Click here ) , the first operator to set up shop in the region. Trips include a
large buffet dinner and a short night walk to view the swarms of fireflies that light up the