mantanani islands
The Mantanani Islands form a small group of three islands off the north-west coast of the state of Sabah, opposite the town of Kota Belud. The largest island is Mantanani Besar, the other two are Mantanani Kecil and Lungisan. The islands of Mantanani have all been gazetted as a bird sanctuary in 1960s.
BIRDs
Over 130 species of resident and migratory birds have been recorded in Mantanani, some of the highlights are the Mantanani Scops-Owl, Nicobar Pigeon, Pied Imperial Pigeon, Grey Imperial Pigeon, Tabon Srubfowl and many other migratory birds that may end up here.
BIRDing locations + trails
Birding is done mainly on Mantanani Besar. The best locations for birding on the island are on the roads and short trails, all of which do not require a guide.
Accommodations
Getting there
There are several places to stay at Mantanani. Sutera Mantanani Island Resort and many other homestays are available on the island.
To get to Mantanani requires a 30–40-minute boat ride from Kuala Abai jetty in Kota Belud.