Whether you are a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, wildlife lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Danum Valley is an exceptional destination just a 2.5-hour drive from Lahad Datu Airport. Here's a guide to the top activities in Danum Valley that you should definitely add to your bucket list.
Danum Valley, located in Lahad Datu, Sabah, East Malaysia, is a haven for nature travelers. This protected primary lowland dipterocarp forest spans 438 square kilometers and is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in the world. Pristine and untouched, Danum Valley remains a glimpse into the natural world as it once was.
For family-friendly explorations that combine learning and adventure in Sabah, check out our curated family tours in Sabah. It's a perfect way to discover the wonders of Danum Valley together!
The guides at Danum Valley have decades of experience and are the best people to ask questions about the history of the forest. The trek involves long hiking trails through the dense forest, waterfalls, canopies, and to places with the best view in the valley.
Trekking activity is definitely a must when visiting Danum Valley
Rainforest in Danum Valley is a home to over 100 species of mammals, 300 types of birds and thousands of insects.
Spot on wild orangutans and primates swinging between tree branches while making loud howls. Discover a group of World's smallest elephants, Pygmy Elephants, wandering along the river streams. Watch sun bears dangle sluggishly in the canopies and variety of rare birds flying around in one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Don't forget to keep an eye on the ground as you might find thousands of insects traversing for food.
Maroon Leaf Monkey resting on a tree branch overlooking the breathtaking view of Danum Valley
This protected rainforest is also a home to hundreds of bird species, and scientists still regularly discover new varieties of birds. Without a doubt, this is a great opportunity for you to find exotic tropic birds.
The hornbills are easy to spot due to their attractive features and are usually flying overhead. For other types of birds, you will have to look keenly at the tree branches. And this is why you will need an experienced ranger who can help you spot these rare bird species and take you to their nests.
If you are not all about walking the forest, you can still watch birds flying around while you relax on the terrace.
Velvet-fronted Nuthatch spotted in the oldest rainforest of Borneo
If you are an adrenaline junkie, this activity will suit you right. Here, the rope bridges are suspended high up in the canopies where you can enjoy the views of the jungle and its inhabitants, such as orangutans, pot bellied proboscis monkeys, red leaf monkeys and birds.
You will find a number of canopy walks in Danum Valley, which is accessed by climbing a 30 meter ladder attached to a tall tree. Could be very thrilling for the faint-hearted adventurers, but Canopy Walks are the only best ways to see wildlife here.
A treetop walkway to get a better view of Borneo's wildlife in the forest reserve.
Once the sun goes down, one part of the jungle goes to sleep as another come to life. Joining a four-wheel night safari drive will reward you with a unique sight of nocturnal wildlife coming out in the dark, including civets, sambar deer and insects. Make sure not to miss this rare chance as it is definitely one of the top things to do in Danum Valley.
Insider Tips: Before beginning your exploration in Danum Valley, make sure to pack some leech socks to protect you against the blood-sucking threats.
Guided night drive in search of nocturnal animals
A wide range of accommodation are available for booking in Danum Valley, with a number of individual chalets dotted across the jungle.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge features a luxurious accommodation where each chalets are tastefully designed with personalised service, common areas, and superb food.
There are also well-trained guides to accompany you to the exploration of the forest, including nature trails, canopy walk and night walk.
All chalets are equipped with comfortable bed, ceiling fan, and 24-hour electricity. Some of these chalets even provide a private hot tub on the terrace overlooking the river or jungle, making it a perfect place for honeymoon and family vacation.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge has limited capacity and can only accommodate up to seventy guests, so make sure you book in advance.
Kindly note that Borneo Rainforest Lodge will be temporarily closed until end of 2020 due to renovation work.
Address: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
Instant Book: 3D2N Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Borneo Rainforest Lodge Premium Chalets at night
Suitable for backpackers and naturalists, Danum Valley Field Centre is a research centre with state-of-art-facilities. Inside the centre, you will find the Infapro Project Area, a nursery that focuses on propagation of trees and regeneration of the forest that have been logged.
The rooms offer basic accommodation that are comfortable and clean. Each of the rooms come with private / common bathroom, hot water, air conditioner / fan, and 24-hour electricity.
Address: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
Instant Book: 3D2N Danum Valley Field Centre - Nature Lover Experience (Budget)
Observation platform for birdwatching and wildlife sighting at Danum Valley Field Centre
Danum Valley, situated within the tropics, usually experiences high humidity and rain all year round.
The dry season begins from March to October, and you are likely to experience just a short showers of rain. Also, this is the peak time to watch the orangutans and many other wildlife roam-free around the jungle.
Low peak season usually falls between December and February where there is a high chance of heavy rainfall. And this condition might not be favourable for wildlife as they usually hide when it rains.
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