On the coast of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo, Bako National Park packs rainforest, sandstone cliffs, mangroves and beaches into a compact area. It is Sarawak’s oldest national park, established in 1957, and it is famous for wildlife, particularly the proboscis monkey that lives in the region.
Getting there from Kuching
The park is about 37 kilometres from Kuching. You drive or take a bus to the village of Kampung Bako, and then hire a small boat for a short ride to the park, since there is no road to the headquarters. The boat ride takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on tide. Check the official Sarawak Forestry information for permits, fees and tide-related schedules.
Wildlife
- Proboscis monkeys: endemic to Borneo, with large noses on the males. Bako is one of the easiest places to see them.
- Bearded pigs: often seen near the headquarters.
- Silvered leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques: macaques can be bold, so keep food hidden.
- Birds, lizards and pit vipers: watch where you step.
- Pitcher plants: several carnivorous species grow on the sandy trails.
Trails
There are marked trails of different lengths, colour-coded by difficulty. Short walks lead to beaches and viewpoints, while longer routes cross the plateau for several hours. Telok Pandan Kecil is a lovely beach with a sea stack, and Telok Sibur is known for night wildlife walks. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Where to stay
The park has simple lodges and a campsite, which are good if you want to see animals early in the morning or on a night walk. Book in advance, as accommodation is limited. A day trip is possible but rushed.
Best time to visit
The drier months of roughly March to October are more comfortable, though rain can occur at any time in Borneo. Early mornings are best for wildlife viewing and cooler walking.
Tips for visitors
- Bring insect repellent and sun protection.
- Do not feed the animals.
- Stay on marked trails and respect park rules.
- Take cash for fees and boat rides.
- Carry your own water and snacks; supplies are limited.
With a little planning, Bako is one of the most rewarding wildlife stops in Southeast Asia. Find more nature destinations on invisionfree.com, and always confirm current rules with the park.
Featured image: Charles J. Sharp, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).
