The Malaysian Peninsula has received a great deal of attention. Holiday experiences in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Cameron Highlands, Langkawi are always favoured by most travellers, especially first-time visitors. The East Malaysian region often gets overlooked because attractions in the Main Malay Peninsula are so popular. On the other hand, this is a boon for Sabah and Sarawak, as these destinations remain less crowded, untouched, and rich in natural beauty. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a repeat visitor to Malaysia seeking solace in nature, explore these hidden gems for a deeper experience than the multitude of Malaysian cities and towns scattered on the main Malaysian peninsula. One not-to-miss attraction in Malaysia is the Danum Valley in Borneo Malaysia. We suggest to book your Malaysia tourist visa and discover more about this enchanting destination in Malaysia below.
All about The Famous Danum Valley
During the early morning hour in Danum Valley, a dense mist covers this ancient rainforest. This scenery is among the most mesmerizing vistas you will ever experience in Malaysia. Located in Sabah – Malaysian Borneo, this unperturbed 438 square kilometer dense dipterocarp forestland is home to an exotic assortment of flora and fauna. This region has exceptional biodiversity and its wildlife includes rare species such as the Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, gibbons, the Horsfield’s tarsier, red leaf monkeys, and clouded leopards. Danum Valley has more than 270 bird species, and it is the only place where you can spot a spectacled flowerpecker. Danum Valley is said to be around 130-million-year-old and this natural reserve is a lowland forest submerged in tranquility and hues that will leave you awe-inspired. The nearest town to Danum Valley is Lahad Datu located 71 kilometres away on the southeast coast of Sabah, which is accessible from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, or Tawau. For those interested in a nature experience that combines off-beaten, untouched trails with rejuvenating nature splendour, Danum Valley would be a perfect addition to their Malaysia visit.
Is it worth going to Danum Valley?
Yes, it is absolutely worth it. These most protected, untouched rainforests live up to their reputation and attract many visitors every year. You will spot wild cats and several other wildfires. You will even find rare bird species here. It feels good to wake up near the 130 million-year-old primary rainforest. When visiting Burneo, Danum Valley should be at the top of your list.
Must-do Experiences And Activities at Danum Valley
1. Explore Jungle Trekking Adventures
Image Credit: https://www.sabahtravel.com
Danum Valley is nothing short of a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Set out on a hiking expedition inside a lush ancient woodland, under covers of dense foliage, meandering through trails dotted with shrubs, moss-covered plants, and cascading waterfalls. Views from some of the trails are so spectacular that they will stay with you for a long time. There are varying degrees of difficulty to these trails but they are well worth the effort. This is the best way to immerse yourself in the untouched natural world and appreciate its fantastic ecosystem. However, it is highly recommended to venture on a trek with an expert guide, since even with a map in hand, one can get lost in the dense jungle.
2. Spend The Night At The Forest Lodge
A trip to Danum Valley should span for a couple of days at least. A stay at the gorgeous Danum Valley rainforest lodge is an ideal way to get a comprehensive experience of this rainforest region. It is one of the most unique things to do in Danum Valley, where you will hear the sounds of wildlife amidst the silence of nature. There is a lot to see in Danum Valley and all the trekking and adrenaline rush may leave you exhausted. What better way to relax and recharge in nature with the best of conveniences right beneath the jungle canopy! Borneo Rainforest Lodge is known to be the best wildlife lodge in Asia and is one of the most eloquent lodgings to stay at. You can enjoy the finest beauty of nature, relax in a wooden chalet and observe wildlife from your own private balcony while taking in scenic vistas. Danum Valley tours can also be arranged in conjunction with these eco-stay lodges, which will offer the best guides and accommodations for an exciting wildlife adventure holiday with a touch of luxury.
3. Gear Up For A Jungle Night Safari
Image Credit: https://theculturetrip.com/
You may already be knowing about the famous Night Safari Singapore – one of the first artificially created night safari experiences in Asia that provides an opportunity to see nocturnal animal’s behaviour in a make-believe environment. In Danum Valley, you can venture out into the actual jungle with a knowledgeable guide for a night safari to view wildlife in their natural habitat! You will be guided through untouched paths by forest rangers in a 4×4 vehicle, where nocturnal creatures are often seen at night. You might be lucky enough to spot a clouded leopard on your night safari.
4. Take A Leisurely Tubing Trip Down The Danum River
A tubing adventure is another exhilarating adventure you can look forward to at Danum Valley. This freestyle water adventure gives the right dose of thrill on a nature trip. Strap yourself in a life jacket and a rubber tube float, wade into the river and let the gentle current take you on a ride. This is one of the most thrilling yet relaxing ways to take in the views of this lush jungle’s surroundings.
5. Find rare bird species
We all love to spot new and rare things. In Danum Valley, you will find several rare bird species. As a fun fact, scientists still discover new bird species in this protected rainforest. It might be easy for you to spot a hornbill due to its striking and unique features. For exploring other birds, consider observing the tree branches deeply. If you find it difficult, you may also relax on the terrace while you observe all these birds flying over you.
6. Hike to Pagan Graveyards
Borneo’s indigenous used to be Pagans a long time ago. People of the river used to live in this zone. If you consult with rangers, they will explain deeply about them and their beautifully decorated wooden coffin remains present at a distance of approximately 2.5 kilometers from the Danum Valley Field Centre. It is another interesting idea to go on a hike and explore the remains of this burial site.
7. Carnivorous Pitcher Plants
Have you heard about plants that eat insects instead of entertaining them? Such carnivorous plants are rare. In Danum Valley, you will find pitcher plants that are of inverted bell shape. These plants secrete a sticky substance with a sweet odor. Insects are attracted to the smell, get stuck, and are digested by the plants in a similar way to the famous Venus fly trap. The big pitcher plants have been known to be eaten even a mice. These are the rare plant species that you should not miss in Danum Valley.
8. The Unexplored Maliau Basin
If you love challenges, you should try exploring the Maliau Basin. For first-time visitors, Danum Valley might be remote and wild. However, the Maliau Basin is of the size of Singapore and is even more remote and wild. It is a UNESCO-listed area with most of the parts unmapped. Only a few travelers have hiked to the summit of Maliau Basin. You could be the next one!
What should I pack for Danum Valley?
When visiting the Danum Valley, consider it a necessity to bring items as there is not much available over there. Some of the things include sunscreen, raincoats, toiletries, swimwear, leech socks, and a comfortable trekking pack. You should also consider bringing money as there is no ATM in the rainforest. To enjoy the sights of rare species, pack a pair of binoculars and torchlights. It is a good idea to pack a basic first aid kit as well as a precautionary measure/ These necessities will help you stay ready and packed to enjoy the trip stress-free.
Conclusion
In this lush rainforest land, you realize that this must have been how the earth looked before modernization and civilization took hold. Danum Valley, with its dark, virgin woods, wildlife, and flora, is one of the earth’s most complex, thriving ecological destinations. This is a wonderful place to get off the grid and enjoy plenty of natural beauty. You may even feel a million miles away from civilization for a moment. Rare wildlife is what you should be excited about but they are also elusive, and you may have to keep your eyes peeled to see them camouflaged in dense foliage. You will enjoy the rarest nature adventure as well as the best wildlife spotting opportunities in Danum Valley, Malaysia.