Bako (Malaysia)

We left Kuching in driving rain that very nearly dissuaded us from going. Having gone up the river in our little boat, we left our bags in the office, took our entry tickets and maps and registered our departure into the park. We were off for the big Tajor / Bukit Kruing / Pay Jelutong / Hintang tour.

After a quick swim in the South China Sea we set off on the path. The 15 or 16 kilometres are a 7 hour walk between ferns and carnivorous plants, green snakes, giant snails, lemurs, fiddlers crabs with their enormous claw and tiny body, migratory ants, macaque monkeys...

As it was the rainy season, we were, of course, walking in the rain and in the water, our feet were soaked and our waterproofs weren't! It was quite a walk through roots that needed to be climbed and over wet tree trunks. We arrived at the park early so the showers may have been cold but they were welcome!

The next day the rhythm was easier. I have to say the pace had been a bit forced the day before. So for the second day in this park that had so far been everything we expected, we were going to have a look at the view point and Paku beach.

Bako National Park is an exciting destination for those stopping in Kuching (connections by bus) or who find themselves in the western part of the state of Sarawak. Once at the entrance of the park, a boat transfer is necessary to access the starting point of the different hiking trails, the information and catering zone and even accommodation.

Around ten trails of various durations and difficulties allow you to venture into these 28 km² in search of its natural wonders: tropical rainforest, karstic formations, waterfalls and golden rivers... Almost all the plant species of the island of Borneo are found in the park, as well as very many animal species including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, flying squirrels and rhinoceros hornbills.

Due to a lack of time, I was only able to spend one day in the park, which still gave me enough time to combine two short circuits for a variety of landscapes, wildlife and incredible flora. I can't imagine the pleasure of staying two or three days... 

Bako National Park is an exciting destination for those stopping in Kuching (connections by bus) or who find themselves in the western part of the state of Sarawak. Once at the entrance of the park, a boat transfer is necessary to access the starting point of the different hiking trails, the information and catering zone and even accommodation.

Around ten trails of various durations and difficulties allow you to venture into these 28 km² in search of its natural wonders: tropical rainforest, karstic formations, waterfalls and golden rivers... Almost all the plant species of the island of Borneo are found in the park, as well as very many animal species including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, flying squirrels and rhinoceros hornbills.

Due to a lack of time, I was only able to spend one day in the park, which still gave me enough time to combine two short circuits for a variety of landscapes, wildlife and incredible flora. I can't imagine the pleasure of staying two or three days...