Bako National Park

Bako National Park since 1957, Bako offers the perfect introduction to Sarawak’s forests and wildlife.  The park covers the northern tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula, an area of 27 sq km.  Despite its seemingly small size, Bako contains a wide range of vegetation – swamp forest, scrub-like padang vegetation, mangrove forest, dipterocarp forest, delicate cliff vegetation and more.   In fact, at Bako it is possible to see almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo.

Bako also covered with small bays, coves and beaches.  The park has a number of well-marked trails offering interesting walks ranging from short pleasant strolls to serious full-day hikes.

Bako is probably the best place in Sarawak for wildlife experiences. The park has been a protected area since 1957, so the animals are less wary of humans. Visitors, especially those who stay overnight, will have countless opportunities to observe and photograph various types of wildlife. The best times for seeing wildlife at Bako are just after dawn and just before dusk, when the animals are at their most active. Telok Assam, the area around the HQ, is a great place for seeing wildlife. Long-tailed macaques, silvered langurs or leaf-monkeys, common water monitors, plantain squirrels, wild boar and mouse deer are all found here. Bako is also home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. Bako National Park also contain delightful creatures to watch, and two species are found at Bako – the oriental small-clawed otter and the hairy-nosed otter. Besides that, there is the Bornean bearded pig which is Bako’s largest mammal; the largest lizard which up to 2 metres; number of snake species; over 150 species of bird; and small creature in mangroves such as mudskippers and crabs.

Bako’s extensive trail system is made up of 16 colour-coded jungle trails which offer a range of walking and hiking options. The fit and adventurous can opt for full-day jungle hikes or overnight camping expeditions, whilst those who prefer to take it easy can opt for a relaxing forest walk.