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Fungi of Borneo

The Magical World of Mushroom & Fungi in Borneo

Vegetarians may consider mushrooms a delicious plant-based option in their diet. However, mushrooms are neither plants nor animals—they belong to the fungi kingdom, which has existed for over a billion years, long before the first humans existed. Even NatGeo classifies mushrooms as wildlife. Mushrooms frequently appear in captivating fictional and magical worlds, such as Avatar, Mario, Harry Potter, and Alice in Wonderland.

Fungi are just crazy, with their peculiar shapes, patterns, and colours. This is the number one reason why I am slow in hiking—I always pause to photograph them along the way. Some fungi are stunning, adding an eye-catching touch to the often monotonous forest landscape. József Geml, a mycologist from the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands who was impressed by Sabah’s fungi, remarked, “One of the manifestations of this diversity comes in the endless variety of shapes and colours that sometimes are truly breathtaking.”

Mushrooms thrive in humid environments and humus-rich soil, making the tropical rainforests of Borneo their perfect habitat. The fungi kingdom may contain up to five million species (compared to 275,000 plant species), yet only 5% have been scientifically named. Some mushrooms only sprout for a few days before vanishing for decades. These random encounters excite me, as I might have photographed a fungus that is rare or even unknown to science!

“Nature alone is antique, and the oldest art a mushroom” – Thomas Carlyle

You may watch the video presentation on The Larger Fungi of Borneo by Dr. Jaya Seelan Sathiya Seelan, a Mycology and Plant Pathology researcher at Universiti Malaysia Sabah.

My favourite fungi are mainly the larger mushrooms in the Basidiomycota group because they are more showy and photogenic. Mycologists, on the other hand, often search for extraordinary fungi that may be smaller than a coffee bean. Regardless of their appearance, fungi play an essential role in decomposing organic matter, breaking down dead wood and fallen litter, and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Are you ready for a magical tour featuring some of the coolest fungi in Borneo? Most of these photos are from my 20 years of hiking in Borneo’s forests.

The Most Unique Mushroom of Sabah

If I were to pick the most special fungus representing Sabah, it would undoubtedly be Chlorogaster dipterocarpi, discovered in 2004. This rare fungus is native to Sabah and was first found in Danum Valley, a million-year-old virgin rainforest in Borneo.

Photo of Chlorogaster dipterocarpi by Laessøe & Jalink (Kaijo Russell), licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

This puffball fungus stands out with its unusual appearance—a slender, pear-shaped body with a dark green surface covered in small, cone-like warts. At the top, a pale green, circular opening resembles an alien’s eye.

The Most Beautiful Mushroom

A Dusun Liwan (a native tribe of Sabah) folklore features a mushroom in its story. In the tale, Si Anak-Anak finds a talking mushroom by the river and takes it home. Every night, a beautiful woman mysteriously appears in his room, only to vanish by day. He falls in love with her and later discovers that she is actually the mushroom in human form. To keep her as a human, he hides the mushroom’s outer covering, preventing her from transforming back. They marry, have a child, and live happily together. That pretty girl could be a Bridal Veil Stinkhorn.

The Bridal Veil Stinkhorn (or Bamboo Mushroom) is one of the most exquisite fungi in Southeast Asia due to its white or orange net-like indusium, which hangs down from the top like a bride’s veil (or a hot girl wearing a fishnet dress?). I have seen the Bridal Veil Stinkhorn in the hill forests of Kionsom (Inanam), Tun Fuad Stephens Park, Kopungit Hill, Kg. Kiau Nuluh (Kota Belud), and Danum Valley. I haven’t found a wife, though—I may have eaten her accidentally, as the Bridal Veil Stinkhorn is considered a delicacy.

Glowing Mushrooms / Bioluminescent Fungi

Glowing mushrooms, also known as ghost mushrooms, emit bioluminescent light (or cold light) in the dark. Most of the glowing mushrooms in Sabah are endemic to Borneo. It is still unclear why these fungi glow. Some theories suggest that they attract nocturnal insects and animals, aiding in spore dispersal.

The bioluminescence is weak, so you need to turn off any lights when in the forest at night. Once your eyes adjust to the darkness, you can spot the green glow of these mushrooms or even a glowing log covered in bioluminescent fungi. This eerie light, also called foxfire, has an air of mystery. According to Kadazan legend, glowing mushrooms are guided by spirits who are hostile to those who try to harvest them.

Aside from natural forests, you can also see bioluminescent fungi at the Glowing Mushroom Garden of Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Tuaran. This is Malaysia’s first bioluminescent mushroom display, enhanced with illuminated LED lights.

Edible Mushrooms / Fungi

For at least 13,000 years, mushrooms have been consumed as food, and they are now an important agricultural product in Sabah. Some Sabah villages produce tons of shiitake and oyster mushrooms annually. In Sabah, 25 wild mushroom species were documented as edible mushrooms for food and five species for medicinal uses.

Some of Borneo’s wild edible fungi include Bull-eye fungi and Kodop, both of which can be found in tamu (native open markets of Sabah). Additionally, fungi play a crucial role in fermentation. Without yeast fungi, tapai and lihing—Sabah’s favourite rice wines—would not exist. Similarly, without fungi fermenting dough, traditional bread would be flat and bland.

Poisonous Mushrooms

Whenever people see a mushroom, their first question is often, “Is it edible?” You may have heard that brightly coloured mushrooms are toxic, while others claim the white ones are dangerous. Both are wrong. There is no simple rule to distinguish whether a mushroom is safe to eat just by looking at it. You must be able to identify the species.

From 2014 to 2024, a total of 200 cases of mushroom poisoning were reported in Malaysia, with Sabah recording the highest number (67%). Most cases were caused by the False Parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites), a toxic mushroom that closely resembles the edible Shaggy Parasol. Commonly found on lawns and gardens after rain, it is nicknamed the “Vomiter.” Consuming it can result in severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and colic.

Medicinal Fungi

On the other hand, fungi have also saved lives. For example, Penicillium was the fungus behind the discovery of penicillin, the first antibiotic, which has saved millions from deadly infections. Another well-known medicinal fungus is Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum), a highly prized Chinese herb that can be found in Sabah’s forests.

The Tiger Milk Mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) got its name from a local legend that claims the fungus grows where a mother tiger’s milk has dripped onto the ground. It has been used in traditional medicine for its wide-ranging health benefits, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, neuroprotective, and wound-healing properties.

Zombie Fungi

“Zombie” fungi are among the creepiest fungi, and I’ve spotted quite a few in lowland forests. The horror begins when an ant or insect (often a moth) gets infected by fungal spores and is slowly consumed from the inside.

As the fungus matures, it takes over the insect’s mind, compelling it to climb to a higher spot and latch itself onto a leaf. The insect then dies, and the fungus sprouts from its body, releasing spores to continue the cycle. A famous and highly valuable Chinese medicinal herb, Cordyceps sinensis (also known as caterpillar fungus or 冬虫夏草), is produced in a similar way.

Other Interesting Fungi

The world of fungi doesn’t end there! The more you explore, the more fascinating species you’ll discover.

Starfish Fungus

Spotting a Starfish Fungus (Aseroe rubra), also called the Anemone Stinkhorn, in Sabah is as rare as winning the lottery. This alien-like fungus is short-lived, withering in a day or two, so many people have never seen it.

It resembles a reddish star-shaped structure on a white stalk. Its dark olive-brown slime (gleba) smells like rotting meat and contains spores. The foul scent attracts carrion flies, which help spread the spores. Its scientific name literally means “disgusting red juice.”

Agarwood (Gaharu)

Nicknamed the “Scent from Heaven,” the fragrant wood of Agarwood (Aquilaria species), or Gaharu as it’s known locally, is worth its weight in gold due to its rarity and widespread use in perfume, incense, and traditional medicines. Sabah’s forests contain an abundance of wild Agarwood, attracting illegal poachers.

However, the tree itself doesn’t naturally produce its prized resin. It must first be injured and infected by specific fungi (e.g., Fusarium species). Cultivators artificially inoculate trees with the right fungi, and the resin takes 1 to 5 years to develop.

Earthstar

The Earthstar mushroom (Geastrum sp.) resembles a tiny orange before maturing. Its outer layer splits open into star-like segments as it ripens, revealing a smooth, egg-shaped spore sac. When raindrops hit the sac’s central pore, a jet of spores is released. Earthstars are generally non-toxic but inedible.

Cup Fungi

Known as “Kulat Mangkuk” in Malay, cup fungi (Cookeina spp.) are commonly found on decaying wood in damp, shaded forest areas. Their vibrant colours range from red, pink, peach, to orange, and some even have tiny hairs covering the cup surface. Cup fungi can be used as fish bait by rubbing them on fish hooks.

Dead Man’s Fingers

Xylaria polymorpha, Dead Man’s Fingers, is a wood-decaying fungus named for its eerie, black, finger-like fruiting bodies.

Best Locations for Fungi Spotting in Sabah

Fungi are found everywhere, but the diversity varies greatly depending on the forest’s condition. Pristine forests are the best places to find fungi, as their underground mycelium networks remain intact and undisturbed.

Over 95% of plants are estimated to rely on fungi for growth and survival. Logged forests, however, have far fewer fungi species because their damaged mycelium networks need 100 to 200 years to fully recover.

1) Maliau Basin

With over 10 different forest types spanning various altitudes, Maliau Basin—also known as Sabah’s Lost World—is the top spot for fungi spotting. Its towering trees block sunlight, creating a cool, moist environment where fungi thrive. Once a passionate mycologist steps into Maliau Basin, he will cry with joy and doesn’t want to leave his dreamland.

2) Danum Valley

Danum Valley is one of the world’s oldest and last remaining virgin rainforests, and researchers are still discovering new species of flora and fauna here.

3) Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park is a UNESCO Global Geopark of Malaysia. Described by fungi experts as an “El Dorado” for mycologists, Kinabalu Park is easily accessible and tourist-friendly. Simply walk along its nature trails, and you’ll spot unique highland fungi in the montane forest.

4) Tawau Hills Park

Thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and pristine rivers, Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau) boasts some of the world’s tallest tropical trees. Yet, surprisingly, not many people know about this incredible spot! While birdwatchers, botanists, entomologists, and photographers frequent the park, mycologists should also take note.

Books about Borneo Fungi

For more information, check out these books:

  1. The Larger Fungi of Borneo – David Norman Pegler (Natural History Publications, 1997). This book is out of print, but you can find a copy at the Sabah State Library.
  2. Wild Fungi of Sabah: A Pictorial Documentation – Piakong Mohd. Tuah, Markus Atong, Nur Zaida Zahari (2018) ISBN: 978-967-2166-12-2

Fungi are mysterious, deadly, life-saving, and essential to nature. From toxic mushrooms to medicinal wonders and mind-controlling fungi, they never cease to amaze. Next time you’re in the forest, look closer—you might spot something incredible.

Photos taken in Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Top Night Walk and Herping Destinations in Sabah

When night falls in Borneo, most tourists call it a day, while there are a group of tourists who can’t wait to enter the dark rainforest. The chorus of frogs and crickets masks their footsteps as they scan the foliage with flashlights, searching high and low for the critters that come alive after sunset. Whenever someone pauses with a gasp of wonder, the others eagerly gather to witness a rare and extraordinary discovery. For these explorers, the night is when the rainforest truly awakens—usually after 7 p.m.

Borneo is one of the top destinations for night walks and herping—a niche activity for enthusiasts seeking reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats. Sabah, in particular, boasts a rich array of endemic animals with vibrant colours and unique forms. As advertised in National Geographic, Borneo island is renowned for its biodiversity. For instance, a single tree can host hundreds of species. Among the treasures you might encounter are tarsiers, flying frogs, stick insects, leopard cats, and snakes.

For some, bugs and snakes might not seem endearing. However, this fear often stems from a lack of understanding, exacerbated by modern lifestyles that disconnect us from nature. Today, children may even shy away from chickens—a far cry from the days when our grandparents shared stories of catching crickets, collecting fireflies for lanterns, keeping scorpions as pets, or enjoying frog delicacies.

If you find wild critters fascinating and night walks thrilling, you’re in luck! Sabah boasts several fantastic spots where you can observe a diverse range of wildlife, including frogs and toads, tarsiers, slow lorises, flying squirrels, civets, badgers, leopard cats, lizards, snakes, geckos, birds, stick insects, spiders, snails, millipedes, and moths. It’s a dream for macro photographers, as many creatures stay still, making close observation and photography easy.

Best Locations

The two best locations for night walks and herping are Kinabalu Park and Poring. These destinations are popular because they offer a combination of highland and lowland habitats and are only 19 km apart. Note that most locations require permits or guides for night walks. If you’re searching for rare and endemic frogs, lizards, and snakes in Borneo, consider joining the Borneo herping tour led by Kurt Orionmystery.

1) Kinabalu Park (Kundasang)

Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, showcases the biodiversity of Borneo. Situated at approximately 1,563 metres (5,128 feet) above sea level, this montane forest is ideal for night walks. Visitors must register with Sabah Parks during daytime office hours and hire a guide (fees apply).

Possible Sightings

🐍 Malcom’s Pit Viper, Dragon Snake, Sabah Pit Viper, Chasen’s Mountain Pit Viper, Kinabalu Brown Pit Viper, Black Striped Coral Snake, Schmidt’s Reed Snake, Dark-headed Black Snake, Borneo Red Snake, Borneo Black Snake, Dark Spined Kukri Snake, Candy Cane Snake, Gold White-Spotted Cat Snake, Sabah Slender Slug Snake, Stuebing’s Slug Snake, Inger’s Slug Snake

🦎 Kinabalu Crested Lizard, Sabah Eyebrow Lizard, Mocquard’s Eyebrow Lizard, Kinabalu Gliding Gecko, Kinabalu Bent-toed Gecko, Kinabalu Litter Skink

🐸 Kobayashi’s Horned Frog, Kinabalu Horned Frog, Mossy Bush/Shrub Frog, Kinabalu Sticky Frog, Sharp-nosed Tree Frog, Green Bush Frog, Kinabalu Litter Frog

🐾 Caecilians, Civet Cat

Recommended Videos

  1. Can we find EVERY PIT VIPER in Borneo??? Part 1
  2. The Wonders of Kinabalu National Park 4K: Sabah, Borneo: Snakes, Frogs, Lizards, Moths, Spiders, etc
  3. FACE to FANG With One of Asia’s Rarest Snakes!
  4. IS THIS THE WORLDS COOLEST FROG?! Herping Mount Kinabalu, Borneo
  5. Tarantulas, Centipedes, and Vipers! Oh my! Night hiking in Borneo!
  6. The Frogs of Kinabalu National Park, Sabah: Borneo Nature
  7. Malcolm’s Pitviper 神山青竹絲 & Kinabalu Horned Frog 角蛙
  8. Caecilian 蚓螈 & Giant Forest Scorpion 長爪雨林蠍! Sabah, Borneo

2) Poring (Ranau)

At 550 metres (1,804 feet) above sea level, Poring features a tropical rainforest home to lowland species. There are two night walk spots: one within Poring Hot Springs (a substation of Kinabalu Park) and the other at Lupa Masa, a private area adjacent to the park.

Possible Sightings

🐍 Red-headed Krait, Sumatran Pit Viper, Bornean Leaf-nosed Pit Viper, Bornean keeled Pit Viper, Dragon Snake, Red-tailed Racer, Triangle Keelback, Elegant Bronzeback, Jasper Cat Snake, Common Mock Viper, Blunt-headed Slug Snake

🦎 Giant Angle-headed Dragon, Forest Dragon, Cat Gecko, Gliding Gecko, Bent-toed Gecko

🐸 Hole-in-the-head Frog, Saffron Bellied Frog, Wallace’s Flying Frog, Cinnamon Frog, White-lipped Frog, Spiny Slender Toad, File-eared Frog, White-eared Tree Frog

🐾 Caecilian (Ichthyophis sp.)

For guided tours at Poring Hot Springs, register with Sabah Parks. For herping, contact Lupa Masa via their Facebook.

Recommended Videos

  1. I found the PRETTIEST SNAKE deep in the Bornean Jungle!
  2. Snakes EVERYWHERE in the Bornean Jungle!
  3. Most Incredible Frog! 最神奇的蛙! – Borneo Jungle 2nd Night 婆羅洲叢林第二晚
  4. The Magic of Borneo’s Rainforest 4K: Herping Poring Springs National Park

3) Tawau Hills Park (Tawau)

Tawau Hills Park, locally known as Taman Bukit Tawau, is a protected lowland forest and water catchment area on Sabah’s east coast. Home to some of the world’s tallest tropical trees, this park is a paradise for birdwatching, hiking, and herping, thanks to its sprawling rivers and streams teeming with life. The park is also rich in wildlife, featuring creatures like maroon leaf monkeys and hornbills. For accommodation and guiding services, reach out to 1Stop Borneo.

Possible Sightings

🐍 Tawau Banded Reed Snake, Borneo Blood Phyton, Borneo Keeled Pit Viper, Sumatran Pit Viper, Red-headed Krait, Jasper Cat Snake, Banded Malayan Coral Snake, Jeweled Kukri Snake, Striped Kukri Snake, White-Spotted Cat Snake, Dark-necked Snail-eating Snake, Painted Mock Viper, White-bellied Rat Snake

🦎 Borneo Forest Dragon, Green Crested Lizard, Black-lipped Eyebrow Lizard, Ornate Earless Agamid, Kuhl’s Flying Gecko

🐸 Rough Horned Frog, Borneo Big Sticky Frog, Banded Tree Frog, Borneo Flying Frog, Jade Tree Frog, Mahogany Frog, Sabah Rainbow Frog, Kinabalu Dwarf Mountain Frog, Spiny Wart Frog

🐾 Leopard Cat, Marbled Cat, Moonrat, Tarsier, Palm Civet, Slow Loris, Malayan Porcupine

Recommended Videos

  1. Snakes and Reptiles of Tawau Hills Park – (Borneo part 4)
  2. Hidden Gems of Tawau Hills National Park Borneo 4K

4) Rainforest Discovery Centre (Sandakan)

The Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) is renowned for its Rainforest Skywalk—the longest canopy walkway in Sabah, spanning an impressive 620 metres. Visitors can also explore an extensive network of nature trails that showcase the diverse lowland rainforest of Sepilok.

Night walks are held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with registration required at the ticketing counter before 5 p.m. Depending on your luck, you might spot fascinating creatures like the Bornean tarsier, slow loris, civets, moonrats, flying squirrels, glowworms, or even owls.

5) Danum Valley (Lahad Datu)

Danum Valley is home to Borneo’s oldest primary rainforest. This dense forest shelters iconic wildlife such as orangutans, clouded leopards, tarsiers, and hornbills. The elusive Bornean Bristlehead is also a prized sight for birdwatchers.

While herping here can be rewarding, the valley’s remote location and premium costs may not suit everyone. For a luxurious experience, stay at the 5-star Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Budget travellers can opt for the Danum Valley Field Centre (also known as the Danum Valley Studies Centre).

Other Good Locations

The following are other great spots for night walks and herping. Even seasoned entomologists and herpetologists may uncover rare and fascinating finds.

1) Crocker Range Park (Keningau)

Crocker Range Park, the largest terrestrial park in Sabah, features lush lowland rainforests and mixed hill dipterocarp forests. The park’s headquarters in Keningau boasts facilities such as accommodation and camping grounds. Visitors can book a guide at the office during the day to explore the 2-kilometre nature trail at night. One of the park’s standout features is its variety of stick insects, along with hidden gems like glowworms.

2) Kinabatangan Floodplain (Sandakan)

Kinabatangan Floodplain is Sabah’s largest wetland and a RAMSAR site, renowned as a prime destination for spotting Bornean pygmy elephants, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and eight species of hornbills. Night walks here are often optional tours offered by lodges and resorts near secondary forests, oxbow lakes, or swampy areas. These environments host unique species you may not find in other rainforests. For those seeking a promising spot, Danau Girang is worth considering.

Recommended Videos

  1. Herping Borneo – Pit Vipers and Sunbeam Snakes

3) Miki Survival Camp (Kota Belud)

Located about a two-hour hike from Kiau Village in Kota Belud, Miki Survival Camp offers visitors an immersive experience in rainforest survival. While the camp is known for teaching survival skills, the night walks are equally remarkable. Though the amenities are basic (no electricity), the sightings here rival those in Kinabalu Park.

4) Tabin Wildlife (Lahad Datu)

My visit to Tabin Wildlife Reserve included a single night walk, which was enjoyable though it didn’t yield anything particularly memorable. However, the reserve has hosted projects like the Frog Camp programme, indicating its potential as an excellent herping site.

5) Kionsom (Kota Kinabalu)

If you prefer a herping spot close to Kota Kinabalu City, Kionsom in Inanam is a convenient option, located just 20 minutes from the city. This hilly area, interspersed with numerous streams, offers a variety of wildlife. You can arrange tours through Ki-Onsoi Herping.

Possible Sightings

🐍 Borneo Python, Vine Snake, Bornean Keeled Pit Viper, White-fronted Water Snake, Striped Bronzeback, Elegant Bronzeback

🦎 Five-lined Flying Dragon, Great Angle-headed Lizard, Bent-toed Gecko, Borneo Forest Dragon

🐸 Northern Torrent Frog, Giant River Toad, File-eared Frog

6) Sayap Substation (Kota Belud)

Sayap, one of Kinabalu Park’s substations, also serves as the starting point for climbing Mount Minodtuhan. Though this place is far and less accessible, it’s gaining popularity among herpes as it is located in a transitional and riverine zone between lowland and montane forests, where animals from both habitats can be found!

Possible Sightings

🐍 Sabah Bamboo Pit Viper, Borneo Red Snake

🐸 Golden-legged Bush Frog, Long-fingered Stream Toad, Bornean Horned Frog, Masked Tree Frog

Recommended Video

  1. Jungle Night Hike (# 1) – Beautiful and Unusual Wildlife – Borneo Adventure Part 3, Sayap

Tips for Night Walks

The best time for night walk is during new moon, ideally after rain. When it’s full moon, the nocturnal animals are more sensitive and stay hidden away from the bright moonlight. That affects herping as insects are afraid of frogs, frogs are afraid of snake, and snakes are afraid of owl.

What to Bring and Wear on a Night Walk

  1. Never go alone. A knowledgeable guide increases your chances of wildlife encounters.
  2. Travel with a group to split guiding costs.
  3. Night walks can last hours—carry a flashlight with a long battery life. Bring spare flashlight or extra batteries.
  4. Headlamps are convenient but may attract insects like wasps to your faces.
  5. Look for the reflective eyes of animals to spot them in the dark.
  6. Bring a raincoat for unexpected rain.
  7. Wear anti-leech socks; leeches indicate a thriving forest ecosystem.
  8. Opt for water-resistant hiking shoes or rubber boots for muddy and swampy areas.
  9. Beware of fire ants, which are active at night and have painful stings.
  10. Follow your guide’s instructions and avoid touching anything.

Useful Books

These field guides by Natural History Publications (Borneo) are useful for herping enthusiasts:

  1. A Field Guide to the Snakes of Borneo (2nd edition) by Björn Lardner, Rob Stuebing, Robert Inger. ISBN: 978-983-812-151-4
  2. A Field Guide to the Frogs of Borneo (3rd edition) by Robert F. Inger, Robert B. Stuebing, T. Ulmar Grafe, J. Maximilian Dehling. ISBN: 9789838121767
  3. Amphibians & Reptiles in Sabah by Robert F. Inger and Tan Fui Lian. ISBN: 983-812-010-3

Photos taken in Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Climbing Mount Minodtuhan, the 8th Highest Mountain of Malaysia

Ever wondered what it’s like to climb a misty, moss-covered mountain in the clouds? Mount Minodtuhan (Local Name: Gunung Minodtuhan), Malaysia’s eighth-highest peak, offers just that—without the noisy crowds. Starting from the lesser-explored northwest side of Kinabalu Park, you’ll follow an undulating trail that transitions from lush rainforest to an enchanting mossy forest above 1,800 metres. Here, fog swirls around ancient trees, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale.

Mossy montane forest near the peak of Mount Minodtuhan

Standing at 2,360 metres (7,743 feet), Mount Minodtuhan even surpasses Peninsular Malaysia’s tallest peak, Gunung Tahan (2,187 metres). While Mount Minodtuhan may not be as famous as Mount Kinabalu, this climb is a reminder that, as they say, “It’s not the height of the mountain, but the depth of the experience.” The journey from Sayap Substation in Kota Belud unveils Borneo’s highlands at their most pristine, untouched, and unforgettable.

Aerial photo of Mount Mindotuhan on the north side of Mount Kinabalu. Thank you, Leon from Sesat in Malaysia, for sharing this picture. Please check out his Instagram and Facebook for more amazing photos.

Due to a past landslide, it is named “Minodtuhan,” which means “landslide” in the Dusun language. However, a geology journal suggests it means “Sunken Valley,” describing a deep valley likely formed along a crack or break in the Earth’s crust.

About The Climb

I bet you’re wondering if Mount Minodtuhan is easy to conquer. As a middle-aged guy who jogs three times a week, I’d rate the climb as intermediate in difficulty (5.5 out of 10). If you exercise regularly and are used to walking on hilly terrain, you can tackle it in most cases. However, I wouldn’t recommend Minodtuhan to beginners or couch potatoes.

Left: The super-green Montane forest on Mount Minodtuhan. Right: summit marker on the peak of Mount Minodtuhan (Translation: Peak of Mount Minodtuhan, 2,360 Metres above sea level)

This trail is known for its varying inclines, challenging you with a mix of steep slopes and flatter paths all the way to the summit. The climb begins at Sayap Substation, one of the substations of Kinabalu Park in the Kota Belud district. The summit trail from the substation to the peak is 6 km one way (you will descend via the same trail). Typically, it takes normal climbers 4 to 6 hours to reach the top. If you descend at 10 a.m., you can expect to be back at the substation by around 2:30 p.m.

Left: camping at Sayap Substation (Kinabalu Park). Right: group photo in the middle of summit trail

However, sometimes climbers overstretch themselves and become too exhausted, returning to the substation as late as 8 p.m. or later. Please note there is an additional charge of RM15 per hour if you don’t reach the camp by 5 p.m., as one or two guides must accompany you for the overtime. Again, I strongly advise you to train before attempting the climb.

Left: You’ll use a lot of rope for climbing, so wearing gloves is advisable. Right: Anti-leech socks can help prevent bites—unless you’re okay with donating some blood like this guy!

And oh yes, there are blood-sucking leeches (Local Name: pacat). Thankfully, there weren’t many during my climb, so I didn’t even bother wearing my anti-leech socks. I only sprayed some anti-leech liquid on my shoes and managed to avoid a single leech bite.

Climbing Mount Minodtuhan

Here’s a walk-through of my climb so you’ll know what to expect. I camped at Sayap Substation with others so I could start climbing early in the morning. After breakfast and a briefing by the mountain guides (or rangers), we began the climb at 4:24 a.m. It took me 4 hours and 40 minutes to reach the peak.

You may watch this 4-minute video for an overview of the climb

KM 0 to KM 2:

Enjoy the first 2 km because it’s the easiest part. After 2 km, 70% of the trail becomes steep. The summit trail starts at the edge of the camping site. The first 1 km is a walk on a gentle slope with a wide, grassy trail. After about 10 minutes, I passed a gazebo, where I found the 1,100-metre marker shortly after. Then the trail became scattered with many small rocks, and it started to narrow as I saw more foliage and tree roots on the ground.

Left: gazebo (Pondok Takang) after the first Km of summit trail. Right: the last distance marker of the summit trail to Mount Minodtuhan

At 4:54 a.m. (30 minutes in), I crossed a small stream into the dense forest. The trail narrowed even further and became steeper, covered in moss. Around KM 1.3, there was a 100-metre stretch of flat terrain, and the trail wasn’t too steep before KM 1.7. The dense undergrowth on both sides concealed leeches among the foliage and shrubs. The zone between 1,200 and 2,600 metres is called the humic horizon, which is rich in organic soil and moisture.

Left: taking our first break on the trail. Right: the outline of Mount Sayap (or Mount Guwow) behind the dense trees

The trail 100 metres after KM 1.7 is very steep. I arrived at KM 2 at 5:18 a.m., feeling okay and not very tired, just warm from the vigorous climb. There are no more distance markers after KM 2.1. This is where the challenging hike truly began, as 70% of the trail ahead is steep, and part of it feels like wall climbing (though it’s not that extreme).

KM 2.1 to KM 4:

After a 100-metre steep climb along a cliff, I took a short break on flat ground at 5:28 a.m. By 5:42 a.m., I could see the first light of dawn and the outline of the mountain range through the dense forest. Honestly, it would have been better if it had stayed dark, so I wouldn’t have seen the long, undulating trail ahead. At this point, I had to battle with my mind too.

Most of the summit trail is steep after 2 Km. Less than 20% of the trail is flat.

There are some rope supports in steep or slippery areas. I used them to pull my body up to save my leg muscles. After 5:45 a.m., there was a 150-metre easy walk along a ridge with cliffs on both sides. It was a bit cooler due to the wind. The trees became mossy, a characteristic of the cloud zone between 1,200 and 2,000 metres, due to the humidity brought by mist and condensation on the cooler highlands.

Left: rest after climbing some steep trails. Right: Epiphytes grow high on trees to access more sunlight and water, a characteristics of montane forest

After the ridge walk, there was a 10-minute very steep climb uphill. Some spots had no support ropes. KM 2.5 to KM 3.5 is probably the steepest part of the climb. Luckily, short and gentle slopes would appear when it became unbearable. At 6:30 a.m., I caught a glimpse of Mount Guaw, the second-highest mountain in Malaysia (unofficially). I think the worst part was behind me by 7:30 a.m., though there was still a steep trail ahead.

About 70% of the final 4 km to the peak is steep. Right: The section covered with brown, silvery leaves is particularly slippery.

At 7:40 a.m., I reached the “Smoking Zone,” a wide, flat area after KM 4. I gave myself a pat on the shoulder, as I had completed two-thirds of the climb. For every 100 metres gained in elevation, the temperature drops by 0.55°C. It was cold and windy there, and I felt quite chilled when I stopped, with my clothes soaked in sweat.

Left: The Smoking Zone after 4 km. Right: A rare sighting of the Baram Water Snake (Pseudoxenodon baramensis), an endemic species of Borneo.

The good news is that leeches are rare beyond this point. However, I almost stepped on a Baram Water Snake, which blends perfectly among the foliage—a rare sight. I would have screamed in joy if I had seen a Malcom’s Pit Viper, a cool snake found only on the higher mountains of Borneo Island.

KM 4 to the Peak

After a 15-minute rest at KM 4, we continued the climb around 8 a.m. The terrain was still rugged but not as difficult as before. The peak was only an hour away. Mount Minodtuhan is dominated by sedimentary rocks (mainly sandstones) from the Crocker Formation, deposited during the middle Oligocene to early Miocene period (approximately 28 to 16 million years ago), making it older than Mount Kinabalu (about 8 million years old).

From left to right: trilobite beetle, weird fungus, blooming orchid

Now, the surroundings were well-lit, and we could enjoy the out-of-this-world view of the pristine upper montane forest, adorned with vibrant green moss on the ground and trees, with epiphytes clinging to branches. The moss retains water like a sponge, making it the perfect habitat for epiphytes, which grow on other plants or trees to access more sunlight and water. They don’t take nutrients from their hosts but use them for support.

The trail for the last 2 km to the summit of Mount Minodtuhan.

Besides moss, lichen was everywhere too. Both are good indicators of a pollution-free environment. Keep an eye on the plants, and you might spot some special rhododendrons and orchids in bloom. The montane forest in Kinabalu Park is dominated by oaks and chestnut trees, with at least 50 species. You’ll see many oak fruits on the forest floor, which are the favourite food of wild boars and squirrels.

Left: To rest means walking a longer distance. Right: An elegant clambering bamboo (Racemobambos herpburnii) with fine foliage. We are now only 300 metres away from the peak!

We stopped briefly at a bamboo area at 8:55 a.m. My guide said the summit was only 300 metres away, so we went for the final push. However, I was so amazed by the magnificent mossy world and the crooked, gnarled Leptospermum trees that I slowed down to take some photos. We met some descending climbers, who gave us words of encouragement and told us we were really close.

The mossy montane forest on Mount Minodtuhan is breathtaking, resembling a fairy world. There are many fantastic photo spots near the peak.

I reached the peak at 9:08 a.m. It’s a forested peak with a summit sign indicating 2,360 m. There’s a tree you can climb to get a better view of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding scenery. Too bad the view was obstructed by dense fog. I had my lunch pack with me, but it was too early for lunch, so I just had some snacks.

Finally we reached the peak of Mount Minodtuhan (Gunung Minodtuhan) after nearly 5 hours of climbing.

Descending

We were waiting for the rest of our group for a photo at the peak, as we had split up due to differences in physical strength. With an overcast sky and distant thunder, our guide advised us to descend immediately as rain was expected soon. We left the peak at 9:20 a.m. and retraced our steps back to the substation camp.

Lichen and highland plant on the peak of Mount Minodtuhan

Descending is not easier than ascending because the trail is steep and slippery. NEVER step on the tree roots! They’re incredibly slippery. I fell on my butt twice, even though I was very careful. Anyway, I treated the descent as a jungle trekking tour, enjoying the view and taking photographs along the way. There is always a guide with the last climber as a sweeper, so I didn’t worry about being left behind.

Big trees in the lowland section of the summit trail (first 2 km). Left: A tree infested by strangling fig vines. Middle: The Tristania trees (Local Name in Dusun: Lumu-Lunu) is related to Gum Tree. They shed their bark as a natural method to remove vines. Right: Trees with large buttresses are common.

If you move slowly, you’ll notice the wonderful views you missed during the climb in the dark. With the daylight, I could see that the forest at lower altitudes is completely different from the mossy montane forest near the top. It’s a hill and lowland rainforest with larger trunks, and the flora is much more diverse. I spotted unique plants like Tristania (the “naked tree”), strangling figs, parasitic Balanophora flowers, bird’s-nest ferns, and a variety of aroids, gingers, and yam plants.

From left to right: A crawler on a bark, a bird’s nest fern (it traps water, falling leaves and other debris, as materials decompose, they provide essential nutrients to the plant), and a Balanophora flowering plant that parasitizes the roots of trees.

Then it rained on and off, so I sped up to get back to the starting point. The last 2 km was supposed to be an easy walk, but the uneven surface, like a dry riverbed, was tough on my tired feet. In the end, I made it back to camp by 2 p.m., while some slower climbers returned around 8 p.m.

Sayap Substation

Sayap Substation (See Location Map) is one of the seven substations of Kinabalu Park, managed by Sabah Parks. Located at 1,000 m above sea level in the northwestern part of Kinabalu Park, it is accessible via gravel and concrete roads from Kota Belud, passing through several villages.

Location map of Sayap Substation and Mount Minodtuhan in Kinabalu Park. Thank you Siti for the group photo.

Though it is a small park with minimal amenities for visitors, it’s the closest location for starting the climb. The daytime temperature is about 28°C (82°F), and it can be quite cool at night (around 20°C).

Left: The building where we set up our camping tents. Right: A big table and benches inside this building.

Facilities

Please book your camping spot with Sabah Parks in advance before visiting.

  • Camping ground, or you can camp in one of the three gazebos.
  • Hall: A roofed building that can house 6 to 8 camping tents. Includes long tables, benches, power points, and lighting.
  • Outdoor toilet and shower rooms for both males and females. No hot water.
  • No Wi-Fi. Phone reception is weak or nearly nonexistent.
  • Electricity is generated by a mini hydro system.
  • No canteen, café, or restaurant. Bring or cook your own food.
  • You can park your car at the substation.
Left: you can camp in the gazebo at Sayap Substation. Right: public shower rooms and toilet in the substation (Lelaki = Male)

If you prefer family- or tourist-friendly accommodation, you can stay at Porohon Garden & Lodge, which is 6 km away from Sayap Substation.

Trail network and layout map of Sayap Substation (Translation: Sungai = River, Lubuk Hijau = Green Pool, Gua = Cave). Mount Minodtuhan is at further north and not shown here.

Other Attractions / Activities

Aside from climbing Mount Minodtuhan, there are many nature-based activities you can enjoy at Sayap Substation, especially for enthusiastic naturalists.

1. Jungle Trails

Explore hiking trails filled with wild fruits, ferns, twisted fig branches, orchids, and epiphytes. The trails range from 500 to 1,000 meters in length. Please note that these are nature trails without boardwalks or paved paths. You can find rare figs native to Borneo, such as Ficus leptocalama, Ficus densechini, and Ficus borneensis, which are hard to find elsewhere.

Interesting flora along the trail. From left to right: wild durian (edible), ginger flower, aroids

2. Kemantis Waterfall

A multi-tiered waterfall with clean, oxygen-rich water flowing from the cool and misty rainforests of Borneo. The water eventually flows into the Kedamaian River, one of the largest rivers in northern Sabah, which irrigates the Kota Belud District, the rice bowl of Sabah.

Left: signage in Malaysian Language (Translation: Sg. = River, Air Terjun = Waterfall, Tapak Perkhemahan = Camping Ground, Gua = Cave, Gn. = Mountain) Right: the small stream in Sayap Substation.

3. Night Walk & Herping

Are you thrilled by amphibians, reptiles, special insects, and nocturnal wildlife? Take a night walk here. Wildlife and macro photographers will be rewarded with close-up shots of critters such as the Sabah pit-viper (Trimeresurus sabahi), Bornean horned frog, stick insect, and slow loris.

4. Birdwatching

A brief study of the bird population at Sayap showed that the bird density is similar to that of Taman Negara National Parks. Some trophy species for bird photographers and birdwatchers include Whitehead’s broadbill, Whitehead’s trogon, long-tailed broadbill, crimson-headed partridge, red-breasted partridge (Bornean hill-partridge), golden-naped barbet, mountain wren-babbler, and bushy-crested hornbill.

Left: the hall that can fit 6 to 8 camping tents. Right: preparing for dinner

5. Malay Cave (Gua Melayu)

Melayu Cave is made of a large granite block resting on several smaller boulders. The loose earth material under the boulder has been eroded away through physical or biological processes. Contrary to what the name suggests, Gua Melayu has no connection to Malay people. The correct name is Melieu, after a local who once used the cave.

6. Climbing Mount Sayap (Coming Soon)

Mount Sayap or Mount Guwow (Height: 3,058 m), the second highest mountain in Malaysia (unofficially), will be open for climbing in 2026. The summit trail is about 10.2 km one way and requires a 3-day, 2-night trek to conquer.

7. Aura Montoria

Aura Montoria is about 9 km away from the substation. Avid hikers can explore the beautiful hilly trail in Kampung Sayap nearby.

Fees

Note: Hiring a mountain guide and paying for a climb permit and insurance are mandatory for climbing Mount Minodtuhan. Please contact Sabah Parks to register for the climb. Alternatively, you can book a tour with licensed travel agents, which provide services such as transport, meals, camping tents, guides, and registration. Of course, the cost will be higher. For updated rates, please check out the official website of Sabah Parks.

MalaysianInternational
Conservation Fee18 years and above: RM10/person

13 to 17 years: RM5/person

12 years and below, 60 and above, or handicapped: Free
18 years and above: RM50/person

17 and below: RM25/person
Camping Fee18 years and above: RM10/person

Below 18, 60 years and above, or handicapped: Free
18 years and above: RM20/person

Below 18: RM10/person
GuideRM150 per guide (can guide 1 to 5 climbers)
Climb PermitAdult: RM30/person
Below 18: RM12/person
Adult: RM100/person
Below 18: RM40/person
InsuranceRM10 per person
Porter (optional)RM9 per kg
The rates for climbing and camping fees (as of November 2024)

How to Get There

The road trip from Kota Kinabalu City (KK) to Sayap Substation is about 100 km and takes approximately 3 hours by car. The 68-kilometre drive to Kota Belud town is along a well-paved road, but the last 20 km to Sayap Substation consists mainly of a mix of asphalt, gravel, and concrete roads. Particularly the final 6 km to the substation, which is quite rough and muddy, may require a 4-wheel drive vehicle. There are plans to pave the damaged roads with asphalt, but it will likely take several years.

Beautiful mountain range view from the car on the way to Sayap Substation

Itinerary

The following is a sample itinerary that might be useful for your planning:

DAY 1
10:00 AM: Depart from Kota Kinabalu City
12:30 PM: Lunch in Kota Belud town
3:30 PM: Arrive at Sayap Substation
6:30 PM: Dinner

Left: Paved concrete road. Right: Village houses—a typical countryside view of Sabah.

DAY 2
3:00 AM: Breakfast
3:30 AM: Start the climb
8:00 AM: Expected to reach the peak of Mount Minodtuhan
10:00 AM: Descend to the starting point
2:30 PM: Expected to arrive at Sayap Substation
3:30 PM: Depart for Kota Kinabalu

Left: Kampung Sayap (Sayap Village) about 6 Km before Sayap Substation. Right: Basic sundry shopping is available at shops along the village road (daytime only).

Things to Bring

The list below is for your reference only. You don’t need to bring everything:

  1. Identification Card / MyKad / Passport
  2. Mobile phone
  3. Cash
  4. Hiking shoes
  5. Poncho / Raincoat
  6. Water bottle / Hydra pack
  7. Windbreaker / Jacket
  8. Gloves
  9. Hiking stick
  10. Flashlight or LED headlamp
  11. Energy bar
  12. Anti-Leech Socks
  13. Clothing for 2 days
  14. Towel
  15. Slippers / Flip-Flops
  16. Personal toiletries (e.g. soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toilet paper, face wash)
  17. Personal medication
  18. Plastic bags (for soiled clothing / garbage)
  19. Camping tent
  20. Sleeping bag
  21. Floor mat and pillow
  22. Portable cooking stove and utensils
  23. Food supply and drinking water (for 2 days)
  24. Lunch box, spoon & fork, cup
  25. Small backpack for climbing
  26. Camera
  27. Portable power bank
  28. Charging cables for phone and batteries
  29. Optional: swimwear, Bluetooth speakers, electric kettle, thermos or vacuum flask, 3-in-1 tea/coffee bags
Bring your own cooking utensils, portable gas stove, cutlery, tableware, and food if you plan to cook at the campsite.

Tips

  1. Bring at least 800 ml of drinking water for the climb
  2. Bring a packed lunch to the peak, in case you’re stuck for longer hours on the mountain
  3. A hiking stick will help reduce the strain on your legs
  4. Trim your toenails before the climb
  5. There are no toilets along the summit trail; however, one is currently under construction at the 4th kilometre.
  6. Turn back if you don’t think you can reach the peak before 11 AM
  7. Love durian? Visit during the fruiting season to enjoy cheap durian in the villages

Photos taken in Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Aura Montoria, the Rock Garden of Mount Kinabalu

Aura Montoria is touted as one of Sabah’s top hiking spots, and after experiencing it firsthand, I don’t think it’s overrated. Hiking here offers an incredible opportunity to immerse in Borneo’s diverse landscapes. Beyond a mere walk, it’s an exciting exploration of caves, rock formations, rivers, waterfalls, ponds, and lush rainforests—truly a collection of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

You like the element of soil, rock, water or wood? You can enjoy all these nature wonders in Aura Montoria.

About Aura Montoria

You might know about the Kinabalu Park HQ situated on Mount Kinabalu‘s southern side, easily reachable from Kundasang. However, tucked behind Malaysia’s highest peak lies Aura Montoria to the north, an enchanting hilly terrain located in Kampung Sayap (Kampung means Village) of Kota Belud, and part of the 4,750 km² Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Sayap Substation, snugly positioned on the west side of Kinabalu Park.

The cavities in sandstone structure create many natural caves and ponds in Aura Montoria

Aura Montoria owes its name to a winding tree vine known as Pokok Ponoriawon by the Dusun Tindal people. This vine, adorned with long thorns, grows along the riverbank, drawing a variety of birds during its flowering season. The locals named the area Montoria, a shortened version of Pokok Ponoriawon. Enchanted by its beauty, they added “Aura” to create Aura Montoria, capturing the site’s radiant charm.

Aura Montoria is rich in flora too, e.g. begonia, bark-less eucalyptus tree, jewel orchid, and tampoi fruit in this picture

A Geotourism Destination

Couples always promise to each other, “I will love you to the time of the seas run dry and the rocks crumble,” as if such changes are impossible. But Aura Montoria will prove them wrong. Here, among the rolling hills and rock fragments, you’ll find evidence of a time when this land lay beneath the sea, some 20 million years ago. The geological morphology of the Aura Montoria is mainly featured by sedimentary rocks from the Crocker Formation, formed in a deep-sea basin during the middle Oligocene to early Miocene period, roughly 28 to 23 million years ago.

Aura Montoria was under the sea more than 20 million years ago

Around 17 to 10 million years ago, a tectonic collision uplifted most parts of Sabah, including Aura Montoria. This followed by geological processes like folding and faulting, raising the sandstones and shales of Aura Montoria’s sedimentary layers to the surface. Over millions of years, erosion and compaction shaped these deposits, forming the striking ridges, valleys, and unique rock formations that grace Aura Montoria today.

The landscape of Aura Montoria is dominated by sedimentary rocks such as sandstones, shales, and conglomerate that were deposited in the ancient seabed more than 20 million years ago. They look like compacted rocks glued by cement.

Granite boulders and rock walls dot this area, likely carried by glaciers from Mount Kinabalu to the foothills near Aura Montoria. Therefore, hikers will find fascination in the remnants of an ancient ocean floor and traces from the Pleistocene Ice Age, dating back millions of years.

Starting point of hiking in Aura Montoria. The 6-km trail takes about 6 hours to finish (include lunch and break)

Hiking (A Walk-Through)

The hiking trail spans a 6-kilometer loop, winding through varied and uneven terrain where the flowing rivers and waterfalls shower you with negative ions, the forest fills your lungs with fresh air, and sunlight provides a serotonin boost. All these combine to energize you and uplift your mood. Given the prevalent depression among younger generations, it’s no surprise that hashtags like silent walking, soft hiking, and rucking are trending in the Gen Z community. Visit Aura Montoria, I would advise them.

The hike typically lasts around 6 hours at a leisurely pace. The trail poses a moderate challenge to beginners, involving some scrambling and balancing over rocks and roots along slopes situated between 200 to 400 meters above sea level. While leeches aren’t commonly encountered, parts of the trail can be slippery, making sturdy hiking shoes crucial. Carrying mosquito repellent is essential for a more comfortable hike.

Briefing by our guide, Kunan, at the registration hut before the hike. There are a few simple toilets. You can change your cloth and take a shower there after the hike.

We met our guides (Kunan and Kiwi) at the registration hut inside a village plantation, for a short briefing before our hike began at 8:30 am (finishing around 2:30 pm). The first part of the trail is a pleasant one-kilometre walk through the countryside. In just 15 minutes, we passed through rubber and pineapple plantations and made our way downhill to a resting hut by the river, which is where the loop trail starts and ends.

Hanging Bridge

As we crossed the suspension bridge, I was impressed by the pristine river underneath, a tributary of the Wariu River that eventually merges with the Kadamaian River downstream—this is one of Kota Belud’s biggest rivers. Reports indicate it’s a class I river in terms of water quality, and rich in oxygen. It’s a refreshing spot, with temperatures hovering around a cool 25-27°C, perfect for a revitalizing shower after a lengthy hike.

Left: the hut is the starting point of the loop trail. Right: the river under suspension bridge is a great spot to take shower after a long hike

Lion Rock (Batu Gung-Gung Cha)

Following a brief ascent over a small hill known as the “Path of One Thousand Steps,” we encountered the first marvel: the Lion Rock. Locally referred to as Batu Gung-Gung Cha (Batu means Rock), this rock formation likely earned its name due to its resemblance to a lion and its association with the resounding tones of gongs and cymbals.

The Lion Rock (Batu Gung-Gung Cha) that reminds us of the noisy lion dance

Tree Hole (Pokok Tomboilik)

As the deafening chirps of cicadas and the lively calls of birds surrounded us, it was evident we’d ventured into the jungle—a regenerated secondary rainforest in good condition, thanks to the dense canopy providing ample shade that shields us from the sun. A highlight of the trek was squeezing through a tree hole in a giant tree known as Pokok Tomboilik. Just a heads-up, if you’re a bigger person with a hefty backpack, you might get stuck in the hole.

Left: passing through a big tree hole. Right: The Mouth Cave looks like a dinosaur head from this angle

Mouth Cave (Gua Mulut)

Our next destination was quite a sight—a massive overhanging cave resembling the head of a dinosaur when seen from a certain angle. This cave is just one of many hidden within the area, adding to its allure as a fascinating geological site boasting various cave formations.

Gua Mulut (Mouth Cave) is an overhanging cave that resembles a big mouth

Natural Spring Water (Waig Minorol)

Close to the Mouth Cave, there are freshwater springs with water oozing out of the rocks. The sandstone, which is an excellent aquifer due to its high porosity and permeability, functions as groundwater reservoir that never run dry even during dry spells. I had a sip, and the mineral-rich water tasted wonderfully fresh, cool, and clean—no strange odors at all.

The spring water from the sandstone never dries up even during drought

Wongking Cave

Along the trail, we encountered stunning rock walls formed from conglomerate—a mix of sedimentary rocks in various sizes and shapes glued together by finer materials such as sand, silt, or clay. Some of these formations were covered with epiliths such as white mold and green mosses, adding to their beauty.

Left: Entering Wongking Cave. You need a LED headlamp for caving. Right: conglomerate rock wall

Descending into the depths, we ventured into the dark Wongking Cave. With our guides leading the way, both ahead and behind us, we felt safe exploring the underground cave. Don’t forget to bring a LED headlamp or flashlight for your caving adventure.

Rock Pond (Liogu Ourod)

This is the highlight I was most excited about. The oval-shaped rock pond is fed by a mountain stream and takes on a mesmerizing emerald hue when sunlight dances upon its surface. It resembles the mythical magic pool believed to restore youth to those who drink or bathe in its waters. Be careful when you move around there because the rock surface is very slippery.

Liogu Ourod, the natural rock pond filled with mountain water

Bat Cave (Gua Pungit)

Venturing into another mountain cave, we discovered a stream flowing within. Natural light poured in through the cave’s opening on top, which also served as an entrance and exit for its inhabitants, like bats. Making the exploration easier, there were ropes and ladders available to facilitate movement in and out of the cave.

The Bat Cave with an underground stream

Waterfall Cave (Wasai ID Gua)

Each cave here holds its own surprises, and this one didn’t disappoint, featuring a hidden waterfall. No matter how scorching the day, this cooling cave provides the perfect refuge. With numerous caves and pristine water sources, I can’t help but wonder if cavemen once called this place home. To top it off, this cave even boasts a pond teeming with fishes.

Waterfall in a cave. There are many fishes in the pond. You can bring some pellets to feed them.

Lookout Point (Pogimpaan Ko-Duo)

Ok enough with dark caves, next we ascended higher ground where a viewpoint platform awaited. The sight of the lush forest and rolling hills was simply breathtaking. The gentle breeze was incredibly calming, prompting us to pause for a snack break on the wooden platform. It’s about 11am so we were a bit hungry.

Climbing to the lookout point on the hill. The trail is quite steep.

Marathon Trail via Rock Walls

Following a short rest, we headed down to the valley, tracing our path alongside rock walls. Among the rugged conglomerate formations, I spotted creamy rock walls composed of granite. These walls, formed from solidified molten rock that intruded into the ancient sediments, serve as reminders of tectonic activities here.

Sandstone and granite rock walls of Aura Montoria

Riverside Camp

Finally, we reached the camp next to a tranquil river with a rocky bed, where we indulged in linopot lunch (rice wrapped in leaves). A few unique butterflies, including the iconic Rajah Birdwing, fluttered about the riverbank. This spot offers camping, swimming, and tubing activities, and you can throw a BBQ party.

River campsite and linopot (rice wrapped in leaf). Basic camping amenities such as tables and toilets are available here.

Nature enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by Aura Montoria’s diverse landscapes. Keep an eye out for its rich flora, such as begonias and orchids, which are among the highlights. While most people relaxed at the camp, some enjoyed a free fish massage from the docile mahseer (Local Name: Ikan Kelah).

The river and mahseer fishes (Species: Tor duoronensis) at the campsite

Green Lake (Liogu Otomou)

The adventure isn’t quite done yet! Our final destination is the Green Lake, a serene pond embraced by whitish boulders, with a depth of about 10 feet. For those seeking an extra adrenaline rush at the tail end of a long hike, you can take a leap into the river from higher ground nearby.

Liogu Otomou, a green lake-like river zone enclosed by rocky riverbank

How to Get There

Aura Montoria (see Location Map) is situated in Kampung Sayap, approximately 26 kilometers from Kota Belud, famously known as the Cowboy Town of Sabah. The journey from Kota Kinabalu City (KK) to Kota Belud, around an hour by car, is easily accessible via highways and paved roads. However, the 27-kilometer stretch from Kota Belud to Aura Montoria is predominantly gravel and dirt roads, making a 4-wheel-drive preferable as it can be challenging for sedan or saloon cars to traverse.

Fruit stall at the roadside of Kampung Sayap. You would find durian and tarap during fruiting season.

If you’re traveling from KK, expect a journey of over two hours. During the durian fruiting season (around August and September), if you’re a durian lover, plan for additional travel time as you might be tempted to stop in Kampung Sayap to shop for cheap durian, pineapples, and tarap. Hence, staying overnight in a nearby homestay like Porohon Garden Lodge is highly recommended. This way, you can avoid the rush and enjoy a leisurely start to your adventure without the need for a long early morning drive.

About Kampung Sayap

The majority of Kampung Sayap’s population comprises the Dusun Tindal community, mainly engaged in farming activities. Originally known as Kampung Minangkob, the name translates to “valley surrounded by hills.” Many years ago, a British military officer visited the village, he rested by a river that was nearly covered with dry leaves because of the drought that time.

Dog and cat of Kampung Sayap. In the photos are Si Putih (dog) and Stim (cat), they love durian. Here are the proof of Si Putih and Stim eating durians (click the links for video)

Then the British asked a villager, “what is the word for dry leaves in Dusun language?” The villager replied that it was “sahap” (dry leaves). Unfortunately, the officer misheard sahap as sayap (which means wings in Malay) and document it in his diary. Due to that incident, Kampung Minangkob was renamed to Kampung Sayap.

A friendly villager and her dog on the way to their farm in a lovely morning. Note the traditional wakid bamboo baskets in the car and the durian plantation behind them.

Fees and Contacts

The half-day, 6-kilometer hiking tour is priced at RM35 per person for locals and RM80 per person for non-Malaysians. For a group of up to 5 people, the guide fee per group is RM50 for locals and RM100 for non-Malaysians. Food is not included in the cost (but available as an add-on). If needed, you can hire a porter at a rate of RM5 per kilogram to carry your belongings.

Butterflies at the river of Aura Montoria. Left: Terinos clarissa praestigiosa, Right: Bornean Straight Pierrot (Caleta manovus)

A local guide is mandatory for hiking in Aura Montoria. To inquire about updated rates or book a hiking trip in Aura Montoria, you can contact the operator through the following channels:
Phone (Whatsapp): +60-136262793 (Madam Sandra Idiam), +60-189650079 (Madam Rina Maratun)
Facebook: Aura Montoria Eko-Edu Tourism Kg Sayap Kota Belud Sabah

Things to Bring

Having the following items handy will ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience at Aura Montoria! The most important of all is to wear the right hiking gear: quick-dry clothes and good hiking shoes.

  • Backpack
  • Drinking Water
  • Raincoat / Poncho
  • Insect Repellent
  • Sunblock Lotion / Spray
  • Snacks / Energy Bar
  • Swimwear / Sarong
  • Extra clothing and towel
  • Hiking pole
  • Plastic Bag for soiled clothing
  • Cash
  • Optional: dry bag, portable power bank, hat

You can rent walking sticks, swimming goggles, Adidas Kampung (waterproof rubber shoes for hiking) for a small fee.

Walking sticks and Adidas Kampung shoes for rent. Adidas Kampung is made of rubber and waterproof, it’s the favourite hiking shoes of locals because it works well on muddy and slippery ground.

Special thanks to Puan Rina Maratun for sharing the backstories of Aura Montoria and Kampung Sayap. I also refer to the book “A Scientific Journey Through Borneo; Sayap-Kinabalu Park Sabah” written by ISMAIL, Ghazally; BIN DIN, Laily and published in 1995.

Photos taken in Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Bukit Panchang, the Volcanic Hill of Tawau

Mount Kinabalu is the sacred mountain of Sabah’s indigenous people. During the active volcanic period from the Early Miocene to the Pleistocene in the eastern part of Sabah, did the people from that era worship these volcanoes? Currently, all volcanoes in Sabah are extinct, and many people are unaware that Tawau has at least 10 volcanoes that became extinct approximately 12,000 years ago. Anyway, a dead volcano is still a volcano. Climbing to the summit of a volcano fulfills my interests in its geological, spiritual, and ecological features.

Distribution of volcanic rocks and ancient volcanoes in Tawau and Semporna (south-east of Sabah). Tinagat Hill is No.7 on the map.

Bukit Panchang (or Panchang Hill, where ‘Bukit’ means ‘Hill’) is the fifth Sabah volcano I’ve climbed, following Bombalai Hill, Mount Wullersdorf, Bukit Tengkorak and Bohey Dulang. Situated in the Tinagat Forest Reserve, Bukit Panchang or Bukit Panchang Tinagat is less than 10 kilometers away from Tawau town.

Tinagat Forest in morning mist

About Tinagat Forest Reserve

Managed by the Sabah Forestry Department, Tinagat Forest Reserve is classified as a Class-1 (fully protected) forest reserve, covering an area of 1,011 hectares (or 10.11 square kilometers). Traveling along Jalan Apas, one of Tawau’s main roads, in the morning, you’ll witness this lush hilly forest veiled in mist. Amidst the extensive conversion of land around Tawau into oil palm plantations, Tinagat Forest Reserve stands as one of the few remaining forested areas near the town.

3D map of Tinagat forest reserve and its surrounding

Tinagat essentially represents a multi-peaked ancient volcano blanketed by dense forest cover. Remarkably, numerous climbing trails lead to various peaks on this hill. Among them, Bukit Panchang claims the highest altitude at 398 meters (1,306 feet). Bukit Panchang is probably a new official name, as many locals used to call it Bukit Kinabutan or Bukit Tinagat. Other notable peaks within the Tinagat Forest Reserve include Bukit 38, Bukit Akar, Hero Hill (Batu Payung), Bukit Kayawan, and Bukit Kiawan.

The trail map of Bukit Panchang in Tinagat Forest Reserve (English translation in blue colour). There are more than one hill in this forest.

A century-old lighthouse (Rumah Api Batu Tinagat), constructed by the British colonial government in 1916, stands at the foothills facing the sea. This 9-meter-high Batu Tinagat Lighthouse is currently a restricted area. However, PELKO (Pelancongan Komuniti Tawau, associated with Politeknik Tawau) suggests that it will soon be accessible to tourists. On 23rd February 2018, Batu Tinagat Lighthouse was among the 24 heritage sites in the state officially designated by Sabah’s State Heritage Council under the new enactment of the ‘State Heritage Enactment 2017’.

View of Tinagat Forest Reserve from the Jalan Apas Road near to Tawau town

Not far from the Batu Tinagat Lighthouse lies Batu Payung (literally meaning Umbrella Rock), which is tied to a legend that lends Tinagat its name (Tinagat translates to ‘Cut Down’ in the Tidung language). According to the tale, long ago, a young farmer encountered seven heavenly princesses bathing along the beach. Captivated by their beauty, he devised a plan to win one of them over by stealing her clothes. Unable to locate her dress, the youngest princess was stranded on Earth. Eventually, she married the young man and bore him a child.

PELKO (Tawau Community Tourism) is planning to develop and promote the attractions in Tinagat

One day, during a festival, the princess was invited to perform a dance. As she danced in her old attire, hidden from her until then, her body began to levitate and ascended to the top of Batu Payung. In a desperate attempt to get her back, her husband cut down the rock, but she continued to soar away. All that remained was a message she left behind: ‘Please take care of our child. If he cries, bring him to Sungai Sibuku (Sibuku River).’

A walk-through video of climbing Bukit Panchang

Climbing Bukit Panchang

Bukit Panchang is steep but not too difficult to climb. The trail to the peak spans about 1,080 metres one way, typically taking around an hour to complete. Your climb will start with a steep slope, sorry, no warm-up for you.

Starting point from the junction No.10. You can see the forested hill ahead of you. If you are afraid of dog, you may go in group or bring a hiking stick. These dogs were friendly to me when I communicated with positive gesture and voice.

Initially, a 200-metre walk on a gravel road within an oil palm plantation leads to the Sabah Forestry station (or checkpoint) at the foothill. Here, they’ve established amenities like toilets and gazebos. Beware of village dogs, though I found them quite friendly.

The small road to the Sabah Forestry station. You will pass through oil palm, rubber, coconut and banana plantation. You are almost there if you see the signages at the right. (Mula = Start, Jarak = Distance)

Thanks to the dense forest, the trail offers ample shade. Approximately 90% of the time is spent ascending, with mild to steep slopes. Tawau hikers often describe climbing steep hill as ‘feeling like Panchang,’ signifying its steepness.

Sabah Forestry station or checkpoint at the foothill of Bukit Panchang. Toilet and gazebo are available here.

The most challenging segment involves a 200-metre-long steep boulder section at the trail’s onset. After rainfall, this section transforms into a waterfall, so I strongly advise against attempting the climb during the wet season.

The starting point of the climb at the Sabah Forestry Department station

Throughout the climb, numerous exposed volcanic rocks and rockfaces remain visible, indicating Bukit Panchang was used to be a rocky hill. Rope supports are placed along the trail, providing climbing aid. The ropes also serve as guides leading to the summit. Distance markers every 100 meters serve as motivational checkpoints, and some spots have benches for resting. Fortunately, there are no leeches.

Left: start of the climbing trail. Right: the waterfall trail is the steepest section

In 2021, four kindergarten teachers lost their way in the Tinagat forest, but were thankfully rescued the following day. As a safety precaution, the Sabah Forestry Department now requires hikers to enlist a ranger’s guidance. Personally, I believe the hike isn’t dangerous if one exercises caution.

The Vegetations

After volcanic activity stopped thousands of years ago, this hill is covered with trees and plants that thrived in its fertile volcanic soil. While many perceive trees as mere providers of oxygen, the reality is that a rainforest hosts a multitude of plants offering food, medicinal properties, timber, firewood, and more.

Distance marker and rope support. The total climbing distance to the peak is 1,080 metres one way. The distance marker shows you how many metres you have climbed (Jarak = Distance).

The forest covering the Tinagat hills primarily consists of mixed dipterocarp forest, a typical rainforest found in the hills of Borneo. However, the trees here tend to be relatively smaller, possibly due to the thin layer of soil.

The steep climbing trail of Bukit Panchang. Basically it’s up-up-up all the way and only slightly better after 750 metres.

Along the trail to the peak, 30 or more trees are labeled with their scientific and local names. Providing additional information on these labels would greatly benefit non-botanist visitors, who want to learn more about the diverse flora present. I list a few trees that are interesting and useful.

The trees on Bukit Panchang of Tinagat Forest Reserve
  • Arenga undulatifolia (Polod) is a tree that can feed and kill. Its fruits are poisonous but the apical bud (known as a ‘palm heart’) is edible. The petioles and midribs are used to make darts for blowpipes.
  • Cratoxylum cochinchinensis, known as Selangan Biabas (Suluk) or Serungan (Malay, Brunei) is probably the most useful tree. Its timber, traded under the name ‘derum,’ is prized for medium to heavy construction. Additionally, its young fruit and shoots are edible, while the young leaves serve as a tea substitute. Its roots, bark, and twigs can treat colds and diarrhea.
  • Celtis philippensis offers a versatile range of applications: the seed oil finds use in producing lubricants and soap. Its bark supplies valuable fibers utilized in crafting ropes and paper. Furthermore, the wood is used in making poles, tool handles, beams, joists, rafters, cheap furniture, box lumber, and as fuel.
The trail is less steep after 800 metres (Jarak = Distance)

During World War II, villagers relied on their resourcefulness and the abundance of the forest. Many could retreat deep into the jungle, hiding for months as they relied on the forest for sustenance and survival.

Endemic trees of Borneo on Bukit Panchang

There are five or more trees endemic to Borneo on this hill.

  • Shorea biawak, known as Selangan Batu Biawak in Malay, is assessed as Endangered. It yields quality wood used in handicrafts.
  • Diospyros discocalyx, deriving its specific epithet from the Latin for ‘disc-shaped calyx,’ thrives in lowland mixed dipterocarp forests
  • Bauhinia diptera is a climbing shrub primarily found in the wet tropical biome.
  • Chionanthus pubicalyx is endemic specifically to Borneo.
Semecarpus glaucus (Rengas) is a poisonous plant you should avoid. (Ada Racun = Is Poisonous)

For hikers, they need to be cautious to a tree called Semecarpus glaucus (locally referred to as Rengas in Malay). Avoid touching this tree or its sap, as it can lead to severe skin irritations such as rashes and itching.

The exposed volcanic rocks along the trail. Many are weathered and covered by green moss.

Reaching the Peak

As I approached the peak, the trail’s inclination gradually eased, transitioning into a gentle ridge walk leading to the summit of Bukit Panchang. Hikers who had reached earlier cheered to show encouragement. Among them were Suzan and Priscilla, local regulars who’ve conquered most of Tawau’s hills and mountains.

Big volcanic rocks near the peak

At the peak, a raised wooden platform awaited, inviting a well-deserved rest and the chance to savor the victorious moment from an elevated vantage point. Not gonna lie, the 270 degree panoramic view on the peak is breathtaking. To the left lies the Celebes Sea, while to the right unfolds Tawau town and its surrounding plain. Notably, the sight extends to Pulau Sebatik, an island situated 13 kilometers away, shared nearly evenly between Malaysia and Indonesia.

The last 80 metres of climbing to the peak

Despite being only 9 kilometers away, Tawau town remains clearly visible even during hazy days. Beyond this bustling coastal town sprawls an extensive area dominated by oil palm plantations, residential areas, and notable landmarks like the Shan-Shui Golf & Country Club.

Group photos on the wooden platform and next to the trigonometrical point on the peak

At 398 meters (1,306 feet) above ground level, the peak of Bukit Panchang offers a higher vantage point compared to both the KL Tower and the Eiffel Tower.

Meeting other hikers on the peak

Nestled within this plain are a handful of isolated forested hills, awkwardly encircled by expanses of oil palm. These remaining green hills—Bukit Gemok, Tiger Hill, and Membalua Forest Reserve—stand as vestiges of a volcanic past. I earnestly hope that the people of Tawau will endeavor to protect these fragmented forests, preserving their essence as remnants of past volcanic activity.

View of Tawau town, Celebes Sea and Sebatik Island from the top of Bukit Panchang
Sadly there is a hill being quarried. You can see Shan-Shui Golf & Country Club at the right.

How to get there

To embark on the Bukit Panchang ascent, navigate towards Tawau town’s Jalan Apas road until reaching Mile 6.5 (Batu 6.5). Look for the junction marked by a white cement signage adorned with prominent red lettering that reads ‘Selamat Datang Ke Kau Sing (高昇)’—translated as ‘Welcome to Kau Sing.’ Turn into this junction to proceed onto a narrow and straight road.

Junction No. 10 and the signboard of Bukit Panchang at the starting point

As you drive, maintain a slow pace and keep an eye out on the right-hand side for a small junction labeled No. 10. Adjacent to it (see Location Map), there’s a coloured signboard displaying ‘Taman Alam Tinagat’ (means Tinagat Nature Park). Park your car safely along the roadside, then proceed by foot towards the junction featuring a gravel path that leads directly to the foothill (forest station).

The plain behind Tawau town

Upon entry at the Sabah Forestry station, visitors are required to pay an entry fee of RM5 for Malaysians and RM15 for foreigners. Additionally, hiring a guide is mandatory at RM50, and one guide can accompany up to five climbers. For optimal savings, a team of five climbers can share the cost of one guide. Even solo climbers must pay the full RM50 fee for a guide.

Viewpoint platform and trig point on the top of Bukit Panchang

Unauthorized entry is considered illegal encroachment and can result in severe penalties. Offenders could face fines up to RM50,000, imprisonment for up to 3 years, or both.

A huge volcanic boulder on the peak of Bukit Panchang

Tinagat was once a popular hiking destination among locals. However, the number of regular visitors has significantly declined due to the added guide fee. While Bombalai Hill could be a viable alternative, its distance from Tawau town makes it less accessible for many.

Some spots have benches for the climbers to rest

You can contact Sabah Forestry Department of Tawau district via the following channels for more information:
Facebook: Destinasi Rekreasi Hutan Simpan Perhutanan Daerah Tawau
Phone: +60 89-761833
E-mail: trhsm2021@gmail.com

Things to Bring

Besides wearing a pair of comfortable hiking shoes, you should bring the following items:

  • Cash
  • MyKad or identity card
  • Drinking water (1 Litre)
  • Raincoat / Poncho
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Snack or energy bars
  • Hiking stick (Trekking pole)

Photos taken in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC), a Park in the Jungle

The Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC) is one of the most accessible natural rainforest parks in Sabah. It sits by a lake at the edge of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve in Sandakan. RDC has been in operation since 1996 for environmental education purposes. Today, it is a 3-in-1 park (i.e. wildlife, bird and botanical) for nature lovers and bird watchers where they can see the unique flora and fauna of Borneo. To students, it’s the best outdoor classroom to learn the rich biodiversity of tropical rainforest.

Rainforest Discovery Center and the adjacent Sepilok-Kabili Forest, and its lake. Boat is available for rent (RM5)

Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC) is managed by the Sabah Forestry Department and one of the most popular Environmental Education (EE) centers in Sabah. A pristine lowland dipterocarp and Mangrove forest with astounding 300 species of birds are recorded in the area.

10 things you can do at Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC). RDC receives more than 30,000 visitors every year.

The 4,300-hectare Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve has gained birders recognition worldwide for its iconic Bornean Bristlehead, Black & Crimson Pitta, Blue-headed Pitta, Giant Pitta, Black Hornbill, Rhinoceros Hornbill and more. The forest of Sepilok is declared as an Important Birding Area (IBA) by Birdlife International in 2009.

Jungle and Nature Trails

Visitors can walk along the trails and become acquainted with green giants such as the 40-Meter-tall mengaris tree, one of the tallest tree in Borneo. Besides soaking up the sight and getting a good workout, visitors can refer to the interpretive panels along the trail, which has descriptions about the unique residents of the forest.

Interesting fruit and plant at RDC. Left: Giant aroid (Alocasia robusta), endemic to Borneo; Middle: an unknown fruit; Right: Elephant tree, locally known as Simpoh Gajah or Ubah Rusa (Species: Dillenia borneensis), endemic to Borneo

Alert the little ones to keep an eye out for darting civets and flying squirrels (which can glide up to 100 Meters)! And lucky visitors have also spotted animals such as the elusive red leaf monkey, gibbon (the fastest moving primate in tree canopy), mouse deer, civet cat and many odd looking insects such as stick insect and lantern bug.

Giant trees of Rainforest Discovery Centre, Sepilok Giant (left) and Kabili Monster (right)

The giant trees that you must check out are Sepilok Giant, a Yellow Seraya tree (Shorea acatissima), which is about 65 Meters in height, with an estimated age of 800-1,000 years old, and the 75-Meter-tall Kabili Monster, an Obah Suluk tree (Shorea pauciflora).

Trail map of Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)

Another tree worths a good look is Belian Borneo Ironwood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), the 7th hardest wood in the world. The main trails are gravel path, and some sections are networks of well-trodden nature (soil) trails for you to explore deeper.

Plant Discovery Garden

RDC also has a Plant Discovery Garden, which covers about 3 acres of land. This garden will make any botanist smile with its rich collection of hybrid orchids, arid land plants, aquatic plants, pitcher plants, economic crops and tropical American plants.

Orchid and carnivorous plant (from America) in the Plant Discovery Garden of RDC

There are colourful outdoor interpretive panels with descriptions of all the plants, which are available in English and Bahasa Malaysia languages and makes learning not only easy but fun as well.

Interpretation panels with photographs and interesting facts of fruits and herb, description is available in English and Malay languages.

For serious learners, there are just too many local and exotic plants (flowers, herbs, spices, crops) to look at, just to name a few, peach palm, vanilla, tongkat ali, rubber, cassava, cinnamon, fig, and cycad (a living fossil and food of dinosaur).

From left: Kelumpang Sarawak (Sterculia megistophylla), fig tree, and red fruit of achiote plant (used as lipstick in the past)

Rainforest Skywalk (Canopy Walk)

The main attraction of RDC is Rainforest Skywalk, the longest Canopy Walkway in Sabah. Visitors can climb to the top of the observation towers and take in the breathtaking view from the 620-Meter-long and 25-meter-high metal platforms and walkway.

Towers of RDC. From left: Bristlehead Tower, Trogon Tower, nature trail under the tower

The walkway is two meters wide, is very sturdy and can hold the weight of a large crowd. RDC has three main towers that are named after the Bristlehead, Hornbill and Trogon and a single-column shelter called the Sunbird. With a height of 26.5 Metres (87 ft), Trogon Tower is the highest tower of RDC.

Rainforest Skywalk of Rainforest Discovery Centre is tall but still lower than many trees. Some of the trees were planted in 1970s and 1980s.

The designers of the canopy walkway made sure that it was not only safe for adults, but also for young children who are at kindergarten-level.

Fruiting next to the Rainforest Skywalk. From left: Artocarpus elasticus (Terap togop), Dacryodes rostrata (or cuspidata), poisonous Lampada Fruit (Tabernaemontana macrocarpa)

To the team at RDC, the younger children are exposed to the wonders of Mother Nature, the more they will appreciate our rainforest. During weekends, some local retired people also come here for birding regularly.

Rainforest Skywalk of RDC is 620 Metres long after an extension of 250 Metres completed in early 2022.

The highest platform of towers is about 26.5 Meters (87 feet) above the ground. Many birds, wildlife, fruits and insects live high on the tree, so these towers provide a great viewing point for bird watching and wildlife sighting. I’ve seen mother orangutan with her baby there before (see video).

Orangutan and Macaque could be seen at RDC, especially during fruiting season. They are not friendly so keep a distance from them.

Bornean Bristlehead normally feeds up in the mid and upper layer of tree canopy, and best seen from Canopy Walkway. You have higher chance of seeing them near Bristlehead and Hornbill Towers in RDC. On the skywalk, you don’t need to look up so much that your neck cramps. I’m confident to say that RDC has one of the best setting for bird watching in the world.

Information board about the tall rainforest trees around this area, so you can do a self-guided tour.

Many trees here are very old and over 50 Meters tall, most of these emergent trees are from the family Dipterocarpaceae, the main timber family of Sabah. During fruiting season, you will see many birds and wildlife coming here for feeding.

Bird Watching

Due to the tourist-friendly canopy walkway and nearby virgin rainforest where over 300 lowland bird species reside, RDC is really a haven for nature photographers and birdwatchers. RDC is also the most promising spot to see Bornean Bristlehead, the trophy bird species of birders, but you still need some luck. I saw it only once after three visits.

Birdwatching and bird photography are popular activities at RDC. Do bring a binocular with you.

Many endemic (13 species are Borneo endemic), rare and colorful birds are active around RDC, for example, Bornean Bristlehead, Hornbills, Pittas, Kingfisher (8 species), Trogons, Malkohas, Leafbirds, Minivets, Spiderhunters (6 species), Crested Jay, Red-bearded Bee-eater, Broadbills, Woodpeckers, and Bulbuls. For full list, you may see this Checklist of Birds in Sepilok.

Endemic birds of Borneo in Sepilok. The red-headed bird in pictures is Bornean Bristlehead (Nickname: headphone bird)

Therefore, for visitors who don’t want to travel far, RDC is the best alternative birding sites to Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the world-class birding sites in Lahad Datu.

Trail signages and interpretation panel of birds in RDC

Some forest birds spend most of their time on canopy and best to be observed from RDC Canopy Walkway, while some prefers habitat in understorey and forest ground, so you need to explore the jungle trails for such birds. (Note: leeches might present during wet season)

Interpretation panels of birds in RDC are placed at the spots where sighting of birds in the pictures are possible. Some are placed on Rainforest Skywalk for birds that are active on canopy.

According to birding community, the 1.9-KM Kingfisher Trail is very productive (many birds). There are many direction signages in the RDC trail network, so you should have no problem to get around. What I really like is – RDC also places many information panels in different spots to inform you what birds, trees and wildlife are (probable) nearby.

Birds of RDC. From left: Red-bearded bee eater, Racket-tailed drongo, White-crowned hornbill, Bornean black magpie

Inside the forest there are small ponds used by many birds as natural bird bath for bathing and drinking. Most birds only dip their wings to splash water on their backs. Parts of the bath is just about 2 inches deep, just enough for small birds. Keep an eye for Red-eyed Bulbul, Emerald Dove and Hairy-backed Bulbul there. Garden birds such as sunbirds, spiderhunters and flowerpeckers are common visitors too.

Borneo Bird Festival is packed with activities for birders, children, photographers and tourists.

RDC is a preferred venue for Borneo Bird Festival, which is usually held in Sep or Oct annually, the best visiting time for bird watchers who are looking forward for exciting activities such as bird race, talks, bird photography contest, latest birding gears, and exhibition.

Exhibition Hall

The main visitor building has an exhibition hall that features the unique flora found in Sabah, plus the various icons in our animal kingdom including the Bornean pygmy elephant, orangutan, proboscis monkey and many more.

The Exhibition Hall of RDC is great for learning the biodiversity of Borneo

Visitors can also find information on reptiles and the main groups of birds. The building also has a multi purpose hall, which is often used for talks, screenings and other activities.

Information about flora & fauna of Borneo (available in both English and Malay languages)

Besides animals, visitors can browse good collections of plant, fruit, tree and insect specimens in the hall. The information is presented in gallery style, with a lot of beautiful photographs with minimal text, available in English and Malay languages.

Left: One of the display item: Ghost Durian (Durian Hantu) has no spikes and inedible, though it’s under the same family of Durian fruit. Right: Crocodile specimen in exhibition hall of RDC

This Exhibition Hall is air-conditioned, so I love to come here after a long walk under hot sun outside LOL (and for the toilet too). I must say the Exhibition Hall does a very good job in giving visitors an interesting overview of Borneo’s nature.

Other Facilities

The infrastructure of RDC is quite well-thought, this makes RDC an excellent attraction, as well as a great location to organize mid-scale events. They also added a 180-Metre flying squirrel zipline at the lake area.

Left: Keruing Cafe of RDC is located at the starting point of Canopy Walk and it serves simple meals and drink. Right: Kabili Mini Theatre for seminar, talks and conference
Left: Exhibition about Borneo birds in Drongo House. Right: Birders Rest Complex (toilet available), Both places are good shelters when it rains.

Entrance Fee

Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC) is open from 8am to 5pm every day (include Public Holidays), but the trails and canopy walkway close at 8pm, so some visitors can do night walk and evening birding. RDC is a park opens to public, any walk-in visitor can buy a ticket to enter (see ticket prices below).

 MalaysianForeigner
Adult (18 & above)RM7RM30
5-17 years oldRM3RM20
Below 5 years oldFREEFREE
Entrance Fee to RDC (Last updated on 1st April 2024)

For more information, call +60 89-533780 / 533781, e-mail rdcsepilok@yahoo.com or visit RDC’s official website and Facebook.

All proceeds from ticket sales are used to organize environmental education programs for students, teacher training courses and other environment-related activities.

Night Walk

Most wildlife are nocturnal. You may not see a lot of wildlife during daytime in RDC, but a night walk there would probably give you some pleasant surprises. Depend on your luck, you would see civet, moonrat, Malay badger, sleeping birds, glow worm, owls, stick insect, firefly, frog, bearded pig, flying lemur, etc. You hit jackpot if you spot Bornean Tarsier or Slow Loris, the most mysterious primates of Sabah. Known as Ghost Monkey locally, Bornean Tarsier is the smallest primate of Borneo and has huge eyes bigger than its brain.

During dusk, people gather and wait for red giant flying squirrel to come out of the box. Far right: Tarsier

Night Walk is available (conducted between 6pm-8pm), you can register for the walk at ticketing counter (before they close at 5pm). The fee is RM50 per adult and RM25 per child (5-16 years old) for a minimum of 2 hours, RM20/person for each additional hour.

Rates for night walk at Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC). Updated in Nov 2024

You can book a private group (max 5 people) for RM350. Do bring torch-light (flashlight) and raincoat with you. You can take photos but no camera flash is allowed for small animals.

How to get there

The Rainforest Discovery Center is located at Sepilok, Sandakan, Sabah, about 25 KM to the west of Sandakan City (see Location Map). Public transport to Sepilok is available readily and the journey takes about 45 to 50 minutes one way. You can hire a taxi for a return trip for about RM100 per car (≈USD$28)(negotiable).

RDC Shuttle Service (within Sepilok Only)

I strongly recommend you to visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center, which are only 2 KM away from RDC.

RDC Shuttle Service (within Sepilok only) is available only when licensed taxi not around and depend on staff availability. It’s no guarantee but good to know this option anyway. The standard rate is RM10 (≈USD$2.50) per car. You can request for transport in following time:
9am-5pm: enquire for taxi or shuttle service at ticketing counter
5pm-8pm: enquire shuttle service at security hut

Photos taken in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Trip to the Cocoa Village of Tawau, the Chocolate Capital

What food is cool 4,000 years ago and is still cool today? Today it is found in cakes, candy, drinks, desserts, ice-cream and cookies, you name it. In the past, Mayans praised chocolate as the drink of the gods, and the Aztecs (Mexica) believed that cocoa seeds were the gift of Quetzalcoatl, the god of wisdom. Now chocolate is also a food of love that you give to your crushes on Valentines’ Day.

Display at the entrance of Teck Guan Cocoa Village

Cocoa in Sabah

Cocoa is the main ingredient of chocolate. Malaysia is one of the major cocoa-producing countries in Asia, and over 60% of Malaysian cocoa beans are from Tawau of Sabah State. Teck Guan Cocoa Village is one of the earliest plantations to cultivate cocoa in Tawau. This village is also a family-friendly destination opens to public.

Quoin Hill at Teck Guan Cocoa Village is an extinct volcano. Its fertile volcanic soil is ideal for cocoa plantation.

For teachers and parents, a visit to the cocoa village offers an excellent outdoor education to make learning fun to their children. Because of Internet, the new generations spend far more time in virtual world than real world that some of them are even afraid of chicken. Gosh, where’s our hope in future if we have kids who are spooked by “food”? Anyway, adults would find the tour at cocoa village interesting too. Who doesn’t like chocolate?

Left: cold cocoa drink at Cocoa Village. Right: Abiu fruit, also known as “I Love You” fruit

Five Fun Things to Do at Cocoa Village

The tour to Teck Guan Cocoa Village takes about half-day (from 10am to 3pm) and requires booking in advance. The staff there will give you a guided tour to experience the wonders of nature and cocoa fruits. The following is a walk-through of the tour. My guide is Ms. Chida, a friendly sino who can speak English, Chinese and Malay.

You may watch this video for a quick overview of the cocoa village tour

1) Nature Walk in Cocoa Culture Spring

My cocoa journey starts with an one-hour nature walk in the rainforest of Cocoa Culture Spring. Though it’s a hot day, the air in this forested area is so cooling and refreshing. The plantation of Cocoa Village is near to Quoin Hill, an extinct volcano that produced the fertile soil that nurtures the cocoa trees as well as the jungle here.

Taking a nature walk in Cocoa Culture Spring. The green environment is good for our eyes too.

There are six waterfalls in Cocoa Culture Spring that work like giant air ionizers and conditioners that cleanse the air. Most of the trail is paved and easy to walk on. This reminds me of Japan, a well-developed country that coexists well with beautiful nature. Japanese is educated to appreciate nature since young, something we should learn from them.

The walk in cocoa culture spring ends at the tallest waterfall
The 75-feet Majesty Waterfall in Cocoa Culture Spring

The highlight is the columnar basalt on the river. These neatly arranged rocks are formed 27,000 years ago from lava flow that is cooled down rapidly by water. It’s a great spot for photo-taking but we didn’t stay long because there were many sandflies. Finally we ended the nature walk at the 75-foot-tall Majesty Waterfall.

Basalt columnar in Cocoa Culture Spring of Teck Guan Cocoa Village. In Malaysia, such volcanism wonder is only found in Tawau.
The basalt columnar in cocoa village was formed 27,000 years ago when hot lava was cooled down rapidly by water.

2) Learning about Cocoa

After the nature walk, I’m transferred to the cocoa nursery to learn more about the cocoa cultivation and processing. Our cocoa materials are used by famous brands such as Godiva and M&M to make chocolate.

Left: cocoa fruits with different grades and yield. Right: cocoa beans ready for fermentation

Uncle Mando shows me the variety of cocoa fruits being planted. Most plantations grow at least 6 distinct varietals, each with different grades, yield and resistance to pests. This approach minimizes the risk of cocoa plants being completely decimated by single enemy such as cocoa pod borer and vascular streak dieback. Cocoa is a profitable crop that requires great care, and it’s one of the best fruits to plant in an integrated farmland.

Left: Uncle Mando showing the cultivation and processing of cocoa. Right: cocoa pod (fruit) and its beans are white

I also savour the taste of freshly harvested cocoa pod. The pulp is thin, with sweet and sour taste like mango. After removing the pulp, the cocoa beans are fermented and dried to make cocoa butter and cocoa powder. A pound of chocolate is made from 400 cocoa beans. Each cocoa tree produces an average of 2,500 cacao beans per year.

Diagram on processing of cocoa to chocolate

Nine women can’t produce a baby in a month. Then Uncle Mando demonstrates the grafting technique that can make a 3-month-old cocoa seedling starts fruiting in only 2.5 years, which is normally takes 4 to 5 years if grows normally. Besides, these bud-grafted clonal trees are more productive and resistant to disease. That’s the power of science.

3) Enjoy Cocoa Meal and Chocolate Drink

Time flies when I’m having fun. It’s about noon time and the cocoa aroma makes me hungry, so I move to Tawau Cocoa Cafe to enjoy a tasty cocoa lunch that is included in the tour package. This cafe serves many cocoa-inspired dishes, desserts and drinks, as well as nasi kuning (yellow rice) and some western finger food.

Cocoa lunch with chicken katsu and organic cocoa noodle

I have cocoa noodle with chicken katsu (Japanese-style fried chicken cutlet coated with crispy panko) as main dish, cocoa waffle and chocolate ice-cream as desserts, and ice old cocoa drink. I’m quite full after lunch. Otherwise, I would try their cocoa pudding jelly and ice-blended chocolate coffee.

The lawn area at Cocoa Village for photo taking and other family activities

Their cocoa drink is a richer and heathier version of Milo (favourite cocoa drink of Malaysians). Tawau Cocoa Cafe has special cocoa dishes occasionally, you can follow their Facebook at tawaucocoa for the latest cocoa cuisines.

4) Family Time with Children

Next to Tawau Cocoa Cafe is a beautiful lawn and nice garden for your family to explore. Parents can sit at the benches watching their kids running on the lawn, taking family photos at the playground, explore the tree house, and even try the zipline (fee applies) between Durian and Menggaris tree.

Left: the lawn area of Cocoa Village. Right: tree house

5) Shopping for Local Cocoa Products

The last stop of the tour is to see a myriad of Sabah cocoa and chocolate products in their shop, for example, cocoa powder, spread, coffee, noodle, cookies and chocolates. Sabahans should be proud of their cocoa products besides Sabah Tea and Tenom Coffee.

Some cocoa products and souvenirs of Cocoa Village

Some of the items are nicely packaged and hard to find in Kota Kinabalu City so don’t leave empty-handed. I bought some Tawau white coffee to give to my friends. Their handmade chocolate is also one of the best buy.

Booking a Tour to Cocoa Village

The following is the price of the cocoa village tour package (year 2023):
Adult @ RM80, Child (Age 6-12) @ RM60, Child (Age 3-5) @ RM40
Infant (Age 0-2) @ Free of charge (no meals provided)
Note: A minimum of four (4) adults is required

Layout map of Teck Guan Cocoa Village, a cocoa theme park

Itinerary

10:00 Meet at gathering point (Elaeis Hall)
10:05 Depart to Cocoa Culture Spring
10:20 Briefing at Cocoa Cultural Spring
10:35 Jungle Trekking start
11:35 Return to Cocoa Nursery
11:40 Cocoa Grafting Demonstration & Real Cocoa Fruits Tasting
12:30 Lunch at Tawau Cocoa Café
14:00 Shopping time
14:30 Get a takeaway gift from Cocoa Village
15:00 Tour end

Site map of Cocoa Culture Spring, the forest and waterfall garden of Cocoa Village

Package Inclusions

  • Learn about cocoa cultivation chain through practical demonstration
  • Opportunity to taste the real Cocoa fruits
  • Waterfall trekking at Teck Guan Cocoa Culture Spring
  • Witness the historic columnar-jointing basalt
  • Entrance ticket to Teck Guan Cocoa Village
  • One (1) takeaway gift from Cocoa Village
  • One (1) lunch at Tawau Cocoa Café

Zipline + Abseil Adventure @ RM30/pax (subject to availability)

Cocoa Village is a family-friendly destination in Tawau that both adults and children enjoy.

For booking and enquiry, you can contact Teck Guan Cocoa Village at:
Phone: +60 16-8269579 (Whatsapp), +60 89 772277 (office)
E-mail: cocoavillage@teckguan.com
Facebook: cocoavillagetawau
Address (Cocoa Village): Quoin Hill, Miles 15, Jalan Bukit Quoin, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia.

Waterfalls in Cocoa Culture Spring

Teck Guan Cocoa Village is about 45 minutes (38 Kilometre) away from Tawau town by driving and highly accessible by asphalt road in good condition (see Location Map). You may visit Cocoa Museum in Tawau town if you are interested in the manufacturing of cocoa powder and cocoa butter at their factory.

Photos taken in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

Climbing Bombalai Hill, an Ancient Volcano

One of the reasons Malaysians visit famous volcanoes such as Mount Fuji and Mount Bromo is they’ve never seen a volcano, and they think that there is no volcano in Malaysia. Wrong! Sabah has over 10 volcanoes, for example, Bohey Dulang Island, Bukit Tengkorak, Mount Wullersdorf. Tawau and Semporna in south-east of Sabah were used to be the volcanic regions from Neogene to Late Pleistocene ages (about 23 million to 11,700 years ago).

Volcano crater view from the plane to Tawau. It’s probably belong to the Mount Maria of Tawau Hills Park.

Don’t worry. All volcanoes in Sabah are extinct (or dead) volcano, which will not erupt anymore. Don’t believe those viral videos which clickbait us by saying that the Bombalai Hill of Sabah is an active or dormant volcano. Some local school teachers tell their students that Mount Kinabalu is a volcano, this is incorrect too.

Bombalai Hill is abundant with volcano rocks ranging in age from Middle Miocene to Quaternary.

About Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai in Malay language) is the most accessible extinct volcano in Sabah. You can park your car near its foothill and hike only an hour to its peak. Though a dead volcano is not as interesting as a smoking active volcano with flowing lava, it is definitely safer to explore.

3D map of Bombalai Hill (left) and Tawau Hills Park (right). Note the caldera on the peak.

Bombalai Hill is an ancient cone volcano that was active during Quaternary. Its last eruption is probably about 129,000 to 11,700 years ago. Though the dense forest on the hill has covered the traces of volcanism, its 300-metre-wide caldera is quite visible from the sky. I saw it once from a plane that flied to Tawau town, the third largest town of Sabah.

Beautiful jungle trail of Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

Bombalai Hill is part of Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau), a fully protected forest reserve about 24 km north-west of Tawau (see Location Map) and highly accessible by sealed roads. If Tawau Hills Park is open a million years ago, it would be called “Tawau Volcanoes Park” because the mountains there were used to be active volcanoes from the ages of Miocene to Late Pleistocene.

Hill dipterocarp forest is the most common forest type in Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau)

Now these extinct volcanoes become the three highest mountains in Tawau Hills Park, namely, Mount Magdalena (1,310 M), Mount Lucia (1,201 M) and Mount Maria (1,083 M). Mount Lucia has the most distinct volcano crater on the peak and it takes 6 hours to hike, but I climb Bombalai Hill first, because it’s the smaller volcano with the shortest and easiest trail.

Starting point of the climb to Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

Tawau Hills Park opens from 8am to 4pm every day. You can climb Bombalai Hill during the opening hours but I advise you to start before 2pm. Because the dense forest is quite dim after 3pm, when the sun starts sinking behind the hill. You are not required to hire a guide to go with you.

Left: a long-tailed macaque on the fence. Right: grass path to Bombalai Hill

Climbing Bombalai Hill

The starting point is located outside the fenced area of Tawau Hills Park headquarter. The ticket (named as Conservation Fee) costs RM6 for Malaysian adult (18 years old & above) and RM20 for foreign adult (as of year 2023). Some “smart” people would ask you to bypass the ticket counter so you can climb the hill for free. Please don’t do that. In case you are stranded on the hill, nobody would know that you are on the hill. Or you would be mistaken as a poacher by the patrolling rangers there.

Left: nature trail to the hill. Middle: a cocoa tree. Right: white fungus high on a tree

Though Bombalai Hill is 530 metres above sea level, the hike begins on a higher ground of nearly 300 metres above sea level, so I only need to climb up about 230 metres. The trail to the peak of Bombalai Hill is about 1.9 kilometres one way. Normally it takes about an hour to reach the top. Overall, the climb is not tough, even beginners can do it. Wear a pair of anti-leech socks if you’re afraid of leech bite.

Fruits next to the trail of Bombalai Hill

When you face the front of the park entrance, turn left and walk 150 metres, from car park to the end of the paved road until you reach the building of staff accommodation. You will see a signage to Bombalai Hill, which points to a straight, wide and flat gravel and grass path next to an oil palm plantation.

Left: a weevil beetle. Right: a big fly

Just follow the grass path for less than 10 minutes, you will enter a forest edge with narrow soil trail with bushy sides. You should see a signage that says “Ke Puncak Bukit Bombalai”, which is translated as “To the Peak of Bombalai Hill.” (Bukit means Hill in Malay language)

Signage to the peak of Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) at the forest edge

Due to the tree shades, the surrounding is darker and the trail is flanked by dense undergrowth. Walk slowly and scan around, you would find many fruits, herb plants and flowers, e.g. ginger, orchid, begonia, among them. A couple of leeches would welcome you.

Left: Begonia plant. Right: wild “football fruits” or pangi fruits. The fruits are poisonous and can be used for food fermentation after treatment.

The lush rainforest covers all the traces of volcanism. This forested dead volcano is actually a green volcano full of lives. The cicada orchestra and bird calls never stop. My presence causes some commotion among the elusive tree-dwelling primates.

Left: pill millipede curled up as a defense. Right: flies feasting on a dropping (very smelly). Both play important role in decomposing organic matters in forest.

The eight species of primate found in this park are long-tailed macaque, pig-tailed macaque, red-leaf monkey, Borneo gibbons, orang-utans, tarsiers, slow loris and Gray-leaf Monkey. They flee before I can tell what they are, but very likely they are either macaques or red-leaf monkey.

The towering rainforest trees of Bombalai Hill

Tawau Hills Park is also a popular bird-watching site. I can hear the hoarse call and flapping wing of hornbills on the canopy. I recognise the calls of broadbill and pitta too. Of the 8 species of Hornbills known from Sabah, 6 species live here, namely, the Black, Bushy-crested, Helmeted, Rhinoceros, White-crowned and the Wreathed hornbills. Also, 3 species of the rare pheasants occur here, namely, Crested-fireback, Great argus and Malayan peacock pheasants.

Distance markers to the peak of Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

The first 1 kilometre of the hike is mainly an easy walk on flat surface, with only a few gentle slopes. The distance markers every 100 metres are the progress bars that keep me motivated. I’m the only climber on the hill, but I don’t feel lonely in nature. I don’t worry about losing my way because the trail is well-trodden.

Vines and creepers on the tree. The left one looks like birds in flight. To survive, these plants need to climb high to reach for more sunlight.

The foothill is mainly lowland and secondary forest. As I climb higher, I see variety of trees, vines, liana, and creepers of hill dipterocarp forest flourishing on the fertile volcanic soil. Unlike the monodominant forests in temperate countries, the vegetation of Borneo rainforest is highly diversified.

A tree with big buttress on the trail. This structure allows the tree to stand firm on the shallow soil.

Reaching the Peak

The last 400 metres uphill trail to the peak is the most challenging part of the climb. There are some rope support at steep or slippery sections. About 100 metres before the ending point is a leisure walk on a ridge. It takes me 1.5 hour to reach the peak because I walk slowly to take pictures.

The steepest sections to the peak of Bombalai Hill. The rope support and stairway help a lot.
0 Meter signage on the peak to mark the end of the climb. The viewpoint platform is a short walk away on a ridge.

At the peak is a 2-level wooden viewpoint platform with an open view facing south-west. It’s a hazy day but I still can see oil palm plantation, Tawau plains, Sulawesi Sea, Sebatik Island, and other places more than 12 kilometres away.

The 2-level wooden viewpoint platform on the peak of Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

As Bombalai Hill is surrounded by oil palm plantation from three sides, to be honest the panoramic view on top isn’t really fantastic. Anyway, I feel wonderful and worthwhile conquering an ancient volcano.

The old signages and triangulation station (trigonometrical point) on the peak

Just a trivia of Bombalai Hill. There is a secret cave used by the Japanese or resistance fighters during World War II at the peak of Bombalai Hill. Urban legends from all over the world say Japanese hide their war loot in caves and tunnels during WWII. Some treasure hunters believe this myth and excavate the site, though Sabah Parks has debunked that there is no gold.

View from the peak of Bombalai Hill. You can see large area of oil palm plantation.

The north side of Bombalai Hill is connected to the main forest of Tawau Hills Park, so the wildlife aren’t stuck on an isolated hill. From the high density of the birds and monkey living there, they seem to like Bombalai Hill a lot.

You can see Tawau town and Sebatik Island more than 12 km away from the peak (photo captured by camera with 8x optical zoom)

After the climb, don’t throw away your ticket. You can use it to enter the park headquarter (Tawau Hills Park) to take a dip in the river, visit the waterfall, sulphurous springs, botanical garden and one of tallest tropical tree in the world. The park also has toilet and canteen (Kantin Begonia) for visitors. For more information, you can contact Sabah Parks, the government agency that manages Tawau Hills Park.

Photos taken in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo