Danum Valley Packages And Tours For 2025 & 2026

Discover the ultimate Borneo experience with breathtaking jungles, vibrant wildlife, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures in paradise.

Danum Valley Conservation Area spans 438 square kilometers of largely untouched lowland dipterocarp rainforest in Sabah, Malaysia. Its borders are home to an extensive variety of tropical plants and animals (flora and fauna), including the world’s tallest tropical tree, Bornean orangutans (also spelled as orang utan), sumatran rhino proboscis monkey, gibbons, mousedeer, clouded leopard, and an astonishing assortment of over 270 bird species. This pristine environment is crucial for the survival of endangered species, as there were no human settlements in the area prior to its designation as a conservation area, resulting in no hunting, logging, or other human interference.

The rainforest of Danum Valley holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest, with an impressive age exceeding 140 million years. This ancient, pristine rainforest harbors one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems, making it a globally significant ecological treasure.

Within its flourishing expanse thrive over 340 bird species, 124 mammal species, 72 reptile species, and 56 amphibian species. That is why naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, and bird watchers from around the world visit Danum for unparalleled wildlife encounters. Renowned as one of Sabah’s premier protected areas, it is also a haven for Sabah’s lowland fauna and serves as a preferred destination for wildlife filmmakers.

Danum Valley also has several attractive places such as the forest canopy, three burial sites, the Danum River, and more.

The Danum Valley conservation area lies at a distance of approximately 70 kilometers away, from its nearest town, which is Lahad Datu town itself. Accessible via Lahad Datu airport, reaching Danum Valley entails an estimated of two and half hours overland journey on gravel-surfaced, unpaved roads. While these roads are generally passable, opting for a 4×4 vehicle is advisable due to frequent use by heavy vehicles such as logging trucks.

The paths within Danum Valley consist of gravel road and wind through a variety of landscapes, encompassing twisting hills, steep gorges, lengthy bridges, and rocky streams. It’s crucial to understand that attempting to drive yourself to Danum Valley is not advisable due to the rugged terrain. Furthermore, securing an entry permit is necessary to explore Danum Valley, a process facilitated through tour operators or private guide.

During the period from March to October, there is typically a slightly lower recorded rainfall, making it generally regarded as the optimal time to visit for higher chances to spot wildlife . Given the limited availability of accommodations, it’s wise to plan your journey to Danum Valley well in advance and secure bookings early to prevent disappointment. Bed spaces within Danum Valley tend to fill up rapidly, especially during the months of April, July, and August.

Absolutely. As the oldest rainforests rich with natural environment, complex ecosystems, and home to many species of flora and fauna, Visiting Danum Valley is truly worthwhile, living up to its esteemed reputation. Renowned as one of Borneo’s most exceptional wildlife sanctuaries and pristine rainforest, Danum Valley serves as a primary habitat for the critically endangered Bornean pygmy elephants, recognized as the world’s smallest elephant species. It’s not uncommon to witness these majestic creatures traversing the rainforest if luck is on your side.

Moreover, Danum Valley boasts the distinction of hosting the Yellow Meranti tree species (Shorea faguetiana), famed as the tallest tropical tree globally. Reaching an astounding height of 100.8 meters (330.7 feet), the colossal tree, dubbed ‘Menara’ (meaning Tower in Malay), stands just 21.2 meters shorter than Kota Kinabalu’s renowned Tun Mustapha Tower.

Visitiors have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities such as guided rainforest walks, jungle trekking, river swimming, canopy walkway, wildlife sightings, bird watching, and night safaris. Various hiking trails, catering to different difficulty levels, offer visitors the chance to delve into the rainforest’s depths and encounter its diverse wildlife. Additionally, visitors can also take a refreshing dip in the Danum River or take part in river tubing activities.

As the Borneo Rainforest Lodge is situated right in the ancien rainforests, the heart of Danum Valley, the activities primarily revolve around delving into the depths of the tropical jungle and encountering its diverse wildlife. The lodge boasts numerous trails that unveil captivating and picturesque facets of the jungle. Morning and night trek afford guests distinct opportunities to observe the jungle and its inhabitants, each offering unique experiences depending on the time of day. Alternatively, if you seek tranquility amidst the surroundings, you can simply unwind on the outdoor deck or take a quick dip in the outdoor tub.

One of Danum Valley Field Centre standout features is its nature trails, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of the rainforest. These trails also serve as an orientation for guests, allowing them to acquaint themselves with the surroundings. Along the trek, you’ll have opportunities to explore notable sites like the Tembaling Waterfall or the ancient Kadazandusun burial site.

There are three types of Danum Valley accommodation available, catering to various preferences from simple to more upscale offerings. The luxurious Borneo Rainforest Lodge and the Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) are situated within the boundaries of Danum Valley itself.

Situated within the Danum Valley Conservation Area, the Danum Valley Field Centre offers a variety of accommodations, including dormitory rooms, rest houses, and chalets. Today, it stands as one of the premier research facilities in Southeast Asia. The center is outfitted with laboratories, a meeting room, lodging for researchers, dormitories, campsites, and a cafeteria. Nestled amid the pristine rainforest, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge provides an eco-friendly retreat, boasting a range of exquisite lodge from Standard Chalet, Deluxe Chalet to Premium Villas. Additionally, the lodge offers facilities including a restaurant and bar, ensuring a memorable jungle experience.

Yes. An entry permit is required for access to the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This permit can be secured by booking through a tour operator prior to your visit. Additionally, researcher and filming permits are available through the Danum Valley Management Committee’s secretariat. It’s important to note that walk-in tourists are not permitted in this area. Without the necessary permits for both yourself and your vehicle, entry to this protected forest will be denied.

Essential items to pack include leech socks, sturdy walking shoes, lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a flashlight, a raincoat, a refillable water bottle, cash (as ATMs are unavailable), necessary medication and personal toiletries. Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are also recommended for wildlife observation and photography.

Prior to departing Lahad Datu for Danum Valley, you can request your driver to take you to a local shop where you can purchase ‘adidas kampung’ (rubber trekking shoes), which are highly recommended for trekking in the Borneo tropical rainforest.

Internet and phone coverage may be limited or entirely unavailable across many parts of Danum Valley due to its isolated setting. Only selected areas have internet access, and you may encounter slow download or upload speeds, largely due to limitations in satellite-based bandwidth.

Indeed, there are specific rules and regulations in place to safeguard the conservation of Danum Valley. These guidelines encompass adhering to designated trails and minimizing environmental impact. Visitors are urged to avoid bringing disposable items and are encouraged to bring back any trash to be disposed of upon departing Danum Valley. Additionally, starting fires or introducing outside animals into the conservation area is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, flash photography, particularly during night walk/safaris, is not permitted.