Discover the wonders of the less known and explored Maliau Basin and see for yourself the many sides to The Lost World of Sabah
Maliau Basin has earned its nickname as “Sabah’s Lost World” and for good reason. While it is tempting to associate this nickname to the possible corresponding blockbuster movie Jurassic Park: The Lost World, there is thankfully no dinosaurs running rampant in the area. Maliau Basin was first explored in 1988 and even today, much of it is still shrouded in mystery as it remain one of Malaysia’s finest remaining wilderness areas, encompasses 390 km² of pristine forest, a virtually self-contained ecosystem, never permanently inhabited and with large areas still remaining to be explored and documented. . Take a hike up its beautiful waterfalls and aged old forest that still manages to captivate and capture the hearts of travellers who venture into this heaven on earth. Interestingly, the forest and jungle in Maliau Basin are so dense that it has proven to be more difficult for anyone to spot any wildlife in the area compared to other tropical forests. This is also part of the reason why so many of its flora and fauna still remains untouched and undocumented for even today. Of course, if you feel that you are up for the challenge, you are more than welcome to try out this paradise for yourself.
Day 1
You will be picked up at around 7 A.M. at Kota Kinabalu. Should you live outside of Kota Kinabalu, it is also possible for you to be picked up from Semporna/Tawau. Without further ado, you will head straight to Maliau Basin. Along the way, you will also pass the scenic winding roads of Crocker Ranges which is located at approximately a 2 hours’ ride away from Kota Kinabalu. You will then stop briefly in Keningau and purchase some last minute supplies. Then, it is off again to Maliau study centre where you can finally alight your ride and stretch your body after a long ride. After getting yourself accustomed to the place, you will go for your introductory walk of the centre’s very surrounding and learn more about the rich biodiversity of this pristine forest in Borneo. Once you finish dinner, you will again have the option to either join an inclusive night drive or a night walk to explore more about the area’s nocturnal animals.
Day 2
Today will be a day full of trekking. So pack your bags and stretch those muscles for an exciting day of trekking. You will head straight to Agathis camp to begin your Full Maliau Basin Trekking Loop. This 7.5 km trek may sound short but it packs a heavier punch thatn what you initially think. It starts with a steep incline that will surely make you wish that you have packed a lighter load. With an average travelling time of 5 hours, you will find that the route is not as straightforward as you thought - which is why you will be making several stops along the way. After you finish your packed lunch, you will push forward to Nepenthes camp where you will finally be able to settle your belongings and explore the beautiful surrounding. Do not forget to also go for the 33 m high observation platform next to the camp where you will be able to get a view of the tree canopy. Time permitting, you will be able to opt for an optional 2-3 hours’ return trek to Takob Akob falls before going back to Nepenthes camp.
Day 3
After breakfast, you will make your way straight to Ginseng camp. This challenging track will bring you around through lower dipterocarp, lower montane and heath forest. Feast your eyes on the various wildlife and wild plants found along the way such as the famous pitcher plants and rafflesia. If you are lucky you might also find some Borneon Gibbons and Redleaf Monkeys around the area. You will also be happy to hear that there is a Ginseng fall located close to the camping site where you will be able to go for a refreshing dip after a full day of trekking.
Day 4
If you feel that the Ginseng Fall was not enough yesterday, you will be happy to know that there will be another waterfall visit today - Maliau Fall. This is the very highlight of your trip at Maliau Basin so get your cameras up and ready. The 4.5 km trek is quite challenging but there will be ropes to help you get around. Each one-way journey will take 2-3 hours so there will be plenty of time to swim, eat your lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the fall. As early afternoon comes, begin your hike to Ginseng camp for dinner and some good night’s rest.
Day 5
After a hearty breakfast, you will begin your 9 km trek back to Agathis camp to meet your driver. This 5 hours’ trek will include a packed lunch and a homecoming trail passing through the fertile and untamed jungle of Maliau Basin. Arriving at Agathis camp, you will proceed with a car ride back to Kota Kinabalu. Of course, if you would like to alight at your own preferred choice of destination, there is also an option to alight at Semporna/Tawau for an additional RM550. You are expected to arrive at Kota Kinabalu at 7 P.M. with an amazing memory and a full Maliau Basin experience.
Refer to the map below to see a list of pick up location(s) that are available for you to choose from. You can select your desired pick up location when you book the tour.
List of Location(s):
Pick up is also available for other location(s) under the vicinity of Kota Kinabalu. For more information, please contact Adventoro's concierge service.
Make use of Adventoro's complimentary concierge service by emailing info@adventoro.com to effortlessly plan your next adventure!
Visit Sabah, a rare gem in the Bornean chest, and experience its culture, conquer Mount Kinabalu or delve into its enchanting forests with our adventure tours.