Danum Valley Tour – Explore Borneo’s Pristine Rainforest

Please find below:

An introduction to Danum Valley and what makes it so unique
What makes staying in Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley so special?
How can I travel to Danum Valley / stay at Borneo Rainforest Lodge?
How much time should I spend at Borneo Rainforest Lodge?
Sample Itinerary and pricing for 4D3N Danum Valley tour
How to Book Danum Valley Tour with Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency
Danum Valley Tour Package: Important Information
Danum Valley / Borneo Rainforest Lodge (FAQs)
Important Items to bring on your Danum Valley tour

Danum Valley – An Introduction

Danum Valley is one of Borneo’s most precious jewels. Located in the east of Sabah, around 80km from the town of Lahad Datu, the area comprises 438 square kilometres of pristine rainforest and is also the base of Danum Valley Field Centre home to some scientists undertaking research and conservation activities.

What makes Danum Valley so Unique?

Oldest rainforest in the world
Home to the highest recorded rainforest tree (over 100 metres tall)
Home to fantastic array of wildlife, including 124 species of mammals (including wild orangutans, gibbons and pygmy elephants) and in excess of 300 species of birds.
A biodiversity hotspot with 200 plant species per hectare
The area has never been inhabited by humans, so there has never been hunting or logging

Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Red Leaf Monkey.

What makes staying at Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley so special?

· An All-Inclusive Luxury Experience in the Heart of the Rainforest that’s part of DVCA (Danum Valley Conservation Area)

· Recognised as Malaysia’s first 5-star jungle resort – a Green-Rated property that utilises solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and waste water treatment whilst providing high-end luxury accommodation / experience

· There are only 30 individual chalets / villas that caps occupancy at around 60 guests

· Enjoy eye-level wildlife viewing from the 314 metre suspended Canopy Walkway bridge that sits 27 metres above the ground

· Experience guided excursions including expert naturalist-led jungle trekking, night safaris in electric buggies and trips to natural rock pools and waterfalls

· Passionate and knowledgeable Tour Guides, with some specialists in Mammal watching, herping (reptiles and amphibians) or birding

How can I travel to Danum Valley / Borneo Rainforest Lodge?

· All tours start / end in Lahad Datu and the easiest way to travel there is to fly on Air Borneo from Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Lahad Datu (LDU) aboard one of their fleet of ATR-72 aircraft – we recommend guests take the first flight of the day which currently departs KK at 0720 or 0820 dependent on day of week but check https://travel.airborneo.com/ for latest schedules

· From Lahad Datu Airport your transfers to/from W Bay Payang & Borneo Rainforest Lodge will be overland using 4WD Toyota Landcruiser (or similar)

· As a guide it’s 97km / 2 .5 hour journey from LDU to BRL and transportation is on a shared (Seat-In-Coach) basis

· On day of departure, we recommend guests to arrange the last flight ex Lahad Datu to Kota Kinabalu that as per Air Borneo’s schedule at time of writing departs LDU 1655 hours

Fly Air Borneo ATR-72 BKI-LDU as most convenient way to travel to Danum Valley

How much time should I spend in Borneo Rainforest Lodge?

· The most popular package, and the one that we recommend is 4D3N which offers two full days to immerse yourself in this beautiful, special environment; provides for a more relaxed schedule and increases chance of wildlife sightings

· 3D2N & 5D4N packages are also available – please contact Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency for sample itineraries / pricing

Danum Valley Tour (staying at Borneo Rainforest Lodge) 4D3N Sample Itinerary

Day 1 (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Guests greeted upon arrival at Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) or Lahad Datu town area hotel. After orientation and safety overview, enjoy a scenic overland transfer (20km / 30 minutes) to the coastal gateway of W Bay Payang on the South China Sea. Enjoy a waterside breakfast whilst your marine experts prepare professional quality snorkelling equipment and share insights into the unique marine aquatic ecosystem you’ll be exploring.

Next board boat for an excursion to the spectacular Blue Rings Reef (rare example of double-ringed marine sinkhole) located in the Tingkayu Reef in Darval Bay, around 20km from the mainland and the vibrant Laila Reef home to thriving and colourful coral, and abundant marine life supported by the complex reef ecosystem.

Experience Blue Rings Reef as part of your Danum Valley adventure

The morning concludes with a stop at serene Pulau Kalung-Kalungan (Kalung-Kalungan Island) where you can snorkel / chill on the beach.

After returning to the mainland enjoy a freshwater rinse followed by a western lunch at W Bay Payang expertly prepared by Chef and his team from Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

[Note: for guests who prefer their adventures solely on land you can select an alternative Day 1 morning option by enjoying some light trekking to Mount Silam that enjoys a beautiful view across Darvil Bay. You will then be transferred to W Bay Payang for lunch and onward transportation to Borneo Rainforest Lodge.]

After lunch your adventure continues with an overland transfer by 4WD from W Bay Payang to Borneo Rainforest Lodge in the heart of Danum Valley (90km / 2.5 hours). Upon arrival you will be treated to a signature welcome drink, a briefing from the Front Office team on the 5-star facilities and a briefing from your Nature Guide on the evening’s adventures. As dusk falls, enjoy a trip into the 130 million-year old jungle for either a Guided Night Walk or Night Drive (using ‘quiet’ electric buggy).

Explore the Danum Valley rainforest on a Night Safari

Day 2 (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Awaken to the calls of Bornean Gibbons and after a buffet breakfast (served 0700-0930) enjoy a trek to Coffin Cliff, an ancient Dusun tribe burial site. It’s around a 2-3 hours return hike and for the fit and eager, there’s an opportunity to extend the hike to Fairy Falls that’s surrounded by lush foliage and scenic views. Afterwards, cool off and enjoy a refreshing dip in the Natural Jacuzzi Pool (you’ve earnt it!) before returning to Borneo Rainforest Lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, take a short 10 minute hike to the amazing 314 metre canopy walkway, that’s a suspended bridge 27 metres above the forest floor. There’s never any guarantees with sightings in the wild, however the experience Guides will know the best places to look and you may be fortunate enough to see an orangutan preparing their sleeping nest high in the forest trees.

As the day concludes enjoy either a Night Walk or Night Drive.

Explore the amazing Canopy Walkway at Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Day 3 (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike along the beautiful 6.2km Segama Trail (look out for flying squirrels and red-leaf monkeys) to discover a magnificent forest landmark – a strangling Fig Tree that’s estimated to be over 500 years old. These trees begin life as a seed dropped by birds or monkeys high up in the canopy. They grow aerial roots downward toward the forest floor. Once the roots anchor into the soil, they rapidly expand, fusing into a lattice-like wooden cage that completely encases the host tree, blocking its sunlight and stealing its nutrients until it rots away, leaving behind a giant hollow. Despite their ruthless survival strategy, these giant figs are vital to the ecosystem. They act as year-round "convenience stores" for wildlife, providing critical fruit and shelter for Bornean orangutans, gibbons, and rare bird species like hornbills.

After returning to Borneo Rainforest Lunch, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy. How about a jungle cycling experience, winding through scenic rainforest trails, or a White Water Rafting (subject water levels) adventure through pristine waters? (please note both activities are led by Guides). Alternatively, enjoy another guided trek or simply chill and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the lodge.

As evening falls, take one final Night Walk or Night Drive.

Enjoy guided Junhle Cycling at Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Day 4 (Breakfast / Lunch)

On your final morning, enjoy an optional early morning walk before breakfast before returning to the lodge for a hearty lunch. Check-out, the team will thank you for visiting Danum Valley and wish you Bon Voyage! before returning to Lahad Datu by 4WD, taking with you a lifetime of memories from visiting Borneo’s extraordinary and unique coast and rainforest.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Western Tarsier

Danum Valley Tour: Important information

· Tour starts / ends Lahad Datu

· Tour is sold as ‘Seat-In-Coach’ (this is not a Private Tour and you will be joined by other guests for transportation and all guided activities) for a private tour contact Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency

· The lodge only has 30 chalets and fills up very quickly – we suggest guests contact us with your preferred date(s) 3-6 months prior to travel

· Although Tour Guides will know best places to look, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed

· Snorkellers should be aged 12 years old or above

· Return scheduled transfer from Lahad Datu is at 0930 hours and from Borneo Rainforest Lodge at 1230 hours – this is included in the package but if you require a one-way Private Transfer outside of these hours price is RM550 (1-3 persons) / RM700 (4-6 persons)

see below for more details re tour fare and what is / what isn’t included

Tour Fare for 4D3N Danum Valley Tour staying in Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Staying in JUNGLE CHALET (1-3 guests)

Single Occupancy RM11,400

Twin/Double Occupancy RM8,100

Triple Share RM7,100

Triple Share with child (5-11) RM6,300

Staying in DELUXE CHALET (1-3 guests) - please see interior picture below

Single Occupancy RM12,800

Twin/Double Occupancy RM8,800

Triple Share RM7,500

Triple Share with child (5-11) RM6,800

Staying in PREMIUM DELUXE CHALET (1-5 guests)

Single Occupancy RM17,700

Twin/Double Occupancy RM11,300

Triple Share RM9,200

Triple Share with child (5-11) RM8,500

Please contact Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency for pricing for PREMIUM VILLA SINGLE STOREY (1-2 guests) & PREMIUM VILLA DOUBLE STOREY (1-4 guests) - guests booking Premium Villa include your own dedicated Private Transfers and Private Tour Guide

Note: Child 0-4 - no bed allocated but can share bed with family - charge RM50 (to cover park permits)

To Book 4D3N Danum Valley Tour staying in Borneo Rainforest Lodge

email operations@bluekinabalu.com / WhatsApp +60 13 394 8721

4D3N Danum Valley Tour staying in Borneo Rainforest Lodge (What’s Included)

· Meals as stated on full-board basis (Breakfast x 3 / Lunch x 4 / Dinner x 3)

· Accommodation as stated

· Guide Fees / Guided Tours on a ‘Seat-in-Coach’ basis – you will joined by other guests

· Entry permits and conservation fees

· Wi-Fi

4D3N Danum Valley Tour staying in Borneo Rainforest Lodge (What’s not Included)

· Malaysian Tourism Tax (RM10 per room per night for non-Malaysians to be settled in RM cash at check-in)

· Flights to/from Lahad Datu

· Beverages

· Tipping for Tour Guides / Drivers

· Travel Insurance

Danum Valley / Borneo Rainforest Lodge (FAQs)

What can I see?

While wildlife sightings can never be agreed, you’ll have the opportunity to experience an exciting mix of coastal and rainforest biodiversity. Guests may encounter vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and schooling fish along the coast, as well as iconic Bornean species such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, gibbons, red-leaf monkeys, bristleheads, pittas etc. within the rainforest. Our Nature Guides will their best to maximise your chances and help you appreciate every sighting.

Are the activities child-friendly?

Many of the experiences can be enjoyed by families, but suitability depends on your child’s fitness and comfort level. Snorkelling is best for ages 12 and above, whilst some rainforest treks require higher levels of fitness. For an easy and enjoyable option, our self-guided boardwalk trail is ideal for young children, elders and guests looking for a more gentle, easier option.

What if I feel unwell?

Your wellbeing is our priority. Ay Borneo Rainforest Lodge there is a basic in-house clinic and a team trained in first-aid and minor issues. If you need a doctor, we’ll arrange a transfer to the nearest medical facility.

Should I worry about leeches or mosquitoes?

You may see two harmless leech species in Danum Valley: the brown ground leech and the tiger leech on leaves. Their bits are mild and more of a nuisance than a danger. The surrounding rainforest is a low-malaria risk area, and all rooms come with mosquito netting and repellents to keep you comfortable throughout your stay.

Is WiFi or phone signal available?

WiFi (4G) is available at the main lodge and in chalets. However, as it’s a remote location weather can affect the signal.

What is the weather like?

Expect warm, humid days (28-30C) and of course as it’s the rainforest it can rain on any day. Evenings are cooler with gentle breezes.

What are dining arrangements at Borneo Rainforest Lodge?

All packages are full-board (all meals included) and are served in a large, scenic, open-plan restaurant area that overlooks the surrounding pristine rainforest and the Danum River. Meals are served buffet-style with designated dining hours to align with the daily jungle trekking activities:

Breakfast 0700-0900

Lunch 1200-1400

Dinner 1900-2100

The food focuses heavily on freshly cooked local Malay-style and Asian cuisines, balanced with Western comfort foods. You can expect a rotating variety of chicken, lamb, seafood, rice, and noodle dishes. dedicated vegetarian and vegan section at the buffet featuring a large variety of tofu dishes, fresh salads, and cooked vegetable options. If you have severe allergies or strict gluten-free needs, it is recommended to inform Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency at the time of booking.

Are you able to arrange ground transportation to other locations within Sabah?

To check availability / cost of transfer to other outstation locations e.g. Sukau / Semporna / Tawau / Sandakan please check with Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency

Can I fly into Danum Valley?

Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency has agreements in place with Sabah based helicopter operators and subject to operational considerations, it may be possible to charter a helicopter from/to Kota Kinabalu to Danum Valley. The helipad at Danum Valley is round 30 minutes from Borneo Rainforest Lodge and the team will happily transfer guests by 4WD from/to the helipad.