
Bako National Park
Discover Borneo's oldest national park, a coastal gem with diverse wildlife, unique rock formations, and lush rainforest trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting

Bako National Park
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Borneo's oldest national park, a coastal gem with diverse wildlife, unique rock formations, and lush rainforest trails.
"Bako National Park is a place you absolutely must visit. It is worth going there by Grab app and leaving quite early in the morning to avoid the crowds."

💰 Bring Cash for Everything
Park entrance, boat rides, and food are cash-only. No ATMs nearby!
🐒 Early Bird Gets the Monkey
Visit early morning for best chances to see proboscis monkeys.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Proboscis Monkeys
Various trails
Spot these unique primates with their distinctive large noses in their natural habitat. Early mornings offer the best viewing opportunities.

Unique Rock Formations
Coastal areas
Marvel at the dramatic sea stacks and weathered rock formations sculpted by the elements. Sadly, the iconic sea stack has recently collapsed.

Jungle Trails
Throughout the park
Hike through diverse rainforest trails, encountering various flora and fauna, including snakes and other wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King in Bako
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring Cash for Everything
Park entrance, boat rides, and food are cash-only. No ATMs nearby!
🐒 Early Bird Gets the Monkey
Visit early morning for best chances to see proboscis monkeys.
🚤 Shared Boat for Savings
Team up with 4 others for a cheaper boat ride to the park.
🐍 Watch Your Step!
Be cautious on trails; snakes are present. Don't touch unknown plants.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Everything
Park entrance, boat rides, and food are cash-only. No ATMs nearby!
🐒 Early Bird Gets the Monkey
Visit early morning for best chances to see proboscis monkeys.
🚤 Shared Boat for Savings
Team up with 4 others for a cheaper boat ride to the park.
🐍 Watch Your Step!
Be cautious on trails; snakes are present. Don't touch unknown plants.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hikes.
🏕️ Camp or Stay Overnight
Maximize your visit by staying overnight to explore more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bako National Park is a highly recommended destination for its incredible wildlife, particularly the proboscis monkeys, and its stunning natural landscapes. Visitors praise the park's trails and the unique rock formations. However, the mandatory and expensive boat ride is a common point of criticism, as is the limited and sometimes disappointing food service.
"Bako National Park is a place you absolutely must visit. It is worth going there by Grab app and leaving quite early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a better chance of meeting the proboscis monkeys. Importantly, payment is only possible in cash on site and I did not see an ATM anywhere nearby, so it is worth having a supply of cash with you. We bought entry to the park on site, then rented a boat with a guide (extra fee). We came across a brilliant guide who, unlike others, was able to find the proboscis monkeys, which we could approach to a distance of a few meters (other guides walked in crowds one next to the other with the crowd of tourists - this does not help in searching for the proboscis monkeys). Since you are in the jungle, you have to be careful and not touch anything green (you can see a snake in the photo). On the way back we had trouble finding the Grab but we found a local driver who took us to Kuching for cash.
To sum up:
1. Go to Bako Park early in the morning
2. Bring cash
3. If possible take a private boat with a guide (avoids crowds during the tour)
4. Don't touch anything green unless you want an unpleasant surprise, like a snake"
Robert Obłój
"Fantastic national park and great people! We camped but there are also ledges you can stay. Highly recommend staying at least one night as its very hot in the afternoon and best to get the trek started before the middle of the day."
Andrew Scott
"Other than needing cash for everything, the experience was amazing. Staff were most helpful and the night tour was really enlightening.
I would highly recommend you to stay overnight to make the most of the park."
Pauline Hadley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kuching, you can take a Grab or taxi to the Bako National Park jetty (about a 30-40 minute drive). From there, you'll need to hire a boat to take you into the park, as it's only accessible by sea.
Finding transportation back can sometimes be tricky. It's advisable to arrange a return trip with your boatman or driver beforehand, or be prepared to look for local drivers who may accept cash.
The boat ride is a significant cost, often around RM200 for a return trip, and it's usually priced per boat, not per person. It's best to form a group of five to share the cost.
While public buses might get you close to the jetty, most visitors opt for Grab or private taxis for convenience and speed to reach the Bako National Park jetty.
The drive from Kuching to the Bako National Park jetty takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The boat ride into the park is usually around 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park entrance fees are relatively low, but remember that payment is typically cash-only. It's a small fraction of the overall cost compared to the boat ride.
You can usually purchase park entrance tickets on-site at the jetty. However, booking accommodation or guided tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The park is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. However, it's best to check the official Sarawak Forestry Corporation website for the most current operating hours.
No, there are no ATMs available at Bako National Park or at the jetty. It is crucial to bring sufficient cash for all your expenses.
There is a cafe (Kerangas Cafe) within the park that serves food and drinks, but options are limited and can be pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Bako is famous for its proboscis monkeys, but you can also spot long-tailed macaques, silvered langurs, bearded pigs, monitor lizards, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for snakes too!
Bako has several marked trails ranging from easy to challenging. Popular ones include the Lintang Trail (moderate), Telok Paku Trail (for monkeys), and Telok Tajor Trail (waterfall).
Yes, Bako makes a great day trip from Kuching. However, staying overnight allows for a more immersive experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Yes, you can hire guides at the park headquarters. A good guide can significantly enhance your chances of spotting wildlife and understanding the ecosystem.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, light clothing, and insect repellent. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. A rain jacket is also advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique proboscis monkeys, the dramatic coastal rock formations, lush rainforest scenery, and diverse wildlife. The early morning and late afternoon light is often best.
Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Do not feed them, and avoid sudden movements that might startle them. Respect their space for your safety and theirs.
A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the stunning landscapes. A waterproof camera or protective casing is also a good idea.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's best to check park regulations before flying a drone.
The coastal areas with their unique rock formations were iconic, though the main sea stack has recently collapsed. Look for viewpoints along the trails offering panoramic ocean or jungle vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiring a guide to keep children engaged and ensure their safety on the trails, especially regarding potential encounters with snakes. While the park is a fantastic educational experience, be mindful of the heat and humidity, and plan your visit to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Staying overnight can allow for a more relaxed pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save money, as the on-site cafe can be expensive. While hiring a private guide might seem like an extra cost, it can enhance your experience significantly, especially for wildlife spotting. If you're on a tight budget, focus on exploring the trails independently and make the most of the free wildlife viewing opportunities.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Consider joining a guided tour or night walk to enhance your experience and safety. The park's trails are generally well-marked, allowing for independent exploration. Staying overnight is highly recommended for solo travelers to fully appreciate the park's tranquility and wildlife activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters in Bako
Beyond the mammals, Bako is a birdwatcher's paradise. While specific species sightings can vary, the park is home to numerous endemic and migratory birds. Remember that Bako is a natural habitat, and while encounters are common, they are not guaranteed. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding the animals. The park's dense jungle also harbors snakes, so it's crucial to stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings.
For those interested in a more unique experience, consider a night walk. This offers a chance to see nocturnal creatures that are rarely active during the day, such as civets, flying squirrels, and various insects. The sounds of the jungle at night are an experience in themselves.
Navigating Bako's Trails and Terrain
The terrain can be challenging at times, with steep ascents, descents, and muddy sections, especially after rain. It's essential to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The park's coastal areas are characterized by dramatic rock formations and sea stacks, sculpted by centuries of erosion. While the iconic sea stack recently collapsed, the remaining formations still offer spectacular photographic opportunities.
Visitors should be prepared for the tropical climate, which is hot and humid year-round. Hydration is key, so carry ample water. The park is also home to various insects, so insect repellent is a must. For those seeking a more immersive experience, staying overnight allows for exploration of more trails and a chance to witness the park's beauty without the rush of a day trip.
The Bako Boat Ride: A Necessary Expense?
The boat journey itself offers a scenic introduction to the park's coastline, with views of the rugged cliffs and the South China Sea. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at the park headquarters, where you can purchase your entrance tickets and arrange for guides or further boat excursions within the park.
While the boat ride is unavoidable, some travelers suggest that the efficiency of the boat system could be improved, with instances of underutilized boats. However, for many, it's a necessary adventure to reach this unique natural sanctuary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit