Sarawak Nature, Bako National Park

Bako National Park

Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957 on a 2,728 hectare site, about 37 km from Kuching. It is known for its extraordinary variety and natural scenery, habitats, plant and wild life.

Its most significant feature includes secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands with magnificent steep cliffs that were carved by the weather and erosion over a million years.

The sea spray, wave action and the wind have also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliff, some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head. The attractive sandstone formation appears pink with iron patterns on the cliff.

Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into freshwater pools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting.

Bako National Park : Flora and Fauna

The lush vegetation represents 7 ecosystems ranging from the mixed dipterocarp forest lowlands to the desert-like scrub highland.

A common plant found in abundance is the Dischidea rafflesia, a slender climber bearing special expanded hollow leaves. Ants reside in these hollow leaves and leave their excreta as nutrients for the plant. Others plants include sundew, bladderwort and the notoriously carnivorous pitcher plant.

The unique Proboscis monkey (orang Belanda) can be found in the Borneo riverine forest. Easily distinguished by its enormous cucumber-like nose, it is not uncommon to find the male species lording over a harem of ten mates! The silver langur with the punk-like hairdo is a very shy primate, feeding only on leaves. Their young are easily distinguished by their bright orange colour. Other inhabitants in the park include long-tailed macaques, bearded pigs, leopard cats and giant lizards such as the tree monitors and skinks.

Bako National Park : Planning an Itinerary

There is so much you can see and do within this park.

* If birds are your cup of tea, find a good spot to bird watch. A suitable place is Teluk Assam. With over 50 varieties residing within the park, you are bound to see some funny antics from the birds.

* Go on night walks and you just might be lucky enough to spot a few nocturnal creatures as they come out to forage for food. But you have to be really quiet and discreet so that they will not be wary of your presence. Watch out for flying lemurs, mouse deer, civets and bats. It might be easier to spot frogs from their loud croaking and also cicadas.

* There are also marked jungle trails throughout the park. It'll take you through the lowland forest and up the hills for fantastic views of the headland, bays and beaches below. This is a good opportunity for a close observation of the different vegetation species.

* Trek up to the Tajor waterfalls for a picnic amidst the roar of the waterfall and then take a dip in the inviting cool water. The trail ends with a steep descent to the beach.

* Get away from the usual crowd and camp at picturesque Teluk Limau. Then, proceed to explore Teluk Keruing with its marvelously secluded freshwater pond - a haven in the wilderness.

Bako National Park : Accommodation

There is a range of accommodation facilities within the park to suit different requirements.

Lodge
* 2 semi-D two-roomed units (2 beds per room)
* 5 two-roomed units (5 beds per room)
* 2 two-roomed (3 beds per room) Hostel
* 3 four-roomed units (4 beds per room) Tents
* Camp site
* Camp fly

Bako National Park : How to Get There

From Kuching, take a bus or taxi to Kampung Bako. Then, take a 30-minute boat ride to the park. Boat services to the park are operated by villagers who normally charge RM30 per boat.