A Guide to Bako National Park: Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

An excellent general guide. Lush tropical rainforests including mangroves with some of the world's rarest flora and fauna together with a rocky coastline interrupted only by pristine white sandy beaches, are not a thing of the past: they can be enjoyed first-hand in Bako National Park.

Bako is one of the smallest parks in Sarawak, yet one of the most interesting because of its highly visible wildlife (including the fabled long-nosed proboscis monkey, hornbills, troops of long-tailed macaques and silvered leaf monkeys, along with giant monitor lizards and impressive wild boar), jungle streams, waterfalls, and fascinating plant life (including pitcher plants and wild orchids).

Well-maintained trails wind through beautiful tropical lowland and mangrove forest and across rocky headlands, where the walks vary from easy strolls to full-day jungle treks. Bako has a highly picturesque coastline of steep rocky cliffs, headlands and sandy bays, with breathtaking views of the South China Sea. Swimming, beachcombing at low tide and watching the sunset are among the restful activities at the Park Headquarters. Few places in the world can boast so much natural beauty to be enjoyed in such a compact area; Bako can honestly be called a treasure chest of fauna and flora. Naturalists, nature-lovers and eco-minded adventurers will be thrilled to find that a visit to Bako provides a comprehensive first-hand experience of Sarawak's natural history. At Bako, it is possible to see almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo. Thus, Bako should be the first stop on your travels in Sarawak.