Danum Valley Conservation Area Travel | Mystic Borneo
Travel into the Danum Valley Conservation Area, a 438 square kilometer tropical rainforest located in the state of Sabah, on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. Renowned for its incredible biodiversity, the area is home to one of the world’s most intricate and ecologically rich ecosystems, making it a haven for nature lovers, researchers, and conservationists alike.
The conservation area is situated approximately 80 kilometers from Lahad Datu, a coastal town in Sabah. Lahad Datu serves as the nearest gateway to the Danum Valley, and it is accessible by domestic flights from several cities across Malaysia, such as Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Kuala Lumpur. Visitors to Danum Valley typically travel by road from Lahad Datu, which takes about 2 to 3 hours.
Danum Valley is one of the most well-preserved rainforests in Southeast Asia, offering diverse habitats that range from lowland dipterocarp forests to montane ecosystems. This makes it a prime location for ecological research and eco-tourism. The valley is also home to various endangered species, including the Bornean orangutan, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards.
In addition to its rich biodiversity, Danum Valley is equipped with research facilities and ecotourism lodges, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its pristine environment through guided treks, canopy walks, and river tours.
Best time to travel to Danum Valley
- Dry Season: March to October, for more favorable weather and outdoor activities.
- Rainy season: November to February, which may bring lush scenery but more rain and potentially limited outdoor access.
Although the best season to travel into Danum Valley may be in March to October, the other months still offer a unique experience if you are prepared for rain. The rainforest is at its most lush and vibrant, with frequent rain showers that enhance the area’s beauty. While some trails may become slippery, the wet season is still a great time for visitors who enjoy the rainforest in its natural, misty atmosphere. The wet season also means fewer tourists, providing a quieter and more intimate experience.
We also offer some exclusive deals in this low season.
Wildlife Encounter to Cherish in Danum Valley
Travel into Danum Valley offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, including sightings of Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards, and sun bears. Visitors can spot red langurs, gibbons, tarsiers, and vibrant hornbills, while birdwatching and observing rare species like the Sunda pangolin are also highlights. The area is rich in insects and amphibians, with nocturnal creatures such as flying squirrels and slow lorises visible during guided night walks. Conservation efforts ensure these unique species thrive, making Danum Valley a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
How to Safari in Danum Valley
We offer guided jungle trek to experience an intimacy with raw nature; night walks and night drives are also offered to see the nocturnal animals like slow loris, leopard cat, pygmy elephants, flying squirrels, civets, clouded leopard, and plethora of insects and frogs, among others. This is a true heaven for birders, as is any rainforest. Danum Valley conservation area has three ancient burial sites: two near the field centre and one below the cliff overlooking Borneo Rainforest Lodge. A trek to these sites are organized. Private guides and private safari vehicles can also be arranged with advanced request.
What is so Special about Danum Valley
- Unmatched Biodiversity: Danum Valley is home to rare and endangered species, such as Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unique and diverse encounters.
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Pristine Ecosystem: As one of the best-preserved rainforests in Southeast Asia, Danum Valley offers an authentic, untouched environment, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to experience the natural beauty and complexity of a tropical rainforest.
Where to stay in Danum Valley
The Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL) in Danum Valley
Borneo Rainforest Lodge, caters for 30 years to visitors looking for extraordinary eco-luxe category of accommodation and facility amidst the rainforest. This multi-award-winning eco-lodge with international standards is located by the Danum River. Among the attractions is the opportunity to go through the lodge’s canopy walkway, which features viewing platforms 27 metres above the forest floor. A sample trip itinerary of Borneo Rainforest Lodge can be found here.
Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC)
Danum Valley Field Centre is a world-class tropical biodiversity study facility. It is a rustic field station that is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. It was established primarily as a base for scientists while they do research. The centre is outfitted with laboratories, research and staff quarters, and lodging for keen naturalists. It also houses a 50-hectare plot of unspoiled primary forest, which is one of Southeast Asia’s most thoroughly researched regions of tropical rainforest. Travel to Danum Valley’s extraordinary forest as there is no sign of permanent human settlement or hunting, giving it a totally unspoilt natural wonder. Previously only available to scholars, the facilities are now available to guests searching for a basic stay while visiting Danum Valley.
Infapro in Danum Valley
Half an hour drive from DVFC, is another base which allows us unrestricted night safaris. During daytime we can go on the trails at the Danum Valley Field Centre, and after dinner proceed with night safaris.
Luxury Travel with sustainability in Danum Valley
Our Danum Valley travel program offers luxury accommodations in our partner property Borneo Rainforest Lodge designed with sustainable practices at their core. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including spacious rooms, eco-friendly facilities, and locally inspired decor, in the heart of Danum Valley. The eco-friendly lodge features well-appointed chalets and suites, designed using local materials to minimize environmental impact. Guests can enjoy high-end amenities while participating in conservation efforts, guided wildlife tours, and eco-conscious activities, making it a perfect combination of luxury and environmental responsibility.
Danum Valley with Safari Acacia: Useful Information
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- Beds are limited in DVFC and Infapro, so booking several months in advance is recommended.
- We suggest you to carry head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, walking shoes, comfortable trekking pack, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
- Pack some leech socks, and bring some antiseptic cream.
- Unlike Deramakot forest reserve, considerable amount of walks are involved to get more intimate with the rainforest.
- sodas and alcoholic beverages can be arranged at an additional cost.
- You won’t be able to travel on your own as you would need a licensed guide to bring you around. Self driving is also prohibited as permits are only issued to relevant bodies.
- Due to weather conditions, activities may be subject to re-scheduling to best meet operations, as well as clients health and safety.