4WD Safari Game Drive in Deramakot Forest Reserve
Deramakot Forest Reserve in Borneo is known for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. The forest reserve is a prime wildlife destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, seeking an authentic and eco-friendly four wheel safari game drive experience. Deramakot is the best place to see rare wild cats of Borneo – Sunda Clouded Leopard and Marbled Cat are the star attractions. 4WD Game Drive and Night Safari are two of the most sought-after experiences within this forest reserve. This Game drives are unlike any other forest in Borneo.
Safari Game Drive in Deramakot
Safari game drive in Deramakot is conducted in 4×4 vehicles, offering visitors the chance to observe wildlife and explore the rich ecosystem of the reserve. The safari vehicles are mostly modified Hilux or similar with seats added at the back for a 360 degree immersive view. This is important in Safari Game Drives in Borneo, as most of the actions are observed on tree. The game drive typically involves:
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Morning or Afternoon Safari: Game drives often take place early in the morning or late afternoon upto middle of night when animals are most active. This gives visitors the best chance to encounter a variety of wildlife.
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Wildlife Observation: On the safari, you spot varied species of animals and birds, most of them are endemic to Borneo, and quite rare to see or photograph.
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Expert Guides: Embark on an unforgettable journey through Deramakot, accompanied by our seasoned naturalists and expert guides. They are more than just guides; they are storytellers who will enrich your adventure with fascinating insights into the forest’s unique ecology and the vital conservation efforts that protect its incredible biodiversity. Their expertise will help you spot elusive animals and understand the intriguing behaviors and characteristics of the species you encounter. Choosing the right guide is essential to ensure a truly exceptional experience. An experienced guide can transform your visit into a captivating exploration, while a novice might fall short of unveiling the full splendor of Deramakot. Select wisely, and allow our distinguished guides to elevate your journey, making it a harmonious blend of discovery, luxury, and a deep commitment to preserving the natural world.
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Photographic Opportunities: Deramakot offers excellent photographic opportunities for wildlife photographers, with the chance to capture moments of animals in their natural environment. The dense rainforest and clearings within the reserve make for striking landscapes and intimate wildlife shots.
Night Safari Game Drive in Deramakot
The night safari in Deramakot offers a completely different experience from the daytime 4WD game drive. As darkness falls over the forest, the nocturnal creatures become active, providing a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in the moonlight. The night safari involves:
Exploring at Night: The safari takes place in the evening or night, often starting around dusk and continuing until late at night. Visitors travel in 4×4 vehicles equipped with spotlights to help illuminate the forest and spot nocturnal wildlife.
Nocturnal Wildlife: Deramakot’s night safari provides the opportunity to see creatures that are rarely visible during the day, such as the slow loris, civet cats, tarsiers, and various species of bats and owls. It’s also a good time to see nocturnal birds and other predators like the clouded leopard or the Malay civet.
Guided Experience: Just like the day safari, a trained guide leads the night safari, offering insights into the animals’ behaviors during the night. The guides will often share stories of the forest and its creatures, enriching the experience with local folklore and scientific knowledge.
Photography at Night: The night safari can be challenging for photographers due to the low light, but the experience is unforgettable. Spotlights can help illuminate the animals for a brief period, and the atmospheric lighting of the forest adds a dramatic touch to wildlife photography.
Which animals to see in Deramakot?
Deramakot Forest Reserve is a biodiversity-rich destination, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Known for its game drives and night safaris, the reserve is home to a wide range of species, both common and rare.
Mammals: Deramakot is a paradise for mammal lovers, particularly known for its wild cats. All five of Borneo’s wild cat species can be found here: the Leopard Cat (most frequently spotted), Sunda Clouded Leopard, Marbled Cat, Bornean Bay Cat, and Flat-headed Cat. Bornean Orangutans are commonly seen during morning game drives, with around 50% of Sabah’s orangutans living in the surrounding forests. Other primates include the North Bornean Gibbon, Red Leaf Monkey, Pig-tailed Macaque, and the elusive Sabah Grey Langur. Large mammals like Pygmy Elephants are frequently spotted, along with Sambar Deer, Mouse Deer, Flying Lemur, western Tarsier, and two species of flying squirrels. Deramakot is also a prime location for seeing rare civet species, including the Otter Civet, Banded Civet, and Binturong.
Birds: The forest reserve is home to all eight species of hornbills in Borneo, including the Rhinoceros Hornbill, Helmeted Hornbill, and Wreathed Hornbill. Birdwatchers can also spot Crested Serpent Eagles, Black-and-red Broadbills, Red-bearded Bee-eaters, and Buffy Fish-owls, among many others. Deramakot is a hotspot for flycatchers, with species like the Paradise Flycatcher and Narcissus Flycatcher recorded here. Additionally, various species of Barbet, Bulbul, and Babbler can be seen.
With its diverse range of mammals and birds, Deramakot offers an unrivaled chance to explore Borneo’s unique ecosystem. However, sightings can vary, as some species are more elusive depending on the time of year and conditions.
What is so Special about Deramakot Forest Reserve?
- Controlled Logging: With such rich biodiversity, it may a come as a surprise to note that Deramakot is a logging concession, albeit controlled. As one of the flagship projects of Sabah Forestry’s Department, Deramakot showcases ‘reduced impact logging’ and holds the distinction of being the world’s longest Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified tropical forest since 1997. With 49,711 hectares dedicated to logging, 5,778 hectares for conservation, and 18 hectares for community forests, Deramakot is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Actually research shows that Bornean mammals not only survive but can actually thrive in responsibly managed logged forests. When the largest dipterocarp trees are removed and logging roads are built, they create open spaces where wildlife-friendly secondary forest trees can grow. The added sunlight boosts the growth of fruiting trees, benefiting species like Pygmy Elephants, Banteng, Sambar Deer, rats, macaques, and Leopard Cats. In fact, right after logging, some mammal populations may even increase. However, certain species that rely on undisturbed virgin forests, such as civets, langurs, and flying squirrels, may be more negatively impacted.
- The Uninterrupted, Flexible Safari Game Drive: Known as one of Sabah’s premier wildlife destination, it offers a fantastic opportunity to see Borneo’s diverse mammals, including all five species of wild cats—Sunda Clouded Leopard, Marbled Cat, Bornean Bay Cat, Flat Headed Cat, and Leopard Cat—all thriving in this remarkable forest reserve. Most of these creatures are active at night or during twilight, so night drives tend to be longer, allowing wildlife enthusiasts to explore from post-dinner until midnight or later. This flexible approach lets guests adapt to conditions; for example, if rain interrupts a night drive, it can be a good idea to return to the chalets, rest, and then embark on a combined night-morning drive starting around 4 a.m. Daily on average 7 hours game drives are included in the standard Deramakot package, and we arrange additional drive hours on request.
Deramakot Safari Drives for Wildlife Photographers
For the discerning wildlife photographer, Deramakot offers a veritable treasure trove of both diurnal and nocturnal species, with an exquisite opportunity to capture the rarest of wild cats during immersive safari drives of 7 hours on average daily. While the enchanting clouded leopard and marbled cat may be the crown jewels of this reserve, it is noteworthy that Deramakot shares a variety of species with other esteemed wildlife sanctuaries like Danum Valley, the Kinabatangan Floodplains, and Tabin Wildlife Reserve.
For those with a refined eye and a passion for capturing nature’s most elusive wonders, Deramakot is a highly recommended destination. Your lens will revel in the undisturbed splendor of Borneo’s magnificent wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions FAQ About Deramakot Forest Reserve
Deramakot travel cost
We are currently offering a private guided 3 Night 4 Day Deramakot Safari tour at 8433 MYR for 2 pax. The pricing for Deramakot safaris varies significantly between operators. Recognized operators like Safari Acacia with global safari exposures, focus on quality wildlife and nature experiences and specialized photography tours, typically charge a premium due to the high-quality services we provide, including expert senior guides, well-maintained vehicles, topnotch guiding tools and gadgets and comprehensive recovery plans. We also believe in private safari experience in Deramakot rather than mass tourism. In contrast, some operators tend to offer Deramakot at the lower end of the price spectrum compromising with guide and other services.
How to go to Deramakot Forest Reserve?
Deramakot Forest Reserve is accessible only by four-wheel drive 4WD vehicles. The nearest town Telupid has road connectivity, and one can use public bus to reach Telupid. Our Driver will meet and greet the guests at 77 cafe & restaurant near Telupid Bus terminal. However, most of our guests use our private transport from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu all the way to Deramakot via the Telupid town. It will take another 2-3 hours game drive to reach the Deramakot Park Headquarter from Telupid.
What accommodation options are available at Deramakot Forest Reserve?
Deramakot Forest Reserve offers only one basic accommodation option in the Deramakot Forest Park Headquarter. You can choose to stay in a chalet with three bedrooms, ideal for small groups or families, or in a dormitory room with bunk beds for a more budget-friendly option. The accommodation includes essential amenities such as blankets, pillows, towels, soap, and shampoo, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit.
What is the best month to visit Deramakot
The best time to visit Deramakot is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. During this time, the weather is more predictable, and animals are easier to spot. However, the rainforest is a year-round destination, and each season offers unique experiences.
Peaceful and Remote Setting of Deramakot
Deramakot offers a sense of solitude that can’t be found in more popular safari destinations in Borneo. Walk-in Guests are not entertained in Deramakot. There is no public road connectivity from towns and one needs 4wd vehicle to reach the park. Lack of hotels/resorts nearby and the only accommodation option being full booked well in advance, making it perfect for only the serious wildlife enthusiasts. Its remote location allows for a more intimate wildlife experience without the large crowds typically associated with traditional safaris.
What to pack for Deramakot travel?
Some regular medicines, sunscreen lotion, dust/rain cover for you and your gear, extra batteries and memory cards, multiple power outlets, a safari style hat and sun glass to protect from the Sun. A headlamp is always handy, so is mosquito repellent and antiseptic cream in tropical forests. Clothes not so bright colored, and no perfume during the safari.
Which camera lens do you recommend in Deramakot?
It is recommended to have atleast 300mm reach in all the destinations. The 70-300mm lens is reasonably priced in all brands and is a great all-rounder. If possible, a semi-pro level zoom lens like 150-600mm or 200-600mm with an additional 70-200mm will be perfect. For landscape, a 24-70mm will be handy. Keep in mind that Africa is dusty and it is recommended to attach separate bodies to two different lenses to avoid changing lens on the field.
Which animals to see in Deramakot?
Visitors to Deramakot are drawn by not only the well-known mammals such as the wild Orangutan, pygmy elephant and Banteng but also the chance to spot the elusive Sunda clouded leopard and Marbled cat. The area is also home to the fascinating Colugo, or ‘flying lemur’, which can glide between trees, and other rare animals like the Sunda skunk (‘Malay stink badger’), Malay porcupine, Thomas’s and Red giant flying squirrels, and the Pen-tailed tree-shrew. Pangolins are spotted during night drives and various elusive species of civets are commonly seen. Technically, all 5 species of Borneo wild cats were photographed in Deramakot.