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Smack in the middle of Sabah, Malaysia, Danum Valley is considered one of the most diverse and unspoiled parts of the planet. Measuring 438 square kilometers, this conservation area is the home of lush rainforests, unbelievable wildlife, and unmatched tranquility, all combined to make it a force that nature lovers cannot afford to miss.
Danum Valley's history was born in the commitment to conservation and research when it was first identified during the early 1980s as an area of prime importance for the conservation of Borneo's rich biodiversity, which was subsequently declared a conservation area in 1995.
History of Danum Valley (Source: InsideAisiaTours)
Since then, this valley has been managed by the Sabah Foundation and has served as a sanctuary for a number of endangered species such as the orangutan, Bornean pygmy elephant, and clouded leopard. Apart from being known as a biodiversity hotspot, this place also serves as a research center. Danum Valley Field Centre was established in 1986, and since then it has been one of the premier field centers committed to tropical rainforest research, hosting scientists and students from all over the world.
Danum Valley Elephants (Source: BikeandTours)
Nowadays, this place represents one of the major ecotourism destinations in Borneo, where conservation and sustainable tourism intermix to give visitors a view that is incomparable with any other in the oldest and most varied rainforest in the world.
The canopy walkway at Danum Valley is one of the highlights of any trip here. Elevated above the forest floor, this 300-meter-long walkway enables one to stroll among the treetops, thereby affording a rare view of the well-thriving ecosystem of the forest.
Certain species of birds, like hornbills and flycatchers, can be easily seen from the walkway, along with different plant species and even primate species such as the red leaf monkey. A walk through this suspended bridge enlivens all senses-there quite literally the rainforest sights and sounds around the visitor.
Canopy Walkway Experience (Source: SabahTourismBoard)
Perhaps one of the most thrilling experiences in this place is the chance to view its myriad wildlife: over 340 species of birds, 120 species of mammals, and an array of reptiles and amphibians make the valley a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
You might glimpse the orangutans, gibbons-even the elusive clouded leopard-daytime. The real magic happens after sunset: the night safari offers a chance to see the jungle in all its nocturnal glory-maybe flying squirrels, civets, slow lorises, and other nocturnal creatures that come alive under the cover of darkness.
Wildlife Spotting and Night Safari (Source: BizzareGlobeHopper)
For the trekkers, Danum Valley has a host of trails to take one deep into the very core of the rainforest. One well-liked trek is to the Coffin Cliff Viewpoint, called so because it is near the ancient Kadazan-Dusun burial site.
It offers panoramic views over the forest canopy and the twisting Segama River below. Another must-do trail is to the Fairy Falls and Serpent Falls-two beautiful waterfalls that offer a refreshing relief from the heat, as well as being a very nice picnic area.
Trekking to Viewpoints and Waterfalls (Source: Youtube)
The Danum Valley Field Centre in the valley is the hub of research and education. This can be visited by anyone, and they can look into the area for conservation efforts, biodiversity study, and sustainable tourism that keeps this place running.
It is also one of the favorite bases for researchers and eco-tourists who would want to make a closer look into the area. An experience of staying here is genuinely complete, whereby visitors can delve into the very heart of tropical rainforest conservation and studies with sustainability at their core.
Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) (Source: DVRL)
For avid birdwatchers, this place is a haven simply for its remarkable birdlife. With a recorded number of over 340 species, it ranks among the finest birding sites in Borneo. Some of these birds one may catch sight of are the rare Bornean bristlehead, a variety of hornbills, and pitas. In addition to this bird population, the fact that the valley has remained untouched makes this valley a notable destination where one can add some of the rare and unique sightings onto their list.
Birdwatching Heaven (Source: AmazingBorneoTour)
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Visiting this place depends much on individual preference concerning weather and wildlife sightings. The valley is in a tropical rainforest. This means that rain is plentiful throughout the year, however, the place does have distinct seasons:
Best time to visit (Source: BorneoAdventure)
March to October : This is considered the best time for visiting because the weather is relatively dry, hence more rewarding and comfortable for trekking and spotting wildlife. The temperature ranges between 25°C and 33°C, with isolated showers in the late afternoon or evening.
Wet Season (November-February): Although the valley is open all year round, during these wet-season months, heavy rains tend to turn trials into mud, with swollen rivers. For those who want to see a very lush, green rainforest and are not particularly bothered by rain, this can be a very great time.
Fly to Lahad Datu: The most common way to reach Danum Valley is to fly into Lahad Datu Airport. Daily flights from Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah take about 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu, which takes about 6 to 7 hours.
Transfer to Danum Valley: There will be pretty difficult road conditions, so a 4WD transfer will be necessary from Lahad Datu to Danum Valley. Travel about two to three hours with great scenery further into the interior of the rainforest.
This place is one of those unique destinations that offers guests extremely rare access to explore one of the last remaining primeval rainforests in Borneo. Rich in conservation history, fabulous natural attraction points, and unparalleled opportunities to witness wildlife, this spot in Sabah remains virgin for many tourists seeking both thrill and serenity among nature.
So, pack your hiking boots, binoculars, and a sense of adventure, and get ready to make the stunning discovery of Danum Valley with Asia King Travel.
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