Bako National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Sarawak, Malaysia

Bako National Park

Bako National Park, located on the northern tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula in Borneo, is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

National Park6,6724+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,672

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Bako National Park

Bako National Park, located on the northern tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula in Borneo, is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Established in 1957, Bako National Park is Sarawak's oldest national park, covering 27 square kilometers of pristine rainforest. This coastal gem is famous for its unique rock formations, sweeping beaches, and dense mangrove swamps. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, ranging from heathland to rainforest, which support a wide array of wildlife, including the endangered proboscis monkey, long-tailed macaques, wild boars, and an assortment of birds and reptiles. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that traverse the park, each offering a distinctive perspective of its rich biodiversity. Key activities include wildlife spotting, exploring secluded beaches, and experiencing the tranquility of its remote setting.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Bako National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The stunning view from Telok Pandan Kecil Beach, accessible after a short hike.✦ Observing the rare proboscis monkeys in their natural mangrove habitat.✦ Exploring the extraordinary sea stacks and rock formations along the coast.✦ The pristine Telok Limau beach, perfect for a private, peaceful beach day.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Bako National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Bako National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Bako National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Bako National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Bako National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Bako National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required; obtainable at the park entrance.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Bako National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bako Park HQ Campground

Conveniently located near the park headquarters, it offers basic amenities for campers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Bako National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Kuching, Sarawak
⌖ 11.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kuching, Sarawak

Kuching is an adventurer's dream with jungle treks, kayaking, and close encounters with wildlife in Malaysia's wild Borneo. Explore trails, rivers, and caves from this lively town.

Dry season (March to October)
Explore Town
Sejingkat, Sarawak
⌖ 12.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sejingkat, Sarawak

Sejingkat is a quiet riverside town in Sarawak, perfect for paddling the Sarawak River, gentle hiking, and bird watching. Its tranquil setting offers a peaceful outdoor experience just outside Kuching.

March to September
Explore Town
Santubong, Sarawak
⌖ 12.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Santubong, Sarawak

Santubong is a tropical adventure town in Sarawak offering rainforest hikes, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Hike Mount Santubong, spot rare primates, and enjoy coastal paddling near lush mangroves.

March to October
Explore Town
Kota Samarahan, Sarawak
⌖ 18.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kota Samarahan, Sarawak

Kota Samarahan offers outdoor travelers a calm gateway to Sarawak’s forests, rivers, and cultural villages. Enjoy paddling, cycling, and hiking near this developing town surrounded by natural beauty.

April to October
Explore Town
Serian, Sarawak
⌖ 39.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Serian, Sarawak

Serian is a peaceful Sarawak town offering outdoor adventurers access to rural hikes, river paddling, cultural treks to Bidayuh longhouses, and bird watching in a relaxed setting.

March to September
Explore Town
Lundu, Sarawak
⌖ 39.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lundu, Sarawak

Lundu is a tranquil gateway to Sarawak’s lush rainforests, secluded beaches, and river adventures. Ideal for hikers, wildlife lovers, and paddlers, it offers authentic outdoor experiences away from the crowds.

March to October
Explore Town