One of the oldest rainforest in the world is in Borneo, Maliau Basin that’s not only looks like a huge volcanic caldera from the sky but also the saucer-shaped geological structure with a surprising spans of 25 Kilometers in diameter. Located deep in the heart of Sabah, this mysterious forest was only then known to the natives and not many would risk to explore, as the fearsome headhunter warrior ‘the Murut’ tribe inhabit the nearby area. It was only in 1947 when when a pilot nearly crashed into this mysterious place mist-shrouded cliffs, that Maliau Basin became exposed to the rest of the world.
Maliau Basin has such an astounding and rich diversity of forest life, being here feels like a whole new different world. No wonder it was dubbed as Sabah’s Lost World, her well protected (almost) circular outer rim, with steep slopes and cliffs range up to 1500 meters in height creating natural barrier that isolates the basin from the rest of the world, making it arduous to access on foot from most directions.
Those seeking adventure and challenging expedition, Maliau Basin is a definite choice. Hikes are very strenuous, and would recommend for physically fit and experience hikers. Maliau Basin tracks covers to an extend of 4 days and if you wish to complete the full route it will take 5 days of trek. Prepare yourself for a very basic accommodation, which includes from dormitory room and camping grounds throughout the trek, and since Maliau Basin is a Protected Class Forest there are a limited visitor’s permits entry given per day.
Maliau Basin Highlights
Particularly in Murut language, Maliau means “Land of the Giant Staircase”, of which one of the main attraction here is the ‘7 Tiers Waterfall’, when seen from an aerial view looks like a giant steps. This Maliau Fall is one of the basin’s most beautiful among all her other waterfalls, with the highest fall measuring up to 28 meters it is the utmost attraction and just standing looking up upon these cascading waterfalls leaving you in awe at the wondrous of Maliau.
Indeed, nature is Maliau Basin greatest treasure, some of the rare and endemic flora and fauna that have thrived for million of years are found here. An untouched world of its own where bearded pigs prowls the ground, langurs breaking the sound of the dawn and Malayan Sun Bear are among some staggering sightings here at Maliau Basin. What is more fascinating, there are about 80 species of orchids most newly discovered with over 30 species of mammals and a haven for bird-watchers, as over 270 remarkable birds species have been recorded just here at Sabah’s Lost World!
Maliau Basin trek is undoubtedly very taxing, so be sure to carry enough drinking water to keep hydrated throughout the expedition. One of an asset of must have when trekking in the jungle of Maliau are water-purifying tablets, with long hikes naturally options for drinking water would be from the sources of the beautiful forest. A trip to Maliau Basin is a well-worth expedition that should be taken by any adventure-nature enthusiast, it is a rewarding experience and a take back of many beautiful memento of photos.
Check out our Maliau Basin Packages here for detail information and itineraries!