Deep in the heart of Sabah’s interior lies Maliau Basin, a remote and mysterious rainforest amphitheater often called “Sabah’s Lost World.” Covering over 58,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, Maliau is one of the world’s great untouched ecosystems — a place so isolated that parts of it have yet to be fully explored.
Encircled by a steep escarpment and shrouded in mist, Maliau Basin is home to cloud forests, rare orchids, and towering waterfalls, including the spectacular seven-tiered Maliau Falls. The area harbors an extraordinary range of biodiversity, with over 2,000 species of flora, 80 species of mammals, and more than 300 bird species, including hornbills, pittas, and the elusive Bornean bristlehead.
As a Class I Protection Forest Reserve, Maliau is primarily a research and conservation area — access is strictly controlled, making it a dream destination for serious trekkers, researchers, and eco-adventurers looking to immerse themselves in a wild, untouched corner of Borneo.
Trek to multi-tiered waterfalls, jungle plateaus, and cloud forests
Spot rare wildlife such as sun bears, clouded leopards, gibbons, and orangutans
Ideal for serious hikers, naturalists, and wildlife photographers
Experience one of the most pristine and least-visited rainforests in Southeast Asia
Stay at the Maliau Basin Studies Centre, an eco-facility offering basic but comfortable lodging for explorers
This expedition offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Borneo’s most pristine and remote rainforest ecosystems. The journey takes you deep into the heart of the Maliau Basin — Sabah’s famed “Lost World” — through rugged jungle trails, cascading waterfalls, and immersive wildlife encounters.
Moderate to challenging trekking terrain (6–8 hours/day)
Camping and basic accommodation at forest camps
Towering waterfalls, river crossings, and canopy platforms
Diverse flora and fauna including orchids, pitcher plants, gibbons, and hornbills
Limited connectivity — a true digital detox
Experienced nature guides and full porter support
Depart early for a 5–6 hour overland journey through scenic interior landscapes, passing Sook, Nabawan, and Sapulut before reaching the security gate of the Maliau Basin Conservation Area. A short briefing by the information gallery to get acquainted with the basin’s ecological wonders. After checking in and settling down, enjoy dinner before heading out for a night drive, for potential wildlife such as sambar deer, bearded pigs, Malay civets, and flying squirrels.
After breakfast, begin your trek into the rainforest with a 7.5 km hike to Nepenthes Camp. Along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by towering dipterocarp trees and a chorus of jungle sounds. After a short break at the camp, continue trekking another 3 km to explore Takob-Akob Falls and Giluk Falls. If the weather is kind, enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear jungle pools.
Today’s trail leads you deeper into the basin as you journey toward Ginseng Camp, known for its tranquil setting and proximity to unique species of nepenthes (pitcher plants). Take your time immersing in the sounds of the rainforest. Depending on the timing and weather, you may have a chance to cool off in a nearby waterfall before dinner.
Fuel up with breakfast before heading off on a 4.8 km trek to the highlight of the basin — the spectacular seven-tiered Maliau Falls. Surrounded by dense forest, this cascading wonder is one of the most iconic sights in Borneo. After taking in the view and enjoying a well-earned rest, return to Ginseng Camp for your final night in the heart of the basin.
Wake to the sounds of the forest and enjoy breakfast before trekking 9 km to Agathis Camp. From there, transfer back to the Maliau Basin Studies Centre to freshen up and have lunch. Begin the overland return journey toward Keningau and continue on to Kota Kinabalu, bringing with you unforgettable memories of one of Borneo’s most remarkable rainforest experiences.
A challenging yet unforgettable journey into Sabah’s legendary “Lost World.” This 4-day trek takes you from lush lowland forest through rim trails to the iconic seven‑tiered Maliau Falls—ideal for fit, adventurous travelers seeking true immersion in pristine rainforest.
Basic accommodations: one night at Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC) and two nights at Ginseng Camp, with all meals included
Return transfers from Kota Kinabalu via shared 4WD
Early morning and night drives to spot wildlife such as civets, barking deer, hornbills, and flying squirrels
Multiple trekking days (4–9 km per day) across rugged rainforest terrain with river crossings, ladders, and muddy trails
Guided treks to key landmarks including the Skybridge, Agathis Camp, Ginseng Camp, and the seven-tiered Maliau Falls
Immersive rainforest experience with leeches, steep ascents, dense jungle, and high biodiversity
Pick-up from KK around 7 AM and head through scenic Crocker Range to Keningau. After a break and coffee, continue via 4WD to Maliau Basin gate and on to MBSC. After lunch and check-in, enjoy a short rainforest walk, then a night safari spotlighting nocturnal wildlife.
After breakfast, ride by 4WD to Agathis Camp (about 1 hour). Begin a 9 km trek to Ginseng Camp, stopping for a packed lunch and possible wildlife sightings along the way. Arrive by mid-afternoon and explore Ginseng Falls—a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.
Start early. Trek 4.5–5 km through rim trails to the spectacular seven-tiered Maliau Falls, spend ample time there for photos and relaxation. Return to Ginseng Camp by late afternoon for dinner.
Enjoy breakfast and pack up before trekking the 9 km back to Agathis Camp. After arrival, board the 4WD back to MBSC, then continue overland to Kota Kinabalu, arriving around 7–8 PM.
Venture deep into Sabah’s untouched interior and uncover the secrets of the fabled Maliau Basin – a vast, mysterious rainforest basin known as “Sabah’s Lost World.” This 3-day, 2-night adventure offers a mix of overland journeys, jungle treks, wildlife encounters, and nights surrounded by rainforest calls. From scenic drives and canopy-covered trails to night safaris in search of rare nocturnal creatures, this expedition is designed for those who crave real connection with nature—away from the crowds.
Overland journey through Sabah’s interior passing Sook, Nabawan, and Sapulut
Scenic rainforest drives and stops for nature and photography
Comfortable stay at Maliau Basin Studies Centre
Guided treks through dipterocarp forest and unique Bornean flora
Night drives and guided rainforest walks for wildlife encounters
Immersive rainforest experience in one of Borneo’s last great wilderness areas
Your adventure begins with a 5–6 hour overland drive through the heart of Sabah, passing Sook, Nabawan, and Sapulut. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch along the way as the terrain transforms from rural towns to dense jungle. Arrive at the Maliau Basin Conservation Area and settle in at the Studies Centre. After freshening up, explore the on-site information gallery to get your bearings on this remote paradise. After dinner, join a night drive (weather permitting) for a chance to spot some of the basin’s nocturnal residents – keep your eyes peeled for sambar deer, bearded pigs, flying squirrels, and civets.
Ease into the day with a nature walk around the Studies Centre. After breakfast, head out for a guided trek into the forest near Agathis Camp, known for its towering dipterocarp trees and rich biodiversity. Along the trail, your guide will point out medicinal plants, unique fungi, and signs of wildlife. The hike is a moderate adventure suited for those looking to experience the rainforest at a steady pace. Return to base in the late afternoon and rest up. After dinner, grab your torch and join a night walk around the Studies Centre to discover what comes alive after dark.
Awaken to the sounds of the rainforest and enjoy one final breakfast amidst nature. Say farewell to the basin and begin your return journey to Kota Kinabalu via Keningau, retracing the scenic inland route. Reflect on your adventure and all the natural wonders you’ve encountered along the way.