MALIAU BASIN TOURS

Maliau Basin Conservation Area

Borneo’s “Lost World” of Untamed Rainforest

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.

Fitness LevelIntense
Difficulty LevelIntense
Trail LevelIntense

Why Visit Maliau Basin

  • 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

5D4N Maliau Basin Expedition

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.

What to Expect

  • 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

Itinerary - 5D4N Maliau Basin Expedition

Day 1Tawau/Kota Kinabalu – Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC)

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.

Day 2Agathis Camp – Nepenthes Camp

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.

Day 3Nepenthes Camp – Ginseng Camp

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.

Day 4Maliau Falls

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.

Day 5Exit the Basin & Return to Kota Kinabalu

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.

Rates: Jan 25' - Dec 25"
Single Traveler
MYR 8,650 per person
2 to 4 pax
MYR 6,800 per person
Transfer Pick-up from Tawau
MYR 500 per person

4D3N Maliau Basin Expedition

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.

What to Expect

  • 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

Itinerary - 4D3N Maliau Basin Expedition

Day 1Tawau/Kota Kinabalu – Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC)

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.

Day 2Agathis - Ginseng Camp - Ginseng Fall

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.

Day 3Ginseng – Maliau Falls – Ginseng

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.

Day 4Ginseng – Agathis – Kota Kinabalu

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.

Rates: Jan 25' - Dec 25"
Single Traveler
MYR 7,950 per person
2 to 4 pax
MYR 6,100 per person
Transfer Pick-up from Tawau
MYR 500 per person

3D2N Maliau Wilderness Discovery

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.

What to Expect

  • 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

Itinerary - 3D2N Maliau Wilderness Discovery

Day 1Tawau/Kota Kinabalu – Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC)

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.

Day 2Into the Forest – Trek to Agathis Area

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.

Day 3Ginseng – Agathis – Kota Kinabalu

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.

Rates: Jan 25' - Dec 25"
Single Traveler
MYR 6,850 per person
2 to 4 pax
MYR 5,500 per person
Transfer Pick-up from Tawau
MYR 500 per person

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