BAKO NATIONAL PARK, SARAWAK

Overview

Bako National Park is one of Sarawak’s most accessible and popular nature reserves, located just outside Kuching on the island of Borneo.

Established in 1957, it is Sarawak’s oldest national park and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, dramatic coastal cliffs, mangrove forests, and tropical rainforest ecosystems.

The park is especially famous for its population of proboscis monkeys, unique to Borneo, as well as long-tailed macaques, bearded pigs, monitor lizards, and diverse bird species.

Visitors can explore well-marked jungle trails, secluded beaches, and scenic viewpoints, making Bako a perfect introduction to Sarawak’s rainforest environment.

Facilities at Bako National Park

• Park Headquarters & Visitor Centre
• Chalets and Accommodation
• Cafeteria and Dining Area
• Jungle Trail Information Boards
• Boat Transfer Jetty
• Restrooms and Basic Facilities
• Interpretation Centre
• Picnic Areas
• Guided Tour Services
• Souvenir Shop

Areas Open to Tourists

• Telok Paku Trail
• Telok Delima Trail
• Telok Pandan Kecil (Tanjung Sapi Viewpoint)
• Lintang Loop Trail
• Telok Assam Beach
• Mangrove Boardwalks
• Rainforest Trails Network
• Wildlife Observation Zones

How to Access

By Boat

• Boat transfer from Bako Village Jetty is required
• Journey takes approximately 20–30 minutes depending on tide
• Operated by licensed park boat services

From Kuching

• Approximately 40–50 minutes by car to Bako Village Jetty
• Grab and taxi services available from Kuching city
• Most visitors travel as a half-day or full-day trip

Other Transport Options

• Guided eco-tours from Kuching
• Private tour packages
• Hotel pickup services (selected operators)

Boat schedules and access may vary depending on tides and weather conditions. Please confirm with park authorities or tour operators before visiting.

Entrance Fees

• Park Entry Fee: Applicable for all visitors
• Boat Transfer: Separate round-trip fee required
• Guided Tours: Optional ranger-led jungle walks available
• Accommodation: Chalets available for overnight stays
• Photography: Generally permitted throughout the park

Fees and regulations are subject to change. Please refer to Sarawak Forestry Corporation for the latest official updates.

Visitor Experience

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot proboscis monkeys, macaques, and wild boars in their natural habitat.
• Jungle Trekking: Explore well-marked trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
• Scenic Coastlines: Discover secluded beaches and dramatic cliff formations.
• Rainforest Exploration: Experience diverse ecosystems from mangroves to dipterocarp forest.

Key Tips for Visitors

• Start Early: Wildlife is most active during early morning hours.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Trails can be muddy and uneven.
• Bring Water & Snacks: Limited facilities inside the park.
• Watch the Tides: Boat access depends on sea conditions.
• Stay Alert for Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and do not feed them.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Kuching Waterfront
• Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
• Santubong National Park
• Damai Beach
• Sarawak Cultural Village
• Matang Wildlife Centre
• Astana & Fort Margherita
• Borneo Highlands