Why visit Danum Valley?
Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the best places in Borneo to experience pristine primary rainforest and search for some of Sabah’s most elusive wildlife. Covering around 440 sq km of largely undisturbed lowland forest, Danum Valley is home to an extraordinary diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects.
Wild orangutans, Bornean pygmy elephants, gibbons, red-leaf monkeys, bearded pigs, sambar deer, hornbills and flying squirrels are among the species that can be encountered here, while lucky visitors may even spot more elusive animals such as the clouded leopard.
Unlike the Kinabatangan River, where wildlife viewing is primarily from boats, Danum Valley is experienced mainly on foot and by 4×4 safari. Its extensive network of rainforest trails makes it an excellent destination for visitors who want to explore ancient rainforest rather than simply observe it from the river.
Things to do in Danum Valley
Jungle trekking
Trekking is the main activity in Danum Valley. A network of trails leads through primary rainforest, with opportunities to search for wildlife as well as rainforest flora. Experienced local guides help identify animal tracks, calls and other signs of wildlife that would otherwise be easy to miss. There are no multi-day treks through Danum Valley, walks usually last a few hours and you will return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after you are done.
Wildlife watching
Danum Valley is home to an impressive variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Orangutans, gibbons, pygmy elephants, bearded pigs, sambar deer and several species of monkeys are among the animals that may be encountered. The area is also particularly rewarding for birdwatchers, with rhinoceros hornbills and many other rainforest species regularly seen.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the combination of extensive primary rainforest and relatively low visitor numbers makes Danum one of Sabah’s most rewarding wildlife destinations.
Night drives and night walks
The rainforest becomes a completely different environment after dark. Night drives and guided night walks provide opportunities to search for nocturnal species such as civets, flying squirrels, owls, frogs, snakes and other rainforest creatures.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a night activity is an important part of the Danum Valley experience.
Canopy walk
Visitors staying at Borneo Rainforest Lodge can also experience Danum Valley’s famous canopy walkway, providing a different perspective of the rainforest and opportunities to spot birds and arboreal wildlife high above the forest floor. The canopy is reserved for in-house guests only and not available if you are staying at Danum Valley Field Centre.
Where to stay?
There are only two accommodation options within the Danum Valley Conservation Area, offering very different experiences.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Borneo Rainforest Lodge is Danum Valley’s luxury jungle lodge and is ideal for travellers looking for comfort without sacrificing access to the rainforest.
The lodge offers very comfortable accommodation, guided activities and excellent access to the surrounding trails and canopy walkway. Private balcony pools and beautifully designed jungle rooms make it one of Sabah’s most special rainforest stays.
Danum Valley Field Centre
Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) is a much simpler option and also serves as a research station. Accommodation is basic but clean, making it ideal for travellers who are more interested in exploring the rainforest than luxury facilities.
The field centre provides access to numerous trails and offers excellent opportunities to discover Danum Valley’s wildlife at a lower cost than Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
How long should I stay in Danum Valley?
The minimum length of stay at either accommodation is 2 nights, with 3 nights or more ideal for keen wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
3 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge also gives you a free rafting or cycling activity and more time to indulge in spa activitu
A 3D2N stay gives you time for several jungle walks, wildlife activities and at least one night activity. Staying an extra night allows you to explore more trails and spend additional time searching for wildlife.
Because Danum Valley is relatively remote and requires a 2–2.5 hour journey from Lahad Datu along a gravel road, it is worth staying for several nights rather than travelling such a long way for a very short visit.
Who is Danum Valley recommended for?
Danum Valley is particularly well suited to wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, birdwatchers and adventurous travellers who want to experience genuine primary rainforest.
It is a good choice for visitors who enjoy walking and are happy to spend several hours exploring forest trails in warm and humid conditions. The experience is more active than a Kinabatangan safari, although activities can generally be adapted to different fitness levels.
Planning your Sabah wildlife itinerary
Danum Valley works well on its own or as part of a wider Sabah wildlife itinerary. Combining Sepilok and the Kinabatangan River with Danum Valley provides a good introduction to Sabah’s wildlife, with each destination offering a different experience. Our 5D4N East Coast Wildlife Adventure (with Danum Valley Field Centre) and 5D4N Jungle in Style (with Borneo Rainforest Lodge) itineraries are designed with exactly this in mind.
For visitors with more time, Danum Valley can also be combined with Tabin Wildlife Reserve or Deramakot Forest Reserve, allowing you to experience different habitats and wildlife environments.
Check out the multi-destination tour combos below or contact us to start planning a custom trip!
