Bako National Park Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia
Bako National Park which includes signage, forests and a park
Bako National Park featuring general coastal views, landscape views and tropical scenes
Bako National Park featuring zoo animals, animals and a garden
Bako National Park showing boating, a bay or harbour and a coastal town


Forests, mangroves and beaches teeming with bearded pigs, otters, proboscis monkeys and macaques await at this park, less than an hour’s drive from Kuching.

Immerse yourself in a wilderness that would be perfectly tranquil were it not for the chatter and calls of the abundant wildlife. Waterfalls, beaches, peat swamp forest, thick jungle and coastal mangrove habitats lend character to this park where almost every species of Borneo’s flora can be found. The diverse habitats offer the chance to see primates, mouse deer, long-nosed tarsier, bearded pigs, civets, otters, crabs, sea anemones and starfish.

From Sarawak’s capital city, Kuching, it takes about 40 minutes by bus to reach the Bako National Park office, where you need get a park permit, and pay a small entry fee. Head to the jetty to take a boat ride through scenic waters to the park itself. Early morning and evening are the best times to see Bako’s astounding array of creatures. For a more immersive overnight experience, book a rustic dorm bed or campsite, or a room with full amenities.  

Make sure to take your camera on your Bako adventure the animals here are quite used to humans. In fact, you’ll need to secure your tent and dorm room against the macaques as they will quite happily rummage through your things for food!

When you head out on the trails, keep an ear out for the crashing and hooting of the rare proboscis monkeys, which exist only in Borneo. Only about 300 of these large-nosed creatures live in Bako National Park, so ask the park ranger which trails they have most recently been spotted on to make sure you have an encounter with these strange looking monkeys. Trails range from short, easy walks to overnight hikes, so there’s something for every fitness level.

Popular places to visit


Top Bako National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Cove 55

Cove 55

4 out of 5
Lot 55, Jalan Sultan Tengah, (Santubong/Damai Road), Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Cove 55
Sheraton Kuching Hotel

Sheraton Kuching Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2, Jalan Padungan, Kuching
Sheraton Kuching Hotel
Cocoon Resort Kuching

Cocoon Resort Kuching

3.5 out of 5
Off Jalan Sultan Tengah Block 2, Lot 293, Kuching, Sarawak
Cocoon Resort Kuching
The Village House

The Village House

3.5 out of 5
Pantai Puteri Santubong Village, Kuching, Sarawak
The Village House
Permai Rainforest Resort

Permai Rainforest Resort

3 out of 5
Jalan Sultan Tengah, Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Permai Rainforest Resort
The Culvert

The Culvert

3 out of 5
Lot 285, Off Jalan Sultan Tengah, Block 2 Salak Land District, Kuching, Sarawak
The Culvert
Damai Beach Resort

Damai Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
Teluk Bandung, Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Damai Beach Resort
Hilton Kuching

Hilton Kuching

5 out of 5
1 Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuching, Sarawak
Hilton Kuching
Astana Wing - Riverside Majestic Hotel

Astana Wing - Riverside Majestic Hotel

4 out of 5
Jalan Borneo, Off Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahm, P.O.Box 2928, Kuching, Sarawak
Astana Wing - Riverside Majestic Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Bako National Park

At Bako National Park, you can enjoy a range of activities including exhilarating hiking trails, guided tours, and exciting safari experiences. Consider joining a package tour for a comprehensive exploration of the park or opt for a convenient day trip to soak in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re trekking through lush forests or spotting unique animals, Bako offers unforgettable adventures for all visitors.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit local shops in Bako National Park. If you're up for a drive, check out Damai Central (17.7km away) for family-friendly vibes, or head to Tun Jugah Shopping Center (20.9km) and Riverside Shopping Complex (22.5km) for more shopping options and entertainment.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Sarawak Stadium, 19.3km away, where you can engage in various sports activities. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at Damai Golf & Country Club, 11.3km from Bako National Park, offering serene surroundings perfect for relaxation and unwinding amidst lush landscapes.

Adventure

Bako National Park offers thrilling jungle treks where you can encounter diverse wildlife, including proboscis monkeys. Explore stunning coastal cliffs and pristine beaches, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Don’t miss the chance to experience the park’s unique mangrove forests, teeming with vibrant flora and fauna.

Nightlife

At Bako National Park, the nearby Sultan Iskandar Planetarium offers a unique nightlife experience with its captivating star shows and entertainment vibes. Just 22.5km away, it's the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of the night sky while enjoying a cosmic adventure.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bako National Park

Bako National Park in Kuching, Sarawak, offers a delightful mix of beaches, mountains, and stunning bays for all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or the serene beauty of nature, there's plenty to explore within and around the park. Don't miss the nearby Kampung Bako for a taste of local culture and attractions that enhance your experience in this breathtaking national park.

  • Damai Beach: Located 17.7km from Bako National Park, Damai Beach offers a tranquil escape with soft sands and stunning views. Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes while soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing dip in the sea.
  • Teluk Pandan Besar: Just 1.6km from Bako National Park, this picturesque bay is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful scenery and beach vibes, it's an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
  • Interpretation Centre: Situated 1.4km away, this museum provides rich insights into the local culture and biodiversity. An engaging experience, it offers informative exhibits that enhance your understanding of the region's natural heritage.

Best time to go to Bako National Park

The best time to visit Bako National Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
March78.4°F (25.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
April79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May80.2°F (26.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
October79.2°F (26.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December78.1°F (25.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bako National Park

To save on your visit to Bako National Park, plan your trip during the cheaper months of January, September, or November, avoiding the peak season in July, August, and December. Aim to book your accommodation for a Saturday night, as it tends to be less expensive. Use Expedia to search for budget-friendly options and consider package deals to combine flights, accommodation, and activities for added savings. Look out for tourism offers and discount hotels to ensure you get the best rates during your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bako National Park are January, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bako National Park is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Bako National Park is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your accommodation at Bako National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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