Bako National Park

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


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.

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Cove 55

Cove 55

4 out of 5
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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, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking through lush trails, embarking on guided tours, and experiencing wildlife safaris. A day trip from Kuching offers a perfect opportunity to explore the park's diverse ecosystems and unique flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Shopping

In Bako National Park, you can enjoy local shopping experiences. For a more extensive selection, if you're up for a drive, visit Hills Shopping Mall (8.7km away), Tun Jugah Shopping Centre (8.1km away), or Damai Central (6.8km away), all offering vibrant shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

Sarawak Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, situated 7.5km from Bako National Park, perfect for invigorating activities. For a touch of luxury, Damai Golf & Country Club, located 4.3km away, provides a serene golfing experience amidst beautiful landscapes, ideal for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

In Bako National Park, embark on exhilarating jungle treks through diverse ecosystems, where you can spot unique wildlife like proboscis monkeys. Experience the thrill of kayaking along the picturesque coastline, and enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs and pristine beaches during your adventure.

Nightlife

For a unique evening, visit the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium, a mere 8.7km from Bako National Park. Enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere while marveling at the stars and engaging in interactive exhibits. It’s a delightful way to blend education with entertainment under the night sky.

Find the best attractions near Bako National Park

Bako National Park, located near Kuching, Sarawak, offers a splendid array of attractions, including beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, and serene bays. Ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, the park is a gateway to explore diverse wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you wish to relax on the beach or hike through lush trails, Bako promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

  • Damai Beach: Enjoy the serene beach vibes at Damai Beach, located 6.8km from Bako National Park. It's the perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and taking leisurely strolls along the picturesque shoreline.
  • Interpretation Centre: Situated 559m from Bako National Park, the Interpretation Centre offers a cultural experience that delves into the rich heritage and natural history of the region, featuring engaging exhibits and informative displays.
  • Teluk Pandan Besar: Just 621m from Bako National Park, Teluk Pandan Besar is a stunning bay that combines beautiful beach scenery with outdoor activities, making it ideal for picnics, swimming, and exploring the natural surroundings.

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 CloudyAverageAverage
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 CloudyAverageSlightly Low
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 money on your trip to Bako National Park, consider visiting in January, September, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia to refine your accommodation options by budget and location, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities. Additionally, look for options with free cancellation and affordable drink choices to keep expenses down. Public transport can also be a cost-effective way to explore the area.

  • 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: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Bako National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.