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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Things to do near Bako National Park

At Bako National Park, immerse yourself in a variety of thrilling activities including incredible hikes through lush jungles, captivating wildlife photography opportunities, and guided tours showcasing the park's stunning landscapes. Don't miss out on the Bako National Park package tours, offering an unforgettable experience of one of Malaysia's best parks, where you can witness diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Shopping

Bako National Park offers some shopping experiences nearby. Visit Damai Central, located 17.7km away, for a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, Tun Jugah Shopping Center, 20.9km away, and Riverside Shopping Complex, 22.5km away, provide more shopping delights.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Sarawak Stadium, where you can engage in various sports activities to invigorate your body. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at Damai Golf & Country Club, enjoying a round of golf amidst tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation and unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Explore Bako National Park’s numerous trails that wind through lush rainforests, offering sightings of unique wildlife and stunning coastal scenery. Embark on a boat tour to witness the remarkable cliffs and pristine beaches, or try your hand at kayaking for an exhilarating experience on the water.

Nightlife

A visit to Bako National Park wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the nearby Sultan Iskandar Planetarium, located 22.5km away. Enjoy the captivating night sky as you explore the wonders of astronomy in a lively atmosphere, perfect for stargazers and night owls alike.

*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, located near Kuching, Sarawak, offers a stunning array of attractions, including beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, and scenic bays. Ideal for travellers seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, the park provides a perfect backdrop for exploring nature and enjoying the tranquillity of its diverse landscapes.

  • Damai Beach: Located 17.7km from Bako National Park, Damai Beach offers a serene escape with its soft sands and tranquil waters, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing while soaking in the beach vibes.
  • Teluk Pandan Besar: Just 1.6km away, Teluk Pandan Besar is a picturesque bay that combines stunning outdoor scenery with beach activities, making it ideal for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying nature's beauty.
  • Interpretation Centre: Situated 1.4km from Bako National Park, the Interpretation Centre provides a fascinating insight into the local culture, showcasing exhibits that highlight the area’s natural heritage and indigenous communities.

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 money on your visit to Bako National Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January, September, and November when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay for a Saturday, as it tends to be the least expensive day. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look out for discounts, free cancellation policies, and cashback offers to maximise your budget. Walking is an excellent way to explore the park and its surroundings without incurring transport costs.

  • 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, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel reservation at Bako National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia