Bako National Park
Sarawak
Bako National Park, established in 1957, is the oldest national park in Sarawak, Malaysia, covering 27.27 square kilometers at the tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula. It features a remarkable coastline shaped by millions of years of sandstone erosion, with cliffs, sea arches, and sea stacks, although the famous cobra-shaped sea stack collapsed in 2024. The park is accessible by a 20-minute boat ride from Kampung Bako and is popular for day trips from Kuching, with options for camping and bungalows. Despite its small size, Bako contains seven distinct ecosystems including rainforests, mangroves, heath forests, and peat swamps, supporting diverse flora such as carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews. It is especially renowned for its population of about 150 endangered proboscis monkeys, endemic to Borneo, alongside other wildlife like long-tailed macaques, silvered langurs, bearded pigs, monitor lizards, and over 150 bird species. A network of 16 marked trails offers visitors access to the park’s rich biodiversity, jungle streams, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Bako’s compact range of attractions and natural beauty make it one of Sarawak’s most visited and ecologically significant parks.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to take the 20-minute boat ride from Kampung Bako to reach the park. The best time to visit is during the dry season to enjoy trekking and wildlife viewing. Booking accommodations like bungalows or campsites in advance is recommended, especially during peak periods. Entrance fees often include discounts for groups or students, so check locally. Bring appropriate hiking gear and insect repellent for jungle trails.
Interesting facts
- •Bako National Park is home to approximately 150 endangered proboscis monkeys, considered the best place to see them in Sarawak.
- •The park contains seven distinct ecosystems, including rare kerangas (heath) forest and peat swamp forest.
- •Its coastline features sea arches and sea stacks formed by wave erosion and iron deposition patterns.
- •The famous cobra-shaped sea stack, a well-known landmark, collapsed in 2024.
- •Bako hosted the final Pit Stop of The Amazing Race Asia 1.
- •Over 150 bird species have been recorded within the park.
History
Bako National Park was established in 1957, making it the oldest national park in Sarawak.
Over the decades, it has preserved diverse ecosystems and served as a vital sanctuary for endangered species, notably the proboscis monkey.
The park’s geological features have been shaped by millions of years of sandstone erosion, creating its iconic cliffs and sea stacks.
In 2024, the famous cobra-shaped sea stack collapsed, marking a significant natural change in the park’s coastline.
Throughout its history, Bako has developed into a popular destination for ecotourism and conservation education in Malaysian Borneo.
Place Guide
Teluk Assam Beach
The main beach area near the park headquarters, offering access to boat rides, wildlife viewing, and starting points for several trails. It is also a common place to spot proboscis monkeys and long-tailed macaques.
Jungle Trails Network
A system of 16 marked walking trails of varying lengths that traverse multiple ecosystems, leading visitors through rainforests, mangroves, heath forests, and to secluded beaches and waterfalls.
Proboscis Monkey Habitat
Areas within the park where the endangered proboscis monkeys are commonly found, especially near streams and forest edges. Bako is renowned as one of the best places to observe these endemic primates in the wild.
Contact
Phone: 011-6572 9294
