Danum Valley Conservation Area
Danum Valley Conservation Area
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
139 reviews
Excellent
117
Very good
16
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Cato v
8 contributions
Jun 2023
Excellent tours, good facilities and also good food. We learned a lot about the forrest, we can highly reccomend!
Written 25 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peta B
172 contributions
Sep 2022 • Friends
I was very fortunate to witness Orangutan fairly up close in the wild at Danum Valley, something I’ll never forget. Top 5 experiences of my life.
From Borneo Rainforest Lodge there are many walks to take, either on boardwalks or trekking in the forest, either option is worthwhile.
Pack leech socks or either pull long socks up your legs as there are leeches.
I walked up to Coffin Cliff and View Point platform that was a hot and steep walk which takes approx 1.5 hour (moderate fitness) each way. Was also lucky to see red leaf monkey during this trek, which are very cute. And stopped by Jacuzzi pool for a cool off on the way back down.
The long canopy walk (longest in Sabah) being three made of timber and three of steel, is great especially in the morning light and bird life.
Highly recommend Danum Valley for nature and wildlife lovers.
From Borneo Rainforest Lodge there are many walks to take, either on boardwalks or trekking in the forest, either option is worthwhile.
Pack leech socks or either pull long socks up your legs as there are leeches.
I walked up to Coffin Cliff and View Point platform that was a hot and steep walk which takes approx 1.5 hour (moderate fitness) each way. Was also lucky to see red leaf monkey during this trek, which are very cute. And stopped by Jacuzzi pool for a cool off on the way back down.
The long canopy walk (longest in Sabah) being three made of timber and three of steel, is great especially in the morning light and bird life.
Highly recommend Danum Valley for nature and wildlife lovers.
Written 27 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ClaireUzzell55
Leigh-on Sea, UK23 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Love this place. Yes it takes 2 and a half hours on an unmade road to get to the lodge but worth the drive. Everything about this place is wonderful. The location and staff were fantastic. I have never tasted better food, and I am vegan so this makes it very hard to find tasty suitable dishes when eating out. Our guide for the three days we were there (Ali) was so good, he took us on day hikes and night walks too. He was excellent at finding animals both large and small. He explained everything in great detail and we learnt a lot about the rainforest and it’s inhabitants whilst under his care. This is truly a special place for those that love nature. You may not see huge amounts of wild animals as this is up to the animals at the end of the day, but if you want to experience nature at its truest it’s a wonderful place to stay
Written 29 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Moving_Goujon
60 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
The Danum Valley has left me feeling cold for a number of reasons... Firstly, the prices (especially for the canteen food) are ludicrous for what little is provided. If you are not one of the first in line you will be filling up on rice and scraps! Definitely bring your own food. Secondly, it was a major hassle to organise doing anything substantial while you are there. It almost feels like you are being treated like a baby and your freedom will feel very limited. It took us almost a week to convince the powers that be to allow us to be taken to the purut falls by two rangers, a mere 7km along very distinctive and clear tracks, after being given all manner of excuses ranging from 'the river crossing is too high', 'the path is under maintenance', 'no rangers are available' and 'not possible'. None of which we saw any evidence of when we were evenually granted permission! Thirdly, it simply does not feel like you are in untouched primary forest at any point to be honest. Paths are very well forged and you will encounter fencing, signposts, waymarkers, constructions, chainsawed logs, buildings, toilets and even showers deep in the jungle. Most of the growth is very young, with the oldest trees between 70-100 years old dotted throughout the area. It rarely feels that much more of a raw and visceral encounter with nature than a walk through any woodland or forest in my opinion, and i was expecting to feel much more.. Something. Maybe my expectations were unrealistic? I just haven't been moved by my time here at all. I didn't come looking to be entertained by wildlife and animals, i simply wanted to experience something wild and pure, and unfortunately this really wasn't it somehow. I think the field centre needs to decide whether it actually wants visitors or not, because as it stands it feels like they want to take your money whilst offering very little in return. Most probably don't want to come all the way to the primary forest to be offered little more than token gesture nature trails with somebody to hold your hand.
Written 7 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HollyAled
9 contributions
Sep 2019
We had a fantastic time in Danum Valley. It's a totally different experience to anything else we saw in Borneo and definitely worth doing. The rain forest is so old and is so beautiful.
We did our trip with Sabah Holidays and everything was fantastic - from making the booking and prior communication, through to being on the trip. Our guide Afif was absolutely brilliant. He was really knowledgable, friendly and incredible at spotting wildlife.
The hostel is basic but clean and comfortable. The food was varied and incredibly tasty throughout our stay.
Would definitely recommend to anyone who loves being outdoors with nature.
We did our trip with Sabah Holidays and everything was fantastic - from making the booking and prior communication, through to being on the trip. Our guide Afif was absolutely brilliant. He was really knowledgable, friendly and incredible at spotting wildlife.
The hostel is basic but clean and comfortable. The food was varied and incredibly tasty throughout our stay.
Would definitely recommend to anyone who loves being outdoors with nature.
Written 10 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lynne W
36 contributions
Feb 2019 • Friends
This is an incredible and lush rain forest with so much wildlife. It is untouched natural beauty that makes you feel like an explorer in the middle of no where. We saw lots of wildlife but make sure you bring LEECH SOCKS! These are a MUST.
We took the shuttle from Lahad Datu on Monday and stayed until the return shuttle on Friday. They also have one on Wednesdays. We stayed in the cabins/hostel and the accommodations were very comfortable. The meals at the dining hall were also delicious. Make sure to bring snack/drinks bc the store on site seems to have inconsistent hours.
The rangers may not always be available to guide a trek for you but you are able to do some of the trails alone.
We took the shuttle from Lahad Datu on Monday and stayed until the return shuttle on Friday. They also have one on Wednesdays. We stayed in the cabins/hostel and the accommodations were very comfortable. The meals at the dining hall were also delicious. Make sure to bring snack/drinks bc the store on site seems to have inconsistent hours.
The rangers may not always be available to guide a trek for you but you are able to do some of the trails alone.
Written 18 February 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HSloane
5 contributions
Aug 2018
This conservation area is extraordinary, rich in wildlife and plant life. The forest is alive in smells, sounds, and information. It is cared for in a balanced ecological way. It is a place to foster and nurture the love of nature and wild places.
Written 14 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nilam P
11 contributions
Sep 2018 • Family
Amazing place...was there for 3 nights. Wished I was there for a few more days.
Our guide,Theo, took us through the trails in Danum Valley. He taught us so much on how to look for wildlife, their behaviour, flora and fauna. Theo made sure we were safe when going on our walks. We went onto the trail to 'Rhino Pool', where you could dip your feet in the water and little catfish would swim up to your feet and give you a pedicure - an optional activity.
Our guide was extremely good and made this trip to Danum Valley extra special.
Stayed in twin room. The accommodation was clean and secure. Very spacious.
Staff very friendly and helpful.
Food is tasty. Options for vegetarians. Meals are cooked to your dietary requirements.
Gift shop is basic. Take own medicines e.g. plasters and insect repellent. Wear leech socks and long trousers. Good footwear essential as can be slippery when wet.
We were lucky enough to see Orangutans on our first trek. Gibbons, various birds and amphibians, monitor lizard.
Night trek...make sure you sit near front in jeep to get a good 5view.
Our package organised via 'Sticky Rice Travel'. Very good organisation and comms.
Thank you to all the Danum Valley staff for making our holiday experience a trip of a lifetime!!
Our guide,Theo, took us through the trails in Danum Valley. He taught us so much on how to look for wildlife, their behaviour, flora and fauna. Theo made sure we were safe when going on our walks. We went onto the trail to 'Rhino Pool', where you could dip your feet in the water and little catfish would swim up to your feet and give you a pedicure - an optional activity.
Our guide was extremely good and made this trip to Danum Valley extra special.
Stayed in twin room. The accommodation was clean and secure. Very spacious.
Staff very friendly and helpful.
Food is tasty. Options for vegetarians. Meals are cooked to your dietary requirements.
Gift shop is basic. Take own medicines e.g. plasters and insect repellent. Wear leech socks and long trousers. Good footwear essential as can be slippery when wet.
We were lucky enough to see Orangutans on our first trek. Gibbons, various birds and amphibians, monitor lizard.
Night trek...make sure you sit near front in jeep to get a good 5view.
Our package organised via 'Sticky Rice Travel'. Very good organisation and comms.
Thank you to all the Danum Valley staff for making our holiday experience a trip of a lifetime!!
Written 25 September 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alaksander
Singapore, Singapore142 contributions
Jul 2018 • Family
A jungle so untouched and beautiful beyond imagination. Despite its immense size, every corner is hidden with amazing wildlife. Highly recommend everyone to make a trip here at least once in your lifetime.
Written 5 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marcus1900I
Vancouver, Canada137 contributions
Mar 2018 • Solo
a lot of issues with reservation. even thought I made an intensive research on the booking part- I came prepared for surprises. it turned out I booked with Rose from the KK office, although I thought I am in touch with the Lahad Datu office... It took 2 months to receive an e-mail back saying rest house are fully booked ( once there learn - this was wrong, there was a couple that booked 2 months after my first request a rest house, and many of them were empty 2/3 nights we were there), then another almost 2 month to get a yes on a camping spot, and invitation to pay on arrival.. when we arrived we found out there is no spot in the campground, and I had to take my 9 year old daughter to the men dorms. this wasn't the worst solution for us...
As for the place itself- after reading lots of blogs about the place we decided to stay all the time around the research station instead of sweating in hikes... seemed like the best thing at the end- as most of the animals been seen around the conservation research station - almost none on the trails ( except for leeches). we did the night walk and the night drive- they both were fine. we heard good comments on the sunrise one, but did not have enough clear skies to do it...
As for the place itself- after reading lots of blogs about the place we decided to stay all the time around the research station instead of sweating in hikes... seemed like the best thing at the end- as most of the animals been seen around the conservation research station - almost none on the trails ( except for leeches). we did the night walk and the night drive- they both were fine. we heard good comments on the sunrise one, but did not have enough clear skies to do it...
Written 8 April 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GlennH2
Torquay, UK7 contributions
Please could somebody tell me if leech socks are necessary or would long football type socks with trousers tucked in be adequate? Thank you
fred
Canberra, Australia6 contributions
Hi guys!
I'm planning to visit Borneo between 20/1/2020 and 24/1/2020 and was looking for some company. Since I'm by myself, I'm having a hard time booking a packaged tour for Danum Valley. All the operators have rates for min 2 people, so Ill have to pay the full 2 person rate (which is expensive!!) although I'm just by myself. It would be fantastic if I can team up with another solo traveler so that we can split the tour costs. I'm fully aware that 2 days for this amazing wildlife reserve is not adequate but due to strict time constraints, my ideal itinerary would be:
20/1: Flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu. Take another flight from Kota to Lahad Datu. Shuttle pickup from airport to DV conservation area (DVCA). Possibly do a night safari and spend the night at the dorm (preferably) or other accommodation.
21/1: Full day safari and spend the night there. No night safari.
22/1: Early morning safari and checkout. Take the shuttle back to Lahad Datu and go by road to Semporna. Ferry to Mabul Island and spend the night there.
23/1 and 24/1: Dive at Sipadan Island.
24/1: Take the flight back to KUL from Tawau.
I'm very friendly and easy going, and look forward to any assistance I can get. Cheers :)
FranzP94
Jena, Germany108 contributions
Hi guys :)
After a couple of days in Sarawak I’ll fly to Kota Kinabalu and I’d like to visit the Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley. I’d like to avoid touristic tours and i would rather do as much as possible by my own. I read there is a bus from Kota Kinabalu to the Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley.
How easy is it to go to both places with a bus and how long does it take?
I hope you guys can help me to save money and to have a great trip ;)
German and English is fine for me :)
Dietmar T
Graz, Austria28 contributions
Hallo!
Wir wollen von kk nach sarawak und von dort zum Kinabatangan River und Danum Valley.
Würden uns freuen Infos zu bekommen, wie es dir/euch gefallen hat und wie ihr dorthin gekommen seid!
Danke im Voraus und LG Dietmar
jasminec1988
12 contributions
ciao, dove si prenota la struttura all'interno della danum valley? I tour vengono organizzati stesso dalla struttura in cui si alloggia?
Niccolo-P-9
Florence, Toscana, Italy70 contributions
Ciao Wally! Siamo un gruppo di 6 persone interessati a vedere la Danum Valley. Ho visto che hai lasciato una recensione in merito! Sapresti darmi info in merito al T.O. con cui hai viaggiato? L'hai prenotato su internet o in loco?
Grazie mille
Niccolò
Abhilasha
Bengaluru, India33 contributions
HI,
We are a couple travelling there in December. All my research shows that I have to go through a travel agent which are very expensive (for our budget at least). Is there a way that we can execute the below plan ourselves:
1. Fly to Lahad Datu
2. Travel by car to Danum Valley
3. Buy permits and do a day trek ourselves.
4. return to Lahad datu by car.
Better plans / ideas welcome. We have about 8 days and want to do diving in Sipadan too. So have about 4 days to the rainforest trek but on a shoestring budget!!
Thanks in advance!!
How can I book into the Field Valley centre in Danum Valley. Best wishes. Edward Mackaness
barryyao
Shenzhen, China2 contributions
Hi ,
I hope to visit Danum valley at September 27,2017 and stay util October 2,2017.where can i book the room and find a ranger?Which website ? or which email ?
Thank you so much !
Awang Offshore E
25 contributions
how much Malaysian ringgit estimated to be spent on this danum?
Norazah A
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia175 contributions
3days 2nights estimated about Rm2900 ++ incl gst (twin sharing-standard chalet)
Shaun L
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
How much is the price for locals?
cinnamonape
Sacramento, CA
I'm not sure there is a difference between Malaysian (non-scientists) and other "look-see" visitors.
And the fees and charges appear to have doubled since 2015. Go to the Danum SEARRP site for a list of their old charges and categories.
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