Bako National Park

Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957 on a 2,728 hectare site, about 37 km from Kuching. It is known for extraordinary variety and contrast in its natural scenery, habitats, plant life and its wildlife. Its most significant features include secluded coves and rugged rocky headland with magnificent steep cliffs carved by weathering and erosion over millions of years. The seaspray, wave action and the wind have also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliffs, some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head. The attractive sandstone formation appear as pink and iron aptterns on the cliff faces. Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into fresh waterpools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting.

The lush vegetation represents 7 ecosystems ranging from the mixed dipterocarp forests of the lowlands to the desert-like scrub of the plateau. A common plant found in abundance is the Dischidea rafflesiana, a slender climber bearing both typical leaves and leave their excreta as nutrients for the plant, perhaps in exchange for lodging! Others include sundew, bladderwort and the notoriously carniverous pitcher plant.

The Proboscis monkey (Orang Belanda) unique to the Borneo riverine forests is significantly present here. Easily distinguished by its enormous cucumber like nose, it is not uncommon to find the male of the species lording it over a harem of some ten mates or so! The silver langur with the punk-like hairdo are very shy primates, feeding primarily on leaves. Their young are easily distinguished by their bright orange colour. Other in habitants of the park include the long-tailed macaques, bearded pigs, leopard cats and giant lizards such as tree monitor and the attractively marked skinks.

There is so much you can see and do within this park.

• If birds are your "cup of tea", try a spot of bird watching. A suitable place is Teluk Assam. With over 50 varieties reportedly residing within the park, you are bound to be able to observe the antic of a few.
• Go on night walks and you just might be lucky enough to spot a few nocturnal creatures as they come out to forage for food. That is if you are quiet enough and not be indiscreet as to let your presence be known! watch out for flying lemurs, mousedeer, civets and bats.
• There are also clearly marked jungle trails in a system covering some 19 miles throught the park. These take you through the lowland forests and up the hills for fantastic views of the headland, bays and beaches below.
• Trek up to the Tajor Waterfalls for leisurely picnic amidst the roar of the waterfalls and then take a dip in the irresistably inviting cool clear waters. The trail ends with a steep descent to the beach.